Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Richmond, VA

Photo of Patricia I Harris, Licensed Professional Counselor in Richmond, VA
Patricia I Harris
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23294
I use a strengths-based approach to therapy. Treatment builds on your positive traits and the things that are working in your life. In couples work, the perspective of each participant is heard and then I help you to find common ground or understanding. I take a solution-focused approach to help you resolve conflict. I work with adults, couples and families. I see women who have had trauma in their past, such as abuse and neglect. I also work with individuals who are in transition and need some clarity.
I use a strengths-based approach to therapy. Treatment builds on your positive traits and the things that are working in your life. In couples work, the perspective of each participant is heard and then I help you to find common ground or understanding. I take a solution-focused approach to help you resolve conflict. I work with adults, couples and families. I see women who have had trauma in their past, such as abuse and neglect. I also work with individuals who are in transition and need some clarity.
(804) 214-3557 View (804) 214-3557
Photo of Diana Leigh Embler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Richmond, VA
Diana Leigh Embler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23228  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I have specialized training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Structural Family Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Circle of Security Interventions and trauma focused approaches.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, stress and having issues with relationships, work/school or family? Together we can develop your strengths and skills to better manage the challenges of life. Most of my practice has focused on working with Women's Issues, LGBTQ, teens, families and couples. I work from a variety of approaches that focus on the skills to manage symptoms and regain a sense of hope and delight. We will focus on interventions that build on strengths, capacity for connection, mindfulness, clarity and change.
I have specialized training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Structural Family Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Circle of Security Interventions and trauma focused approaches.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, stress and having issues with relationships, work/school or family? Together we can develop your strengths and skills to better manage the challenges of life. Most of my practice has focused on working with Women's Issues, LGBTQ, teens, families and couples. I work from a variety of approaches that focus on the skills to manage symptoms and regain a sense of hope and delight. We will focus on interventions that build on strengths, capacity for connection, mindfulness, clarity and change.
(207) 600-1469 View (207) 600-1469
Photo of Nana Aba Otabil, Licensed Professional Counselor in Richmond, VA
Nana Aba Otabil
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23220  (Online Only)
I work with both adolescents and adults struggling with self-esteem, eating disorders, learning difficulties, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
Navigating through life can prove to be a tough task to tackle alone and sometimes reaching out for support is often the first and hardest step forward. I strive to meet clients where they are and provide them with a warm nonjudgmental space where they feel safe and supported to explore and process through what is going on within throughout their therapeutic journey. Being born in Ghana, West Africa and moving to the United States has also cultivated a passion with reaching and working with the immigrant community as well to provide the safe space and support needed to navigate the challenges and hurdles encountered on this journey.
I work with both adolescents and adults struggling with self-esteem, eating disorders, learning difficulties, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
Navigating through life can prove to be a tough task to tackle alone and sometimes reaching out for support is often the first and hardest step forward. I strive to meet clients where they are and provide them with a warm nonjudgmental space where they feel safe and supported to explore and process through what is going on within throughout their therapeutic journey. Being born in Ghana, West Africa and moving to the United States has also cultivated a passion with reaching and working with the immigrant community as well to provide the safe space and support needed to navigate the challenges and hurdles encountered on this journey.
(804) 494-4442 View (804) 494-4442
Photo of Tiffany Parkes-Moscova, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Richmond, VA
Tiffany Parkes-Moscova
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23222
Are you ready to heal from your past trauma’s & do the work to have long, lasting, & loving relationships? Well you’ve found the person to help you on your journey. Hello my name is ​ Tiffany Parkes-Moscova and I have over 17 years of experience in the field of mental health, and substance abuse with adults, couples, adolescents, and families. I give my clients tools to help them with good positive coping mechanisms. We do the work together. The work that it takes to get you to where you need to be to feel empowered, uplifted & understand self awareness.
Are you ready to heal from your past trauma’s & do the work to have long, lasting, & loving relationships? Well you’ve found the person to help you on your journey. Hello my name is ​ Tiffany Parkes-Moscova and I have over 17 years of experience in the field of mental health, and substance abuse with adults, couples, adolescents, and families. I give my clients tools to help them with good positive coping mechanisms. We do the work together. The work that it takes to get you to where you need to be to feel empowered, uplifted & understand self awareness.
(571) 554-1953 View (571) 554-1953
Photo of Silver Lake Psychology, Psychologist in Richmond, VA
Silver Lake Psychology
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23223
Relationship and sexual concerns, couples therapy, anxiety, addiction, trauma, eating disorders, stress management, insomnia, women's issues, creativity, LGBTQ- welcome.
