Trauma and PTSD Therapists in 15241

Photo of Elyse Milliron, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 15241, PA
Elyse Milliron
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15241
Waitlist for new clients
Clients who work best with me tend to yearn awakening and change. I welcome the challenge to help clients connect with higher versions of themselves. Trauma, difficult emotions, relationships and the stress of life often lead to feeling stuck, feeling out of control of yourself, your emotions and reactions. My goal is to show you that there is a better way. A way to live with intention and purpose, guided by the best version of you! (Please note I do not have evening or weekend availability and my office is located in the South Hills of Pittsburgh- I will ask you to complete a brief phone consult to ensure I am a good fit)
Clients who work best with me tend to yearn awakening and change. I welcome the challenge to help clients connect with higher versions of themselves. Trauma, difficult emotions, relationships and the stress of life often lead to feeling stuck, feeling out of control of yourself, your emotions and reactions. My goal is to show you that there is a better way. A way to live with intention and purpose, guided by the best version of you! (Please note I do not have evening or weekend availability and my office is located in the South Hills of Pittsburgh- I will ask you to complete a brief phone consult to ensure I am a good fit)
(412) 838-3534 View (412) 838-3534
Photo of Ellie Mental Health, Licensed Professional Counselor in 15241, PA
Ellie Mental Health
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15241
Whether you are in need of individual, couples, or family therapy; Ellie has the ideal therapist for you! We offer specialities in the areas of OCD, Queer Community, Grief and Loss, Suicidiality or Loss by Suicide, Complex Trauma, and more!.
Ellie Mental Health in Pittsburgh-Upper St. Clair, Pennsylvania isn’t your average therapy clinic. We’ve created a comfy, judgment-free zone where you can be authentic, get real about where you’re at in your mental health, and receive the compassionate care you deserve. We strive to break down treatment barriers and provide you with customized counseling services that meet your therapy needs. Whether you are 99 or 5 years of age we will meet your needs in a comfy space with excellent therapists.
Whether you are in need of individual, couples, or family therapy; Ellie has the ideal therapist for you! We offer specialities in the areas of OCD, Queer Community, Grief and Loss, Suicidiality or Loss by Suicide, Complex Trauma, and more!.
Ellie Mental Health in Pittsburgh-Upper St. Clair, Pennsylvania isn’t your average therapy clinic. We’ve created a comfy, judgment-free zone where you can be authentic, get real about where you’re at in your mental health, and receive the compassionate care you deserve. We strive to break down treatment barriers and provide you with customized counseling services that meet your therapy needs. Whether you are 99 or 5 years of age we will meet your needs in a comfy space with excellent therapists.
(412) 201-0783 View (412) 201-0783
Photo of Maria Martin, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in 15241, PA
Maria Martin, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15241  (Online Only)
With 16 years in the field, I've specialized in developing high self esteem, managing stress, exploring emotions, processing trauma and PTSD.
I work with women who struggle with blended high/low self esteem. To the outside world, we are successful and have our shit together. Except we are masters at hiding pain. Inside, we have a black hole filled with guilt, shame, and feeling unworthy. We feel stress managing family, life, career, relationships, and don't feel good enough. We carry trauma in our bodies and it shows up in our daily life. From a young age, we learned self betrayal was pivotal to be worthy of love and to feel good enough. We didn't have a voice. My focus is repairing the damage due to past experiences and how it’s created a critical view to our own self.
With 16 years in the field, I've specialized in developing high self esteem, managing stress, exploring emotions, processing trauma and PTSD.
I work with women who struggle with blended high/low self esteem. To the outside world, we are successful and have our shit together. Except we are masters at hiding pain. Inside, we have a black hole filled with guilt, shame, and feeling unworthy. We feel stress managing family, life, career, relationships, and don't feel good enough. We carry trauma in our bodies and it shows up in our daily life. From a young age, we learned self betrayal was pivotal to be worthy of love and to feel good enough. We didn't have a voice. My focus is repairing the damage due to past experiences and how it’s created a critical view to our own self.
