Photo of Sarah J Braun, Psychiatrist in Philadelphia, PA
Sarah J Braun
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19104
As a psychotherapist, I help people recover and grow, guided by each individual's psyche. I draw on the broad and deep resources of depth psychologies, the body-based, scientific wisdom of medicine and psychiatry, and the many artforms that humans instinctively have created for millennia. My practice includes adults, couples, children, adolescents and college students-people who come because they suffer from anxiety, depression, trauma, loss, relationship problems, medical illness, parenting challenges, crises in mid-life, and creative and professional blocks. Many come with curiosity about new directions that their lives could take.
As a psychotherapist, I help people recover and grow, guided by each individual's psyche. I draw on the broad and deep resources of depth psychologies, the body-based, scientific wisdom of medicine and psychiatry, and the many artforms that humans instinctively have created for millennia. My practice includes adults, couples, children, adolescents and college students-people who come because they suffer from anxiety, depression, trauma, loss, relationship problems, medical illness, parenting challenges, crises in mid-life, and creative and professional blocks. Many come with curiosity about new directions that their lives could take.
(610) 850-9777 View (610) 850-9777
Photo of Cara Gouldey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Philadelphia, PA
Cara Gouldey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
My primary aim is to provide competent, evidence-based care that is compassionate, trauma-informed, and identity-affirming.
The best psychiatric care is tailored to an individual's unique needs, understood through the context of their environment, relationships, and lived experience. With this foundation, I work with patients to identify and achieve their mental health and wellness goals. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over ten years of direct patient care experience in a diversity of roles, including diagnosing and treating mental health disorders in group practice, community settings, and via telehealth. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for adults, adolescents, and school-aged children.
My primary aim is to provide competent, evidence-based care that is compassionate, trauma-informed, and identity-affirming.
The best psychiatric care is tailored to an individual's unique needs, understood through the context of their environment, relationships, and lived experience. With this foundation, I work with patients to identify and achieve their mental health and wellness goals. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over ten years of direct patient care experience in a diversity of roles, including diagnosing and treating mental health disorders in group practice, community settings, and via telehealth. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for adults, adolescents, and school-aged children.
(484) 207-6269 x1 View (484) 207-6269 x1
Photo of Marlene Chelso, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Philadelphia, PA
Marlene Chelso
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHCNS
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19128  (Online Only)
I have had a private practice in medication management for 21 years in several locations; am currently licensed in Connecticut and New Jersey, but am able to do telehealth appointments wherever you are located. Patients have found this to be very helpful, as we can connect from your home or work. My experience is in multiple settings: inpatient, outpatient, and crisis intervention. I have also served as a consultant to patients with mental health concerns in a neurology practice and in an HIV clinic. I have held faculty positions at several universities, and currently serve as an associate professor at UPENN's School of Nursing.
I have had a private practice in medication management for 21 years in several locations; am currently licensed in Connecticut and New Jersey, but am able to do telehealth appointments wherever you are located. Patients have found this to be very helpful, as we can connect from your home or work. My experience is in multiple settings: inpatient, outpatient, and crisis intervention. I have also served as a consultant to patients with mental health concerns in a neurology practice and in an HIV clinic. I have held faculty positions at several universities, and currently serve as an associate professor at UPENN's School of Nursing.
(215) 709-8970 View (215) 709-8970
Photo of Nadia Zandy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Philadelphia, PA
Nadia Zandy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19131
Ms. Nadia has over 7 years of extensive expertise in psychiatric mental health nursing. Nadia utilizes a holistic and client centered approach and therapeutic communication to build and individualized treatment plan for each client. Nadia’s care is mainly based on the combination of pharmacotherapy when needed and psychotherapy for better treatment outcomes. Nadia specializes in working with children, adolescents and adults with varying psychiatric diagnosis. In her spare time Nadia enjoys taking long walks in the park, reading and cooking.
Ms. Nadia has over 7 years of extensive expertise in psychiatric mental health nursing. Nadia utilizes a holistic and client centered approach and therapeutic communication to build and individualized treatment plan for each client. Nadia’s care is mainly based on the combination of pharmacotherapy when needed and psychotherapy for better treatment outcomes. Nadia specializes in working with children, adolescents and adults with varying psychiatric diagnosis. In her spare time Nadia enjoys taking long walks in the park, reading and cooking.
(484) 218-2113 View (484) 218-2113
Photo of VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Philadelphia, PA
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CRNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19119  (Online Only)
We are board-certified to treat Children and Adults. Accepting new patients in Pennsylvania via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make an appointment on our website for a video/phone visit today. Evening and weekend hours available. Affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups are $99. Also accepting Insurances.
We are board-certified to treat Children and Adults. Accepting new patients in Pennsylvania via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make an appointment on our website for a video/phone visit today. Evening and weekend hours available. Affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups are $99. Also accepting Insurances.
