Trauma and PTSD Therapists in San Francisco, CA

Photo of Brittnay Nichele Stevens, Associate Professional Clinical Counselor in San Francisco, CA
Brittnay Nichele Stevens
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94101
I offer Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Client/Family-Centered Approach, Conflict Resolution, Strength-Focused, and Solution-Focused.
You are here! The first step is often the hardest step. In Black and Brown communities seeking mental health treatment is taboo. Stigmas attached to therapy are REAL! Let's work on building a better understanding of what it truly means to be healthy. Feeling lost, stuck or confused? Having trouble communicating your needs? Finding it hard to set healthy boundaries? Need help setting goals? Suffering from anxiety and depression? In constant state of turmoil? These are all normal feelings. Internal struggles rooted in our childhoods show up as chaos in adulthood. It is okay to work on YOU! I can help.
I offer Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Client/Family-Centered Approach, Conflict Resolution, Strength-Focused, and Solution-Focused.
You are here! The first step is often the hardest step. In Black and Brown communities seeking mental health treatment is taboo. Stigmas attached to therapy are REAL! Let's work on building a better understanding of what it truly means to be healthy. Feeling lost, stuck or confused? Having trouble communicating your needs? Finding it hard to set healthy boundaries? Need help setting goals? Suffering from anxiety and depression? In constant state of turmoil? These are all normal feelings. Internal struggles rooted in our childhoods show up as chaos in adulthood. It is okay to work on YOU! I can help.
(510) 900-7584 View (510) 900-7584
Photo of Brie Pierquet, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Brie Pierquet
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR-T
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94123
The average person will experience 3-5 traumatic events in their life. The average first responder will experience 188 in their career. We live in a society that has normalized “suck it up” as a coping strategy and that doesn’t work. Are you a first responder (law enforcement , fire, EMS, dispatch)? Is the job itself and/or organizational stress feeling heavier than it once did? Are you noticing changes in yourself that you don’t understand or need help with? Post-traumatic stress injuries are extremely common in first responders and they are treatable. Let’s talk.
The average person will experience 3-5 traumatic events in their life. The average first responder will experience 188 in their career. We live in a society that has normalized “suck it up” as a coping strategy and that doesn’t work. Are you a first responder (law enforcement , fire, EMS, dispatch)? Is the job itself and/or organizational stress feeling heavier than it once did? Are you noticing changes in yourself that you don’t understand or need help with? Post-traumatic stress injuries are extremely common in first responders and they are treatable. Let’s talk.
(415) 792-1818 View (415) 792-1818
Photo of Nahid Fattahi, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Nahid Fattahi
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94105  (Online Only)
As a clinician I work mainly from behavioral and psychodynamic perspectives, relying on training in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to support clients in healing painful experiences, managing stress, other mental health struggles, and relationship issues. Prior to becoming a therapist, I worked as a Marketing and Project Manager in Silicon Valley’s high-tech industry, having that experience has helped me to also have a successful track record in working with professionals facing job stress, addiction issues, and burnout — some of whom want to make big changes in their careers.
As a clinician I work mainly from behavioral and psychodynamic perspectives, relying on training in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to support clients in healing painful experiences, managing stress, other mental health struggles, and relationship issues. Prior to becoming a therapist, I worked as a Marketing and Project Manager in Silicon Valley’s high-tech industry, having that experience has helped me to also have a successful track record in working with professionals facing job stress, addiction issues, and burnout — some of whom want to make big changes in their careers.
(408) 413-5238 View (408) 413-5238
Photo of Sam Davis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Sam Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94105
The core of my work with trans and gender-nonconforming people addresses chronic trauma stemming from family of origin and a lifetime of social non-acceptance.
I am a trans Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in working with trans, queer, genderqueer, and gender-nonconforming teens and adults. I have a non-pathologizing approach and deeply value identities outside the "norm." I have fifteen years of experience as a mental health provider, including support groups with teens and adults, individual therapy, and crisis work. I am a Bay Area activist who has fought for transgender rights by organizing provider trainings and public demonstrations. I am a visual artist and storyteller who believes that underrepresented individuals expressing themselves creatively and authentically is powerful and important.
