Photo of Katie Schmitten, Pre-Licensed Professional in King County, WA
Katie Schmitten
Pre-Licensed Professional, CSWA, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98108
I am trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Informed Therapy, Internal Family Systems, ACT, and Motivational Interviewing.
Hello my name is Katie and it is nice to meet you. I am currently taking new patients, teens 14 and older, and adults in Oregon and Washington. I have served in the field for 12 years and welcome populations of all demographics, ethnicities and cultures. I have extensive experience in school based settings assisting with issues such as complex trauma, self harm, addiction, anxiety, depression, grief, loss, life transitions, divorce, adoption, children in the foster system, parent coaching, and other issues. I look forward to meeting you and helping you achieve healing and permanent change.
I am trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Informed Therapy, Internal Family Systems, ACT, and Motivational Interviewing.
Hello my name is Katie and it is nice to meet you. I am currently taking new patients, teens 14 and older, and adults in Oregon and Washington. I have served in the field for 12 years and welcome populations of all demographics, ethnicities and cultures. I have extensive experience in school based settings assisting with issues such as complex trauma, self harm, addiction, anxiety, depression, grief, loss, life transitions, divorce, adoption, children in the foster system, parent coaching, and other issues. I look forward to meeting you and helping you achieve healing and permanent change.
(206) 593-3834 View (206) 593-3834
Photo of Miyuki Tomura, Psychologist in King County, WA
Miyuki Tomura
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Mercer Island, WA 98040  (Online Only)
Now accepting new clients! Your new journey of healing and transformation begins here. I am a licensed psychologist and provide trauma focused online psychotherapy and consultation for adults. I am trained in existential humanistic transpersonal psychology, cognitive therapy, behavioral therapy, EMDR, and ketamine assisted integration therapy (KAP). My approach is mind-body oriented, and I will help you work on various life issues including intergenerational trauma, complex PTSD, multiculturalism, job/academic performance, spirituality, relationships, parenting, co-dependency, marriage, and divorce.
Now accepting new clients! Your new journey of healing and transformation begins here. I am a licensed psychologist and provide trauma focused online psychotherapy and consultation for adults. I am trained in existential humanistic transpersonal psychology, cognitive therapy, behavioral therapy, EMDR, and ketamine assisted integration therapy (KAP). My approach is mind-body oriented, and I will help you work on various life issues including intergenerational trauma, complex PTSD, multiculturalism, job/academic performance, spirituality, relationships, parenting, co-dependency, marriage, and divorce.
(425) 312-6731 View (425) 312-6731
Photo of Lighthouse Counseling Center, Mental Health Counselor in King County, WA
Lighthouse Counseling Center
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC, MHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98115  (Online Only)
My approach to therapy is relational, strength-based, and trauma-informed.
Therapy is a bold step in an intimately personal journey. My practice aims to be a safe space for those 18 years and older that are seeking support in depression, anxiety, trauma, and interpersonal issues. Whether it be acquiring new skills in managing transient stress, or unpacking childhood trauma, I collaborate with my clients in achieving their personal and mental health goals.
My approach to therapy is relational, strength-based, and trauma-informed.
Therapy is a bold step in an intimately personal journey. My practice aims to be a safe space for those 18 years and older that are seeking support in depression, anxiety, trauma, and interpersonal issues. Whether it be acquiring new skills in managing transient stress, or unpacking childhood trauma, I collaborate with my clients in achieving their personal and mental health goals.
(206) 759-7929 View (206) 759-7929
Photo of Stephanie Kollar, Marriage & Family Therapist in King County, WA
Stephanie Kollar
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MHP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98126  (Online Only)
I use a blend of somatic (body-centered) treatment and evidence based practices like cognitive behavior therapy to help support clients experiencing anxiety, depression, limiting thoughts, stuck behavioral patterns, and trauma.
