Photo of Patricia Dean, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arlington, VA
Patricia Dean
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22213
I specialize in anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
During uncertain times people may experience an increase in anxiety and depression. Though we are living in isolation there is no need to "go it alone". If you need help, even short term, please reach out to a mental health professional. I am licensed in Virginia, Washington DC and Pennsylvania. Patricia Dean, LCSW, LICSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who works with adolescents and adults using an approach tailored to the individual needs of each new client.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
During uncertain times people may experience an increase in anxiety and depression. Though we are living in isolation there is no need to "go it alone". If you need help, even short term, please reach out to a mental health professional. I am licensed in Virginia, Washington DC and Pennsylvania. Patricia Dean, LCSW, LICSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who works with adolescents and adults using an approach tailored to the individual needs of each new client.
(571) 322-8257 View (571) 322-8257
Photo of Elizabeth Varela: Brainspotting and EMDR Therapist, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arlington, VA
Elizabeth Varela: Brainspotting and EMDR Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22203  (Online Only)
Together we will focus on identifying and processing the root causes of emotional distress, adversities, trauma & anxiety that affects your well-being.
Welcome! My name is Liz. I strive to create a warm, and trusting environment that fosters growth, self-awareness, and lasting change. My therapy style is collaborative and nonjudgemental. Together we will work to improve your symptoms, gain a deeper understanding of your concerns, and start on a new path to healthy mental health gains, reaching your goals, and actively working towards your full potential.
Together we will focus on identifying and processing the root causes of emotional distress, adversities, trauma & anxiety that affects your well-being.
Welcome! My name is Liz. I strive to create a warm, and trusting environment that fosters growth, self-awareness, and lasting change. My therapy style is collaborative and nonjudgemental. Together we will work to improve your symptoms, gain a deeper understanding of your concerns, and start on a new path to healthy mental health gains, reaching your goals, and actively working towards your full potential.
(571) 601-2615 View (571) 601-2615
Photo of Theresa Reed, Psychologist in Arlington, VA
Theresa Reed
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22201
I provide therapy for children, adolescents, and adults who are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief/loss, divorce, low self-esteem, trauma, and relationship/adjustment difficulties.
"Our wounds are often the openings into the best and most beautiful part of us." Therapy allows one to explore their inner thoughts and feelings and is a tool for building self-esteem. My therapeutic approach incorporates an empathic, honest, exploratory, and integrative style in order to provide a comfortable and safe environment. In my work with children, I incorporate play therapy techniques, as I am a firm believer that play is a child's language and toys are their words.
I provide therapy for children, adolescents, and adults who are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief/loss, divorce, low self-esteem, trauma, and relationship/adjustment difficulties.
"Our wounds are often the openings into the best and most beautiful part of us." Therapy allows one to explore their inner thoughts and feelings and is a tool for building self-esteem. My therapeutic approach incorporates an empathic, honest, exploratory, and integrative style in order to provide a comfortable and safe environment. In my work with children, I incorporate play therapy techniques, as I am a firm believer that play is a child's language and toys are their words.
(571) 206-3705 View (571) 206-3705
Photo of Victoria Colborn Bathe, Psychologist in Arlington, VA
Victoria Colborn Bathe
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22209
I have experience successfully treating a variety of concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, relationship challenges, and other emotional difficulties.
I specialize in helping individuals and couples navigate relationship problems, difficult thoughts and feelings, painful experiences, existential issues, and life changes. Together, we’ll come to a shared understanding of your concerns, and develop a balance of emotional processing, skill-building, and action to help you meet your goals. My aim is to help you cultivate more adaptive ways of thinking, behaving, and relating to foster a life that is rich, meaningful, and connected to what matters most to you. In sessions, I am down-to-earth and warm. My patients tell me they appreciate my deep care, honesty, and thoughtful questions.
I have experience successfully treating a variety of concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, relationship challenges, and other emotional difficulties.
I specialize in helping individuals and couples navigate relationship problems, difficult thoughts and feelings, painful experiences, existential issues, and life changes. Together, we’ll come to a shared understanding of your concerns, and develop a balance of emotional processing, skill-building, and action to help you meet your goals. My aim is to help you cultivate more adaptive ways of thinking, behaving, and relating to foster a life that is rich, meaningful, and connected to what matters most to you. In sessions, I am down-to-earth and warm. My patients tell me they appreciate my deep care, honesty, and thoughtful questions.
