Photo of Nicole L Jackson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Milwaukee County, WI
Nicole L Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, CSAC, ICS, LPC
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53216
I have extensive knowledge in working with addictions, trauma, and mental illness.
Hello and Welcome! I am committed to helping individuals with resources needed for a balanced life. I understand that life is not always as simple as we want it to be; you do not have to figure it all out alone.
I have extensive knowledge in working with addictions, trauma, and mental illness.
Hello and Welcome! I am committed to helping individuals with resources needed for a balanced life. I understand that life is not always as simple as we want it to be; you do not have to figure it all out alone.
(414) 436-2630 View (414) 436-2630
Photo of Ivaylo Hristov, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Milwaukee County, WI
Ivaylo Hristov
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Shorewood, WI 53211
Counseling for effective solutions and healing-oriented process for the following: stress, obsessive - compulsive problems, anxiety, trauma, depression and relationship problems.
I am licensed psychotherapist in the states of Wisconsin and California, with practices at Sofia Therapeutic Solutions, LifeStance Health, Inc and ICF Consultants in Wisconsin. I also work with clients in California and Europe. Medical providers keep referring their patients to me, considering the progress that I have been making over the years with my clients. My style is honest, accepting and results oriented. We will cooperate and you will be able to measure your progress. Further, we will develop successful plan for the post-therapy period of your life to assure your ability to cope in independent manner.
Counseling for effective solutions and healing-oriented process for the following: stress, obsessive - compulsive problems, anxiety, trauma, depression and relationship problems.
I am licensed psychotherapist in the states of Wisconsin and California, with practices at Sofia Therapeutic Solutions, LifeStance Health, Inc and ICF Consultants in Wisconsin. I also work with clients in California and Europe. Medical providers keep referring their patients to me, considering the progress that I have been making over the years with my clients. My style is honest, accepting and results oriented. We will cooperate and you will be able to measure your progress. Further, we will develop successful plan for the post-therapy period of your life to assure your ability to cope in independent manner.
(414) 251-2291 View (414) 251-2291
Photo of Katrina C Davis-Hicks, Marriage & Family Therapist in Milwaukee County, WI
Katrina C Davis-Hicks
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53202  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist and although this is my specialty, I am trained to provide psychotherapy services for a variety of services including: grief, couples, family, individual, group, and marriage counseling. I have experience working with a multitude of different issues ranging from depression, post-traumatic stress, anxiety, trauma, career counseling, coaching, anger management, work-life issues/balance, etc. I feel that the client is the expert of their lives and my duty is to provide unbiased, and non-judgmental support. I offer a laid back approach in order to foster a peaceful therapeutic environment.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist and although this is my specialty, I am trained to provide psychotherapy services for a variety of services including: grief, couples, family, individual, group, and marriage counseling. I have experience working with a multitude of different issues ranging from depression, post-traumatic stress, anxiety, trauma, career counseling, coaching, anger management, work-life issues/balance, etc. I feel that the client is the expert of their lives and my duty is to provide unbiased, and non-judgmental support. I offer a laid back approach in order to foster a peaceful therapeutic environment.
(414) 246-5663 View (414) 246-5663
ONE9 Trauma & Behavioral Health Counseling Service
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53212
Licensed Clinical Social Worker, LCSW - Clinical Supervision, Trauma-Focused, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Client / Person Centered - Acceptance & Commitment (ACT), Grief Therapy, Moral Recognition & Domestic Violence (MRT/DV), Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR) & Substance Abuse Therapy & Groups.
An ideal client is a person that is open to working on their mental health concerns. One that is willing to engage with the therapist, build a report, make sacrifices, and take the necessary risk to get better.
Licensed Clinical Social Worker, LCSW - Clinical Supervision, Trauma-Focused, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Client / Person Centered - Acceptance & Commitment (ACT), Grief Therapy, Moral Recognition & Domestic Violence (MRT/DV), Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR) & Substance Abuse Therapy & Groups.
An ideal client is a person that is open to working on their mental health concerns. One that is willing to engage with the therapist, build a report, make sacrifices, and take the necessary risk to get better.
(414) 420-0097 View (414) 420-0097
Photo of Young Family Counseling, LLC, Counselor in Milwaukee County, WI
Young Family Counseling, LLC
Counselor, LPC, MSCP
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53202  (Online Only)
I have 8+ years in individual and group work with trauma, ADHD, moderate to severe behavioral issues, spectrum disorders, anger management, parent education and couples/family counseling.
