Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Boston, MA

Photo of Annalise Reinhardt Kohlberger, Pre-Licensed Professional in Boston, MA
Annalise Reinhardt Kohlberger
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02109  (Online Only)
I currently offer bilingual (English/Spanish) trauma-informed, person-centered therapy and mindfulness-based therapies at Ever Human Therapy, accompanying and supporting clients to build their sense of agency, deepen trust in their own voice and inner wisdom, understanding, integrating, and healing attachment wounds, and creating positive change.
Do you feel overwhelmed, angry, confused, anxious, overly stressed, or in need of making change in your life? Are you in need of a space that is attuned to your needs, collaborative, and intentional, directed towards your goals and designed to support aspects of your unique, present-day experience? I invite my clients to engage in a therapeutic relationship centered in non-judgment, empathy, and authenticity. It takes courage to meet oneself with the witness of another. With warmth, humor, and compassion, we will collaborate to gain clarity, learn and practice coping strategies, build your self-trust and deepen self understanding.
I currently offer bilingual (English/Spanish) trauma-informed, person-centered therapy and mindfulness-based therapies at Ever Human Therapy, accompanying and supporting clients to build their sense of agency, deepen trust in their own voice and inner wisdom, understanding, integrating, and healing attachment wounds, and creating positive change.
Do you feel overwhelmed, angry, confused, anxious, overly stressed, or in need of making change in your life? Are you in need of a space that is attuned to your needs, collaborative, and intentional, directed towards your goals and designed to support aspects of your unique, present-day experience? I invite my clients to engage in a therapeutic relationship centered in non-judgment, empathy, and authenticity. It takes courage to meet oneself with the witness of another. With warmth, humor, and compassion, we will collaborate to gain clarity, learn and practice coping strategies, build your self-trust and deepen self understanding.
(857) 475-7604 View (857) 475-7604
Photo of Destini Kohnen, Counselor in Boston, MA
Destini Kohnen
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02114
I provide trauma information about safety and self-care, trust, remembering, shame and self-blame, compassion, anger, body image, relationships, and the process of recovery.
The ideal client is motivated to continue to work with their inner child to become grounded in the present moment. They may have anxiety, mood disorders, or personality disorders, or they may not be sure what is underlying their experience, which I can help identify as well. The ideal clients are open to trying new methods of healing, including arts and spirituality. They are willing to trust me with their feelings and express them, whether that is verbally, through the expressive arts, or both.
I provide trauma information about safety and self-care, trust, remembering, shame and self-blame, compassion, anger, body image, relationships, and the process of recovery.
The ideal client is motivated to continue to work with their inner child to become grounded in the present moment. They may have anxiety, mood disorders, or personality disorders, or they may not be sure what is underlying their experience, which I can help identify as well. The ideal clients are open to trying new methods of healing, including arts and spirituality. They are willing to trust me with their feelings and express them, whether that is verbally, through the expressive arts, or both.
(781) 429-3281 View (781) 429-3281
Photo of Remy Springer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Remy Springer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02130
I am EMDR certified and have used this evidence-based approach to help with a variety of issues including trauma, anxiety, depression, OCD and others.
I see therapy as a collaborative process in which I listen to how you want to move forward with your goals. I always take time to really hear how you, as an individual or couple, want to make changes and respect your own choices in your life. We sometimes find ourselves repeating negative patterns or stuck in challenging situations but have difficulty knowing how to make lasting changes. Therapy can help make this clearer.
I am EMDR certified and have used this evidence-based approach to help with a variety of issues including trauma, anxiety, depression, OCD and others.
I see therapy as a collaborative process in which I listen to how you want to move forward with your goals. I always take time to really hear how you, as an individual or couple, want to make changes and respect your own choices in your life. We sometimes find ourselves repeating negative patterns or stuck in challenging situations but have difficulty knowing how to make lasting changes. Therapy can help make this clearer.
(781) 859-0265 View (781) 859-0265
Photo of ThriveMind Psychotherapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
ThriveMind Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02109  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hi! I'm Carisa. I provide telehealth-based psychotherapy for adults, children, and families in Massachusetts and Florida. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety disorders and acute, chronic and/or complex trauma. My practice emphasizes a blend of evidence-based care, kindness and unconditional positive regard, which I have found to be the 'recipe' for success. I am a good fit for those seeking a collaborative therapeutic approach in which the wisdom you have gained from your lived experience is a welcomed and honored part of our work together. I prioritize autonomy, choice and informed consent throughout the therapy process.