(202) 953-2925 View (202) 953-2925
Ara Thomas-Brown
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22203
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with clinical expertise in the areas of relationship issues, marriage and family, work-life balance, stress management, anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress and bereavement. With compassion and understanding, I work with each individual to help them build on their strengths and attain the personal growth they are committed to accomplishing.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with clinical expertise in the areas of relationship issues, marriage and family, work-life balance, stress management, anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress and bereavement. With compassion and understanding, I work with each individual to help them build on their strengths and attain the personal growth they are committed to accomplishing.
(703) 940-0150 View (703) 940-0150
Photo of Connor McLaren, Pre-Licensed Professional in Arlington, VA
Connor McLaren
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22201
Are you struggling? Starting to think that depression or anxiety will never stop? I’m passionate about supporting folx who transcend “norms” through their unique experience. I'm especially interested in supporting LGBTQ+ and disability-identified folks. My approach is warm, curious, trauma informed, & relationship-centered. I view my role as a psychotherapist as a co-explorer – I walk alongside you as you navigate your authentic experience of this world. Everyone’s entitled to strut their full peacock. Part of life is figuring out what that means to you.
Are you struggling? Starting to think that depression or anxiety will never stop? I’m passionate about supporting folx who transcend “norms” through their unique experience. I'm especially interested in supporting LGBTQ+ and disability-identified folks. My approach is warm, curious, trauma informed, & relationship-centered. I view my role as a psychotherapist as a co-explorer – I walk alongside you as you navigate your authentic experience of this world. Everyone’s entitled to strut their full peacock. Part of life is figuring out what that means to you.
(571) 520-5323 View (571) 520-5323
Photo of Social Worker & Dog, Ltd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arlington, VA
Social Worker & Dog, Ltd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22206  (Online Only)
At Social Worker & Dog, we lead with a trauma-informed approach, guiding clients on a healing journey toward growth and recovery.
Welcome to Social Worker & Dog, where healing begins with understanding. Our practice is dedicated to providing compassionate and effective support for individuals navigating the complexities of trauma and mental health challenges. With a deep understanding of trauma-informed care, we create a safe and empathetic environment where clients can explore their experiences and find the strength to move forward. Our interventions are rooted in evidence-based strategies, empowering clients to reclaim control over their lives and embark on a journey toward resilience.
At Social Worker & Dog, we lead with a trauma-informed approach, guiding clients on a healing journey toward growth and recovery.
Welcome to Social Worker & Dog, where healing begins with understanding. Our practice is dedicated to providing compassionate and effective support for individuals navigating the complexities of trauma and mental health challenges. With a deep understanding of trauma-informed care, we create a safe and empathetic environment where clients can explore their experiences and find the strength to move forward. Our interventions are rooted in evidence-based strategies, empowering clients to reclaim control over their lives and embark on a journey toward resilience.
(571) 470-6909 View (571) 470-6909
Photo of Kathleen E Hanagan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arlington, VA
Kathleen E Hanagan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, TEP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22206
Each of us is here with a unique gift to be named, claimed and celebrated. That gift is often hidden due to trauma and heartache. My work helps you discover and release whatever prevents the full expression of your power and joy, which resets an inner compass to your highest destiny. Trama informed transformational psychotherapy reconnects you with the exquisite wisdom of your Soul, and helps you co-create the life you deeply desire. I work with individuals, as well as couples who want to create a fulfilling and passionate relationship.
Each of us is here with a unique gift to be named, claimed and celebrated. That gift is often hidden due to trauma and heartache. My work helps you discover and release whatever prevents the full expression of your power and joy, which resets an inner compass to your highest destiny. Trama informed transformational psychotherapy reconnects you with the exquisite wisdom of your Soul, and helps you co-create the life you deeply desire. I work with individuals, as well as couples who want to create a fulfilling and passionate relationship.
(571) 253-7691 View (571) 253-7691
Photo of David Rothman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arlington, VA
David Rothman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22209
I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, PTSD/trauma, self-esteem/self-confidence issues, grief/loss, difficulty navigating life transitions, LGBTQ+ issues, dating/relationship issues, neurodivergence (e.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, or trauma? Are you looking for more effective ways to manage stress from work and relationships? With a depth of experience as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Board-Approved Clinical Supervisor, I bring a unique blend of practicality, authenticity, warmth, and humor to my therapeutic approach. I'll work with you develop more insight into your thoughts/feelings/behavior, and help transform that insight into effective action in your everyday life. I firmly believe that if therapy works, you should see tangible changes for the better outside of the therapy room.