The core of my work with trans and gender-nonconforming people addresses chronic trauma stemming from family of origin and a lifetime of social non-acceptance.
I am a trans Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in working with trans, queer, genderqueer, and gender-nonconforming teens and adults. I have a non-pathologizing approach and deeply value identities outside the "norm." I have fifteen years of experience as a mental health provider, including support groups with teens and adults, individual therapy, and crisis work. I am a Bay Area activist who has fought for transgender rights by organizing provider trainings and public demonstrations. I am a visual artist and storyteller who believes that underrepresented individuals expressing themselves creatively and authentically is powerful and important.
(781) 417-5129 View (781) 417-5129
Photo of Leah R Finn, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Leah R Finn
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94109  (Online Only)
I've successfully treated many people who have experienced anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic illness/ pain and other issues.
As your therapist, I create an environment for you to feel safe to explore fears, challenges and your deepest desires. I'm here to empower you! I'll offer a variety of techniques and collaborate with you in developing goals to co-create a therapeutic experience, facilitating healing and personal growth. I use an anti-oppression, disability justice framework and consider how ethnicity, class, gender, age, ability and sexuality intersect. My background as a community organizer for social justice informs my practice. I will tailor our work together to address your unique and specific needs and preferences.
I've successfully treated many people who have experienced anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic illness/ pain and other issues.
As your therapist, I create an environment for you to feel safe to explore fears, challenges and your deepest desires. I'm here to empower you! I'll offer a variety of techniques and collaborate with you in developing goals to co-create a therapeutic experience, facilitating healing and personal growth. I use an anti-oppression, disability justice framework and consider how ethnicity, class, gender, age, ability and sexuality intersect. My background as a community organizer for social justice informs my practice. I will tailor our work together to address your unique and specific needs and preferences.
(510) 560-7164 View (510) 560-7164
Photo of Naomi D Silva, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Francisco, CA
Naomi D Silva
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94105
Specializing in healing trauma, childhood neglect, and post-traumatic stress, I also assist with overcoming anxiety and depression, navigating challenging relationships, and supporting clients through life's toughest transitions.
Are you wanting to change, heal a deep wound, or find help through an overwhelming life experience? If you're feeling lost or stuck, I'm here to help you find your way. Together, with empathy and intention, we can pave a path to achieve your goals. Do you crave more meaningful relationships? Struggle to accept love and prioritize your well-being? Are you your own toughest critic? Or do you need help setting boundaries and communicating your needs? If you're feeling trapped by your past or a difficult experience, I'm here to support you.
Specializing in healing trauma, childhood neglect, and post-traumatic stress, I also assist with overcoming anxiety and depression, navigating challenging relationships, and supporting clients through life's toughest transitions.
Are you wanting to change, heal a deep wound, or find help through an overwhelming life experience? If you're feeling lost or stuck, I'm here to help you find your way. Together, with empathy and intention, we can pave a path to achieve your goals. Do you crave more meaningful relationships? Struggle to accept love and prioritize your well-being? Are you your own toughest critic? Or do you need help setting boundaries and communicating your needs? If you're feeling trapped by your past or a difficult experience, I'm here to support you.
(972) 440-1289 View (972) 440-1289
Photo of Dr. Beatriz Bello, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Dr. Beatriz Bello
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94104  (Online Only)
My orientation draws largely from trauma-informed, Emotion Focused, Psychodynamic, and Mindfulness therapies to connect you to your body/emotions, recognize your needs/wants, and increase self-compassion.
I believe that people are resilient with many talents and special attributes that can many times get ignored, silenced, rejected or neglected. Experiences of rejection, neglect, or discrimination may lead us to deny our true selves or feel fearful to be our authentic selves. When we do not get to be our true selves, we may find that we are moving away from the things that bring us joy and peace. In my practice, I strive to foster a compassionate, non-judgmental space to support you in doing the courageous work of shedding unhelpful patterns, narratives and/or traumas that may be preventing you from living authentically.