(267) 440-7825 View (267) 440-7825
Photo of Chen Zhou, Psychiatrist in Philadelphia, PA
Chen Zhou
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Welcome to a space that's all about you and your well-being. I'm here to support young adults, especially those from immigrant backgrounds, and folks of all ages, cultures, sexual orientations, and gender identities. I'm a board-certified psychiatrist, and I'm here to help with everything from dealing with depression and anxiety to managing ADHD, OCD, and PTSD using a mix of medication and talk therapy. Think of our time together as a safe and nurturing space where you can be yourself and explore who you are. Together, we'll work towards positive changes that make your life more fulfilling.
Welcome to a space that's all about you and your well-being. I'm here to support young adults, especially those from immigrant backgrounds, and folks of all ages, cultures, sexual orientations, and gender identities. I'm a board-certified psychiatrist, and I'm here to help with everything from dealing with depression and anxiety to managing ADHD, OCD, and PTSD using a mix of medication and talk therapy. Think of our time together as a safe and nurturing space where you can be yourself and explore who you are. Together, we'll work towards positive changes that make your life more fulfilling.
(484) 246-8766 View (484) 246-8766
Photo of Juliana Ifeoma Omile, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Philadelphia, PA
Juliana Ifeoma Omile
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, AGNP, CRNP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19131  (Online Only)
Dr. Juliana Omile has over 22 years of extensive expertise in Nursing, spanning from internal medicine to psychiatry. In her therapeutic approach Juliana focuses on leveraging the unique strengths, challenges and needs of each individual by focusing on the positive. Juliana's care is based on the premise that patients who require mental health care respond best to a combination of therapy and medication. She places special emphasis on the integration of a psychotherapeutic approach with careful and limited use of medication prescribed only when necessary.
Dr. Juliana Omile has over 22 years of extensive expertise in Nursing, spanning from internal medicine to psychiatry. In her therapeutic approach Juliana focuses on leveraging the unique strengths, challenges and needs of each individual by focusing on the positive. Juliana's care is based on the premise that patients who require mental health care respond best to a combination of therapy and medication. She places special emphasis on the integration of a psychotherapeutic approach with careful and limited use of medication prescribed only when necessary.
(484) 989-9808 View (484) 989-9808
Photo of Elena Del Busto, Psychiatrist in Philadelphia, PA
Elena Del Busto
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19101
I am an ABPN Board certified psychiatrist and Clinical Associate at the University of Pennsylvania in the Department of Psychiatry. I have been honored as Top Doc in Philadelphia Magazine in May 2018 and Main Line Today in 2014. I offer an integrated, holistic approach to mental health treatment and believe in using psychotherapy and psychopharmacology when appropriate. I feel it is best to use evidence-based medicine and personalized treatment plans to help optimize outcomes and improve my patients' mental health.
I am an ABPN Board certified psychiatrist and Clinical Associate at the University of Pennsylvania in the Department of Psychiatry. I have been honored as Top Doc in Philadelphia Magazine in May 2018 and Main Line Today in 2014. I offer an integrated, holistic approach to mental health treatment and believe in using psychotherapy and psychopharmacology when appropriate. I feel it is best to use evidence-based medicine and personalized treatment plans to help optimize outcomes and improve my patients' mental health.
(610) 616-3633 View (610) 616-3633
Photo of Milena Goldshmidt, Psychiatrist in Philadelphia, PA
Milena Goldshmidt
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19125  (Online Only)
Dr. Milena Goldshmidt is a new addition to the Talkiatry network which allows her the luxury of working from home after the new addition to her family. She is double boarded in Adult Psychiatry and Sleep Medicine. She has been practicing for 10 years. Dr. Goldshmidt's focus is on medication management as well as supportive and emotionally focused therapy. She gives ample time during new patient appointments and has 30-minute follow sessions. She also is a believer in additional therapy is needed and/or additional medical and procedural therapies if needed to provide the best care and outcomes to her patients.
Dr. Milena Goldshmidt is a new addition to the Talkiatry network which allows her the luxury of working from home after the new addition to her family. She is double boarded in Adult Psychiatry and Sleep Medicine. She has been practicing for 10 years. Dr. Goldshmidt's focus is on medication management as well as supportive and emotionally focused therapy. She gives ample time during new patient appointments and has 30-minute follow sessions. She also is a believer in additional therapy is needed and/or additional medical and procedural therapies if needed to provide the best care and outcomes to her patients.
(215) 631-8965 View (215) 631-8965
Photo of Ife Ajuwon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Philadelphia, PA
Ife Ajuwon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19146
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner passionate about working with clients to improve their quality of life as it relates to their mental health. I believe in empathetic communication, patient advocacy, empowering my patients, and proactive and timely pharmacological and psychitherapeutic interventions. My mission at Psychtitude NP is to treat you in a therapeutic, respectful, and nonjudgmental environment while following evidence-based guidelines as well as clinical experience.
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner passionate about working with clients to improve their quality of life as it relates to their mental health. I believe in empathetic communication, patient advocacy, empowering my patients, and proactive and timely pharmacological and psychitherapeutic interventions. My mission at Psychtitude NP is to treat you in a therapeutic, respectful, and nonjudgmental environment while following evidence-based guidelines as well as clinical experience.
(267) 490-4684 View (267) 490-4684
Photo of Harmony Bay, Psychiatrist in Philadelphia, PA
Harmony Bay
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Harmony Bay is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
Harmony Bay is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