Hi! I'm Carisa. I provide telehealth-based psychotherapy for adults, children, and families in Massachusetts and Florida. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety disorders and acute, chronic and/or complex trauma. My practice emphasizes a blend of evidence-based care, kindness and unconditional positive regard, which I have found to be the 'recipe' for success. I am a good fit for those seeking a collaborative therapeutic approach in which the wisdom you have gained from your lived experience is a welcomed and honored part of our work together. I prioritize autonomy, choice and informed consent throughout the therapy process.
(857) 380-9340 View (857) 380-9340
Photo of Chiajou Lu, Marriage & Family Therapist in Boston, MA
Chiajou Lu
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02110
My clinic prioritizes medical professionals and people of color (to work on healing racial trauma) Working with a diverse population for many years widens my appreciation toward everyone I encounter. Learning from years of valuable experience, I do not take a blueprint or “one-size-fits-all” approach. Every client has an individualized curriculum. No matter what the challenge brings, I will help you in managing a complex post-pandemic life and strengthening your relationships.
My clinic prioritizes medical professionals and people of color (to work on healing racial trauma) Working with a diverse population for many years widens my appreciation toward everyone I encounter. Learning from years of valuable experience, I do not take a blueprint or “one-size-fits-all” approach. Every client has an individualized curriculum. No matter what the challenge brings, I will help you in managing a complex post-pandemic life and strengthening your relationships.
(857) 254-8112 View (857) 254-8112
Photo of Vesper Jingxuan Yang, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Vesper Jingxuan Yang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02109  (Online Only)
The desire to know and to be known is a normal human experience. I value the trauma-informed safety and client-centered connection we collaboratively create through a systematic lens. I am particularly sensitive to diversity in culture and self-identity, including with respect to race, gender and sexuality. I believe the importance of affirming the unique individual experience with cultural humility. Through compassion, sensitivity, and empowerment, we will work together respectfully to acknowledge vulnerability, unearth patterns, attend complexity, and gain ownership change to achieve the most authentic and expansive self.
The desire to know and to be known is a normal human experience. I value the trauma-informed safety and client-centered connection we collaboratively create through a systematic lens. I am particularly sensitive to diversity in culture and self-identity, including with respect to race, gender and sexuality. I believe the importance of affirming the unique individual experience with cultural humility. Through compassion, sensitivity, and empowerment, we will work together respectfully to acknowledge vulnerability, unearth patterns, attend complexity, and gain ownership change to achieve the most authentic and expansive self.
(508) 413-2256 View (508) 413-2256
Photo of Andrea Cooke, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Andrea Cooke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02127  (Online Only)
I have worked for over a decade with people who struggle with relationships, self-esteem and self-worth, addiction, trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and the general desire to build a better life for themselves.
Life can be tough. Trauma, relationships, and brain chemistry may contribute to uncontrollable emotions and the inability to cope with people and situations. It is not easy, and there are no quick fixes, but healing is possible. Everyone is different, and thus therapy should be tailored accordingly to individual needs. Our work will be collaborative to make sure you are getting the support that aligns with your personality, experiences, and goals. My approach emphasizes realistic approaches to meet you where you are.
I have worked for over a decade with people who struggle with relationships, self-esteem and self-worth, addiction, trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and the general desire to build a better life for themselves.
Life can be tough. Trauma, relationships, and brain chemistry may contribute to uncontrollable emotions and the inability to cope with people and situations. It is not easy, and there are no quick fixes, but healing is possible. Everyone is different, and thus therapy should be tailored accordingly to individual needs. Our work will be collaborative to make sure you are getting the support that aligns with your personality, experiences, and goals. My approach emphasizes realistic approaches to meet you where you are.
(617) 915-3413 View (617) 915-3413
Photo of Amanda Elyse Sieferman, Counselor in Boston, MA
Amanda Elyse Sieferman
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02135  (Online Only)
I am a therapist who specializes in increasing sexual communication, pleasure, and satisfaction for my clients. I work with both individuals and couples to achieve the sexual lives they are looking for. People struggle with sex for many reasons such as learning "sex is bad", concern about differences in desire, no desire, struggling with sex/gender identity, trauma, lack of comfort/education about sex, anxiety about having sex/talking about sex with others, pelvic pain, not orgasming, ED, premature ejaculation etc. If this sounds like you I am here to help without judgement, to collaborate on how to create a new sexual narrative.