Contrary to what movies show you about therapy, I won’t give you unwanted advice or simply nod solemnly the whole session. I bring curiosity, compassion, humor, free expression, and movement to join with my clients and help them explore what healing means to them. I hope to empower clients to access their natural abilities and to gently disrupt the unhealthy patterns we humans often get stuck in using more than traditional “talk therapy” approach. My goal is to facilitate somatic healing, so your whole body begins to feel better as you gain new awareness and get “unstuck” from the patterns you’re ready to release.
I use a blend of somatic (body-centered) treatment and evidence based practices like cognitive behavior therapy to help support clients experiencing anxiety, depression, limiting thoughts, stuck behavioral patterns, and trauma.
Contrary to what movies show you about therapy, I won’t give you unwanted advice or simply nod solemnly the whole session. I bring curiosity, compassion, humor, free expression, and movement to join with my clients and help them explore what healing means to them. I hope to empower clients to access their natural abilities and to gently disrupt the unhealthy patterns we humans often get stuck in using more than traditional “talk therapy” approach. My goal is to facilitate somatic healing, so your whole body begins to feel better as you gain new awareness and get “unstuck” from the patterns you’re ready to release.
(206) 752-4291 View (206) 752-4291
Photo of Danielle Melton: Therapy for Women, Counselor in King County, WA
Danielle Melton: Therapy for Women
Counselor, LMHC, LCPC, AF EMDR
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98034  (Online Only)
I am here to tell you that healing from difficult life experiences, negative relationship patterns, and trauma is possible.
I strive to provide a safe place for all women to heal in the context of a caring, trusting therapeutic relationship. I work with a wide variety of individuals, including those struggling with the effects of motor vehicle accident, sexual assault, social rejection, attachment injuries, family of origin injuries, medical trauma, disturbing memories, phobias and more. I treat anxiety and depression. I regularly work with other helping professionals, such as counselors, nurses, and teachers, navigating their own trauma histories. I focus on stability and safety before beginning trauma work with all new clients.
I am here to tell you that healing from difficult life experiences, negative relationship patterns, and trauma is possible.
I strive to provide a safe place for all women to heal in the context of a caring, trusting therapeutic relationship. I work with a wide variety of individuals, including those struggling with the effects of motor vehicle accident, sexual assault, social rejection, attachment injuries, family of origin injuries, medical trauma, disturbing memories, phobias and more. I treat anxiety and depression. I regularly work with other helping professionals, such as counselors, nurses, and teachers, navigating their own trauma histories. I focus on stability and safety before beginning trauma work with all new clients.
(425) 470-6583 View (425) 470-6583
Photo of Amanda Lee Peterson, Counselor in King County, WA
Amanda Lee Peterson
Counselor, MAC, LMHC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98117  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have specialized training in evidence-based treatment for OCD, anxiety disorders and PTSD.
Living with anxiety or OCD is miserable! I have worked with anxiety and OCD for almost a decade and enjoy helping kids, teens and adults break free from the limitations and distress that anxiety creates in daily life. Often I see clients who are discouraged that talk therapy or other treatments have not been helpful. Research consistently demonstrates the importance of evidence-based treatment for moderate to severe anxiety and OCD. Exposure and response prevention (ERP) is essential for successful treatment.
I have specialized training in evidence-based treatment for OCD, anxiety disorders and PTSD.
Living with anxiety or OCD is miserable! I have worked with anxiety and OCD for almost a decade and enjoy helping kids, teens and adults break free from the limitations and distress that anxiety creates in daily life. Often I see clients who are discouraged that talk therapy or other treatments have not been helpful. Research consistently demonstrates the importance of evidence-based treatment for moderate to severe anxiety and OCD. Exposure and response prevention (ERP) is essential for successful treatment.
(206) 466-0957 View (206) 466-0957
Photo of Molly Belliveau, Counselor in King County, WA
Molly Belliveau
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98105
Since no two people are alike, I specifically craft a treatment for each client, drawing from a psychodynamic, relational, and attachment-based model, as well as insights from mindfulness practices, body-based trauma treatments, and Acceptance-Commitment therapy.
