Photo of Margaret Sahm, Counselor in Orlando, FL
Margaret Sahm
Counselor, LMHC , CAP
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32832
I will teach relaxation techniques & use psychoeducation on how our bodies react to trauma & how our emotions affect the anxiety/depression symptoms through CBT techniques.
Are you wrestling with the challenges of past traumatic experiences? Do you want to diminish your anxiety and depression, being able to move forward without always being triggered or being awoken by a panic attack? Your goals may be to enjoy your life, be able to manage your emotions and enjoy healthy relationships. I'm here to listen, understand, and help you feel validated and valued so that you can move forward confidently. We will be working through trauma-informed care, cognitive-behavioral techniques, and exposure-based therapy with a solution-focused approach, along with incorporating your faith, if applicable.
I will teach relaxation techniques & use psychoeducation on how our bodies react to trauma & how our emotions affect the anxiety/depression symptoms through CBT techniques.
Are you wrestling with the challenges of past traumatic experiences? Do you want to diminish your anxiety and depression, being able to move forward without always being triggered or being awoken by a panic attack? Your goals may be to enjoy your life, be able to manage your emotions and enjoy healthy relationships. I'm here to listen, understand, and help you feel validated and valued so that you can move forward confidently. We will be working through trauma-informed care, cognitive-behavioral techniques, and exposure-based therapy with a solution-focused approach, along with incorporating your faith, if applicable.
(321) 475-7217 View (321) 475-7217
Photo of Ingrid Whicker, Counselor in Orlando, FL
Ingrid Whicker
Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32803
With a Psychoanalytical approach, I'm specialized in trauma work where free association and interpretation of dreams take place.
“Know thyself” it’s the only effective path to understand who you truly are and how to deal with unresolved issues. Recognizing that our past does affect our present will open doors to a brighter future. In a safe space where my patients are carefully listened to, I guide them through a profound exploration of their inner selves where their pace, individuality, and needs are respected. Noteworthy, I’m a licensed Mental Health Counselor who proudly graduated from UCF - top 10 counseling program in the nation. Additionally, I earned my license as a Psychologist in Brazil in 2011, and I’m fluent in English, Portuguese, and Spanish.
With a Psychoanalytical approach, I'm specialized in trauma work where free association and interpretation of dreams take place.
“Know thyself” it’s the only effective path to understand who you truly are and how to deal with unresolved issues. Recognizing that our past does affect our present will open doors to a brighter future. In a safe space where my patients are carefully listened to, I guide them through a profound exploration of their inner selves where their pace, individuality, and needs are respected. Noteworthy, I’m a licensed Mental Health Counselor who proudly graduated from UCF - top 10 counseling program in the nation. Additionally, I earned my license as a Psychologist in Brazil in 2011, and I’m fluent in English, Portuguese, and Spanish.
(689) 400-8164 View (689) 400-8164
Photo of Rebecca Dornan- Erman, Counselor in Orlando, FL
Rebecca Dornan- Erman
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32819
Welcome! I am a Licensed Mental Health Therapist, that specializes in the treatment of eating disorders, trauma, and co-occuring mental health illnesses. I am currently working towards my certification as a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist (CEDS), as well as my full certification for EMDR. My goal as a therapist is to provide my clients with a space and counselor that is strengths based, safe, and judgement free to facilitate growth and change. I work with a wide variety of disorders including anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, eating disorders, and trauma to name a few.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Mental Health Therapist, that specializes in the treatment of eating disorders, trauma, and co-occuring mental health illnesses. I am currently working towards my certification as a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist (CEDS), as well as my full certification for EMDR. My goal as a therapist is to provide my clients with a space and counselor that is strengths based, safe, and judgement free to facilitate growth and change. I work with a wide variety of disorders including anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, eating disorders, and trauma to name a few.
(407) 268-0355 View (407) 268-0355
Photo of The Sunnyside Market, Counselor in Orlando, FL
The Sunnyside Market
Counselor, NCC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32801
Motivational Interviewing, Herbalism, Ayurveda, Integrative and Functional Nutrition, EMDR, trauma-informed CBT, pregnancy/postpartum, and first-time family education.
As an experienced therapist in Orlando, FL, I am dedicated to helping individuals overcome their mental health challenges.
Motivational Interviewing, Herbalism, Ayurveda, Integrative and Functional Nutrition, EMDR, trauma-informed CBT, pregnancy/postpartum, and first-time family education.
As an experienced therapist in Orlando, FL, I am dedicated to helping individuals overcome their mental health challenges.