I am a therapist who specializes in increasing sexual communication, pleasure, and satisfaction for my clients. I work with both individuals and couples to achieve the sexual lives they are looking for. People struggle with sex for many reasons such as learning "sex is bad", concern about differences in desire, no desire, struggling with sex/gender identity, trauma, lack of comfort/education about sex, anxiety about having sex/talking about sex with others, pelvic pain, not orgasming, ED, premature ejaculation etc. If this sounds like you I am here to help without judgement, to collaborate on how to create a new sexual narrative.
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Photo of Teresa G Dias, Counselor in Boston, MA
Teresa G Dias
Counselor, LMHC, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02110
Waitlist for new clients
I am trauma informed and culturally sensitive therapist.
I am maintaining a waiting list, but not taking new clients now. My office is in downtown Boston, on Franklin St. I offer a welcoming and secure place for your child to explore issues of anxiety, depression, PTSD and more. I am a Registered play therapist, and Licensed mental health counselor who engages in children's natural play language to unpack and examine life's challenges. I also use art, sandtray and mindfulness to teach coping tools, and help children and teens understand their internal world. I am available to see children, teens, and adults. Together we will co-create a creative and productive therapeutic experience.
I am trauma informed and culturally sensitive therapist.
I am maintaining a waiting list, but not taking new clients now. My office is in downtown Boston, on Franklin St. I offer a welcoming and secure place for your child to explore issues of anxiety, depression, PTSD and more. I am a Registered play therapist, and Licensed mental health counselor who engages in children's natural play language to unpack and examine life's challenges. I also use art, sandtray and mindfulness to teach coping tools, and help children and teens understand their internal world. I am available to see children, teens, and adults. Together we will co-create a creative and productive therapeutic experience.
(339) 230-6499 View (339) 230-6499
Photo of Amy Grace Sullivan, Pre-Licensed Professional in Boston, MA
Amy Grace Sullivan
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02110  (Online Only)
I believe in Carl Jung’s theory of individuation where everyone is on a journey towards wholeness, and I also believe it doesn’t have to be a solo one. As a therapist, I like to think of myself as someone who sits sidecar on your healing journey towards wholeness. I have an open and collaborative approach tailored to your therapeutic needs and I draw from an array of holistic modalities to help support you on your journey. I specialize in helping those with trauma related issues. We collaborate in creating a safe and trusting space for you to explore and gain insight in how your past experiences may still be affecting you.
I believe in Carl Jung’s theory of individuation where everyone is on a journey towards wholeness, and I also believe it doesn’t have to be a solo one. As a therapist, I like to think of myself as someone who sits sidecar on your healing journey towards wholeness. I have an open and collaborative approach tailored to your therapeutic needs and I draw from an array of holistic modalities to help support you on your journey. I specialize in helping those with trauma related issues. We collaborate in creating a safe and trusting space for you to explore and gain insight in how your past experiences may still be affecting you.
(617) 390-7631 View (617) 390-7631
Photo of Huan-Tang Lu, Counselor in Boston, MA
Huan-Tang Lu
Counselor, PhD, LMHC/PC, ACS, RPT, RN
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02135  (Online Only)
Common challenges that I work with include bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, family conflicts, borderline personality disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
This is a space for everyone who would like to explore their full potential. You can find non-judgmental, unconditional acceptance here. This will be a journey for your personal growth and to reach your life goals, whether it's reaching higher or getting back in the direction you wish. We will work together frequently at the beginning and aim to reduce the frequency when you feel ready.
Common challenges that I work with include bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, family conflicts, borderline personality disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
This is a space for everyone who would like to explore their full potential. You can find non-judgmental, unconditional acceptance here. This will be a journey for your personal growth and to reach your life goals, whether it's reaching higher or getting back in the direction you wish. We will work together frequently at the beginning and aim to reduce the frequency when you feel ready.
(617) 741-9360 View (617) 741-9360
Photo of Stephen L Gresham, Psychologist in Boston, MA
Stephen L Gresham
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02128  (Online Only)
My specialty areas include anxiety, depression, trauma, sexual orientation, gender identity, and relationship conflict.
Even in the darkest of moments, it’s important that you know that you are deserving of feeling good and being well. Yet, experiences can challenge just how much you believe that is possible. You may begin to doubt, doubt turns into inaction, and inaction turns into many dark days and nights. You may feel lost, but hope is not gone. Within our work together we clarify your vision of wellness, examine roadblocks, and identify smart strategies to make life begin to work for you.