(412) 716-3149 View (412) 716-3149
Photo of Danny Churchill, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 15241, PA
Danny Churchill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15241
I am a licensed clinical social worker with my master’s degree in social work from the University of Pittsburgh. I have several years of experience working with teens and adults in both private practice and community settings addressing concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, addiction, and relationship issues. I use an eclectic approach with a blend of techniques from cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and acceptance and commitment therapy. I am also an EMDR-trained provider.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with my master’s degree in social work from the University of Pittsburgh. I have several years of experience working with teens and adults in both private practice and community settings addressing concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, addiction, and relationship issues. I use an eclectic approach with a blend of techniques from cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and acceptance and commitment therapy. I am also an EMDR-trained provider.
(412) 501-4973 View (412) 501-4973
Photo of Cheri Allyson Fingeret, Licensed Professional Counselor in 15241, PA
Cheri Allyson Fingeret
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15241  (Online Only)
From early in my career I have been drawn to individuals with depression, anxiety, bipolar, and PTSD.
All sessions will take place on a HIPAA compliant video platform and will be conducted on my end from a secure location. All insurance companies are allowing video sessions. Copays, co-insurance and deductibles apply.
From early in my career I have been drawn to individuals with depression, anxiety, bipolar, and PTSD.
All sessions will take place on a HIPAA compliant video platform and will be conducted on my end from a secure location. All insurance companies are allowing video sessions. Copays, co-insurance and deductibles apply.
(412) 357-1223 View (412) 357-1223
Photo of Alison Armstrong, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 15241, PA
Alison Armstrong
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15241
Whether you find yourself recovering from trauma, stuck in old patterns, life changes or frustrating behaviors, I can provide support, discovery and insight that can help you move through painful issues to a life with more joy, meaning and peace.
It can be hard to ask for help. My focus is always on you, what you want and determining and meeting your goals. My orientation is open-minded, experienced, respectful and non-judgmental. I have been in the Behavioral Health field for 25 years and have a reputation of authenticity, unconditional, positive regard for clients and strong, reliable abilities and skills in dealing with life's challenges. I primarily practice CBT, Gestalt and Mindfulness therapies.
Whether you find yourself recovering from trauma, stuck in old patterns, life changes or frustrating behaviors, I can provide support, discovery and insight that can help you move through painful issues to a life with more joy, meaning and peace.
It can be hard to ask for help. My focus is always on you, what you want and determining and meeting your goals. My orientation is open-minded, experienced, respectful and non-judgmental. I have been in the Behavioral Health field for 25 years and have a reputation of authenticity, unconditional, positive regard for clients and strong, reliable abilities and skills in dealing with life's challenges. I primarily practice CBT, Gestalt and Mindfulness therapies.
(724) 941-5363 View (724) 941-5363
Photo of Sarah Marie Miller, Licensed Professional Counselor in 15241, PA
Sarah Marie Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSW, MA, LPC, CFRC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15241  (Online Only)
I work from a humanistic approach, but believe in being holistic and pulling from a variety of counseling theories and techniques to meet clients where they are at. I work with children and adults from diverse backgrounds and with a ranges of concerns. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, personality disorders, dual diagnosis clients, etc. I have a special interest in military, first responders, and children from the child welfare system. I believe that counseling is a partnership of sorts and try to help individual meet their full potential by understanding their life experiences from their perspective.
I work from a humanistic approach, but believe in being holistic and pulling from a variety of counseling theories and techniques to meet clients where they are at. I work with children and adults from diverse backgrounds and with a ranges of concerns. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, personality disorders, dual diagnosis clients, etc. I have a special interest in military, first responders, and children from the child welfare system. I believe that counseling is a partnership of sorts and try to help individual meet their full potential by understanding their life experiences from their perspective.
(878) 213-4746 View (878) 213-4746
Photo of Linda Jean Houston, Licensed Professional Counselor in 15241, PA
Linda Jean Houston
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA, CGCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Upper Saint Clair, PA 15241  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, National Certified Counselor, Certified Trauma Specialist and a Certified Grief Counseling Specialist. I work with clients experiencing a wide range of issues such as depression, anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and grief. I am a client centered therapist which means I use a variety of counseling styles that suit my individual client. I am interested in assisting clients experiencing grief, depression, trauma, anxiety, family issues, and everyday life issues. We all experience loss but each type of loss is different and needs to be addressed individually.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, National Certified Counselor, Certified Trauma Specialist and a Certified Grief Counseling Specialist. I work with clients experiencing a wide range of issues such as depression, anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and grief. I am a client centered therapist which means I use a variety of counseling styles that suit my individual client. I am interested in assisting clients experiencing grief, depression, trauma, anxiety, family issues, and everyday life issues. We all experience loss but each type of loss is different and needs to be addressed individually.