While we continue to learn and adapt from changes this past year, I want provide a safe space for you and your family to take care of mental health and overall wellbeing. COVID19 has brought us to assess and evaluate our everyday lives and the things that are difficult to handle, yet completely out of our control. Whether its for your kiddo that doesn't understand whats going on, sibling fights, learning to co-exist with your partner or need time to process and grow for yourself- I am here. My person-centered approach allows you to navigate our journey within the comfort of your own setting- pets welcome to join!
I have 8+ years in individual and group work with trauma, ADHD, moderate to severe behavioral issues, spectrum disorders, anger management, parent education and couples/family counseling.
While we continue to learn and adapt from changes this past year, I want provide a safe space for you and your family to take care of mental health and overall wellbeing. COVID19 has brought us to assess and evaluate our everyday lives and the things that are difficult to handle, yet completely out of our control. Whether its for your kiddo that doesn't understand whats going on, sibling fights, learning to co-exist with your partner or need time to process and grow for yourself- I am here. My person-centered approach allows you to navigate our journey within the comfort of your own setting- pets welcome to join!
View
Photo of Carolyn Morris, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Milwaukee County, WI
Carolyn Morris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SASD
Verified Verified
Wauwatosa, WI 53226
Waitlist for new clients
As I have evolved in this field, I have become more focused on trauma of all kinds.
Trying to find your place in this world? Struggling to make changes in your life? Know where you want to go or be in life but can't figure out how to get there? I enjoy working with people battling any kind of "stuckness" including trauma issues, addictions, and issues faced by adolescents. I primarily work with individuals, but also work with a family when needed. I am often described as energetic, with a great sense of humor. If you need someone to help motivate and encourage you to make changes, then I am the therapist for you.
As I have evolved in this field, I have become more focused on trauma of all kinds.
Trying to find your place in this world? Struggling to make changes in your life? Know where you want to go or be in life but can't figure out how to get there? I enjoy working with people battling any kind of "stuckness" including trauma issues, addictions, and issues faced by adolescents. I primarily work with individuals, but also work with a family when needed. I am often described as energetic, with a great sense of humor. If you need someone to help motivate and encourage you to make changes, then I am the therapist for you.
(262) 358-8170 View (262) 358-8170
Photo of Lori Freeman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Milwaukee County, WI
Lori Freeman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53202  (Online Only)
Does past or current trauma interfere with living your best life? Do you feel like others don't understand the impact your experiences have on your day to day life because there is a cultural, racial, or religious gaps? Are you looking for assistance supporting others in your life who have experienced trauma? Trauma can be defined by any event that was scary or stressful. It can be a solitary event or continuous over a period of time, and it is individual to the person experiencing it.
Does past or current trauma interfere with living your best life? Do you feel like others don't understand the impact your experiences have on your day to day life because there is a cultural, racial, or religious gaps? Are you looking for assistance supporting others in your life who have experienced trauma? Trauma can be defined by any event that was scary or stressful. It can be a solitary event or continuous over a period of time, and it is individual to the person experiencing it.
(414) 296-6525 View (414) 296-6525
Photo of Stephany Pruitt, MS, THD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Milwaukee County, WI
Stephany Pruitt, MS, THD, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, THD, LPC
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53216
Specialty is Mood Disorders, Trauma Informed Care, Dual Diagnoses.
"Hope motivates Change." Careful Balance of evidenced-based therapy's, holistic approaches, and spirituality, in ways that offer more optimal recovery and functioning. Treating the whole person rather than just symptom relief. Person Centered, Recovery-Orientated Care. Helping to build on strengths, resilience, and manage recovery. Help to provide wellness skills that encourage relapse prevention and re-build social skills where possible. Some approaches include trauma informed care, cognitive behavioral therapy, Rogerian, Stages of Change, Motivational Interveiwing and natural alternatives-when and where possible.
Specialty is Mood Disorders, Trauma Informed Care, Dual Diagnoses.
"Hope motivates Change." Careful Balance of evidenced-based therapy's, holistic approaches, and spirituality, in ways that offer more optimal recovery and functioning. Treating the whole person rather than just symptom relief. Person Centered, Recovery-Orientated Care. Helping to build on strengths, resilience, and manage recovery. Help to provide wellness skills that encourage relapse prevention and re-build social skills where possible. Some approaches include trauma informed care, cognitive behavioral therapy, Rogerian, Stages of Change, Motivational Interveiwing and natural alternatives-when and where possible.