My orientation draws largely from trauma-informed, Emotion Focused, Psychodynamic, and Mindfulness therapies to connect you to your body/emotions, recognize your needs/wants, and increase self-compassion.
I believe that people are resilient with many talents and special attributes that can many times get ignored, silenced, rejected or neglected. Experiences of rejection, neglect, or discrimination may lead us to deny our true selves or feel fearful to be our authentic selves. When we do not get to be our true selves, we may find that we are moving away from the things that bring us joy and peace. In my practice, I strive to foster a compassionate, non-judgmental space to support you in doing the courageous work of shedding unhelpful patterns, narratives and/or traumas that may be preventing you from living authentically.
(510) 214-4022 View (510) 214-4022
Photo of Perri Franskoviak, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Perri Franskoviak
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94103
Change happens when our insights align with a feeling or sensation in our body. It happens as we discover aspects of our experience and who we are in the presence of another person. I work collaboratively to help you define your goals and how you'll know that therapy is helping. Each one of us has a different idea of success; one size definitely does not fit all. My approach is warm, practical, and focused on the present. I blend a dynamic understanding of human development and how we adapt to and can potentially change our present circumstances. I also offer ketamine-assisted therapy to support your therapeutic goals.
Change happens when our insights align with a feeling or sensation in our body. It happens as we discover aspects of our experience and who we are in the presence of another person. I work collaboratively to help you define your goals and how you'll know that therapy is helping. Each one of us has a different idea of success; one size definitely does not fit all. My approach is warm, practical, and focused on the present. I blend a dynamic understanding of human development and how we adapt to and can potentially change our present circumstances. I also offer ketamine-assisted therapy to support your therapeutic goals.
(510) 401-3413 View (510) 401-3413
Photo of Sarah M. Scott, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Francisco, CA
Sarah M. Scott
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114
I have always been curious about what causes suffering, how we find meaning, and how we can heal and grow. I specialize in working with clients seeking assistance with negative self-talk, anxiety, relationship issues, post-traumatic stress, and navigating the complexities of breakups. Additionally, I work with couples on issues such as high conflict, communication, separation, and divorce. I offer a compassionate space to heal, reflect, grow, and rebuild.
I have always been curious about what causes suffering, how we find meaning, and how we can heal and grow. I specialize in working with clients seeking assistance with negative self-talk, anxiety, relationship issues, post-traumatic stress, and navigating the complexities of breakups. Additionally, I work with couples on issues such as high conflict, communication, separation, and divorce. I offer a compassionate space to heal, reflect, grow, and rebuild.
(510) 949-3817 View (510) 949-3817
Photo of Rebecca E. Grayzel, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Rebecca E. Grayzel
Psychologist
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94110  (Online Only)
I am a general practitioner with experience working with clients across the lifespan, treating a range of presenting concerns, including: complex trauma, interpersonal difficulties, anxiety, panic, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, body-focused repetitive behaviors, life transitions, minority stress, and family conflict.
I believe the key to change lies in cultivating a safe, strong therapeutic relationship. Through a developmental lens, I aim to understand each person’s history and how their unique story informs current challenges. I feel passionate about working with clients from diverse backgrounds and utilize a culturally-informed approach when understanding life experiences and associated thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. In conjunction with this psychodynamic, relationally-driven approach, I help clients identify a clear presenting concern, develop goals, and integrate the appropriate evidence-based practice tailored to their specific needs.
I am a general practitioner with experience working with clients across the lifespan, treating a range of presenting concerns, including: complex trauma, interpersonal difficulties, anxiety, panic, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, body-focused repetitive behaviors, life transitions, minority stress, and family conflict.
