Photo of Integrative Counseling and Psychology, Counselor in Naperville, IL
Integrative Counseling and Psychology
Counselor, LCPC, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60540
I use an integrative approach to work with depression/anxiety mood disorders, trauma, autism spectrum disorder, personality disorders, drug abuse, chronic illness, dissociative disorders, change of life and existential issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) who has also a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor(CADC) and a Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology(MCP). Much of my training has been centered in client-centered theory and I also have specialized training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). In addition to being traditionally trained, I also incorporate​ a holistic, integrated approach toward psychotherapy which includes aspects of mindfulness and Eastern philosophy, providing individual, family and couples therapy as well as intervention work.
I use an integrative approach to work with depression/anxiety mood disorders, trauma, autism spectrum disorder, personality disorders, drug abuse, chronic illness, dissociative disorders, change of life and existential issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) who has also a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor(CADC) and a Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology(MCP). Much of my training has been centered in client-centered theory and I also have specialized training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). In addition to being traditionally trained, I also incorporate​ a holistic, integrated approach toward psychotherapy which includes aspects of mindfulness and Eastern philosophy, providing individual, family and couples therapy as well as intervention work.
(331) 241-7436 View (331) 241-7436
Photo of Robert Nick Giannasi, Counselor in Naperville, IL
Robert Nick Giannasi
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60565
I work primarily with adolescents (ages 10-25), marriages, and men's issues. I currently supervise a team of therapists through Unbroken Family Counseling. I work within this team and, when necessary, work with schools, psychiatrists, and other community resources to help my clients. My ideal client is a teen who doesn't think he/she needs counseling, a marriage that is on the rocks, or a guy dealing with guy stuff (guys know what I'm talking about). If I cant help you I can help find someone who can.
I work primarily with adolescents (ages 10-25), marriages, and men's issues. I currently supervise a team of therapists through Unbroken Family Counseling. I work within this team and, when necessary, work with schools, psychiatrists, and other community resources to help my clients. My ideal client is a teen who doesn't think he/she needs counseling, a marriage that is on the rocks, or a guy dealing with guy stuff (guys know what I'm talking about). If I cant help you I can help find someone who can.
(847) 457-0076 View (847) 457-0076
Photo of Aneta Kryczka, Counselor in Naperville, IL
Aneta Kryczka
Counselor, LCPC, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Relationships are very important to me. I value my clients, and above all, I provide an emotionally safe and therapeutic atmosphere. I believe that the ability to heal lies within each of us. The treatment I provide will be tailored with your specific needs. I strive to build an authentic connection with each person and focus on solutions and opportunities rather than problems. My goal is to help you resolve the conflict that you are experiencing. My style is warm and nurturing, though simultaneously open and direct. I provide therapy in English and Polish.
Relationships are very important to me. I value my clients, and above all, I provide an emotionally safe and therapeutic atmosphere. I believe that the ability to heal lies within each of us. The treatment I provide will be tailored with your specific needs. I strive to build an authentic connection with each person and focus on solutions and opportunities rather than problems. My goal is to help you resolve the conflict that you are experiencing. My style is warm and nurturing, though simultaneously open and direct. I provide therapy in English and Polish.
(630) 701-7489 x101 View (630) 701-7489 x101
Photo of Mateusz Dzikowski, Psychologist in Naperville, IL
Mateusz Dzikowski
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60540  (Online Only)
I focus on working with individuals with a wide variety of difficulties, such as stress, anxiety, depression, interpersonal problems, and trauma.
I help individuals overcome obstacles and difficulties that keep them from reaching their desired goals and living lives that are marked by peace, meaning, and freedom. I try to do this in a collaborative and respectful manner—in the context of a therapeutic relationship. In this relationship, I seek to explore, process, and resolve challenging and often painful life experiences that have contributed to the development of unhelpful psychological dynamics (e.g., thinking patterns, emotional responses, and interpersonal habits) that cause distress and that negatively impact various parts daily life.
I focus on working with individuals with a wide variety of difficulties, such as stress, anxiety, depression, interpersonal problems, and trauma.
I help individuals overcome obstacles and difficulties that keep them from reaching their desired goals and living lives that are marked by peace, meaning, and freedom. I try to do this in a collaborative and respectful manner—in the context of a therapeutic relationship. In this relationship, I seek to explore, process, and resolve challenging and often painful life experiences that have contributed to the development of unhelpful psychological dynamics (e.g., thinking patterns, emotional responses, and interpersonal habits) that cause distress and that negatively impact various parts daily life.