I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, PTSD/trauma, self-esteem/self-confidence issues, grief/loss, difficulty navigating life transitions, LGBTQ+ issues, dating/relationship issues, neurodivergence (e.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, or trauma? Are you looking for more effective ways to manage stress from work and relationships? With a depth of experience as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Board-Approved Clinical Supervisor, I bring a unique blend of practicality, authenticity, warmth, and humor to my therapeutic approach. I'll work with you develop more insight into your thoughts/feelings/behavior, and help transform that insight into effective action in your everyday life. I firmly believe that if therapy works, you should see tangible changes for the better outside of the therapy room.
(703) 226-2566 View (703) 226-2566
Photo of Tess Meier, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arlington, VA
Tess Meier
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22209  (Online Only)
I offer therapy services in English and Spanish to adolescent and adult populations suffering from trauma, anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, identity issues, relationship problems, and a wide range of other mental health needs. I am client-centered and strengths-based in my approach, working with you to discover and use your strengths to find the healthy coping skills you need to thrive. I have extensive experience in art, CBT, and mindfulness practices, and often use and encourage movement and outdoor therapeutic techniques to bring you closer to your best self.
I offer therapy services in English and Spanish to adolescent and adult populations suffering from trauma, anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, identity issues, relationship problems, and a wide range of other mental health needs. I am client-centered and strengths-based in my approach, working with you to discover and use your strengths to find the healthy coping skills you need to thrive. I have extensive experience in art, CBT, and mindfulness practices, and often use and encourage movement and outdoor therapeutic techniques to bring you closer to your best self.
(571) 601-4674 View (571) 601-4674
Photo of Zach Hocanson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arlington, VA
Zach Hocanson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22203  (Online Only)
With a specialty in PTSD and other trauma related issues, I have effectively treated First Responders, Military and their families. Are you feeling stuck in another time and place? Do past events influence your current life in a way that they shouldn't? Do you or someone you care about suffer from thoughts and physical symptoms which can weigh you down, be overwhelming and impede your life from being the best it can be right now? I work with a broad range of techniques to bring you into the present and rise above issues that may be haunting you.
With a specialty in PTSD and other trauma related issues, I have effectively treated First Responders, Military and their families. Are you feeling stuck in another time and place? Do past events influence your current life in a way that they shouldn't? Do you or someone you care about suffer from thoughts and physical symptoms which can weigh you down, be overwhelming and impede your life from being the best it can be right now? I work with a broad range of techniques to bring you into the present and rise above issues that may be haunting you.
(571) 454-8515 View (571) 454-8515
Photo of Tara R. Edwards, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arlington, VA
Tara R. Edwards
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
19 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22209
My areas of expertise include: grief & loss, trauma & PTSD, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, body image, disordered and emotional eating, eating disorders, and addiction.
Have the events of your life or the world around you got you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or stressed? Is your inner critic getting louder? Are you finding yourself numbing out with food, alcohol, shopping or streaming? Are you longing for meaningful connection? You are not alone. Perhaps I can help. I am a BIPOC, LGBTQI+, and Disability affirming therapist. I offer brief, standard, and extended session lengths. I welcome an opportunity to collaborate with you as you bravely or not so bravely make your way in this world of ours. Questions? Please call or email. It's okay to reach out and ask for help.
My areas of expertise include: grief & loss, trauma & PTSD, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, body image, disordered and emotional eating, eating disorders, and addiction.
Have the events of your life or the world around you got you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or stressed? Is your inner critic getting louder? Are you finding yourself numbing out with food, alcohol, shopping or streaming? Are you longing for meaningful connection? You are not alone. Perhaps I can help. I am a BIPOC, LGBTQI+, and Disability affirming therapist. I offer brief, standard, and extended session lengths. I welcome an opportunity to collaborate with you as you bravely or not so bravely make your way in this world of ours. Questions? Please call or email. It's okay to reach out and ask for help.
(703) 420-7173 View (703) 420-7173
Photo of Meredith Luttrell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arlington, VA
Meredith Luttrell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22209
I particularly enjoy working with clients hoping to change unhealthy relationship patterns, and manage the effects of trauma, depression, anxiety.