My specialty areas include anxiety, depression, trauma, sexual orientation, gender identity, and relationship conflict.
Even in the darkest of moments, it’s important that you know that you are deserving of feeling good and being well. Yet, experiences can challenge just how much you believe that is possible. You may begin to doubt, doubt turns into inaction, and inaction turns into many dark days and nights. You may feel lost, but hope is not gone. Within our work together we clarify your vision of wellness, examine roadblocks, and identify smart strategies to make life begin to work for you.
(617) 528-9243 View (617) 528-9243
Photo of Keisha Barnes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Keisha Barnes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, PIP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02114  (Online Only)
As an attachment-based therapist, I specialize in emotional pain & trauma.
Emotions like anxiety, sadness and shame are so overwhelming that it feels like your body could shatter from all of your feelings. A painful childhood, challenging relationships, loss or another distressing experience has left you feeling hopeless. You've never been able to explain what feeling abandoned is like, or why it's so hard to trust, so you feel more isolated in being misunderstood. You have some regrets on how you've responded or acted in the past while you were just trying to survive or feel connection.
As an attachment-based therapist, I specialize in emotional pain & trauma.
Emotions like anxiety, sadness and shame are so overwhelming that it feels like your body could shatter from all of your feelings. A painful childhood, challenging relationships, loss or another distressing experience has left you feeling hopeless. You've never been able to explain what feeling abandoned is like, or why it's so hard to trust, so you feel more isolated in being misunderstood. You have some regrets on how you've responded or acted in the past while you were just trying to survive or feel connection.
(919) 822-9125 View (919) 822-9125
Photo of Giselle Bonilla, Counselor in Boston, MA
Giselle Bonilla
Counselor, MA, LMHC, EAT
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02136  (Online Only)
I know that I was put on this earth to support, and help others in their healing journey in regard to unprocessed trauma, and learning healthy life and coping skills. I will support you in how to apply these in your day to day life and/or process and heal from any unprocessed trauma. We often hold a lot of unprocessed trauma in our bodies without realizing how much of an impact it has in our interaction with our environments, and relationships. I am here to support you in improving your own self-awareness of yourself, and checking in with your mind, body, and emotions.
I know that I was put on this earth to support, and help others in their healing journey in regard to unprocessed trauma, and learning healthy life and coping skills. I will support you in how to apply these in your day to day life and/or process and heal from any unprocessed trauma. We often hold a lot of unprocessed trauma in our bodies without realizing how much of an impact it has in our interaction with our environments, and relationships. I am here to support you in improving your own self-awareness of yourself, and checking in with your mind, body, and emotions.
(617) 665-7829 View (617) 665-7829
Photo of Marina Williams, Counselor in Boston, MA
Marina Williams
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02136  (Online Only)
I provide a warm, judgment-free healing atmosphere for clients that focuses on support and growth. In addition to my training in evidence-based therapies, I also utilize an intuitive counseling approach. I work with clients that are seeking to resolve issues related to childhood trauma, self esteem, depression, anxiety, and bullying. Untreated stress and trauma can manifest in the body as depression and anxiety, but also chronic health issues like back pain, autoimmune disease, headaches, acid reflux, etc.. I am an experienced counselor licensed in the states of Massachusetts and Virginia.
I provide a warm, judgment-free healing atmosphere for clients that focuses on support and growth. In addition to my training in evidence-based therapies, I also utilize an intuitive counseling approach. I work with clients that are seeking to resolve issues related to childhood trauma, self esteem, depression, anxiety, and bullying. Untreated stress and trauma can manifest in the body as depression and anxiety, but also chronic health issues like back pain, autoimmune disease, headaches, acid reflux, etc.. I am an experienced counselor licensed in the states of Massachusetts and Virginia.
(857) 420-5557 View (857) 420-5557
Photo of Han Bertrand, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Han Bertrand
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My approach to therapy prioritizes understanding my clients' needs and creating a welcoming and safe space for their emotions. I work with adults seeking therapy to overcome persistent anxieties and deep-rooted feelings of insecurity and inadequacy. Together, we can help you develop self-esteem to undo the impact of trauma, leading to more satisfying relationships and a more fulfilling life. My approach is collaborative and tailored to your needs. I specialize in psychodynamic therapy, also known as psychoanalysis. This is a depth-oriented therapy that aims to resolve deep-seated issues related to anxiety, depression, and trauma.