I work primarily with individuals who feel bound in aversion toward themselves. Whether concerns manifest as self-hatred, shame, relational difficulties, terminal regret, questions around spirituality, depression, anxiety, or in any number of other ways, I wholeheartedly trust there is more to the story than meets the eye. I support our exploration by opening a receptive and creative space for truths that might not feel at home elsewhere. As we shift painful thought patterns out of isolation and into dialogue between two minds, new and surprising truths emerge. These can form the basis for new peace and possibilities.
Since no two people are alike, I specifically craft a treatment for each client, drawing from a psychodynamic, relational, and attachment-based model, as well as insights from mindfulness practices, body-based trauma treatments, and Acceptance-Commitment therapy.
I work primarily with individuals who feel bound in aversion toward themselves. Whether concerns manifest as self-hatred, shame, relational difficulties, terminal regret, questions around spirituality, depression, anxiety, or in any number of other ways, I wholeheartedly trust there is more to the story than meets the eye. I support our exploration by opening a receptive and creative space for truths that might not feel at home elsewhere. As we shift painful thought patterns out of isolation and into dialogue between two minds, new and surprising truths emerge. These can form the basis for new peace and possibilities.
(206) 589-1279 View (206) 589-1279
Photo of Telishia Johnson, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in King County, WA
Telishia Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119  (Online Only)
Struggling with communication, integrity, and cheating in your relationship? Having a hard time sleeping, eating, and focusing after finding out about your partner's affair? If you're finding it hard to heal from the trauma of an affair, it may be high time to get support from a trained therapist who can help. You may be wondering if there is any hope for this relationship. When you work with me we will work out a plan to understand and overcome the conditions which led to the affair and rebuild trust. Although it seems scary, seeking couples therapy can be very beneficial for the future health of your relationship.
Struggling with communication, integrity, and cheating in your relationship? Having a hard time sleeping, eating, and focusing after finding out about your partner's affair? If you're finding it hard to heal from the trauma of an affair, it may be high time to get support from a trained therapist who can help. You may be wondering if there is any hope for this relationship. When you work with me we will work out a plan to understand and overcome the conditions which led to the affair and rebuild trust. Although it seems scary, seeking couples therapy can be very beneficial for the future health of your relationship.
(206) 317-5842 View (206) 317-5842
Photo of Isaiah Morehead, Counselor in King County, WA
Isaiah Morehead
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103  (Online Only)
Do you want to see real change? Let's be honest: healing takes work. I respect how trauma can impact the brain. My job as your therapist is to help steward you through those unhelpful patterns. Clients who see me have the goal to heal, not continue masking symptoms. They take clinical expectations seriously. They don’t want to just “feel better,” but have the confidence knowing they are addressing root issues. They want to be better! As your steward, I want you to be heard, challenged, and not be dependent on therapy forever.
Do you want to see real change? Let's be honest: healing takes work. I respect how trauma can impact the brain. My job as your therapist is to help steward you through those unhelpful patterns. Clients who see me have the goal to heal, not continue masking symptoms. They take clinical expectations seriously. They don’t want to just “feel better,” but have the confidence knowing they are addressing root issues. They want to be better! As your steward, I want you to be heard, challenged, and not be dependent on therapy forever.
(425) 225-4624 View (425) 225-4624
Photo of Lisa T. Reinbold, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in King County, WA
Lisa T. Reinbold
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW, MHP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98144
I have spent my career treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, and life transition/relationship challenges. Aside from counseling, I give community lectures on mental health and relationships and provide supervision to aspiring social workers.
I have spent my career treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, and life transition/relationship challenges. Aside from counseling, I give community lectures on mental health and relationships and provide supervision to aspiring social workers.
(206) 495-0973 View (206) 495-0973
Photo of Angela Bolen, Marriage & Family Therapist in King County, WA
Angela Bolen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CCPS, CSAT, AF-EMDR
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Issaquah, WA 98027  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I incorporate the Multidimensional Partner Trauma Model from the Association of Partners of Sex Addiction Trauma Specialists into my work with hurting partners.