(414) 246-5345 View (414) 246-5345
Photo of Thea Spiekermann, Licensed Professional Counselor in Milwaukee County, WI
Thea Spiekermann
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAC, CSIT
Verified Verified
Glendale, WI 53212  (Online Only)
I believe anyone can have the life they want. I specialize in an eclectic array of psychotherapies including trauma therapy, cognitive processing therapy, and addictions counseling. Therapy should be collaborative, so we will start with visualizing what "thriving" means to you. This includes treatment of psychological diagnoses, but also linkage to resources, coaching, family counseling, conflict resolution and EMDR, so that you receive well rounded, holistic treatment. I believe that you have the power to decide how the rest of your life goes. Anyone can make changes in order to heal old wounds.
I believe anyone can have the life they want. I specialize in an eclectic array of psychotherapies including trauma therapy, cognitive processing therapy, and addictions counseling. Therapy should be collaborative, so we will start with visualizing what "thriving" means to you. This includes treatment of psychological diagnoses, but also linkage to resources, coaching, family counseling, conflict resolution and EMDR, so that you receive well rounded, holistic treatment. I believe that you have the power to decide how the rest of your life goes. Anyone can make changes in order to heal old wounds.
(414) 404-9713 View (414) 404-9713
Photo of Tanya Hiser, Licensed Professional Counselor in Milwaukee County, WI
Tanya Hiser
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NRT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53211  (Online Only)
I love working with adolescents and adults who need assistance finding their authentic self and true voice. Those who suffer with trauma related to their life circumstances, past or present, are of particular interest to me, especially those in the professions of police, fire or EMT's. The issues at hand, be they anxiety, addiction, trauma or depression are only gateways to discovering healing, balance and wellness on multiple levels. I assist you in becoming the abundant, vibrant best version of yourself by helping you release old patterns of thinking and behaving that are stopping you from being who you want to be.
I love working with adolescents and adults who need assistance finding their authentic self and true voice. Those who suffer with trauma related to their life circumstances, past or present, are of particular interest to me, especially those in the professions of police, fire or EMT's. The issues at hand, be they anxiety, addiction, trauma or depression are only gateways to discovering healing, balance and wellness on multiple levels. I assist you in becoming the abundant, vibrant best version of yourself by helping you release old patterns of thinking and behaving that are stopping you from being who you want to be.
(608) 422-4075 View (608) 422-4075
Photo of Lorrie Ogren, Licensed Professional Counselor in Milwaukee County, WI
Lorrie Ogren
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53213  (Online Only)
The methods I use are highly effective for accessing the subconscious and uncovering, exploring and releasing trauma from core physical, emotional and neural levels.
I offer a unique blend of alternative therapies combining some of the newest discoveries in neuropsychology, mind-body integration and mindfulness. I do my best to work from a place of intuitive, compassionate, heart based support. Working together, we can explore your issues and uncover the root causes of your suffering using the subconscious, breath-work, mind-body awareness and many other transpersonal therapy methods. I believe therapy is the courageous process of exploring and releasing old wounds, discovering the 'greater' self and learning to make conscious choices with compassion and forgiveness.
The methods I use are highly effective for accessing the subconscious and uncovering, exploring and releasing trauma from core physical, emotional and neural levels.
I offer a unique blend of alternative therapies combining some of the newest discoveries in neuropsychology, mind-body integration and mindfulness. I do my best to work from a place of intuitive, compassionate, heart based support. Working together, we can explore your issues and uncover the root causes of your suffering using the subconscious, breath-work, mind-body awareness and many other transpersonal therapy methods. I believe therapy is the courageous process of exploring and releasing old wounds, discovering the 'greater' self and learning to make conscious choices with compassion and forgiveness.
(715) 333-3446 View (715) 333-3446
Photo of Wendy J Freitag, Psychologist in Milwaukee County, WI
Wendy J Freitag
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wauwatosa, WI 53213
Are you ready to live the life you want? I can help tap into a hidden potential that resides within us – whether to heal trauma, gain balance and perspective in life & relationships, or assert yourself as confident and capable. I seek to empower my clients to capitalize on their strengths, improve their lives and become comfortable “in their own skin.” There is a distinct difference between “living” and just “existing.” It will be my pleasure to help you transition from a simple existence to LIVING the life you want. Equally important it is essential that you are as committed to improving your life as I am to enabling you to do so. 
Are you ready to live the life you want? I can help tap into a hidden potential that resides within us – whether to heal trauma, gain balance and perspective in life & relationships, or assert yourself as confident and capable. I seek to empower my clients to capitalize on their strengths, improve their lives and become comfortable “in their own skin.” There is a distinct difference between “living” and just “existing.” It will be my pleasure to help you transition from a simple existence to LIVING the life you want. Equally important it is essential that you are as committed to improving your life as I am to enabling you to do so. 