I believe the key to change lies in cultivating a safe, strong therapeutic relationship. Through a developmental lens, I aim to understand each person’s history and how their unique story informs current challenges. I feel passionate about working with clients from diverse backgrounds and utilize a culturally-informed approach when understanding life experiences and associated thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. In conjunction with this psychodynamic, relationally-driven approach, I help clients identify a clear presenting concern, develop goals, and integrate the appropriate evidence-based practice tailored to their specific needs.
(510) 422-2954 View (510) 422-2954
Photo of Christina Frenzel, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Francisco, CA
Christina Frenzel
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94158  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating individuals, couples, and families affected by chronic illness (diabetes, autoimmune disorders, medical trauma, chronic pain), neurodivergence (ADHD, autism, anxiety, executive dysfunction, emotional dysregulation), and relationship issues (communication, codependency, social anxiety, dating, narcissistic abuse). I utilize a variety of evidence-based modalities tailored to every client’s unique and individual needs. My style is warm, nurturing, collaborative , and non-judgmental. I hope to support you in growing a deeper sense of awareness, creativity, connection, confidence, and purpose in your life.
I specialize in treating individuals, couples, and families affected by chronic illness (diabetes, autoimmune disorders, medical trauma, chronic pain), neurodivergence (ADHD, autism, anxiety, executive dysfunction, emotional dysregulation), and relationship issues (communication, codependency, social anxiety, dating, narcissistic abuse). I utilize a variety of evidence-based modalities tailored to every client’s unique and individual needs. My style is warm, nurturing, collaborative , and non-judgmental. I hope to support you in growing a deeper sense of awareness, creativity, connection, confidence, and purpose in your life.
(650) 910-5548 View (650) 910-5548
Photo of Jameline Lofing, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Francisco, CA
Jameline Lofing
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC, APCC
Not Verified Not Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
My name is Jamie Lofing. I am trained in CBT,DBT, ACT, EMDR, and have worked with those who have undergone trauma. Additionally, I have worked with families in crisis.
My name is Jamie Lofing. I am trained in CBT,DBT, ACT, EMDR, and have worked with those who have undergone trauma. Additionally, I have worked with families in crisis.
(720) 796-7378 View (720) 796-7378
Photo of Eddy Hong, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Eddy Hong
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94122
Waitlist for new clients
I am passionate about fostering self-acceptance and normalizing discussions of mental health. I believe in the importance of context and collaboration in finding solutions that work for you. My clients find that I am humorous, soft-spoken, and compassionate while working with them in their growth. I am skilled in facilitating a safe, inclusive space where, together, we can explore and examine your concerns in a supportive way in addition to utilizing evidence-based interventions to address them.
I am passionate about fostering self-acceptance and normalizing discussions of mental health. I believe in the importance of context and collaboration in finding solutions that work for you. My clients find that I am humorous, soft-spoken, and compassionate while working with them in their growth. I am skilled in facilitating a safe, inclusive space where, together, we can explore and examine your concerns in a supportive way in addition to utilizing evidence-based interventions to address them.
(650) 484-5627 View (650) 484-5627
Photo of Sophie Morris, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Francisco, CA
Sophie Morris
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94134  (Online Only)
An ideal client is someone who shows up. Not even in the way of making every appointment (life happens) but takes the first step toward growth and self development. An ideal client is not a diagnosis or impairment in functioning but anyone who wants to live better and understand themselves more within our weird and scary world. I encourage my clients to advocate for what is working and name what is not by checking in so our time together is the most supportive possible.
An ideal client is someone who shows up. Not even in the way of making every appointment (life happens) but takes the first step toward growth and self development. An ideal client is not a diagnosis or impairment in functioning but anyone who wants to live better and understand themselves more within our weird and scary world. I encourage my clients to advocate for what is working and name what is not by checking in so our time together is the most supportive possible.
(510) 588-1772 View (510) 588-1772
Photo of Brittaney Latta, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Brittaney Latta
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
I'm a queer and trauma informed CBT based therapist with an online practice across CA.