As a family systems therapist with an interest in couples reconciliation therapy and healing relational trauma from infidelity, I am passionate about walking beside you to work through the pain and confusion of your life situation.  Intimate betrayal is one of the most devastating and disorienting events that can happen to a relationship.  The betrayed partner is left questioning fundamental beliefs and wrestling with the very existence of truth, love and relationship history. I also work with couples who long to enhance communication, connection, and build shared long term goals and values.
I incorporate the Multidimensional Partner Trauma Model from the Association of Partners of Sex Addiction Trauma Specialists into my work with hurting partners.
As a family systems therapist with an interest in couples reconciliation therapy and healing relational trauma from infidelity, I am passionate about walking beside you to work through the pain and confusion of your life situation.  Intimate betrayal is one of the most devastating and disorienting events that can happen to a relationship.  The betrayed partner is left questioning fundamental beliefs and wrestling with the very existence of truth, love and relationship history. I also work with couples who long to enhance communication, connection, and build shared long term goals and values.
(425) 264-8617 View (425) 264-8617
Photo of Ann MacLean, Counselor in King County, WA
Ann MacLean
Counselor, MA, LMHC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115
I specialize in anxiety and trauma but I work with people in many situations.
Are you feeling stuck? What's getting in the way of living a satisfying life, one with heart and meaning? You may be coming to therapy because of a new development or something very old, you may not even know what it is. You may also be adding to your burden by judging your self unfairly. But there is hope, therapy can usher in exciting transformation. When we can embrace the gifts that come with challenges, old fears lose their power. I deeply enjoy helping clients explore/work through difficulties with the purpose of breaking old patterns and intentionally creating a new path forward. Healing and growth is possible for you too.
I specialize in anxiety and trauma but I work with people in many situations.
Are you feeling stuck? What's getting in the way of living a satisfying life, one with heart and meaning? You may be coming to therapy because of a new development or something very old, you may not even know what it is. You may also be adding to your burden by judging your self unfairly. But there is hope, therapy can usher in exciting transformation. When we can embrace the gifts that come with challenges, old fears lose their power. I deeply enjoy helping clients explore/work through difficulties with the purpose of breaking old patterns and intentionally creating a new path forward. Healing and growth is possible for you too.
(206) 683-4275 View (206) 683-4275
Photo of Alford Counseling and Recovery, PLLC, Counselor in King County, WA
Alford Counseling and Recovery, PLLC
Counselor, MA, LMHCA, SUDP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98118
I work with life transitions, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, and trauma.
My approach is tailored to meet your goals and may include helping you solve your problems, develop your strengths, and provide skills to increase your daily life effectiveness. Often, this process involves giving attention to the thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and experiences that hinder living a balanced and meaningful life. My deliverance when working with clients is client-centered, collaborative, and non-judgmental.
I work with life transitions, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, and trauma.
My approach is tailored to meet your goals and may include helping you solve your problems, develop your strengths, and provide skills to increase your daily life effectiveness. Often, this process involves giving attention to the thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and experiences that hinder living a balanced and meaningful life. My deliverance when working with clients is client-centered, collaborative, and non-judgmental.
(206) 333-0503 View (206) 333-0503
Photo of Brian Ashburn, Marriage & Family Therapist in King County, WA
Brian Ashburn
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Federal Way, WA 98003
I have completed my CBT+ Certification for anxiety, depression, and trauma in addition to being trained in Lifespan Integration therapy.
I am here to support and encourage clients facing hardships and life changes who desire to live as their best selves and feel unstuck. I work with clients who struggle with issues such as identity, stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and communication. I work at a pace set by my client while providing tools and resources to aid along the way. I personally have seen the positive impact therapeutic relationships can have in the lives of youth and young adults. For this reason, I enjoy working with young adults, teens, and the LGBTQIA+ community. Please visit my website for more information about me and my work.
I have completed my CBT+ Certification for anxiety, depression, and trauma in addition to being trained in Lifespan Integration therapy.
