Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Raleigh, NC

Photo of Debra Apollonia, Licensed Professional Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Debra Apollonia
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27613
I work with a variety of issues including trauma, PTSD, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, relationship problems, ADHD, ODD, and addiction and recovery.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I create a safe and non-judgmental environment where clients are able to explore issues and improve the quality of their lives. I use an integrative style of psychotherapy that pulls from many different approaches with an emphasis on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I am also a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist and have experience working with those struggling with addiction and recovery issues.I also have years of experience working with emergency and trauma patients and their families. I treat children, adolescents and adults using individual, family and/or couples' counseling.
I work with a variety of issues including trauma, PTSD, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, relationship problems, ADHD, ODD, and addiction and recovery.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I create a safe and non-judgmental environment where clients are able to explore issues and improve the quality of their lives. I use an integrative style of psychotherapy that pulls from many different approaches with an emphasis on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I am also a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist and have experience working with those struggling with addiction and recovery issues.I also have years of experience working with emergency and trauma patients and their families. I treat children, adolescents and adults using individual, family and/or couples' counseling.
(919) 948-1395 View (919) 948-1395
Photo of Amy D Wright, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Amy D Wright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27607
Accepting New Clients! I believe all parts of you hold wisdom. I am here to help you discover the resources you have within and around you, so that you may better move toward the life you want. This may look like acknowledging, grieving, and moving past trauma responses that once served you but are now keeping you stuck. Or it may look like finding the wisdom and underlying needs that are communicated by your anxiety, depression, and/or dissociation. Maybe your mind and body are in conflict, or you seek spiritual growth.
Accepting New Clients! I believe all parts of you hold wisdom. I am here to help you discover the resources you have within and around you, so that you may better move toward the life you want. This may look like acknowledging, grieving, and moving past trauma responses that once served you but are now keeping you stuck. Or it may look like finding the wisdom and underlying needs that are communicated by your anxiety, depression, and/or dissociation. Maybe your mind and body are in conflict, or you seek spiritual growth.
(984) 689-9538 View (984) 689-9538
Photo of Nora Judeh, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Nora Judeh
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27607  (Online Only)
My experience ranges from providing services to individuals, couples, and families coming from different walks of life and backgrounds that come into session with an array of concerns, including anxiety, depression, life changes, family/relationship concerns and trauma. Understanding that everyone has different needs and concerns, my goal is to provide a culturally informed focus that empowers my clients. As a second-generation Muslim-American, I fully understands the importance of providing a safe and comfortable space for members of my community seeking wellness and mental health resources.
My experience ranges from providing services to individuals, couples, and families coming from different walks of life and backgrounds that come into session with an array of concerns, including anxiety, depression, life changes, family/relationship concerns and trauma. Understanding that everyone has different needs and concerns, my goal is to provide a culturally informed focus that empowers my clients. As a second-generation Muslim-American, I fully understands the importance of providing a safe and comfortable space for members of my community seeking wellness and mental health resources.
(919) 670-5141 View (919) 670-5141
Photo of Elizabeth Nicholaides, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Elizabeth Nicholaides
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27609
She counsels clients of all ages, specializing in those struggling with the following areas of specialty: Multiculturalism, Addiction/Substance abuse, Life and Family Transitions, Mental Health, Trauma and PTSD, Sex and Sexuality including Sexual Abuse, Midlife and Aging, and Grief.
Elizabeth is an experienced clinician committed to empowering people to understand and experience their lives in a more satisfying way. She supports clients through a combined practical, cultural, spiritual and narrative approach. She strives to help people find meaning in their lives and increase the congruence between their value systems, behaviors, and life contexts.
She counsels clients of all ages, specializing in those struggling with the following areas of specialty: Multiculturalism, Addiction/Substance abuse, Life and Family Transitions, Mental Health, Trauma and PTSD, Sex and Sexuality including Sexual Abuse, Midlife and Aging, and Grief.
Elizabeth is an experienced clinician committed to empowering people to understand and experience their lives in a more satisfying way. She supports clients through a combined practical, cultural, spiritual and narrative approach. She strives to help people find meaning in their lives and increase the congruence between their value systems, behaviors, and life contexts.