My ideal client is "high-functioning." Ever heard of high-functioning anxiety, depression, and CPTSD? High-functioners tend to look like they have it all together from the outside, but there's an ongoing battle inside. Queer and neurospicy people, I'm talking to you too! Masking is the norm, and it is done by studying the world to act how they "should." Compartmentalizing and pushing feelings deep down to keep moving forward is how they've survived the tough stuff. Children who grew up worrying about upsetting their family or caring for their siblings often become self-abandoning adults.
I'm a queer and trauma informed CBT based therapist with an online practice across CA.
My ideal client is "high-functioning." Ever heard of high-functioning anxiety, depression, and CPTSD? High-functioners tend to look like they have it all together from the outside, but there's an ongoing battle inside. Queer and neurospicy people, I'm talking to you too! Masking is the norm, and it is done by studying the world to act how they "should." Compartmentalizing and pushing feelings deep down to keep moving forward is how they've survived the tough stuff. Children who grew up worrying about upsetting their family or caring for their siblings often become self-abandoning adults.
(619) 391-3507 View (619) 391-3507
Photo of Tamara Tucker, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Tamara Tucker
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109
My style is direct, transparent and positive. All work is supported by solid psychodynamic theory. I am comfortable with challenges. Most of my clients come in to address relationship issues, career and life-stage transitions, depression and anxiety. However, I have considerable experience in areas of disordered eating, addiction, and (Complex)PTSD. I believe that in order for successful transformational work to occur, the therapeutic relationship is central. Therefore, I offer an initial free 20 minute meeting to test for the ineffable 'fit.' I am a private practice out-of-network provider. WEBSITE: tamaratuckermft.com
My style is direct, transparent and positive. All work is supported by solid psychodynamic theory. I am comfortable with challenges. Most of my clients come in to address relationship issues, career and life-stage transitions, depression and anxiety. However, I have considerable experience in areas of disordered eating, addiction, and (Complex)PTSD. I believe that in order for successful transformational work to occur, the therapeutic relationship is central. Therefore, I offer an initial free 20 minute meeting to test for the ineffable 'fit.' I am a private practice out-of-network provider. WEBSITE: tamaratuckermft.com
(415) 799-8896 View (415) 799-8896
Photo of Navie Sandhu, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Navie Sandhu
Psychologist, PsyD, MPH, PMH-C
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109  (Online Only)
Life has a funny way of throwing us off balance, am I right? I’m Navie (Navneet) Sandhu, PsyD, MPH, a licensed Clinical Psychologist and I'm here to help you navigate those bumps in the road. With a wealth of experience gained during my tenure at Kaiser Permanente and my postdoctoral fellowship in the Health Psychology program at California Pacific Medical Center in San Francisco, I am well-equipped to assist you in your story.
Life has a funny way of throwing us off balance, am I right? I’m Navie (Navneet) Sandhu, PsyD, MPH, a licensed Clinical Psychologist and I'm here to help you navigate those bumps in the road. With a wealth of experience gained during my tenure at Kaiser Permanente and my postdoctoral fellowship in the Health Psychology program at California Pacific Medical Center in San Francisco, I am well-equipped to assist you in your story.
(628) 240-0367 View (628) 240-0367
Photo of Arrionne Taitague, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Arrionne Taitague
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Not Verified Not Verified
San Francisco, CA 94121
Hello, my name is Arrionne Aguilar Taitague ("Arri"), and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker seeing clients via Telehealth in California and Nevada. I am passionate about trauma-informed care and tailor treatment to meet your specific needs. Sessions are at a pace comfortable for you, while still challenging you to be your best version of yourself. I have over a decade of experience in mental health and hope to bring my diverse background and experience to support your mental health. I am focused on quality of life and what how you identify that for yourself. I have worked with teens and adults in all phases of life.
Hello, my name is Arrionne Aguilar Taitague ("Arri"), and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker seeing clients via Telehealth in California and Nevada. I am passionate about trauma-informed care and tailor treatment to meet your specific needs. Sessions are at a pace comfortable for you, while still challenging you to be your best version of yourself. I have over a decade of experience in mental health and hope to bring my diverse background and experience to support your mental health. I am focused on quality of life and what how you identify that for yourself. I have worked with teens and adults in all phases of life.