(414) 301-6567 View (414) 301-6567
Photo of Vanessa F Gallagher, Licensed Professional Counselor in Milwaukee County, WI
Vanessa F Gallagher
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAHS, LPC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53215  (Online Only)
I offer an integrated approach including EMDR, Gottman, trauma-informed CBT, IPNB and somatic work; I offer in-person Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy.
Hi, if you're like many of my clients, you're hoping to find a therapist who has worked with your kind of worries before, will listen without passing judgement and can offer a safe place to process as well as get some concrete tools to help you feel better. My clients often describe struggling with communication or compromise in relationships, hurting from a big loss, frustration with their kid's problems, feeling anxious, or having a hard time at work. Most of my clients want a therapist who is warm, authentic, can explain the "why" behind their "what" and is willing to engage, not just observe.
I offer an integrated approach including EMDR, Gottman, trauma-informed CBT, IPNB and somatic work; I offer in-person Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy.
Hi, if you're like many of my clients, you're hoping to find a therapist who has worked with your kind of worries before, will listen without passing judgement and can offer a safe place to process as well as get some concrete tools to help you feel better. My clients often describe struggling with communication or compromise in relationships, hurting from a big loss, frustration with their kid's problems, feeling anxious, or having a hard time at work. Most of my clients want a therapist who is warm, authentic, can explain the "why" behind their "what" and is willing to engage, not just observe.
(512) 575-2123 View (512) 575-2123
Photo of Tiernee Schatz, Licensed Professional Counselor in Milwaukee County, WI
Tiernee Schatz
Licensed Professional Counselor, ATR-BC, LPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Bay View, WI 53207
I combine various evidence supported therapeutic approaches including ACT, Art Therapy, Attachment, CBT, Person-Centered, and Relational therapies with a trauma-informed perspective.
I offer a personalized and holistic approach to therapy, moving beyond a clinical, symptom focused model. Working collaboratively we will tend to the roots, uncovering whatever it is that is stunting your growth and implement healing. I offer skill development practices that encourage self-regulation, self-knowledge, self-confidence, and self-efficacy that will aid you in your ability to heal and live an authentic, joyful life. When we know ourselves well, are confident in our ability to trust, change, heal and grow, we are better able to make choices that align with our true selves leading us to a life of purpose and meaning.
I combine various evidence supported therapeutic approaches including ACT, Art Therapy, Attachment, CBT, Person-Centered, and Relational therapies with a trauma-informed perspective.
I offer a personalized and holistic approach to therapy, moving beyond a clinical, symptom focused model. Working collaboratively we will tend to the roots, uncovering whatever it is that is stunting your growth and implement healing. I offer skill development practices that encourage self-regulation, self-knowledge, self-confidence, and self-efficacy that will aid you in your ability to heal and live an authentic, joyful life. When we know ourselves well, are confident in our ability to trust, change, heal and grow, we are better able to make choices that align with our true selves leading us to a life of purpose and meaning.
(262) 233-9239 View (262) 233-9239
Photo of Brian Flynn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Milwaukee County, WI
Brian Flynn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wauwatosa, WI 53226
Some of these include, Trauma Informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Resilience Counseling, mindfulness, somatic processing, distress tolerance, harm reduction and more.
I am a warm, compassionate and present Clinical psychotherapist with over 20+ years of experience working with adults and families in a variety of clinical and community settings I use a client centered approach to understanding the whole person, and I partner with my clients as they take an active role in their own healing and growth. My clients will engage in a nonjudgmental, collaborative and creative process to help them see their own strengths and to identify thought processes that are counterproductive to their wellbeing and relationships.
Some of these include, Trauma Informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Resilience Counseling, mindfulness, somatic processing, distress tolerance, harm reduction and more.
I am a warm, compassionate and present Clinical psychotherapist with over 20+ years of experience working with adults and families in a variety of clinical and community settings I use a client centered approach to understanding the whole person, and I partner with my clients as they take an active role in their own healing and growth. My clients will engage in a nonjudgmental, collaborative and creative process to help them see their own strengths and to identify thought processes that are counterproductive to their wellbeing and relationships.
(262) 747-0761 View (262) 747-0761
Photo of Tiffany Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Milwaukee County, WI
Tiffany Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53208  (Online Only)
With over almost two decades of experience in education and counseling, I've witnessed the profound impact of dysfunction, trauma and the lack of self-awareness and support on personal growth and family health.
Hi. I'm so happy you stopped by. Are you in need of growth & strategy amidst life's challenges & transitions? I can provide guidance & tools for resilience as you navigate your unique journey toward learning, collectively with me and on your own. From the overstressed to the busy-minded child or late bloomer of life to the anxiety prone & isolated persons, or over worked parent or spouse, and the grieving friend- I am committed to fostering a safe space to aid your journey of healing and transformation to your awe-inspiring-self, through the integration of evidence-based fundamental concepts curated for your unique needs.