(321) 334-4883 View (321) 334-4883
Photo of Monica Susan Camacho, Pre-Licensed Professional in Orlando, FL
Monica Susan Camacho
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32819
Monica Susan Camacho, a plus-size, BIPOC, neurodivergent therapist, offers DBT, solution-focused therapy and trauma-informed therapy for ages 5 to 40. Specializing in life transitions, bipolar disorder, trauma, anxiety, depression, and disordered eating, Monica fosters a judgment-free, validating space. Breaking traditional rules, she self-discloses to provide encouragement and validation. Believing in continual growth, Monica supports marginalized communities and emphasizes that healing is nonlinear. Reach out to Monica for empathetic support on your healing journey.
Monica Susan Camacho, a plus-size, BIPOC, neurodivergent therapist, offers DBT, solution-focused therapy and trauma-informed therapy for ages 5 to 40. Specializing in life transitions, bipolar disorder, trauma, anxiety, depression, and disordered eating, Monica fosters a judgment-free, validating space. Breaking traditional rules, she self-discloses to provide encouragement and validation. Believing in continual growth, Monica supports marginalized communities and emphasizes that healing is nonlinear. Reach out to Monica for empathetic support on your healing journey.
(407) 537-7169 View (407) 537-7169
Photo of Iblin Penagos-Chinchilla, Counselor in Orlando, FL
Iblin Penagos-Chinchilla
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32825  (Online Only)
Life tends to be challenging and therapy gives the chance to be listened to without judgment, learn lifelong coping skills, and gain greater self-awareness among other benefits. I am a bilingual Latina counselor with over 12 years of experience working with clients who experience trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, illnesses, phobias, relationship issues, substance abuse, identity issues related to gender and sexuality and life transitions.
Life tends to be challenging and therapy gives the chance to be listened to without judgment, learn lifelong coping skills, and gain greater self-awareness among other benefits. I am a bilingual Latina counselor with over 12 years of experience working with clients who experience trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, illnesses, phobias, relationship issues, substance abuse, identity issues related to gender and sexuality and life transitions.
(321) 334-2209 View (321) 334-2209
Photo of Angelica Cabrera, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Orlando, FL
Angelica Cabrera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, RYT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32814  (Online Only)
Emotions are like water; they find a way or make a way. If you have been struggling with navigating through difficult emotions, trauma, divorce, anxiety, depression, and substance use issues, do not lose hope. There is path to recovery and a way to enjoy life again. Contact me and let's forge that path together. I am inspired by helping resilient individuals enrich their lives, make sense of chaos, and find healthier ways to cope with their struggles.
Emotions are like water; they find a way or make a way. If you have been struggling with navigating through difficult emotions, trauma, divorce, anxiety, depression, and substance use issues, do not lose hope. There is path to recovery and a way to enjoy life again. Contact me and let's forge that path together. I am inspired by helping resilient individuals enrich their lives, make sense of chaos, and find healthier ways to cope with their struggles.
(407) 805-1646 View (407) 805-1646
Photo of Mindscape Counseling, Counselor in Orlando, FL
Mindscape Counseling
Counselor, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32835  (Online Only)
Clients who often have a successful experience are those who come with a readiness to self reflect and who want to create new possibilities for themselves based on meaning and purpose. They are open to the possibility of healing and are ready to write the next chapter. I specialize in utilizing Eye-Movement Desensitization Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for a wide range of mental health issues including, trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADHD, chemical dependence.
Clients who often have a successful experience are those who come with a readiness to self reflect and who want to create new possibilities for themselves based on meaning and purpose. They are open to the possibility of healing and are ready to write the next chapter. I specialize in utilizing Eye-Movement Desensitization Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for a wide range of mental health issues including, trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADHD, chemical dependence.
(407) 783-9168 View (407) 783-9168
Photo of Latino Leadership Behavioral Health, Counselor in Orlando, FL
Latino Leadership Behavioral Health
Counselor, LMHC, CRT, ACT
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32825
Are team specializes in ADHD in children and adults, addiction issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, adoption specialist just to name a few.
I am the Clinical Director of Latino Leadership. At Latino Leadership the we are proud to announce the services in Mental Health Services, ABA Analyses, Santiago and Friends (Family Center for Autism), Free Clinic, Free Medications, Special Education School and Community Outreach services for all ages. For more than 17 years Latino Leadership staff have been committed to the advancement of the Central Florida Latino community and serving individuals of all cultures who live in our community.
Are team specializes in ADHD in children and adults, addiction issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, adoption specialist just to name a few.