I am here to support and encourage clients facing hardships and life changes who desire to live as their best selves and feel unstuck. I work with clients who struggle with issues such as identity, stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and communication. I work at a pace set by my client while providing tools and resources to aid along the way. I personally have seen the positive impact therapeutic relationships can have in the lives of youth and young adults. For this reason, I enjoy working with young adults, teens, and the LGBTQIA+ community. Please visit my website for more information about me and my work.
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Photo of Elizabeth L Falls, Counselor in King County, WA
Elizabeth L Falls
Counselor, MA, LMHCA, APTT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005
Waitlist for new clients
I am currently a Certified Partner Trauma Therapist Candidate.
We all long for intimate human relationship but for many of us, we can't seem to shake this dull aching loneliness that resides in the pit of our souls. However, the inherent human need for meaningful relationships has remained elusive. Often, it feels easier to isolate than to face the intolerable reality. We have become experts at stifling our needs and desires. But when we enter into the presence of another, when we begin to tell our stories of heartache and pain, healing begins. We need a witness to our grief, someone to join alongside us as we lament. Above all, we need a place to experience belonging.
I am currently a Certified Partner Trauma Therapist Candidate.
We all long for intimate human relationship but for many of us, we can't seem to shake this dull aching loneliness that resides in the pit of our souls. However, the inherent human need for meaningful relationships has remained elusive. Often, it feels easier to isolate than to face the intolerable reality. We have become experts at stifling our needs and desires. But when we enter into the presence of another, when we begin to tell our stories of heartache and pain, healing begins. We need a witness to our grief, someone to join alongside us as we lament. Above all, we need a place to experience belonging.
(425) 437-2351 View (425) 437-2351
Photo of Dr. Laura Preciado, Psychologist in King County, WA
Dr. Laura Preciado
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98109  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients in MAY 2024. Are you looking for a compassionate and socially conscious therapist who provides trauma-informed care? Then we might be a good fit to work together! Sometimes we need guidance to resolve our conflicts and difficulties. Talking through our thoughts and putting words to our deeply held emotions can give us a sense of relief, clarity, and direction. This is what I offer in therapy.
Accepting New Clients in MAY 2024. Are you looking for a compassionate and socially conscious therapist who provides trauma-informed care? Then we might be a good fit to work together! Sometimes we need guidance to resolve our conflicts and difficulties. Talking through our thoughts and putting words to our deeply held emotions can give us a sense of relief, clarity, and direction. This is what I offer in therapy.
(425) 517-2440 View (425) 517-2440
Photo of Rachael Pearson, Counselor in King County, WA
Rachael Pearson
Counselor, MM, MACP, CTA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98119
I primarily work from a relational psychodynamic perspective with a focus on interpersonal neurobiology and trauma-informed narrative and somatic therapy, as well as Equine Assisted Psychotherapy.
Welcome to Hawthorn Trail Therapy; I'm so glad you're here. Human-ing is hard. As relational beings our hearts are broken by grief, loss, and harm, and we can become disconnected from ourselves, others, and the world. The hawthorn tree symbolizes courage and resilience, and is known for healing of the heart. It takes courage to seek therapy; it is a step on the path of compassionate awareness toward healing and home. For me, this path is one of developing safety and flexibility in the nervous system, moving out of bracing or collapse toward openness and connection, finding new ways of being that lead to freedom and flourishing.
I primarily work from a relational psychodynamic perspective with a focus on interpersonal neurobiology and trauma-informed narrative and somatic therapy, as well as Equine Assisted Psychotherapy.
Welcome to Hawthorn Trail Therapy; I'm so glad you're here. Human-ing is hard. As relational beings our hearts are broken by grief, loss, and harm, and we can become disconnected from ourselves, others, and the world. The hawthorn tree symbolizes courage and resilience, and is known for healing of the heart. It takes courage to seek therapy; it is a step on the path of compassionate awareness toward healing and home. For me, this path is one of developing safety and flexibility in the nervous system, moving out of bracing or collapse toward openness and connection, finding new ways of being that lead to freedom and flourishing.