(412) 515-8371 View (412) 515-8371
Photo of April Condemi, Licensed Professional Counselor in 15241, PA
April Condemi
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CFRC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15241
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and have worked with a variety of concerns and specialize with working with first responders. I have seen individuals in various setting and throughout the lifespan. I have a focus on working with those suffering from trauma related symptoms, work, and life related stressors first responders may experience.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and have worked with a variety of concerns and specialize with working with first responders. I have seen individuals in various setting and throughout the lifespan. I have a focus on working with those suffering from trauma related symptoms, work, and life related stressors first responders may experience.
(412) 365-4701 View (412) 365-4701
Photo of Head & Heart Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in 15241, PA
Head & Heart Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Don't struggle alone. Together we'll move toward your goal, whether it's dealing with an overwhelming situation, repairing or improving a relationship, managing stress and anxiety, overcoming trauma or depression, living a fulfilling life, or even just being heard and understood.
Don't struggle alone. Together we'll move toward your goal, whether it's dealing with an overwhelming situation, repairing or improving a relationship, managing stress and anxiety, overcoming trauma or depression, living a fulfilling life, or even just being heard and understood.
(878) 206-0181 View (878) 206-0181
Photo of Gina Niewodowski, Licensed Professional Counselor in 15241, PA
Gina Niewodowski
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Upper Saint Clair, PA 15241  (Online Only)
I am a trained provider of Cognitive Processing Therapy, an evidence based proven treatment for survivors of trauma.
We all have inner strength. Rollo May, a well known psychologist wrote, "Finding the center of strength within ourselves, is in the long run, the best contribution we can make to our fellow man". As a professional counselor, I want to help you find and use your strengths so you can live a healthy and purpose filled life.
I am a trained provider of Cognitive Processing Therapy, an evidence based proven treatment for survivors of trauma.
We all have inner strength. Rollo May, a well known psychologist wrote, "Finding the center of strength within ourselves, is in the long run, the best contribution we can make to our fellow man". As a professional counselor, I want to help you find and use your strengths so you can live a healthy and purpose filled life.
(412) 727-8266 View (412) 727-8266
Photo of Anita Torchia, Counselor in 15241, PA
Anita Torchia
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15241  (Online Only)
I have worked a lot with Trauma Survivors, Depression and EatingDisorders.
I work from the belief that you are in charge of your therapy work. I am here to guide you through your issues and concerns. I take an active role in the therapy sessions and give feedback to all my clients. Since everyone is a unique individual, everyone has unique issues that can be dealt with in a supportive setting which I provide.
I have worked a lot with Trauma Survivors, Depression and EatingDisorders.
I work from the belief that you are in charge of your therapy work. I am here to guide you through your issues and concerns. I take an active role in the therapy sessions and give feedback to all my clients. Since everyone is a unique individual, everyone has unique issues that can be dealt with in a supportive setting which I provide.
(412) 543-8600 View (412) 543-8600
Photo of Chelsea Lyle-Mallory, Licensed Professional Counselor in 15241, PA
Chelsea Lyle-Mallory
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MSCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I work from a Client Centered and Trauma Informed perspective.
Hi there! I'm Chelsea - I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapist. One thing that I've learned across my practice is that sometimes life circumstances, relationships, past memories/experiences - can make us feel stuck. Stuck in our pasts, stuck in current situations, and stuck in our heads at times. My goal as your therapist is to create a collaborative effort where we work to meet your treatment goals together. You don't have to figure everything out on your own - I think it's important for us to normalize that :)
I work from a Client Centered and Trauma Informed perspective.
Hi there! I'm Chelsea - I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapist. One thing that I've learned across my practice is that sometimes life circumstances, relationships, past memories/experiences - can make us feel stuck. Stuck in our pasts, stuck in current situations, and stuck in our heads at times. My goal as your therapist is to create a collaborative effort where we work to meet your treatment goals together. You don't have to figure everything out on your own - I think it's important for us to normalize that :)
(724) 221-9978 View (724) 221-9978
Photo of Emily Lopez, Licensed Professional Counselor in 15241, PA
Emily Lopez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MS
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15241  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating a wide range of concerns, such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, women's issues, professional development, family and marital issues.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania, I am here to offer a helping hand to anyone who is struggling with emotional, psychological, or mental health issues. You are not alone. I specialize in providing compassionate and effective counseling that are tailored to your unique needs. I understand that seeking help can be difficult, but I strive to create a safe and comfortable environment that is free of judgement and stigma. Together, we will work towards creating a personalized plan that will help you overcome challenges and achieve optimal mental wellness. Remember, you are worthy of compassion, care, and support.