(630) 653-1717 View (630) 653-1717
Photo of Contemporary Wellness, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Naperville, IL
Contemporary Wellness, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60540
Jestem Licencjonowanym Klinicznym Pracownikiem Socjalnym i Doradcą od Uzależnień. Mówię po polsku i angielsku. Moimi kilientami są młodzież (+15), dorośli, i osoby starsze. Stres związany z życiem codziennym może być przytłaczający dla osób w każdym wieku i może pochodzić z zaskakującej liczby źródeł. Długotrwały stres może prowadzić do depresji i stanów lęku, a my możemy nie być pewni, skąd się bierze i co z tym zrobić. Jeśli wahasz się przed rozpoczęciem terapii, wiedz, że proszenie o pomoc jest oznaką siły, a nie słabości.
Jestem Licencjonowanym Klinicznym Pracownikiem Socjalnym i Doradcą od Uzależnień. Mówię po polsku i angielsku. Moimi kilientami są młodzież (+15), dorośli, i osoby starsze. Stres związany z życiem codziennym może być przytłaczający dla osób w każdym wieku i może pochodzić z zaskakującej liczby źródeł. Długotrwały stres może prowadzić do depresji i stanów lęku, a my możemy nie być pewni, skąd się bierze i co z tym zrobić. Jeśli wahasz się przed rozpoczęciem terapii, wiedz, że proszenie o pomoc jest oznaką siły, a nie słabości.
(872) 259-4512 View (872) 259-4512
Photo of Anna K Zabiegly, Psy.D., P.C., Psychologist in Naperville, IL
Anna K Zabiegly, Psy.D., P.C.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60540
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a powerful method of psychotherapy that has been declared an effective form of trauma treatment by a wide range of organizations including the American Psychiatric Association, the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies, and the Departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs.
As a licensed clinical psychologist I dedicate my practice to the treatment of adolescent, adult, and older adult populations. I help clients overcome traumatic experiences, anxiety, depression, & adjustment difficulties. I combine compassion and collaborative psychotherapy with EMDR to help clients reach optimal performance and transform their lives. In addition, I appreciate the personal difficulties athletes face and assist in breaking through mental barriers that prevent them from performing to their potential.
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a powerful method of psychotherapy that has been declared an effective form of trauma treatment by a wide range of organizations including the American Psychiatric Association, the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies, and the Departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs.
As a licensed clinical psychologist I dedicate my practice to the treatment of adolescent, adult, and older adult populations. I help clients overcome traumatic experiences, anxiety, depression, & adjustment difficulties. I combine compassion and collaborative psychotherapy with EMDR to help clients reach optimal performance and transform their lives. In addition, I appreciate the personal difficulties athletes face and assist in breaking through mental barriers that prevent them from performing to their potential.
(630) 812-0922 View (630) 812-0922

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Sylwia Pawlik, Licensed Professional Counselor in Naperville, IL
Sylwia Pawlik
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Not Verified Not Verified
Darien, IL 60561
Sylwia is ready to walk alongside you as you prepare to address difficult challenges in your life. She graduated with her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from National Louis University and is a Licensed Professional Counselor. Sylwia knows that finding the right fit in a therapist is most important for working on vulnerable issues. Sylwia’s experience providing in-home mental health and emotional support as well as medical coaching to individuals prepares her to help you address issues including depression, anxiety, relationship conflict (individually, as a couple, or as a family), substance abuse issues, trauma, etc
Sylwia is ready to walk alongside you as you prepare to address difficult challenges in your life. She graduated with her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from National Louis University and is a Licensed Professional Counselor. Sylwia knows that finding the right fit in a therapist is most important for working on vulnerable issues. Sylwia’s experience providing in-home mental health and emotional support as well as medical coaching to individuals prepares her to help you address issues including depression, anxiety, relationship conflict (individually, as a couple, or as a family), substance abuse issues, trauma, etc
(630) 835-0229 View (630) 835-0229
Photo of Couch Clarity, P.C., Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Naperville, IL
Couch Clarity, P.C.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Glen Ellyn, IL 60137
Our team at Couch Clarity can help you explore your thoughts, feelings, and emotions that will encourage self-awareness and can lead you to a more productive and satisfying way of life. We also walk and talk with our clients! Our goal is to destigmatize therapeutic treatment by promoting taking pride in making a positive change. We have 16 therapists on our team to meet your needs at our 2 locations: Elmhurst and Glen Ellyn. We have therapists that speak Polish and Spanish. Please go to our website to fill out our Google Form if you want to schedule an appointment!