Learn how to feel more connected to yourself, others, and the world around you. Therapy provides all the elements of intimacy: honest communication, vulnerability, and trust. Good therapy is challenging yet warm, providing both structure and empathy for your unique experience.
Relationship and sexual concerns, couples therapy, anxiety, addiction, trauma, eating disorders, stress management, insomnia, women's issues, creativity, LGBTQ- welcome.
Learn how to feel more connected to yourself, others, and the world around you. Therapy provides all the elements of intimacy: honest communication, vulnerability, and trust. Good therapy is challenging yet warm, providing both structure and empathy for your unique experience.
(757) 378-0484 View (757) 378-0484
Photo of Andrea Lankford, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Richmond, VA
Andrea Lankford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23284  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have extensive experience working with individuals with perinatal/postpartum issues, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, ADHD, relationship/family issues, self-esteem/self-image issues, and trauma.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been working in the mental health field for over a decade. I have worked in a variety of settings and I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. Having lived in a number of different countries growing up, I am passionate about providing culturally competent, client-centered, and holistic care to those with a variety of mental health needs and backgrounds.
I have extensive experience working with individuals with perinatal/postpartum issues, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, ADHD, relationship/family issues, self-esteem/self-image issues, and trauma.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been working in the mental health field for over a decade. I have worked in a variety of settings and I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. Having lived in a number of different countries growing up, I am passionate about providing culturally competent, client-centered, and holistic care to those with a variety of mental health needs and backgrounds.
(571) 470-6864 View (571) 470-6864
Photo of Erin Choice, Pre-Licensed Professional in Richmond, VA
Erin Choice
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LMHP-R
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23237
Racing Thoughts? Fear of social settings? Do you experience feelings of guilt without cause? A constant sense of doom? Have you lost interest in pleasurable activities? Struggling with accepting positive feedback or putting yourself first? Are you ready to tranform from victim of a trauma, domestic violence, or abuse to survivor? If you answered yes, it is okay to ask for assistance. It takes courage and by doing so, you are on a path to living a more purposeful life. This journey begins with you, Congratulations, you have taken the first step!
Racing Thoughts? Fear of social settings? Do you experience feelings of guilt without cause? A constant sense of doom? Have you lost interest in pleasurable activities? Struggling with accepting positive feedback or putting yourself first? Are you ready to tranform from victim of a trauma, domestic violence, or abuse to survivor? If you answered yes, it is okay to ask for assistance. It takes courage and by doing so, you are on a path to living a more purposeful life. This journey begins with you, Congratulations, you have taken the first step!
(804) 294-4619 View (804) 294-4619
Photo of Judith G. Caplan, LCSW, CSAC, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Richmond, VA
Judith G. Caplan, LCSW, CSAC, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CSAC
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23226
Not accepting new clients
Practice specialization includes over 25 years of Buddhist Mindfulness study, mood disorders, addicted families /co-dependency, trauma work, couples / couples in ADHD relationships, family of origin dynamics, all based in a mutually respectful working relationship.
The heart of therapy is to experience the possibility of change. Depression, anxiety, our life's disappointments and woundings show up in negative feelings, thoughts and behaviors that interfere with our deepest hopes for living well. Together, in a warm and supportive environment, I hold a safe place for discovery and personal growth through an integrative approach. Here, with new tools, you can search within and explore your basic needs. Within this therapeutic relationship you can begin to begin again. My commitment is to provide a private and caring space for self discovery and a growing sense of well-being.
Practice specialization includes over 25 years of Buddhist Mindfulness study, mood disorders, addicted families /co-dependency, trauma work, couples / couples in ADHD relationships, family of origin dynamics, all based in a mutually respectful working relationship.
The heart of therapy is to experience the possibility of change. Depression, anxiety, our life's disappointments and woundings show up in negative feelings, thoughts and behaviors that interfere with our deepest hopes for living well. Together, in a warm and supportive environment, I hold a safe place for discovery and personal growth through an integrative approach. Here, with new tools, you can search within and explore your basic needs. Within this therapeutic relationship you can begin to begin again. My commitment is to provide a private and caring space for self discovery and a growing sense of well-being.