I specialize in treating a wide range of concerns, such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, women's issues, professional development, family and marital issues.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania, I am here to offer a helping hand to anyone who is struggling with emotional, psychological, or mental health issues. You are not alone. I specialize in providing compassionate and effective counseling that are tailored to your unique needs. I understand that seeking help can be difficult, but I strive to create a safe and comfortable environment that is free of judgement and stigma. Together, we will work towards creating a personalized plan that will help you overcome challenges and achieve optimal mental wellness. Remember, you are worthy of compassion, care, and support.
(607) 564-4383 View (607) 564-4383
Photo of Today Has Purpose, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 15241, PA
Today Has Purpose
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MBA, CAADS
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15241
Our approach blends classic constructs of human psychology with modern modalities, and we have training (in the process of full certification) in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), an effective treatment for trauma and other diagnoses.
The staff at Today Has Purpose understands that choosing to acknowledge the need for therapy is a big decision. Therefore, we are committed to ensuring that your experience with us is collaborative, and your goals and pathways are uniquely individualized in order to best help you create a life that is fulfilling and balanced. At Today Has Purpose, we believe in using research and evidence-based treatments to create an individualized pathway that addresses the needs of the whole person. We provide ease of access, integrated support, and a secure environment where you can feel comfortable while navigating your own path to wellness.
Our approach blends classic constructs of human psychology with modern modalities, and we have training (in the process of full certification) in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), an effective treatment for trauma and other diagnoses.
The staff at Today Has Purpose understands that choosing to acknowledge the need for therapy is a big decision. Therefore, we are committed to ensuring that your experience with us is collaborative, and your goals and pathways are uniquely individualized in order to best help you create a life that is fulfilling and balanced. At Today Has Purpose, we believe in using research and evidence-based treatments to create an individualized pathway that addresses the needs of the whole person. We provide ease of access, integrated support, and a secure environment where you can feel comfortable while navigating your own path to wellness.
(724) 240-3252 View (724) 240-3252
Photo of Sara Emery, Licensed Professional Counselor in 15241, PA
Sara Emery
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP, CADC
Verified Verified
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in helping adults struggling with trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, grief, loss, relationship issues, and substance abuse.
Finding the right therapist is important because effective therapy elicits change and guides individuals toward living more fulfilled lives. I am a committed, interactive and non-judgmental therapist who loves what I do and am grateful for the opportunity to connect with clients and work together to develop solutions and reach goals. The decision to start therapy can be difficult and feel vulnerable and yet it is courageous when one finds the willingness and strength to look inward and lean into fear or sadness to remove obstacles that prevent someone from living their best life. I commend you on taking this first step.
I specialize in helping adults struggling with trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, grief, loss, relationship issues, and substance abuse.
Finding the right therapist is important because effective therapy elicits change and guides individuals toward living more fulfilled lives. I am a committed, interactive and non-judgmental therapist who loves what I do and am grateful for the opportunity to connect with clients and work together to develop solutions and reach goals. The decision to start therapy can be difficult and feel vulnerable and yet it is courageous when one finds the willingness and strength to look inward and lean into fear or sadness to remove obstacles that prevent someone from living their best life. I commend you on taking this first step.
(412) 223-7204 View (412) 223-7204
Photo of Amanda Talak, Licensed Professional Counselor in 15241, PA
Amanda Talak
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15241
Some of my treatment specialties include trauma, PTSD, C-PTSD, anxiety, depression, major life changes, relationship struggles, self-esteem issues, and stress.
Trauma-informed. Compassionate. Real. <— If I had to describe my therapeutic approach in three words or phrases, those three would be the most fitting. Whether this is your first time in therapy, or you are coming in with extensive therapy experience, I am here to meet you where you are at and show up authentically. If you are interested in KAP, please reach out for a free consult.
Some of my treatment specialties include trauma, PTSD, C-PTSD, anxiety, depression, major life changes, relationship struggles, self-esteem issues, and stress.