I am the Clinical Director of Latino Leadership. At Latino Leadership the we are proud to announce the services in Mental Health Services, ABA Analyses, Santiago and Friends (Family Center for Autism), Free Clinic, Free Medications, Special Education School and Community Outreach services for all ages. For more than 17 years Latino Leadership staff have been committed to the advancement of the Central Florida Latino community and serving individuals of all cultures who live in our community.
(407) 499-8754 x2 View (407) 499-8754 x2
Photo of Jacqueline Hernandez, Counselor in Orlando, FL
Jacqueline Hernandez
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32832  (Online Only)
I have treated individuals with anxiety, depression, AD/HD, school related issues, self-esteem problems, bipolar mood swings, social skills, abuse, trauma, attachment related issues, thought disturbances, and relationship problems.
As a mental health counselor, I enjoy working with a diverse group of populations and helping them solve their problems, achieve their goals, and overcome life's hardships. Whether you are currently experiencing situational stressors or battling long-term problems, I am here to help. I offer an eclectic approach in order to ensure the most effective treatment plan is designed to meet your interests, goals, and strengths. I am also certified in EMDR.
I have treated individuals with anxiety, depression, AD/HD, school related issues, self-esteem problems, bipolar mood swings, social skills, abuse, trauma, attachment related issues, thought disturbances, and relationship problems.
As a mental health counselor, I enjoy working with a diverse group of populations and helping them solve their problems, achieve their goals, and overcome life's hardships. Whether you are currently experiencing situational stressors or battling long-term problems, I am here to help. I offer an eclectic approach in order to ensure the most effective treatment plan is designed to meet your interests, goals, and strengths. I am also certified in EMDR.
(321) 522-4898 View (321) 522-4898
Photo of Bekah Yates, Counselor in Orlando, FL
Bekah Yates
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32803  (Online Only)
Feeling stuck or lost? Interested in developing a deeper understanding of who you are, how you work, and how to make things work better in your life? If so, I can help. Our work together will be a collaborative process that focuses on identifying healthy ways of embracing change and growth. Our work together also focuses on how to recognize when healing is taking place. A large part of our work together will center on healing from trauma, developing healthier coping skills, and improving relationships with others while reconnecting with your true self.
Feeling stuck or lost? Interested in developing a deeper understanding of who you are, how you work, and how to make things work better in your life? If so, I can help. Our work together will be a collaborative process that focuses on identifying healthy ways of embracing change and growth. Our work together also focuses on how to recognize when healing is taking place. A large part of our work together will center on healing from trauma, developing healthier coping skills, and improving relationships with others while reconnecting with your true self.
(689) 888-7586 View (689) 888-7586
Photo of Elisabeth Shields, Counselor in Orlando, FL
Elisabeth Shields
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32801  (Online Only)
I have experience working with adolescents and adults, especially those suffering from problems with anxiety, grief, low self-esteem, suicidality and self-harm, depression, and trauma.
I provide therapeutic services in an authentic, compassionate, and non-judgmental manner. I value establishing a collaborative relationship with clients in order to empower and encourage them to look inwards and work towards change and acceptance. Working together, I want to help clients cultivate a deeper awareness and understanding of themselves, increase self-esteem and self-worth, and improve relationships and communication with others.
I have experience working with adolescents and adults, especially those suffering from problems with anxiety, grief, low self-esteem, suicidality and self-harm, depression, and trauma.
I provide therapeutic services in an authentic, compassionate, and non-judgmental manner. I value establishing a collaborative relationship with clients in order to empower and encourage them to look inwards and work towards change and acceptance. Working together, I want to help clients cultivate a deeper awareness and understanding of themselves, increase self-esteem and self-worth, and improve relationships and communication with others.
(689) 202-8643 View (689) 202-8643
Photo of Jamie Gunning, Marriage & Family Therapist in Orlando, FL
Jamie Gunning
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32803
I specialize in developmental and sudden event trauma treatment and couple therapy including infidelity.
I offer competent and compassionate care for individuals and couples who are seeking peace and contentment in their lives. I celebrate and support diversity. I offer a safe and healing space where people can feel free to explore what holds them back, keeps them stuck and disconnects them from themselves and the world around them. Clients who visit me experience compassionate care that addresses their issues from a holistic perspective of mind, body and soul.
I specialize in developmental and sudden event trauma treatment and couple therapy including infidelity.
I offer competent and compassionate care for individuals and couples who are seeking peace and contentment in their lives. I celebrate and support diversity. I offer a safe and healing space where people can feel free to explore what holds them back, keeps them stuck and disconnects them from themselves and the world around them. Clients who visit me experience compassionate care that addresses their issues from a holistic perspective of mind, body and soul.