Our team at Couch Clarity can help you explore your thoughts, feelings, and emotions that will encourage self-awareness and can lead you to a more productive and satisfying way of life. We also walk and talk with our clients! Our goal is to destigmatize therapeutic treatment by promoting taking pride in making a positive change. We have 16 therapists on our team to meet your needs at our 2 locations: Elmhurst and Glen Ellyn. We have therapists that speak Polish and Spanish. Please go to our website to fill out our Google Form if you want to schedule an appointment!
(630) 882-5236 x1 View (630) 882-5236 x1
Photo of Monika Breidenbach, Counselor in Naperville, IL
Monika Breidenbach
Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC, CIMHP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westmont, IL 60559
I specialize in helping people who are struggling with anxiety, depression, anger or trauma to get to the root of their challenges so they can feel better for good.
Are you struggling with anxiety, anger, panic attacks, depression, relationship challenges, life transitions, or self-esteem issues? Do you feel stuck or overwhelmed by your thoughts and emotions and are seeking support to navigate through these difficulties. Are you looking to find relief from distressing symptoms, improving relationships, increasing self-confidence, and gaining clarity about values and priorities in life? Do you want to gain a deeper understanding of yourself, develop healthier ways of coping, and create positive changes that will enhance their overall well-being? Take a step forward and let me help you.
I specialize in helping people who are struggling with anxiety, depression, anger or trauma to get to the root of their challenges so they can feel better for good.
Are you struggling with anxiety, anger, panic attacks, depression, relationship challenges, life transitions, or self-esteem issues? Do you feel stuck or overwhelmed by your thoughts and emotions and are seeking support to navigate through these difficulties. Are you looking to find relief from distressing symptoms, improving relationships, increasing self-confidence, and gaining clarity about values and priorities in life? Do you want to gain a deeper understanding of yourself, develop healthier ways of coping, and create positive changes that will enhance their overall well-being? Take a step forward and let me help you.
(708) 419-3690 View (708) 419-3690
Photo of Randy Summerville, Psychologist in Naperville, IL
Randy Summerville
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Lombard, IL 60148
Were happy to help with complex differential diagnoses associated with development in early childhood, adolescent and adults. We assist with understanding the complexity to guide medication management and future treatment in regards to developmental factors, traumatic brain injuries, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, autism spectrum disorder and Asperger's disorder. An appropriate evaluation can help decrease stress in one's life, and will help an individual meet future goals by understanding personal strength and weaknesses.
Were happy to help with complex differential diagnoses associated with development in early childhood, adolescent and adults. We assist with understanding the complexity to guide medication management and future treatment in regards to developmental factors, traumatic brain injuries, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, autism spectrum disorder and Asperger's disorder. An appropriate evaluation can help decrease stress in one's life, and will help an individual meet future goals by understanding personal strength and weaknesses.
(872) 259-7633 View (872) 259-7633
Photo of Kasia Tomanek, Licensed Professional Counselor in Naperville, IL
Kasia Tomanek
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
Wheaton, IL 60187
I work with clients 6 and older and have experience working with depression, anxiety, complex trauma, BPD, and attachment/relationship issues.
Are you struggling to prioritize your own needs and caring for yourself? Are you feeling the weight of depression, anxiety, and relationship problems? I strongly believe that, as individuals, we need to prioritize our own well-being to live a full and rewarding lives. Helping clients discover and access self-care and self-compassion as they begin their journey in therapy is a passion of mine. Beginnings are never easy, but I am here to walk alongside you in this journey and will be here to support and guide you through this rewarding and life changing process.
I work with clients 6 and older and have experience working with depression, anxiety, complex trauma, BPD, and attachment/relationship issues.
Are you struggling to prioritize your own needs and caring for yourself? Are you feeling the weight of depression, anxiety, and relationship problems? I strongly believe that, as individuals, we need to prioritize our own well-being to live a full and rewarding lives. Helping clients discover and access self-care and self-compassion as they begin their journey in therapy is a passion of mine. Beginnings are never easy, but I am here to walk alongside you in this journey and will be here to support and guide you through this rewarding and life changing process.
(630) 538-7405 View (630) 538-7405
Photo of Izabela Lomnicki, Counselor in Naperville, IL
Izabela Lomnicki
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plainfield, IL 60585
I also have experience working with PTSD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, substance abuse, and self-injury.
I am passionate about helping people progress and move forward through their difficulties. During difficult times we need guidance and support to help us cope, transition, and work through struggles that at times keep us stuck. With compassion, I offer support, and help my clients develop SKILLS and understanding into dealing with issues and learning to take on NEW approaches to life, especially during difficult times. My specialities include eating disorders, relationship issues, life transitions, and anxieties. The best investment you can make is taking time for yourself and working on empowering YOU.