Trauma-informed. Compassionate. Real. <— If I had to describe my therapeutic approach in three words or phrases, those three would be the most fitting. Whether this is your first time in therapy, or you are coming in with extensive therapy experience, I am here to meet you where you are at and show up authentically. If you are interested in KAP, please reach out for a free consult.
(412) 912-1668 View (412) 912-1668
Photo of Amanda Lee Neace, Licensed Professional Counselor in 15241, PA
Amanda Lee Neace
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, CTMH, CCTP, LPC
Verified Verified
I have a clinical focus in general trauma, family systems trauma, perinatal and post-partum mental health, and "millennial anxiety".
People who have experienced hardships or trauma that has left a lasting impact on them, experienced conflictual or dysfunctional relationships in their family system, struggle with maternal mental health, or those who are just experiencing a barrier to living authentically are ideal clients for my therapeutic approach. I utilize humor, genuine curiosity, and my quirky personality (thanks, ADHD!) to connect with others and develop an authentic space for vulnerability. If you are looking to heal from the roots up while discovering YOU- I'd love to embark on that journey with you.
I have a clinical focus in general trauma, family systems trauma, perinatal and post-partum mental health, and "millennial anxiety".
People who have experienced hardships or trauma that has left a lasting impact on them, experienced conflictual or dysfunctional relationships in their family system, struggle with maternal mental health, or those who are just experiencing a barrier to living authentically are ideal clients for my therapeutic approach. I utilize humor, genuine curiosity, and my quirky personality (thanks, ADHD!) to connect with others and develop an authentic space for vulnerability. If you are looking to heal from the roots up while discovering YOU- I'd love to embark on that journey with you.
(724) 605-4948 View (724) 605-4948
Photo of Dr. Brian J. Ferraccio, Psychologist in 15241, PA
Dr. Brian J. Ferraccio
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15241
*Please Assist Dr. F. in Most Efficiently Managing High Demand by Enrolling for Your Consult Directly @ “Pittsburgh-Therapist.com”* I know there are real reasons that led you here, together we can find real solutions. I will listen to your story & together we will work to resolve your unique challenges, step by step, at your pace. Recent events have been disruptive, unsettling, & traumatic. As a result, you may be facing new/intensified problems. I excel in aiding adults & teens who are exhausted, down, overwhelmed, irritable, anxious, survivors of trauma/abuse, and/or have problems relating to others. I look forward to meeting you.
*Please Assist Dr. F. in Most Efficiently Managing High Demand by Enrolling for Your Consult Directly @ “Pittsburgh-Therapist.com”* I know there are real reasons that led you here, together we can find real solutions. I will listen to your story & together we will work to resolve your unique challenges, step by step, at your pace. Recent events have been disruptive, unsettling, & traumatic. As a result, you may be facing new/intensified problems. I excel in aiding adults & teens who are exhausted, down, overwhelmed, irritable, anxious, survivors of trauma/abuse, and/or have problems relating to others. I look forward to meeting you.
(878) 216-7126 View (878) 216-7126
Photo of Dr. Shannon Coleman, Psychologist in 15241, PA
Dr. Shannon Coleman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15241  (Online Only)
Coleman is a certified provider of Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Prolonged Exposure (PE), and Cognitive Behavioral Conjoint Therapy for PTSD (CBCT-PTSD) and she has served as a consultant for the National Center for PTSD Prolonged Exposure training program.
Dr. Shannon Coleman is a licensed clinical psychologist who provides virtual psychotherapy to adults and couples. Dr. Coleman received her undergraduate degree from Brown University and her Ph.D. in clinical psychology from Binghamton University (SUNY). With over 15 years of experience, Dr. Coleman specializes in evidence-based treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), grief, anxiety (e.g., social anxiety, OCD), depression, anger, relationship conflict, and coping with life stressors.
Coleman is a certified provider of Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Prolonged Exposure (PE), and Cognitive Behavioral Conjoint Therapy for PTSD (CBCT-PTSD) and she has served as a consultant for the National Center for PTSD Prolonged Exposure training program.
Dr. Shannon Coleman is a licensed clinical psychologist who provides virtual psychotherapy to adults and couples. Dr. Coleman received her undergraduate degree from Brown University and her Ph.D. in clinical psychology from Binghamton University (SUNY). With over 15 years of experience, Dr. Coleman specializes in evidence-based treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), grief, anxiety (e.g., social anxiety, OCD), depression, anger, relationship conflict, and coping with life stressors.
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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.