(323) 214-3773 View (323) 214-3773
Photo of Shawna Brevik, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Shawna Brevik
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109  (Online Only)
I am trained in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy which is a trauma therapy.
Do you have trouble identifying why patterns keep repeating themselves in your life? Maybe you are someone who is longing for a deeper connection to self and the world around you. Perhaps you are a couple reading this looking for support in navigating some of human relationships most challenging conflicts, or it could be you're just looking to strengthen the relationship. Wherever your inquiry lies I am confident our work together can facilitate meaningful change.
I am trained in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy which is a trauma therapy.
Do you have trouble identifying why patterns keep repeating themselves in your life? Maybe you are someone who is longing for a deeper connection to self and the world around you. Perhaps you are a couple reading this looking for support in navigating some of human relationships most challenging conflicts, or it could be you're just looking to strengthen the relationship. Wherever your inquiry lies I am confident our work together can facilitate meaningful change.
(341) 766-0669 View (341) 766-0669
Photo of Lyudmila Kisina, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Lyudmila Kisina
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LAADC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
Welcome! You have taken an important step towards a journey of healing! As a licensed therapist and addiction counselor, I offer a holistic journey of healing and self-discovery, guided by the evidence-based practice of modern psychology. Our approach targets solution, not just symptom relief. When we are impacted by past hurts, disappointment, shame, or trauma - we may begin seeking ways to avoid ourselves. Addictions, codependent relationships, anxiety, depression, isolation - may start to manifest in your life. My work focuses on resolving these symptoms, by addressing the root causes, empowering you to build lasting change.
Welcome! You have taken an important step towards a journey of healing! As a licensed therapist and addiction counselor, I offer a holistic journey of healing and self-discovery, guided by the evidence-based practice of modern psychology. Our approach targets solution, not just symptom relief. When we are impacted by past hurts, disappointment, shame, or trauma - we may begin seeking ways to avoid ourselves. Addictions, codependent relationships, anxiety, depression, isolation - may start to manifest in your life. My work focuses on resolving these symptoms, by addressing the root causes, empowering you to build lasting change.
(858) 428-2638 View (858) 428-2638

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Trauma and PTSD Therapists

When should I seek treatment for trauma?

Not everyone who undergoes trauma needs therapy to heal, but many do. If, after experiencing a traumatic event, you find yourself struggling with symptoms such as nightmares, dissociation, irritability, or emotional numbness—especially if these symptoms last more than a month and are severe enough to interfere with your daily functioning—you may benefit from seeking out therapy with a trauma-informed provider.

How long does trauma therapy take?

Different types of therapy for trauma unfold on different timelines. Prolonged exposure therapy and cognitive processing therapy, for example, each take about three months, while trauma-informed CBT may last anywhere from 8 to 25 sessions. Other approaches, especially those that are less structured or that incorporate elements from multiple modalities, may be more open-ended, though many patients report feeling better within the first few months of treatment.

What happens if trauma is left untreated?

Unaddressed trauma can have serious—even devastating—effects on relationships, career, and day-to-day functioning. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can lead people to distrust or lash out at others, making it difficult to maintain intimate relationships; it can also trigger symptoms such as flashbacks or hyperreactivity that can interfere with a person’s ability to function effectively, personally and/or professionally. Some sufferers turn to drugs to find relief. Symptoms may lessen on their own with time, but there is no guarantee that PTSD will resolve on its own.

Can PTSD come back after treatment?

It is possible for PTSD symptoms to recur months or years after successful treatment. This is because, like most mental health disorders, it is not possible to “cure” PTSD, and stressful life events may cause symptoms to recur in even the most resilient individuals. There is no shame in re-experiencing PTSD symptoms nor in returning to therapy when such relapses occur; indeed, many forms of trauma therapy explicitly encourage periodic “maintenance sessions” to reinforce coping skills and ensure that symptoms stay manageable.