(919) 516-9084 View (919) 516-9084
Photo of Summer Parkins Davis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Summer Parkins Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27607  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients! As a therapist, I strive to support young adults (18-35) who are working toward recovery from trauma. I work with clients who have experienced a variety of traumas including sexual assault, accidents, interpersonal violence, arrests/incarceration, abuse and neglect in childhood, etc. Common goals in my work are eliminating unhelpful thinking, eradicating feelings of guilt and shame, enhancing future safety, increasing self-esteem, and improving self-advocacy skills. Additionally, I encourage my clients to work with me to create goals specific to their needs and circumstances.
Accepting new clients! As a therapist, I strive to support young adults (18-35) who are working toward recovery from trauma. I work with clients who have experienced a variety of traumas including sexual assault, accidents, interpersonal violence, arrests/incarceration, abuse and neglect in childhood, etc. Common goals in my work are eliminating unhelpful thinking, eradicating feelings of guilt and shame, enhancing future safety, increasing self-esteem, and improving self-advocacy skills. Additionally, I encourage my clients to work with me to create goals specific to their needs and circumstances.
(919) 396-5021 View (919) 396-5021
Photo of Wes Swan, Psychological Associate in Raleigh, NC
Wes Swan
Psychological Associate, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27605
Being a human is hard. But working with the right counselor can help. Maybe you feel anxious, unmotivated, or unsure. So... what's the solution? Can you really learn to love yourself, deep down, living from a place of peace and clarity? Counseling is a way to find a home within yourself. I enjoy helping adults and teenagers who suffer from anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, addiction, and more. I welcome folks from all backgrounds who want to discover their negative patterns and create changes that lasts.
Being a human is hard. But working with the right counselor can help. Maybe you feel anxious, unmotivated, or unsure. So... what's the solution? Can you really learn to love yourself, deep down, living from a place of peace and clarity? Counseling is a way to find a home within yourself. I enjoy helping adults and teenagers who suffer from anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, addiction, and more. I welcome folks from all backgrounds who want to discover their negative patterns and create changes that lasts.
(336) 490-5945 View (336) 490-5945
Photo of Tammy Blackard Cook Online Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Tammy Blackard Cook Online Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CDWF
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27605
In addition, I am a certified practitioner in the Trauma Resiliency Model (TRM), which is a mind-body approach focusing on the biological basis of trauma and the automatic ways that the human body responds.
For more than 25 years, I have worked as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) specializing in therapy with adults. I hold a Master's Degree in social work from the University of Chicago. Throughout my career, I have successfully helped clients struggling with a wide range of issues, though I have a particular interest and expertise in working with trauma and anxiety.
In addition, I am a certified practitioner in the Trauma Resiliency Model (TRM), which is a mind-body approach focusing on the biological basis of trauma and the automatic ways that the human body responds.
For more than 25 years, I have worked as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) specializing in therapy with adults. I hold a Master's Degree in social work from the University of Chicago. Throughout my career, I have successfully helped clients struggling with a wide range of issues, though I have a particular interest and expertise in working with trauma and anxiety.
(919) 299-0027 View (919) 299-0027
Photo of Ty'kia Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Ty'kia Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27607
Ty’Kia earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Social Work from Savannah State University. She is passionate about working with teens, young adults, and couples struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship problems, addiction, self-esteem issues, and other life stressors. Ty’Kia has experience in acute PHP/IOP programs, as well as domestic violence/teen dating violence, and substance abuse treatment by helping clients develop and utilize coping skills, guiding clients to reach their personal goals, and helping them establish and maintain self-care. Ty’Kia’s approach has a holistic framework
Ty’Kia earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Social Work from Savannah State University. She is passionate about working with teens, young adults, and couples struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship problems, addiction, self-esteem issues, and other life stressors. Ty’Kia has experience in acute PHP/IOP programs, as well as domestic violence/teen dating violence, and substance abuse treatment by helping clients develop and utilize coping skills, guiding clients to reach their personal goals, and helping them establish and maintain self-care. Ty’Kia’s approach has a holistic framework
(833) 701-3111 View (833) 701-3111
Photo of Aimee Jenkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Aimee Jenkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27616
My belief is that in order to create and sustain a happy, well-balanced life, we must first define what "happy" looks like, then figure out how to obtain it! This can oftentimes be daunting when experiencing the challenges of mental health, and significant life transitions. I have dedicated my entire career to partnering with individuals and families and meeting them where they are to work on achieving this goal. I regularly use mindfulness skills and always promote a trauma-informed approach to all we work on. Regardless, I work to meet you where you are and utilize appropriate interventions. My focus
My belief is that in order to create and sustain a happy, well-balanced life, we must first define what "happy" looks like, then figure out how to obtain it! This can oftentimes be daunting when experiencing the challenges of mental health, and significant life transitions. I have dedicated my entire career to partnering with individuals and families and meeting them where they are to work on achieving this goal. I regularly use mindfulness skills and always promote a trauma-informed approach to all we work on. Regardless, I work to meet you where you are and utilize appropriate interventions. My focus
(910) 348-7498 View (910) 348-7498
Photo of Shauna Lee Jones, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Shauna Lee Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27609
My areas of clinical interest include anxiety, depression, relationships, communication, identity formation, life transitions, self-esteem, LBGTQ+, abuse, trauma and more.