I view therapy as a collaborative process where the client is the expert on themselves, and the therapeutic relationship is the most important factor in creating change. It is important to have a safe, empowering, and supportive environment in order to examine hurtful relationship patterns and emotional difficulties, and in turn change negative self-evaluations to better respond to life's challenges. I am genuinely interested in and committed to helping my clients gain insight and express their needs in order to engage in more healthy relationships and live the life they want.
I particularly enjoy working with clients hoping to change unhealthy relationship patterns, and manage the effects of trauma, depression, anxiety.
I view therapy as a collaborative process where the client is the expert on themselves, and the therapeutic relationship is the most important factor in creating change. It is important to have a safe, empowering, and supportive environment in order to examine hurtful relationship patterns and emotional difficulties, and in turn change negative self-evaluations to better respond to life's challenges. I am genuinely interested in and committed to helping my clients gain insight and express their needs in order to engage in more healthy relationships and live the life they want.
(757) 793-2859 View (757) 793-2859
Photo of Nicole Cathell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arlington, VA
Nicole Cathell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22203  (Online Only)
Hi, thanks for clicking! And congrats on starting/returning to therapy. A little about me, I've worked in mental health since 2012, starting in hospitals and non-profits before private practice. I help people with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, life changes, and interpersonal/family issues. I have a mixed cultural background. I don't incorporate spirituality in therapy. I often help with religious trauma/conflicts. I'm a dog person, but work with cat people and others :) I work with clients from all races, ethnicities, religions, gender identities, sexual orientations, abilities, etc. I also work with active/retired military.
Hi, thanks for clicking! And congrats on starting/returning to therapy. A little about me, I've worked in mental health since 2012, starting in hospitals and non-profits before private practice. I help people with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, life changes, and interpersonal/family issues. I have a mixed cultural background. I don't incorporate spirituality in therapy. I often help with religious trauma/conflicts. I'm a dog person, but work with cat people and others :) I work with clients from all races, ethnicities, religions, gender identities, sexual orientations, abilities, etc. I also work with active/retired military.
(571) 200-8959 View (571) 200-8959
Photo of Terri Ann Pilkerton, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arlington, VA
Terri Ann Pilkerton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MAEd, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22203  (Online Only)
My expertise is helping individuals with PTSD, C-PTSD, mood disorders, addiction, and ADHD to live a healthy, productive life.
I help individuals with a wide range of emotional and psychological difficulties using a holistic approach, which emphasizes the mind-body relationship. My primary therapy models include an evidence-based fusion to include Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Mindfulness.
My expertise is helping individuals with PTSD, C-PTSD, mood disorders, addiction, and ADHD to live a healthy, productive life.
I help individuals with a wide range of emotional and psychological difficulties using a holistic approach, which emphasizes the mind-body relationship. My primary therapy models include an evidence-based fusion to include Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Mindfulness.
(571) 370-8227 View (571) 370-8227
Photo of Silver Lake Psychology--Virginia location, Psychologist in Arlington, VA
Silver Lake Psychology--Virginia location
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22201
Relationship and sexual concerns, couples therapy, anxiety, addiction, trauma, eating disorders, stress management, insomnia, women's issues, creativity, LGBTQ- welcome.
Learn how to feel more connected to yourself, others and the world around you. Therapy provides all the elements of intimacy: honest communication, vulnerability and trust. Good therapy is challenging yet warm, providing both structure and empathy for your unique experience. We are a collective of therapists with a wide range of specialties. Our intake professionals will help connect you with the right therapist for your needs. We make appointments easy, offering evenings and weekends and flexibility for creative professionals who can't make the same time each week.
Relationship and sexual concerns, couples therapy, anxiety, addiction, trauma, eating disorders, stress management, insomnia, women's issues, creativity, LGBTQ- welcome.
Learn how to feel more connected to yourself, others and the world around you. Therapy provides all the elements of intimacy: honest communication, vulnerability and trust. Good therapy is challenging yet warm, providing both structure and empathy for your unique experience. We are a collective of therapists with a wide range of specialties. Our intake professionals will help connect you with the right therapist for your needs. We make appointments easy, offering evenings and weekends and flexibility for creative professionals who can't make the same time each week.