I also have experience working with PTSD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, substance abuse, and self-injury.
I am passionate about helping people progress and move forward through their difficulties. During difficult times we need guidance and support to help us cope, transition, and work through struggles that at times keep us stuck. With compassion, I offer support, and help my clients develop SKILLS and understanding into dealing with issues and learning to take on NEW approaches to life, especially during difficult times. My specialities include eating disorders, relationship issues, life transitions, and anxieties. The best investment you can make is taking time for yourself and working on empowering YOU.
(331) 204-0263 View (331) 204-0263
Photo of Sylwia (Sylvia) Termena, Counselor in Naperville, IL
Sylwia (Sylvia) Termena
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Glen Ellyn, IL 60137
Immediate appointments available— Sometimes you go through an experience and it completely changes your life, and sometimes all the little stresses add up to one big obstacle. We deserve lives that are free of constant emotional turmoil, and therapy can be a way to process unwanted memories, emotions, and thoughts. I won't promise you that the entire process of therapy will be easy, and I won't tell you that I can fix you; you are not a problem to be solved. What I can do is move alongside you as you shift toward the life you want.
Immediate appointments available— Sometimes you go through an experience and it completely changes your life, and sometimes all the little stresses add up to one big obstacle. We deserve lives that are free of constant emotional turmoil, and therapy can be a way to process unwanted memories, emotions, and thoughts. I won't promise you that the entire process of therapy will be easy, and I won't tell you that I can fix you; you are not a problem to be solved. What I can do is move alongside you as you shift toward the life you want.
(847) 443-5894 View (847) 443-5894

Online Therapists

Photo of Metanoia Methods, Counselor in Naperville, IL
Metanoia Methods
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60634  (Online Only)
Navigating life’s pressures often means juggling responsibilities, deadlines, and personal aspirations. Our therapy is tailored to understand and work with your unique pressures, providing a place for clarity and focused action. Whether it’s the weight of exams or the pace of the corporate ladder, we’re here to help you find your footing. Our virtual sessions are designed to fit within your busy schedule and give you access to the support you need to maintain balance and foster resilience.
Navigating life’s pressures often means juggling responsibilities, deadlines, and personal aspirations. Our therapy is tailored to understand and work with your unique pressures, providing a place for clarity and focused action. Whether it’s the weight of exams or the pace of the corporate ladder, we’re here to help you find your footing. Our virtual sessions are designed to fit within your busy schedule and give you access to the support you need to maintain balance and foster resilience.
(224) 257-3983 View (224) 257-3983
Photo of Marta Tamara Kromka-Brigagliano, Marriage & Family Therapist in Naperville, IL
Marta Tamara Kromka-Brigagliano
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CADC, CCM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buffalo Grove, IL 60089
Marta Kromka-Brigagliano is a licensed marriage and family therapist, certified alcohol and drug abuse counselor, and certified case manager. While working with clients she utilizes a systemic approach that focuses on individual’s relationship with others, family of origin issues, personal history and relationship with self.
Marta Kromka-Brigagliano is a licensed marriage and family therapist, certified alcohol and drug abuse counselor, and certified case manager. While working with clients she utilizes a systemic approach that focuses on individual’s relationship with others, family of origin issues, personal history and relationship with self.
(847) 474-9468 View (847) 474-9468
Photo of Agnieszka (Aga) Dabrowska, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Naperville, IL
Agnieszka (Aga) Dabrowska
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Not Verified Not Verified
Saint Charles, IL 60174
Czy Twoje dziecko ma problemy z zachowaniem w domu i szkole, łatwo i często się denerwuje, miewa lęki, napady złości, problemy ze spaniem lub zauważyłeś(aś) trudności z koncentracją? Czy jako rodzic czujesz się zestresowany i bezradny pomimo wielu prób pomocy dziecku? Jestem terapeutką specjalizującą się w psychologii rozwoju dziecka i oferuję wsparcie w trudnościach wychowawczych i zachowawczych dzieci.Pomogę Twojej rodzinie znalezć rozwiązanie na powyższe problemy i przywrócić balans w domu. Wierzę, że proces zmian zachowawczych i wychowawczych zaczyna się przez zbudowanie i odbudowanie zdrowych relacji, granic, zaufania i zabawy.