(267) 507-9526 View (267) 507-9526
Photo of Jessica Lee, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Philadelphia, PA
Jessica Lee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, CARN-AP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
I have worked with many individuals through issues related to anxiety, mood disorders, eating disorders, post-traumatic stress, obsessive and compulsive disorders, pregnancy, postpartum, menopausal transition, gender and multiethnic affirming care.
Remission. Recovery. Renewal. How many times have you worked to digest other’s definitions of those concepts? Trying, exhaustingly, to adapt and amend yourself into that predefined role? I am interested in your definition and what those words look like in your world.
I have worked with many individuals through issues related to anxiety, mood disorders, eating disorders, post-traumatic stress, obsessive and compulsive disorders, pregnancy, postpartum, menopausal transition, gender and multiethnic affirming care.
Remission. Recovery. Renewal. How many times have you worked to digest other’s definitions of those concepts? Trying, exhaustingly, to adapt and amend yourself into that predefined role? I am interested in your definition and what those words look like in your world.
(215) 586-3102 View (215) 586-3102
Photo of Marie R. Dona, Psychiatrist in Philadelphia, PA
Marie R. Dona
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19129  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Currently not accepting new clients until October 2023. Dr. Marie R. Dona, M.D is a Dual Board Certified Psychiatrist who specializes in Child, Adolescent, Perinatal, Lifestyle, and Adult Psychiatry. She sees a wide variety of patients with numerous conditions and concerns. She has extensive experience in the treatment of depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, mood disorders, psychosis, addiction, eating disorders, perinatal and postpartum mood disorders and more. She provides therapy and medication management services. We are also able to offer GeneSight testing to see how you may metabolize medications differently.
Currently not accepting new clients until October 2023. Dr. Marie R. Dona, M.D is a Dual Board Certified Psychiatrist who specializes in Child, Adolescent, Perinatal, Lifestyle, and Adult Psychiatry. She sees a wide variety of patients with numerous conditions and concerns. She has extensive experience in the treatment of depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, mood disorders, psychosis, addiction, eating disorders, perinatal and postpartum mood disorders and more. She provides therapy and medication management services. We are also able to offer GeneSight testing to see how you may metabolize medications differently.
(813) 696-6326 View (813) 696-6326
Photo of Tamoya Thomas, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Philadelphia, PA
Tamoya Thomas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19122
Hello, I am Tamoya Thomas a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I graduated from Wilkes University in Wilkes Barre, Pa. I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, and Insomnia. I offer a range of services, including psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and therapeutic interventions. Psychiatric evaluations to understand your unique needs and develop a personalized treatment plan. Medication Management guides medication options, dosages, and potential side effects. Therapeutic Intervention includes evidence-based therapy tailored to your specific concerns.
Hello, I am Tamoya Thomas a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I graduated from Wilkes University in Wilkes Barre, Pa. I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, and Insomnia. I offer a range of services, including psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and therapeutic interventions. Psychiatric evaluations to understand your unique needs and develop a personalized treatment plan. Medication Management guides medication options, dosages, and potential side effects. Therapeutic Intervention includes evidence-based therapy tailored to your specific concerns.
(610) 904-9688 View (610) 904-9688
Photo of Dr. Jessica Spellun, Psychiatrist in Philadelphia, PA
Dr. Jessica Spellun
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in working with individuals experiencing difficulties related to anxiety, depression, life stressors, relationship issues, intimacy, self-esteem issues, trauma, and grief/loss.
Life is complicated. Despite our best efforts, everyone struggles at times. I understand that making changes in your life can be overwhelming. I encourage you to gather courage, ask questions, and have hope that things can get better if you are willing to work for it. My goal is to create a safe, caring, and nonjudgmental space for clients to be heard and understood. My approach prioritizes individuality and a holistic view of emotional wellbeing. Communicating feelings in a safe environment promotes healing through expression, leads to new insights about yourself, and can help you form more meaningful connections with others.
I specialize in working with individuals experiencing difficulties related to anxiety, depression, life stressors, relationship issues, intimacy, self-esteem issues, trauma, and grief/loss.
Life is complicated. Despite our best efforts, everyone struggles at times. I understand that making changes in your life can be overwhelming. I encourage you to gather courage, ask questions, and have hope that things can get better if you are willing to work for it. My goal is to create a safe, caring, and nonjudgmental space for clients to be heard and understood. My approach prioritizes individuality and a holistic view of emotional wellbeing. Communicating feelings in a safe environment promotes healing through expression, leads to new insights about yourself, and can help you form more meaningful connections with others.
(267) 848-9216 View (267) 848-9216
Photo of Nicholas T Armao, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Philadelphia, PA
Nicholas T Armao
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LPC, LBS, RN
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19143  (Online Only)
Hello, I'm glad you're taking the first step in seeking a therapist/psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I am hoping we get the opportunity to work together on your goals! I am on a mission to help my clients in any way that I can. I believe in unconditional compassion and use a client-centered approach as a way to promote growth and help clients of all races, genders, and cultures. I will strive to guide you or your family member in making positive and sustainable changes that will ultimately yield in experiencing a more rewarding and satisfying life. I enjoy working with children, adolescents and adults.