(407) 917-8590 View (407) 917-8590
Photo of John F Robertson, Psychologist in Orlando, FL
John F Robertson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32810
Our focus and passion in counseling and therapy are in working with individuals with resolving physical, emotional or sexual trauma issues, bipolar disorders and couples in conflict Psychological testing/evaluations are also a specialty.
Sometimes life weighs us down with major challenges. I believe that individuals, couples or families have the amazing capability of growing, healing and becoming more than anyone can predict, given the appropriate approach. Therapy is designed to guide and assist in this process and ranges from individual psychotherapy to family systems intervention. With my clinical associates Dr. Renee Von Raub, School Psychologist, Vanessa Mejias, LMHC, Tasha Williams, RMHCI, Shinell Stewart, RMHCI, Jamonte Barnes, RMHCI, and Calandra Jackson, RMHCI, we work in a mutual effort to resolve diverse relational, gender, sexual and disability issues.
Our focus and passion in counseling and therapy are in working with individuals with resolving physical, emotional or sexual trauma issues, bipolar disorders and couples in conflict Psychological testing/evaluations are also a specialty.
Sometimes life weighs us down with major challenges. I believe that individuals, couples or families have the amazing capability of growing, healing and becoming more than anyone can predict, given the appropriate approach. Therapy is designed to guide and assist in this process and ranges from individual psychotherapy to family systems intervention. With my clinical associates Dr. Renee Von Raub, School Psychologist, Vanessa Mejias, LMHC, Tasha Williams, RMHCI, Shinell Stewart, RMHCI, Jamonte Barnes, RMHCI, and Calandra Jackson, RMHCI, we work in a mutual effort to resolve diverse relational, gender, sexual and disability issues.
(407) 901-2239 View (407) 901-2239
Photo of Solomon Richberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Orlando, FL
Solomon Richberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32814  (Online Only)
With over a decade of experience as a trauma therapist, I specialize in personalized plans to ease your anxiety and trauma.
You had to call out of work again. Preparing for your meeting brought up past traumas, and the fear of repeating old mistakes was too much. You felt vulnerable and exposed. Initially, there was a sense of relief after calling out, but it quickly turned into feelings of shame and self-doubt. Dealing with these deep-rooted issues from your past is tough. It's scary to face them, but it's an essential step in healing. Understanding and confronting these feelings can be hard, but it's the way forward to feeling better and gaining control over your life.
With over a decade of experience as a trauma therapist, I specialize in personalized plans to ease your anxiety and trauma.
You had to call out of work again. Preparing for your meeting brought up past traumas, and the fear of repeating old mistakes was too much. You felt vulnerable and exposed. Initially, there was a sense of relief after calling out, but it quickly turned into feelings of shame and self-doubt. Dealing with these deep-rooted issues from your past is tough. It's scary to face them, but it's an essential step in healing. Understanding and confronting these feelings can be hard, but it's the way forward to feeling better and gaining control over your life.
(689) 202-4743 View (689) 202-4743
Photo of Aeron DeGroat, Counselor in Orlando, FL
Aeron DeGroat
Counselor, MA, LMHC, MCAP
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32832
I specialize in LGBTQIA+ issues & trauma, specifically gender identity and transgender issues.
My ideal client may present with a variety of issues, but ultimately they are motivated to seek change and implement strategies discussed in therapy while in-between sessions. They strive to be open and vulnerable in sessions and are looking to be an active and collaborative part of their therapeutic journey. I believe that we are all experts on our own experience, and a client who is willing to provide feedback on what is working and what isn't can assist in helping them tailor the therapy experience to their individual needs.
I specialize in LGBTQIA+ issues & trauma, specifically gender identity and transgender issues.
My ideal client may present with a variety of issues, but ultimately they are motivated to seek change and implement strategies discussed in therapy while in-between sessions. They strive to be open and vulnerable in sessions and are looking to be an active and collaborative part of their therapeutic journey. I believe that we are all experts on our own experience, and a client who is willing to provide feedback on what is working and what isn't can assist in helping them tailor the therapy experience to their individual needs.
(321) 413-8008 View (321) 413-8008
Photo of Claudette Gonzalez, Counselor in Orlando, FL
Claudette Gonzalez
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32827
, transitions), behavioral issues, and ADHD, I have specialized training in the areas of trauma and couples counseling.
Have you ever felt that you didn’t have a hold on your own life? Sometimes, we can feel stuck and clueless on the next step to take. Therapy is great first step toward finding the answers you’re looking for. I believe that the relationship between a person and their therapist is the most important part of therapy. The connection and safety you experience with your therapist is fundamental to your journey toward wholeness and wellness. To create that safe environment, I work with compassion, creativity, and integrity. My deepest desire as a therapist is that I come to understand all parts of who you are, to truly see you.