My approach to therapy prioritizes understanding my clients' needs and creating a welcoming and safe space for their emotions. I work with adults seeking therapy to overcome persistent anxieties and deep-rooted feelings of insecurity and inadequacy. Together, we can help you develop self-esteem to undo the impact of trauma, leading to more satisfying relationships and a more fulfilling life. My approach is collaborative and tailored to your needs. I specialize in psychodynamic therapy, also known as psychoanalysis. This is a depth-oriented therapy that aims to resolve deep-seated issues related to anxiety, depression, and trauma.
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Photo of Dallas Sierra, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Dallas Sierra
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02199  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with processing past traumatic events? EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a psychotherapy that enables people to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences. EMDR provides a proven approach to address the symptoms of trauma that can interfere with thriving in your everyday life. EMDR allows individuals to process incredible amounts of material in a shockingly short time.
Are you struggling with processing past traumatic events? EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a psychotherapy that enables people to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences. EMDR provides a proven approach to address the symptoms of trauma that can interfere with thriving in your everyday life. EMDR allows individuals to process incredible amounts of material in a shockingly short time.
(857) 420-5911 View (857) 420-5911
Photo of Darcy Elton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Darcy Elton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02199  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients! Telehealth available in MA, DC, AZ, WA, OR, UT, ID, LA, CO, NM. Moving through a painful transition? Want to make changes in your life? Need to figure out where to go from here & how to get there? Have you ever wondered what experiences in your life impact you the most and how to heal? I'd love to join you on your journey. From navigating big transitions, healing deep hurts to growing into your most meaningful dreams, I’m here to support you with warmth, compassion, & genuineness as well as a decade of experience & specialty training. Trauma informed approach - no problem is too big or small.
Accepting new clients! Telehealth available in MA, DC, AZ, WA, OR, UT, ID, LA, CO, NM. Moving through a painful transition? Want to make changes in your life? Need to figure out where to go from here & how to get there? Have you ever wondered what experiences in your life impact you the most and how to heal? I'd love to join you on your journey. From navigating big transitions, healing deep hurts to growing into your most meaningful dreams, I’m here to support you with warmth, compassion, & genuineness as well as a decade of experience & specialty training. Trauma informed approach - no problem is too big or small.
(617) 958-8138 View (617) 958-8138
Photo of Breana Swain, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Breana Swain
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02115  (Online Only)
I have experience working with youth/teens demonstrating behavioral issues, adults going through life changes, individuals living with trauma, and more.
What has brought you to seek therapeutic services today? Perhaps you feel misunderstood when you try to connect with others, leaving you lonely and yearning for healthy relationships. Perhaps you are living with grief, causing you to feel both overwhelmed and numb. Perhaps you realize you are lacking in coping skills, resulting in intense feelings of sadness or anxiety. Perhaps you are unhappy with your decision-making and envision brighter future for yourself. You have achieved the first step towards that brighter future by inquiring on mental health services. I offer support towards the wellbeing goals you have set.
I have experience working with youth/teens demonstrating behavioral issues, adults going through life changes, individuals living with trauma, and more.
What has brought you to seek therapeutic services today? Perhaps you feel misunderstood when you try to connect with others, leaving you lonely and yearning for healthy relationships. Perhaps you are living with grief, causing you to feel both overwhelmed and numb. Perhaps you realize you are lacking in coping skills, resulting in intense feelings of sadness or anxiety. Perhaps you are unhappy with your decision-making and envision brighter future for yourself. You have achieved the first step towards that brighter future by inquiring on mental health services. I offer support towards the wellbeing goals you have set.
(508) 570-9663 View (508) 570-9663
Photo of Ann Marie Faler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Ann Marie Faler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02114
Trauma-informed, person-centered journey done your way with support.
My ideal client is somebody who embraces and trusts the process and is willing to share their experiences. Challenges can range based on the support they are seeking. Their needs can be anything from support, stabilization, resources for community-based support, and building a quality supportive network. Their goals are to increase autonomy and self-advocacy with the desire to have more good days and recover to be the best version of themselves.
Trauma-informed, person-centered journey done your way with support.
My ideal client is somebody who embraces and trusts the process and is willing to share their experiences. Challenges can range based on the support they are seeking. Their needs can be anything from support, stabilization, resources for community-based support, and building a quality supportive network. Their goals are to increase autonomy and self-advocacy with the desire to have more good days and recover to be the best version of themselves.
(339) 237-3986 View (339) 237-3986
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.