Hello, I'm glad you're taking the first step in seeking a therapist/psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I am hoping we get the opportunity to work together on your goals! I am on a mission to help my clients in any way that I can. I believe in unconditional compassion and use a client-centered approach as a way to promote growth and help clients of all races, genders, and cultures. I will strive to guide you or your family member in making positive and sustainable changes that will ultimately yield in experiencing a more rewarding and satisfying life. I enjoy working with children, adolescents and adults.
(610) 486-3195 View (610) 486-3195
Photo of Aviva Zohar, Psychiatrist in Philadelphia, PA
Aviva Zohar
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Here at Thalia Medical Center, we don’t tolerate self-shame. We don’t care what you look like, the car you drive, your background, or your history. Our treatment philosophy balances meeting you where you are and supporting you to get to where you want to be. TMC's services include medication management for depression, anxiety, ADHD, substance use disorder therapy and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. We are powered by a balanced approach — curating an individualized, evidence-based recovery program that supports our clients not just medically, but emotionally, physically, and socially as well.
Here at Thalia Medical Center, we don’t tolerate self-shame. We don’t care what you look like, the car you drive, your background, or your history. Our treatment philosophy balances meeting you where you are and supporting you to get to where you want to be. TMC's services include medication management for depression, anxiety, ADHD, substance use disorder therapy and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. We are powered by a balanced approach — curating an individualized, evidence-based recovery program that supports our clients not just medically, but emotionally, physically, and socially as well.
(610) 365-1743 View (610) 365-1743
Photo of Dr. Doss M.D., at Feel Good Behavioral Health, Psychiatrist in Philadelphia, PA
Dr. Doss M.D., at Feel Good Behavioral Health
Psychiatrist, MD , MRCPsyc
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
I offer Medication Management & Psychotherapy for major conditions including Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar disorder, ADHD, Eating disorders, OCD as well a behavioral problems in Children.
I am committed to providing high quality of care in a safe and comfortable environment, to meet your mental health needs via Feel Good Behavioral Health. You being the most important team member, my focus is to have a good therapeutic relationship by treating You with Respect, Honesty & Compassion. I am 3 times board-certified in General Adult, as well as Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, after being trained in different countries including United States, United Kingdom & India. As a mental health advocate, my primary goal is to promote overall emotional and mental health well-being, as well as better quality of life for my patients.
I offer Medication Management & Psychotherapy for major conditions including Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar disorder, ADHD, Eating disorders, OCD as well a behavioral problems in Children.
I am committed to providing high quality of care in a safe and comfortable environment, to meet your mental health needs via Feel Good Behavioral Health. You being the most important team member, my focus is to have a good therapeutic relationship by treating You with Respect, Honesty & Compassion. I am 3 times board-certified in General Adult, as well as Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, after being trained in different countries including United States, United Kingdom & India. As a mental health advocate, my primary goal is to promote overall emotional and mental health well-being, as well as better quality of life for my patients.
(267) 682-6908 View (267) 682-6908
Photo of Malika Abdurakhmanova, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Philadelphia, PA
Malika Abdurakhmanova
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19130  (Online Only)
I am experienced in providing care to clients suffering from many psychiatric disorders, such as schizophrenia, mood disorders, including bipolar disorder, depression and anxiety, trauma, substance use disorders, as well as various childhood psychiatric disorders.
As a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am prepared to provide holistic, patient-centered care for clients needing mental health services and treatments. Through utilization of evidence-based practices, I continuously make efforts to achieve higher levels of clients’ mental wellbeing. Utilizing the integrated approaches to healing and wellness, the holistic healing is achieved when mind, body, and spirit are addressed as a single unit.
I am experienced in providing care to clients suffering from many psychiatric disorders, such as schizophrenia, mood disorders, including bipolar disorder, depression and anxiety, trauma, substance use disorders, as well as various childhood psychiatric disorders.
As a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am prepared to provide holistic, patient-centered care for clients needing mental health services and treatments. Through utilization of evidence-based practices, I continuously make efforts to achieve higher levels of clients’ mental wellbeing. Utilizing the integrated approaches to healing and wellness, the holistic healing is achieved when mind, body, and spirit are addressed as a single unit.
(215) 586-3102 View (215) 586-3102
Photo of Amy Bush, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Philadelphia, PA
Amy Bush
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102  (Online Only)
There is no set approach to mental health care, individualized care is a key component to successful treatment. My experience enables me to offer effective outpatient, individualized, psychiatric care. I treat a number of mental health disorders, and provide a neutral ground to individuals seeking inner peace. I promise to be there for you every step of your journey. The goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life.
There is no set approach to mental health care, individualized care is a key component to successful treatment. My experience enables me to offer effective outpatient, individualized, psychiatric care. I treat a number of mental health disorders, and provide a neutral ground to individuals seeking inner peace. I promise to be there for you every step of your journey. The goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life.
(267) 578-4355 View (267) 578-4355