Thank you for visiting my page. I understand and appreciate that reaching out for support is not easy. Through the brave action of engaging in therapy, I believe clients gift themselves an opportunity to gain powerful insights, grow in self-awareness, cultivate a deeper connection to themselves and others, and ultimately move toward lasting change. My role as therapist is to facilitate and support this process within the structure of a warm, safe, and non-judgmental environment where all - regardless of race, religion, identity, or background - are included and welcome.
My areas of clinical interest include anxiety, depression, relationships, communication, identity formation, life transitions, self-esteem, LBGTQ+, abuse, trauma and more.
Thank you for visiting my page. I understand and appreciate that reaching out for support is not easy. Through the brave action of engaging in therapy, I believe clients gift themselves an opportunity to gain powerful insights, grow in self-awareness, cultivate a deeper connection to themselves and others, and ultimately move toward lasting change. My role as therapist is to facilitate and support this process within the structure of a warm, safe, and non-judgmental environment where all - regardless of race, religion, identity, or background - are included and welcome.
(336) 568-8991 View (336) 568-8991
Photo of Everett Uhl, Marriage & Family Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Everett Uhl
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27612
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for painful memories (betrayals, abuse) and PTSD.
Here you are, in the frustrating position of scrolling through therapists online. You do not want to book an intake and tell someone your whole life story only to realize a few sessions in that they are just nodding, not saying much and you don't click. So, are we going to talk about feelings? Sure. And, I believe in a no bullshit approach to therapy. I will hold you accountable to create the change you want to see in your life. I bring body scans, breathing exercises, movement, silence, listening and laughter to every session. Because if we aren't laughing, we're crying.
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for painful memories (betrayals, abuse) and PTSD.
Here you are, in the frustrating position of scrolling through therapists online. You do not want to book an intake and tell someone your whole life story only to realize a few sessions in that they are just nodding, not saying much and you don't click. So, are we going to talk about feelings? Sure. And, I believe in a no bullshit approach to therapy. I will hold you accountable to create the change you want to see in your life. I bring body scans, breathing exercises, movement, silence, listening and laughter to every session. Because if we aren't laughing, we're crying.
(984) 217-2506 View (984) 217-2506
Photo of Danielle Reid, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Danielle Reid
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27607  (Online Only)
I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders, depression/anxiety, and trauma.
Hi, I am so happy you are here! In our therapeutic relationship, my commitment is to create a compassionate and understanding space. Together, we'll explore your experiences, create a connection that encourages growth, trust, resilience, and vulnerability. I would be honored to support you on your journey towards heightened self-awareness and a more fulfilling life.
I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders, depression/anxiety, and trauma.
Hi, I am so happy you are here! In our therapeutic relationship, my commitment is to create a compassionate and understanding space. Together, we'll explore your experiences, create a connection that encourages growth, trust, resilience, and vulnerability. I would be honored to support you on your journey towards heightened self-awareness and a more fulfilling life.
(919) 635-9318 View (919) 635-9318
Photo of Shelby Bollar, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Shelby Bollar
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615  (Online Only)
I am a LCMHC, and I specialize in Trauma, self-esteem, and highly sensitive people.
Therapy is for everyone. Life is beautiful, but it can also be brutal. We all go through times in our lives where talking it out with a friend or meditating just doesn't cut it. Whether you are experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD, or just feeling stuck in life, I'm here for you. I'll walk alongside you on this journey to help you identify your strengths and coping strategies to help you move forward. We'll also detangle the threads of your past and help you make sense of the story of your life. We'll talk about your childhood trauma as well as what's going on in the present - and how these things interact.