(804) 293-2450 View (804) 293-2450
Photo of Paige Malnofsky, Licensed Professional Counselor in Richmond, VA
Paige Malnofsky
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23228
Services Provided: Couples counseling, Adolescent/child counseling, Individual adult counseling Current Concerns: ADHD, anxiety, depression, autism, behavioral disorders, developmental trauma, divorce/separation, grief/loss, life adjustments/transitions, self-esteem, body image, stress/anger management, trauma, learning disabilities, RAD.
Currently accepting new clients and EMDR Trained. Lets face it life is challenging and living is not an easy task. Everyday we wake up we never know what is going to occur or what challenges we may face. If you are finding yourself struggling on the day to day, having poor motivation, feeling lonely, or that you are just going through the motions in life rather than truly living, then please reach out to me. Take back the control you once had in your life and together we will work to find the root of these concerns you are struggling with as well as find techniques and skills that promote growth and overall wellness.
Services Provided: Couples counseling, Adolescent/child counseling, Individual adult counseling Current Concerns: ADHD, anxiety, depression, autism, behavioral disorders, developmental trauma, divorce/separation, grief/loss, life adjustments/transitions, self-esteem, body image, stress/anger management, trauma, learning disabilities, RAD.
Currently accepting new clients and EMDR Trained. Lets face it life is challenging and living is not an easy task. Everyday we wake up we never know what is going to occur or what challenges we may face. If you are finding yourself struggling on the day to day, having poor motivation, feeling lonely, or that you are just going through the motions in life rather than truly living, then please reach out to me. Take back the control you once had in your life and together we will work to find the root of these concerns you are struggling with as well as find techniques and skills that promote growth and overall wellness.
(412) 419-3421 View (412) 419-3421
Photo of Rebecca Frazier, Marriage & Family Therapist in Richmond, VA
Rebecca Frazier
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23235
In my 20 years of practice, one statement has guided the core of my therapeutic relationships: You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them (Maya Angelou). As a direct, supportive, practical therapist, I seek to help you shift from just surviving to actively thriving in your life. Use of sound, evidenced-based theory coupled with unconditional positive regard helps you to achieve balance in your life, becoming empowered to be the writer in your life story. You have value no matter what obstacles you may have faced.
In my 20 years of practice, one statement has guided the core of my therapeutic relationships: You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them (Maya Angelou). As a direct, supportive, practical therapist, I seek to help you shift from just surviving to actively thriving in your life. Use of sound, evidenced-based theory coupled with unconditional positive regard helps you to achieve balance in your life, becoming empowered to be the writer in your life story. You have value no matter what obstacles you may have faced.
(804) 531-5777 View (804) 531-5777
Photo of Melissa Gee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Richmond, VA
Melissa Gee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23173  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I have experience working with individuals with PTSD, depression, anxiety, and crisis management.
Are you tired of existing in life, not fully living? I will meet you with empathy and compassion and work to ensure you feel understood and cared about. My ability to understand situations from several different perspectives in a non-judgmental way helps clients quickly feel heard and validated. I encourage clients to consider our work together as a team approach. I encourage clients to be active and engaged by using various strategies and techniques during and in between sessions. We work to increase coping skills, and when needed, we will work on processing and understanding underlying, unresolved issues of the past.
I have experience working with individuals with PTSD, depression, anxiety, and crisis management.
Are you tired of existing in life, not fully living? I will meet you with empathy and compassion and work to ensure you feel understood and cared about. My ability to understand situations from several different perspectives in a non-judgmental way helps clients quickly feel heard and validated. I encourage clients to consider our work together as a team approach. I encourage clients to be active and engaged by using various strategies and techniques during and in between sessions. We work to increase coping skills, and when needed, we will work on processing and understanding underlying, unresolved issues of the past.
(540) 242-8344 View (540) 242-8344
Photo of Jeany Lally, Licensed Professional Counselor in Richmond, VA
Jeany Lally
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23173  (Online Only)
Welcome! My name is Jeany Lally and I am an LPC in VA and NJ. I would be honored to partner with you in counseling. I have much experience walking with women through life stressors, family dynamics, anxiety, relationship distress, career and college challenges. In addition helping women heal from traumatic experiences, depression, substance abuse, domestic violence, sex trafficking, as well as other adverse experiences and symptoms. I believe in a holistic approach for us all to heal. We are biological, psychological, social, and spiritual people. In counseling we can address these areas and what may be needed in each area.
Welcome! My name is Jeany Lally and I am an LPC in VA and NJ. I would be honored to partner with you in counseling. I have much experience walking with women through life stressors, family dynamics, anxiety, relationship distress, career and college challenges. In addition helping women heal from traumatic experiences, depression, substance abuse, domestic violence, sex trafficking, as well as other adverse experiences and symptoms. I believe in a holistic approach for us all to heal. We are biological, psychological, social, and spiritual people. In counseling we can address these areas and what may be needed in each area.