, transitions), behavioral issues, and ADHD, I have specialized training in the areas of trauma and couples counseling.
Have you ever felt that you didn’t have a hold on your own life? Sometimes, we can feel stuck and clueless on the next step to take. Therapy is great first step toward finding the answers you’re looking for. I believe that the relationship between a person and their therapist is the most important part of therapy. The connection and safety you experience with your therapist is fundamental to your journey toward wholeness and wellness. To create that safe environment, I work with compassion, creativity, and integrity. My deepest desire as a therapist is that I come to understand all parts of who you are, to truly see you.
(321) 617-1081 View (321) 617-1081
Photo of Leah S Taylor, Counselor in Orlando, FL
Leah S Taylor
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32828  (Online Only)
You are more than your trauma, Inner childhood wounds, and the labels placed on to you.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. I have a plethora of experience with in-patient and outpatient agencies which have allowed me to help clients overcome struggles with issues such as Substance use, Anxiety, Depression, Relationship issues, LGBTQ, Ethical Non-Monogamy/lifestyle concerns, Homelessness, Bipolar disorder, Personality disorders, and Trauma including sexual, emotional and physical abuse. My upbringing as the child of an immigrant Caribbean mother, and experience growing up in Brooklyn, NY allows me to bring a unique perspective to bring to the counseling experience.
You are more than your trauma, Inner childhood wounds, and the labels placed on to you.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. I have a plethora of experience with in-patient and outpatient agencies which have allowed me to help clients overcome struggles with issues such as Substance use, Anxiety, Depression, Relationship issues, LGBTQ, Ethical Non-Monogamy/lifestyle concerns, Homelessness, Bipolar disorder, Personality disorders, and Trauma including sexual, emotional and physical abuse. My upbringing as the child of an immigrant Caribbean mother, and experience growing up in Brooklyn, NY allows me to bring a unique perspective to bring to the counseling experience.
(407) 543-1530 View (407) 543-1530
Photo of Patricia Demasky, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Orlando, FL
Patricia Demasky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32818
Hi, I'm Trish Demasky, an LCSW licensed to practice in Florida and Maine. My focus is working with adolescents, teens, and families on gender issues, PTSD, trauma, and family issues. I have a holistic, client centered approach and employ numerous therapeutic approaches such as EMDR, poly vagal theory, CBT, Solution Focused, and DBT. My client base consists mostly of those with a trauma history, those suffering with PTSD, gender dysphoria, and family issues. I would be honored to be part of your journey on the road to empowerment and wellbeing.
Hi, I'm Trish Demasky, an LCSW licensed to practice in Florida and Maine. My focus is working with adolescents, teens, and families on gender issues, PTSD, trauma, and family issues. I have a holistic, client centered approach and employ numerous therapeutic approaches such as EMDR, poly vagal theory, CBT, Solution Focused, and DBT. My client base consists mostly of those with a trauma history, those suffering with PTSD, gender dysphoria, and family issues. I would be honored to be part of your journey on the road to empowerment and wellbeing.
(904) 906-4432 View (904) 906-4432
Photo of Dylan Wallace, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Orlando, FL
Dylan Wallace
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32810
I specialize in helping cope with the complexities of substance use, other types of addictions, marital conflicts, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, grief, personality disorders, codependency, attachment, and family conflict.
I believe that each person has the potential to live the life they truly want and that lasting change is possible. As a strengths-based therapist, I help a client find their strengths are built on and utilized in therapy to help the client work through the difficulties they are experiencing. I create a space where you can tell me anything without fear of judgment or me telling you how you should live life. Therapy is an interactive process and it shouldn’t look the same for each person. I love helping people build their confidence and becoming more assertive. I want to help you build the skills to live your life to the fullest!
I specialize in helping cope with the complexities of substance use, other types of addictions, marital conflicts, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, grief, personality disorders, codependency, attachment, and family conflict.
I believe that each person has the potential to live the life they truly want and that lasting change is possible. As a strengths-based therapist, I help a client find their strengths are built on and utilized in therapy to help the client work through the difficulties they are experiencing. I create a space where you can tell me anything without fear of judgment or me telling you how you should live life. Therapy is an interactive process and it shouldn’t look the same for each person. I love helping people build their confidence and becoming more assertive. I want to help you build the skills to live your life to the fullest!
(321) 405-1722 View (321) 405-1722
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.