I am a LCMHC, and I specialize in Trauma, self-esteem, and highly sensitive people.
Therapy is for everyone. Life is beautiful, but it can also be brutal. We all go through times in our lives where talking it out with a friend or meditating just doesn't cut it. Whether you are experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD, or just feeling stuck in life, I'm here for you. I'll walk alongside you on this journey to help you identify your strengths and coping strategies to help you move forward. We'll also detangle the threads of your past and help you make sense of the story of your life. We'll talk about your childhood trauma as well as what's going on in the present - and how these things interact.
(919) 351-6186 View (919) 351-6186
Photo of Roxanne Rosenberg, Licensed Professional Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Roxanne Rosenberg
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27612
I am also trained in several cognitive-behavioral treatment modalities for trauma, including birth trauma and childhood abuse .
Pregnancy, Postpartum, Reproductive, Adoption, Parenting, & Trauma Psychotherapy: I am a licensed professional counselor with 15 years of experience working with women, birth givers, and parents. I hold psychology degrees from Yale and Duke, as well as a certification in perinatal mental health. I am a perpetual student, always looking to learn new ways I can support my clients. Years working in adoptions has also equipped me to support birthparents, prospective & current adoptive parents, & adopted teens/adults. I primary use DBT and ACT.
I am also trained in several cognitive-behavioral treatment modalities for trauma, including birth trauma and childhood abuse .
Pregnancy, Postpartum, Reproductive, Adoption, Parenting, & Trauma Psychotherapy: I am a licensed professional counselor with 15 years of experience working with women, birth givers, and parents. I hold psychology degrees from Yale and Duke, as well as a certification in perinatal mental health. I am a perpetual student, always looking to learn new ways I can support my clients. Years working in adoptions has also equipped me to support birthparents, prospective & current adoptive parents, & adopted teens/adults. I primary use DBT and ACT.
(919) 583-6258 View (919) 583-6258
Photo of Mya Wrenn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Mya Wrenn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27605  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Mya is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who earned her Master of Social Work from North Carolina State University and her Bachelor of Social Work from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington. Mya provides individual therapy to adolescents and adults with a primary focus in eating disorders, as well as trauma, depression, anxiety, self-harm, suicidality, body image concerns, and other life stressors. Mya is a Health at Every Size (HAES) informed clinician and is LGBTQIA+ affirming.
Mya is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who earned her Master of Social Work from North Carolina State University and her Bachelor of Social Work from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington. Mya provides individual therapy to adolescents and adults with a primary focus in eating disorders, as well as trauma, depression, anxiety, self-harm, suicidality, body image concerns, and other life stressors. Mya is a Health at Every Size (HAES) informed clinician and is LGBTQIA+ affirming.
(252) 888-1821 View (252) 888-1821
Photo of Elizabeth Grady, Licensed Professional Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Elizabeth Grady
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCMHCS, NCC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
Greetings, please call me Liz! I help people with anxiety and trauma feel better and more peaceful. I'd love to meet you and get on your support team. I love being a counselor and very much enjoy seeing others happy and healthy! I use various counseling practices that you and I will agree upon, and plan for, as we get started. I hope to meet you and help you move toward the life you want to be living. Putting yourself first is the most important thing you will do today! I also lead an amazing team of counselors at Lifeologie Counseling Raleigh. We'd love to meet your needs and get you connected with the best counselor for you!
Greetings, please call me Liz! I help people with anxiety and trauma feel better and more peaceful. I'd love to meet you and get on your support team. I love being a counselor and very much enjoy seeing others happy and healthy! I use various counseling practices that you and I will agree upon, and plan for, as we get started. I hope to meet you and help you move toward the life you want to be living. Putting yourself first is the most important thing you will do today! I also lead an amazing team of counselors at Lifeologie Counseling Raleigh. We'd love to meet your needs and get you connected with the best counselor for you!
(919) 948-1246 View (919) 948-1246
Photo of Miriam Gold, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Miriam Gold
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27612
My treatment specializations include treating childhood and adult Trauma.