(434) 608-9510 View (434) 608-9510
Photo of Joleen Kim, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Richmond, VA
Joleen Kim
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23225  (Online Only)
Hi, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I live in Virginia Beach, Va and am licensed in Virginia, Utah, and Nevada. I received my MSW at The Catholic University of America and have been practicing therapy for 6 years. I feel that therapy is a gift you give yourself. I work solely online as a telehealth therapist. I enjoy meeting you where you are at and helping you get through the rough spots, whether it's finding your voice, identifying the obstacle and need for change, or just understanding from a different perspective. I work mainly with clients who have experience with anxiety, depression, and trauma in their life.
Hi, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I live in Virginia Beach, Va and am licensed in Virginia, Utah, and Nevada. I received my MSW at The Catholic University of America and have been practicing therapy for 6 years. I feel that therapy is a gift you give yourself. I work solely online as a telehealth therapist. I enjoy meeting you where you are at and helping you get through the rough spots, whether it's finding your voice, identifying the obstacle and need for change, or just understanding from a different perspective. I work mainly with clients who have experience with anxiety, depression, and trauma in their life.
(804) 534-2607 View (804) 534-2607
Photo of Jamise Brown, Licensed Professional Counselor in Richmond, VA
Jamise Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAC, CSOTP, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23234  (Online Only)
The ideal client is someone who resonates deeply with their values and what is being offered. They come to seek solutions to specific challenges or needs they may have identified in their life. They are proactive about their personal growth and development and are willing to invest time and resources to achieve their goals. They want to do the work because they believe in understanding their needs and are open to a therapist that can provide guidance, support, and resources that will help them achieve their desired outcomes.
The ideal client is someone who resonates deeply with their values and what is being offered. They come to seek solutions to specific challenges or needs they may have identified in their life. They are proactive about their personal growth and development and are willing to invest time and resources to achieve their goals. They want to do the work because they believe in understanding their needs and are open to a therapist that can provide guidance, support, and resources that will help them achieve their desired outcomes.
(804) 552-6046 View (804) 552-6046
Photo of Corinne Thompson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Richmond, VA
Corinne Thompson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23228
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a passion for working with adolescents, experiences of trauma and addressing family concerns. I view therapy as a collaborative and exploratory process to find a deeper meaning of self, develop awareness, and enhance strengths. I obtained my BSW at James Madison University in 2008 and my MSW at Virginia Commonwealth University in 2009. I have been licensed since 2015. I have a background in Community Based Mental Health services for both children and adults since 2009.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a passion for working with adolescents, experiences of trauma and addressing family concerns. I view therapy as a collaborative and exploratory process to find a deeper meaning of self, develop awareness, and enhance strengths. I obtained my BSW at James Madison University in 2008 and my MSW at Virginia Commonwealth University in 2009. I have been licensed since 2015. I have a background in Community Based Mental Health services for both children and adults since 2009.
(804) 632-4483 View (804) 632-4483
Photo of Innovations in Counseling LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Richmond, VA
Innovations in Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23226
Are you living your best life? Do you even know what that might look like? How do you really feel behind the profile pics and hashtags? Are you in need of connection, support, motivation or tools to help you figure it all out? You are not alone and change is possible. Innovations in Counseling works hard with you, drawing out your strengths and making sure that you walk away equipped to conquer your life, your demons and your goals. Individual and couples therapy is available for GA, IN and VA residence. Pre-marital and marital counseling, life coaching and Consulting is available everywhere.
Are you living your best life? Do you even know what that might look like? How do you really feel behind the profile pics and hashtags? Are you in need of connection, support, motivation or tools to help you figure it all out? You are not alone and change is possible. Innovations in Counseling works hard with you, drawing out your strengths and making sure that you walk away equipped to conquer your life, your demons and your goals. Individual and couples therapy is available for GA, IN and VA residence. Pre-marital and marital counseling, life coaching and Consulting is available everywhere.
(770) 285-1543 View (770) 285-1543
Photo of Anne-Paige T. Motley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Richmond, VA
Anne-Paige T. Motley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23225  (Online Only)
Licensed in Virginia and Florida, I have 20 plus years of experience in counseling/psychotherapy; particularly well versed in Grief, Loss, Anxiety and Trauma.