Czy Twoje dziecko ma problemy z zachowaniem w domu i szkole, łatwo i często się denerwuje, miewa lęki, napady złości, problemy ze spaniem lub zauważyłeś(aś) trudności z koncentracją? Czy jako rodzic czujesz się zestresowany i bezradny pomimo wielu prób pomocy dziecku? Jestem terapeutką specjalizującą się w psychologii rozwoju dziecka i oferuję wsparcie w trudnościach wychowawczych i zachowawczych dzieci.Pomogę Twojej rodzinie znalezć rozwiązanie na powyższe problemy i przywrócić balans w domu. Wierzę, że proces zmian zachowawczych i wychowawczych zaczyna się przez zbudowanie i odbudowanie zdrowych relacji, granic, zaufania i zabawy.
(331) 979-3091 View (331) 979-3091
Photo of Lana Lake, Counselor in Naperville, IL
Lana Lake
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015
Life is complicated. Why complicate it more? My goal is to help you find easy solutions to everyday challenges that affect your personal life and relationships. For a very affordable fee you can achieve peace of mind for yourself and find satisfaction in relationships with people you love. It is often difficult to find time to get help while managing a busy lifestyle, which is why I offer a specialized, no commitment, pay-as-you-go system. I offer a first-time consultation for $110 and all future visits are only $55 per hour.
Life is complicated. Why complicate it more? My goal is to help you find easy solutions to everyday challenges that affect your personal life and relationships. For a very affordable fee you can achieve peace of mind for yourself and find satisfaction in relationships with people you love. It is often difficult to find time to get help while managing a busy lifestyle, which is why I offer a specialized, no commitment, pay-as-you-go system. I offer a first-time consultation for $110 and all future visits are only $55 per hour.
(847) 849-1946 View (847) 849-1946
Photo of Karolina Kozakiewicz, Counselor in Naperville, IL
Karolina Kozakiewicz
Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Schaumburg, IL 60173
My counseling philosophy is based on the idea that connection is the most important factor in healing. Getting to know a patient in therapy is an adventure. It’s a journey that often starts at the time of the initial phone conversation. The road takes us through peaks and valleys neither side predicted. I use my personality, mind, and spirit to understand the needs of my clients. These instruments encourage building a relationship in which we can collaborate to reach goals.
My counseling philosophy is based on the idea that connection is the most important factor in healing. Getting to know a patient in therapy is an adventure. It’s a journey that often starts at the time of the initial phone conversation. The road takes us through peaks and valleys neither side predicted. I use my personality, mind, and spirit to understand the needs of my clients. These instruments encourage building a relationship in which we can collaborate to reach goals.
(847) 393-8122 View (847) 393-8122
Photo of Dr. Monica Zabinski, Counselor in Naperville, IL
Dr. Monica Zabinski
Counselor, PsyD, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60622
A metaphor I feel that encapsulates therapy: When cleaning out the garage, you often begin by pulling everything down to see what you have. You initially make a bigger mess. Yet this is an important step that allows you to see everything, sort through items individually, and decide whether it is something you still need in your life. As you progress through the clean out, you may find you have more space to rearrange the remaining pieces and make room for new experiences. The goal is to have the garage more comfortable, accessible, and organized so you not only know what you have but you can also find what you need when you need it.
A metaphor I feel that encapsulates therapy: When cleaning out the garage, you often begin by pulling everything down to see what you have. You initially make a bigger mess. Yet this is an important step that allows you to see everything, sort through items individually, and decide whether it is something you still need in your life. As you progress through the clean out, you may find you have more space to rearrange the remaining pieces and make room for new experiences. The goal is to have the garage more comfortable, accessible, and organized so you not only know what you have but you can also find what you need when you need it.
(773) 692-0150 View (773) 692-0150
Photo of Melissa Marie Waterfield-Copeland, Counselor in Naperville, IL
Melissa Marie Waterfield-Copeland
Counselor, MA, MBA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Park Ridge, IL 60068
Life is messy. Relationships are messy. Parenting . . . really messy. Whatever it is that's going on, perhaps your situation is leaving you anxious, depressed, discouraged, and maybe even a little hopeless at times. I Imagine you're here because you don't want to feel this way anymore. You're ready for something - anything, really - to change. Maybe someone encouraged you to reach out because they're worried about you. Maybe you're worried too. The good news is it doesn't have to be this way. It's your life to live. Let's work together to find out who YOU are and what matters most to you.
Life is messy. Relationships are messy. Parenting . . . really messy. Whatever it is that's going on, perhaps your situation is leaving you anxious, depressed, discouraged, and maybe even a little hopeless at times. I Imagine you're here because you don't want to feel this way anymore. You're ready for something - anything, really - to change. Maybe someone encouraged you to reach out because they're worried about you. Maybe you're worried too. The good news is it doesn't have to be this way. It's your life to live. Let's work together to find out who YOU are and what matters most to you.
(847) 416-1119 View (847) 416-1119
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.