I will help you understand and overcome barriers and challenges as we foster opportunities for options and possibilities. I look forward to working with you through an interactive and dynamic partnership driven by your needs and dreams, motivation, commitment, strengths, and goals. I provide a supportive, caring, non-judgmental, responsive approach to a therapeutic relationship based on trust and collaboration. I have over 25 years experience empowering people in the development, utilization, and enhancement of coping skills long after completion of therapeutic services. Therapy is tailored to each client or family's unique needs, goals, and strengths. Saturday and evening availability.
My treatment specializations include treating childhood and adult Trauma.
I will help you understand and overcome barriers and challenges as we foster opportunities for options and possibilities. I look forward to working with you through an interactive and dynamic partnership driven by your needs and dreams, motivation, commitment, strengths, and goals. I provide a supportive, caring, non-judgmental, responsive approach to a therapeutic relationship based on trust and collaboration. I have over 25 years experience empowering people in the development, utilization, and enhancement of coping skills long after completion of therapeutic services. Therapy is tailored to each client or family's unique needs, goals, and strengths. Saturday and evening availability.
(919) 289-8171 View (919) 289-8171
Photo of Katherine Bracken, Psychologist in Raleigh, NC
Katherine Bracken
Psychologist, PhD, PSYPACT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
Note: (I am currently offering a weekly Mental Health Wellness virtual therapy group. Contact for more info!) Throughout my career I have focused on working with clients from a trauma-informed perspective, helping clients simultaneously work toward the seemingly opposite goals of acceptance of what is and changing what is possible. I prioritize meeting clients where they are, creating a space that enhances their ability to experience and process emotions, and offering skills to create positive change in their lives that are consistent with their own goals and values, all while building a strong therapy relationship.
Note: (I am currently offering a weekly Mental Health Wellness virtual therapy group. Contact for more info!) Throughout my career I have focused on working with clients from a trauma-informed perspective, helping clients simultaneously work toward the seemingly opposite goals of acceptance of what is and changing what is possible. I prioritize meeting clients where they are, creating a space that enhances their ability to experience and process emotions, and offering skills to create positive change in their lives that are consistent with their own goals and values, all while building a strong therapy relationship.
(919) 750-8270 View (919) 750-8270
Photo of Kathleen Hyland, Psychologist in Raleigh, NC
Kathleen Hyland
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
Waitlist for new clients
I have expertise helping those struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, family conflict & marital discord. My work with clients helps them reclaim their lives and bounce forward from pain and difficulties. I take a practical, evidence-based approach to assist clients in learning effective coping, communication & conflict resolution skills. I aim to help couples and families develop stronger relational bonds and restore peace in their lives. In my individual work with teens & adults, I provide a non-judgmental space to gain insight and offer the skills to successfully navigate struggles, find purpose, and increase happiness.
I have expertise helping those struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, family conflict & marital discord. My work with clients helps them reclaim their lives and bounce forward from pain and difficulties. I take a practical, evidence-based approach to assist clients in learning effective coping, communication & conflict resolution skills. I aim to help couples and families develop stronger relational bonds and restore peace in their lives. In my individual work with teens & adults, I provide a non-judgmental space to gain insight and offer the skills to successfully navigate struggles, find purpose, and increase happiness.
(919) 429-7230 View (919) 429-7230
Photo of Romayne Mappes, Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Romayne Mappes
Counselor, MA, LCPC-S, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27614
My approach incorporates cognitive behavioral theories, mindfulness and acceptance, EMDR/trauma-focused and holistic methods.
I provide services for clients who I believe have the capacity to resolve their own problems with my assistance. I offer a professional relationship with my clients to assist them in exploring and resolving difficult issues. I believe that as people become more accepting of themselves, they are more capable of finding happiness and contentment in their lives. Self-awareness and self-acceptance are goals that sometimes take a long time to achieve. While some clients may need only a few counseling sessions to feel complete, others may require months. I offer a caring, empathic space to explore, heal and to try new ways of being.
My approach incorporates cognitive behavioral theories, mindfulness and acceptance, EMDR/trauma-focused and holistic methods.
I provide services for clients who I believe have the capacity to resolve their own problems with my assistance. I offer a professional relationship with my clients to assist them in exploring and resolving difficult issues. I believe that as people become more accepting of themselves, they are more capable of finding happiness and contentment in their lives. Self-awareness and self-acceptance are goals that sometimes take a long time to achieve. While some clients may need only a few counseling sessions to feel complete, others may require months. I offer a caring, empathic space to explore, heal and to try new ways of being.
(240) 270-2640 View (240) 270-2640
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.