(703) 783-3242 View (703) 783-3242
Photo of Silver Lake Psychology--Virginia location, Psychologist in Arlington, VA
Silver Lake Psychology--Virginia location
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22201
Relationship and sexual concerns, couples therapy, anxiety, addiction, trauma, eating disorders, stress management, insomnia, women's issues, creativity, LGBTQ- welcome.
Learn how to feel more connected to yourself, others and the world around you. Therapy provides all the elements of intimacy: honest communication, vulnerability and trust. Good therapy is challenging yet warm, providing both structure and empathy for your unique experience. We are a collective of therapists with a wide range of specialties. Our intake professionals will help connect you with the right therapist for your needs. We make appointments easy, offering evenings and weekends and flexibility for creative professionals who can't make the same time each week.
Relationship and sexual concerns, couples therapy, anxiety, addiction, trauma, eating disorders, stress management, insomnia, women's issues, creativity, LGBTQ- welcome.
Learn how to feel more connected to yourself, others and the world around you. Therapy provides all the elements of intimacy: honest communication, vulnerability and trust. Good therapy is challenging yet warm, providing both structure and empathy for your unique experience. We are a collective of therapists with a wide range of specialties. Our intake professionals will help connect you with the right therapist for your needs. We make appointments easy, offering evenings and weekends and flexibility for creative professionals who can't make the same time each week.
(703) 997-2935 View (703) 997-2935
Photo of Julia Berlin, Pre-Licensed Professional in Arlington, VA
Julia Berlin
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22201
I use person-centered and trauma-informed approaches to help individuals, couples, and families effectively work through their concerns.
I am a licensed Resident in Marriage and Family therapy. I received my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Marriage and Family Therapy from the College of William and Mary and my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Political Science from the University of South Carolina. I have experience working with individuals, families, couples, and groups. These experiences solidified my passion for working with a diverse population of families and individuals. I have experience working with military families, LGBTQ+ individuals, couples, and families, and adolescents.
I use person-centered and trauma-informed approaches to help individuals, couples, and families effectively work through their concerns.
I am a licensed Resident in Marriage and Family therapy. I received my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Marriage and Family Therapy from the College of William and Mary and my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Political Science from the University of South Carolina. I have experience working with individuals, families, couples, and groups. These experiences solidified my passion for working with a diverse population of families and individuals. I have experience working with military families, LGBTQ+ individuals, couples, and families, and adolescents.
(571) 621-7640 x906 View (571) 621-7640 x906
Photo of Andrea Miller, Resident in Counseling in Arlington, VA
Andrea Miller
Resident in Counseling, LGPC, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22209
Are you in search of support? Are you struggling with symptoms of trauma, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, personal growth, life transitions, relationship conflict, multicultural issues, religion, spirituality, self-harm, suicidal ideation, or bipolar/mood disorders?
Are you in search of support? Are you struggling with symptoms of trauma, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, personal growth, life transitions, relationship conflict, multicultural issues, religion, spirituality, self-harm, suicidal ideation, or bipolar/mood disorders?
(571) 946-6525 View (571) 946-6525
Photo of Simona Efanov, Psychologist in Arlington, VA
Simona Efanov
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22202
THERAPY: I specialize in PTSD and Complex trauma Tx, eating disorder treatment couples counseling.
Not Accepting New Clients I believe people continue to grow and foster their self-concept over time. Sudden life changes, chronic stress, and ongoing personal difficulties are challenging and affect how we adjust to life transitions. I see therapy as a process aiming to empower individuals to embrace their true self, foster self-awareness and personal growth. I aim to create a trusting environment for individuals and couples to explore recurrent patterns in relationships and cope with distressing emotions. I work with trauma survivors, first responders, law enforcement, and military families. I also specialize in couples counseling.
THERAPY: I specialize in PTSD and Complex trauma Tx, eating disorder treatment couples counseling.
Not Accepting New Clients I believe people continue to grow and foster their self-concept over time. Sudden life changes, chronic stress, and ongoing personal difficulties are challenging and affect how we adjust to life transitions. I see therapy as a process aiming to empower individuals to embrace their true self, foster self-awareness and personal growth. I aim to create a trusting environment for individuals and couples to explore recurrent patterns in relationships and cope with distressing emotions. I work with trauma survivors, first responders, law enforcement, and military families. I also specialize in couples counseling.
(202) 629-0609 View (202) 629-0609
Trauma and PTSD Therapists

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.