If you are ready to make some significant life changes for the better, I am your therapist! A no-nonsense type of therapist, I am solution driven and aim to help you reach your goals most efficiently and expeditiously. I use an eclectic mix of interventions, (some of which involve utilizing your natural skills and talents) to help you. You will have thoughtful, purpose-driven homework exercises between sessions. I encourage my clients to communicate with me via email between sessions, which also helps deepen the experience.I accept most insurance, cash pay and offer a sliding scale based on need. I look forward to meeting you.
Licensed in Virginia and Florida, I have 20 plus years of experience in counseling/psychotherapy; particularly well versed in Grief, Loss, Anxiety and Trauma.
If you are ready to make some significant life changes for the better, I am your therapist! A no-nonsense type of therapist, I am solution driven and aim to help you reach your goals most efficiently and expeditiously. I use an eclectic mix of interventions, (some of which involve utilizing your natural skills and talents) to help you. You will have thoughtful, purpose-driven homework exercises between sessions. I encourage my clients to communicate with me via email between sessions, which also helps deepen the experience.I accept most insurance, cash pay and offer a sliding scale based on need. I look forward to meeting you.
(954) 379-8119 View (954) 379-8119
Photo of Gabrielle Crowe, LPC Intern in Richmond, VA
Gabrielle Crowe
LPC Intern
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23230
I am a pre-licensed counseling professional with clinical experience predominantly in trauma, especially gender, intergenerational, and racialized trauma.
I welcome you just as you are, wherever you find yourself in life's journey, and I am honored to stand beside you as we work together to navigate life’s challenges. I strive to cultivate a therapeutic environment grounded in safety, trust, and unconditional positive regard for clients of all identities. Here, your voice, your values, your joy, and your rest are important.
I am a pre-licensed counseling professional with clinical experience predominantly in trauma, especially gender, intergenerational, and racialized trauma.
I welcome you just as you are, wherever you find yourself in life's journey, and I am honored to stand beside you as we work together to navigate life’s challenges. I strive to cultivate a therapeutic environment grounded in safety, trust, and unconditional positive regard for clients of all identities. Here, your voice, your values, your joy, and your rest are important.
(757) 720-7754 View (757) 720-7754
Photo of Dr. Jennifer E. Melerski, Psychologist in Richmond, VA
Dr. Jennifer E. Melerski
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23236  (Online Only)
I provide psychotherapy to adults dealing with depression, trauma, grief/loss, and relationship issues.
For three decades, I have had the pleasure and privilege of working with people of all backgrounds. I employ a variety of techniques and approaches to help each person move towards a place of increased happiness and security within themselves. I believe that a genuine therapeutic relationship has the power to help people create the relationships they seek in their lives. Psychotherapy is truly a collaborative process. I can assist you in developing and pursuing realistic goals, developing better insight and learning new skills as you create the life you want to live.
I provide psychotherapy to adults dealing with depression, trauma, grief/loss, and relationship issues.
For three decades, I have had the pleasure and privilege of working with people of all backgrounds. I employ a variety of techniques and approaches to help each person move towards a place of increased happiness and security within themselves. I believe that a genuine therapeutic relationship has the power to help people create the relationships they seek in their lives. Psychotherapy is truly a collaborative process. I can assist you in developing and pursuing realistic goals, developing better insight and learning new skills as you create the life you want to live.
(336) 568-8118 View (336) 568-8118
Photo of Arlene Pitchford, Licensed Professional Counselor in Richmond, VA
Arlene Pitchford
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23225  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with adults from late teens to older men and women experiencing substance use disorders, depression, trauma, grief, and improvement of mindfulness.
I am a licensed professional counselor with 20+ years of experience providing inpatient and outpatient counseling and crisis intervention for experiencing substance abuse and mental health issues. I have a passion for helping people become the best version of themselves. I also have a sense of humor and find it helpful in the therapeutic process. I am known for building a good rapport with clients and I look forward to gaining your trust as you work through your issues.
I specialize in working with adults from late teens to older men and women experiencing substance use disorders, depression, trauma, grief, and improvement of mindfulness.
I am a licensed professional counselor with 20+ years of experience providing inpatient and outpatient counseling and crisis intervention for experiencing substance abuse and mental health issues. I have a passion for helping people become the best version of themselves. I also have a sense of humor and find it helpful in the therapeutic process. I am known for building a good rapport with clients and I look forward to gaining your trust as you work through your issues.
(804) 315-0854 View (804) 315-0854
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.