With over almost two decades of experience in education and counseling, I've witnessed the profound impact of dysfunction, trauma and the lack of self-awareness and support on personal growth and family health.
Hi. I'm so happy you stopped by. Are you in need of growth & strategy amidst life's challenges & transitions? I can provide guidance & tools for resilience as you navigate your unique journey toward learning, collectively with me and on your own. From the overstressed to the busy-minded child or late bloomer of life to the anxiety prone & isolated persons, or over worked parent or spouse, and the grieving friend- I am committed to fostering a safe space to aid your journey of healing and transformation to your awe-inspiring-self, through the integration of evidence-based fundamental concepts curated for your unique needs.
(414) 348-4561 View (414) 348-4561
Photo of Charlotte D Mayfield, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Milwaukee County, WI
Charlotte D Mayfield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53211
I am an experienced psychotherapist with a focus on mind, body and spirit and how they all work together to achieve a balance mental state. I provide psychotherapy to individuals and groups ages 13 to 80 with issues such as, depression, trauma, anxiety, and sexual identity to name a few. I also provide couples with the psychotherapy collaboration to move toward mutual fullfillment in their relationships.
I am an experienced psychotherapist with a focus on mind, body and spirit and how they all work together to achieve a balance mental state. I provide psychotherapy to individuals and groups ages 13 to 80 with issues such as, depression, trauma, anxiety, and sexual identity to name a few. I also provide couples with the psychotherapy collaboration to move toward mutual fullfillment in their relationships.
(414) 751-8946 View (414) 751-8946
Photo of Michele M Mastalarz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Milwaukee County, WI
Michele M Mastalarz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Specialty in trauma informed care supporting youth/teens, persons with sensory integration issues, eating disorders, behavioral challenges and dual diagnosis presentations.
My professional goal is to provide a compassionate and supportive therapy environment for persons with mental health and behavioral challenges. My hope is to provide a safe, secure and comfortable space during your time of healing and exploration.
Specialty in trauma informed care supporting youth/teens, persons with sensory integration issues, eating disorders, behavioral challenges and dual diagnosis presentations.
My professional goal is to provide a compassionate and supportive therapy environment for persons with mental health and behavioral challenges. My hope is to provide a safe, secure and comfortable space during your time of healing and exploration.
(262) 584-4977 View (262) 584-4977
Photo of Krista Shabtaie, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Milwaukee County, WI
Krista Shabtaie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wauwatosa, WI 53226
Choosing to begin therapy is a brave decision. My supportive and empathic nature will help you to navigate the struggles you may be facing in your family or other relationships, work, school, health or any other area of life, as well as develop solutions to unique and everyday problems. As a therapist, I utilize a collaborative and flexible approach to ensure you are an active part of the process. I believe that humor and lightheartedness are vital in our work together. I specialize in working with prenatal/postpartum mental health issues, mood/anxiety disorders, life transitions, and trauma.
Choosing to begin therapy is a brave decision. My supportive and empathic nature will help you to navigate the struggles you may be facing in your family or other relationships, work, school, health or any other area of life, as well as develop solutions to unique and everyday problems. As a therapist, I utilize a collaborative and flexible approach to ensure you are an active part of the process. I believe that humor and lightheartedness are vital in our work together. I specialize in working with prenatal/postpartum mental health issues, mood/anxiety disorders, life transitions, and trauma.
(262) 239-4150 View (262) 239-4150
Photo of Bernadette Mullins Miller, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Milwaukee County, WI
Bernadette Mullins Miller, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW
Verified Verified
Wauwatosa, WI 53226
Issues I specialize in are broad, and range from mood/anxiety disorders, trauma, postpartum/pregnancy conditions, chronic health, relationship issues and divorce related matters including mediation.
My intentions are simple. I work to create the type of therapeutic relationship that clients will need to do the exploring, processing and growing that psychotherapy allows. I've always considered it a great privilege to be allowed into client's lives, and are consistently in awe of one's ability to grow and heal.
Issues I specialize in are broad, and range from mood/anxiety disorders, trauma, postpartum/pregnancy conditions, chronic health, relationship issues and divorce related matters including mediation.
My intentions are simple. I work to create the type of therapeutic relationship that clients will need to do the exploring, processing and growing that psychotherapy allows. I've always considered it a great privilege to be allowed into client's lives, and are consistently in awe of one's ability to grow and heal.
(414) 600-1374 View (414) 600-1374

See more therapy options for Milwaukee County

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.