(206) 759-7815 View (206) 759-7815
Photo of Minjoo Bayers, Counselor in King County, WA
Minjoo Bayers
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98104  (Online Only)
I work in long-term, relational, trauma-focused therapy and EMDR (EMDRIA approved training).
If any relational or behavioral patterns are keeping you from living your best life, therapy may be able to help you experience greater freedom and healing. Whether it’s the pandemic, everyday stresses, or childhood trauma, I would be honored to join you in your therapeutic journey. I believe therapy is one of the best self-care practices you can have for yourself. It’s time dedicated just for you. 고민, 스트레스, 이민 생활, 트라우마 대해서 서로 이야기를 나눌 수 있는 자리를 준비해 드리겠습니다.
I work in long-term, relational, trauma-focused therapy and EMDR (EMDRIA approved training).
If any relational or behavioral patterns are keeping you from living your best life, therapy may be able to help you experience greater freedom and healing. Whether it’s the pandemic, everyday stresses, or childhood trauma, I would be honored to join you in your therapeutic journey. I believe therapy is one of the best self-care practices you can have for yourself. It’s time dedicated just for you. 고민, 스트레스, 이민 생활, 트라우마 대해서 서로 이야기를 나눌 수 있는 자리를 준비해 드리겠습니다.
(502) 461-1762 View (502) 461-1762
Photo of Patrick Means, Counselor in King County, WA
Patrick Means
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115  (Online Only)
My areas of expertise include addiction and codependency recovery, relationship issues (for both individuals and couples), life transitions, and trauma resolution.
I believe that almost all change that occurs in therapy comes from forming a safe therapeutic relationship, and in the context of that relationship increasing your awareness of self, challenging your old beliefs, establishing appropriate boundaries in relationships with others, and experiencing and letting go of old pain. My task is to support you in that process. I tend to be active in therapy. I ask questions, offer observations, and look for patterns in the client's life. However, I believe the client is the final expert on themselves, and I trust in their unique healing process.
My areas of expertise include addiction and codependency recovery, relationship issues (for both individuals and couples), life transitions, and trauma resolution.
I believe that almost all change that occurs in therapy comes from forming a safe therapeutic relationship, and in the context of that relationship increasing your awareness of self, challenging your old beliefs, establishing appropriate boundaries in relationships with others, and experiencing and letting go of old pain. My task is to support you in that process. I tend to be active in therapy. I ask questions, offer observations, and look for patterns in the client's life. However, I believe the client is the final expert on themselves, and I trust in their unique healing process.
(425) 890-4646 View (425) 890-4646
Photo of Vinnu Komanapalli, Counselor in King County, WA
Vinnu Komanapalli
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98116
As an Adult TCK who has immigrated from South India, I hold a trauma-and-culture responsive lens, and have a special place in my heart for work with South Asians, immigrants, children of immigrants, and anyone who feels like an outsider, trying to make a home.
Over the past six years, it has been such a pleasure walking with my clients through their journeys of healing and change. I have had the privilege of sitting with parents struggling through the heartache of divorce, immigrants and children of immigrants who are making a home against all odds, college students fighting dominant culture norms, survivors of marital abuse, and those fighting to escape their childhood trauma. Before becoming a therapist, I worked in education and non-profits in India, and I am astounded, then and now, by the human capacity for resilience and strength in the face of hardship.
As an Adult TCK who has immigrated from South India, I hold a trauma-and-culture responsive lens, and have a special place in my heart for work with South Asians, immigrants, children of immigrants, and anyone who feels like an outsider, trying to make a home.
Over the past six years, it has been such a pleasure walking with my clients through their journeys of healing and change. I have had the privilege of sitting with parents struggling through the heartache of divorce, immigrants and children of immigrants who are making a home against all odds, college students fighting dominant culture norms, survivors of marital abuse, and those fighting to escape their childhood trauma. Before becoming a therapist, I worked in education and non-profits in India, and I am astounded, then and now, by the human capacity for resilience and strength in the face of hardship.
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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.