See more therapy options for Philadelphia

Trauma and PTSD Psychiatrists

When should I seek treatment for trauma?

Not everyone who undergoes trauma needs therapy to heal, but many do. If, after experiencing a traumatic event, you find yourself struggling with symptoms such as nightmares, dissociation, irritability, or emotional numbness—especially if these symptoms last more than a month and are severe enough to interfere with your daily functioning—you may benefit from seeking out therapy with a trauma-informed provider.

How long does trauma therapy take?

Different types of therapy for trauma unfold on different timelines. Prolonged exposure therapy and cognitive processing therapy, for example, each take about three months, while trauma-informed CBT may last anywhere from 8 to 25 sessions. Other approaches, especially those that are less structured or that incorporate elements from multiple modalities, may be more open-ended, though many patients report feeling better within the first few months of treatment.

What happens if trauma is left untreated?

Unaddressed trauma can have serious—even devastating—effects on relationships, career, and day-to-day functioning. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can lead people to distrust or lash out at others, making it difficult to maintain intimate relationships; it can also trigger symptoms such as flashbacks or hyperreactivity that can interfere with a person’s ability to function effectively, personally and/or professionally. Some sufferers turn to drugs to find relief. Symptoms may lessen on their own with time, but there is no guarantee that PTSD will resolve on its own.

Can PTSD come back after treatment?

It is possible for PTSD symptoms to recur months or years after successful treatment. This is because, like most mental health disorders, it is not possible to “cure” PTSD, and stressful life events may cause symptoms to recur in even the most resilient individuals. There is no shame in re-experiencing PTSD symptoms nor in returning to therapy when such relapses occur; indeed, many forms of trauma therapy explicitly encourage periodic “maintenance sessions” to reinforce coping skills and ensure that symptoms stay manageable.