Photo of Casandra Rdzak, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 60604, IL
Casandra Rdzak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60604
You are here because you are tired of feeling stuck, in pain, overwhelmed, or dissatisfied with how your life is going. You know that something in the way you feel, think, or behave is holding you back from living a fulfilling life. It may be the struggle to accept yourself or others; to maintain meaningful relationships; to adjust to life transitions; to recover from a traumatic event or loss; or to move on in life. Therapy is about wanting to slow down and reflect on yourself, how you want your life to look like, and how to get there. You made the brave step of asking for help and I would love to hear from you.
You are here because you are tired of feeling stuck, in pain, overwhelmed, or dissatisfied with how your life is going. You know that something in the way you feel, think, or behave is holding you back from living a fulfilling life. It may be the struggle to accept yourself or others; to maintain meaningful relationships; to adjust to life transitions; to recover from a traumatic event or loss; or to move on in life. Therapy is about wanting to slow down and reflect on yourself, how you want your life to look like, and how to get there. You made the brave step of asking for help and I would love to hear from you.
(630) 526-7108 View (630) 526-7108
Photo of Victoria Te You Moore, Counselor in 60604, IL
Victoria Te You Moore
Counselor, LCPC, CGP, AGPA-F
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60604
By working with a caring and attuned professional, my clients can feel safe and free to explore and work through their experiences of depression, anxiety, trauma, addictions, loneliness, shame, and anger, all the while developing their courage, resilience, understanding, and self-acceptance.
A longtime Chicagoan, I have also lived in China, France, and Japan. I use my full experience in management consulting, nonprofits, and the arts in my work as a therapist and am adept at working with people from varied backgrounds. I am astute, compassionate, and deeply committed to my clients' well-being. I engage my clients not only on the inner- and inter-personal levels, but also in the contexts of their intersecting roles and identities. I am attuned to the mutual influence that individuals and groups have on one another and the interconnectedness in life's pain and healing .
By working with a caring and attuned professional, my clients can feel safe and free to explore and work through their experiences of depression, anxiety, trauma, addictions, loneliness, shame, and anger, all the while developing their courage, resilience, understanding, and self-acceptance.
A longtime Chicagoan, I have also lived in China, France, and Japan. I use my full experience in management consulting, nonprofits, and the arts in my work as a therapist and am adept at working with people from varied backgrounds. I am astute, compassionate, and deeply committed to my clients' well-being. I engage my clients not only on the inner- and inter-personal levels, but also in the contexts of their intersecting roles and identities. I am attuned to the mutual influence that individuals and groups have on one another and the interconnectedness in life's pain and healing .
(630) 937-2905 View (630) 937-2905
Photo of Danielle Simmons, Psychologist in 60604, IL
Danielle Simmons
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60604  (Online Only)
Hello. Are you an adult, 18 years or older, seeking a safe, judgment-free space to talk out your concerns? With 10 years experience as a therapist, I've devoted my life to understanding and supporting wellness. We all know life can be isolating and unpredictable at times. Are you experiencing *Adjustments to Significant Life Transitions *Feelings of Stuckness or Despair *Identity Related Concerns *LGBTQIQA Concerns *Management of Racial & Cultural Tensions * Challenges with Boundary Setting *Anger Management *Conflict Resolution *Grief/ Loss *Career Related Concerns *Managing Family Related Responsibilities *Mindful Living *Issues with Anxiety or Stress Management?
Hello. Are you an adult, 18 years or older, seeking a safe, judgment-free space to talk out your concerns? With 10 years experience as a therapist, I've devoted my life to understanding and supporting wellness. We all know life can be isolating and unpredictable at times. Are you experiencing *Adjustments to Significant Life Transitions *Feelings of Stuckness or Despair *Identity Related Concerns *LGBTQIQA Concerns *Management of Racial & Cultural Tensions * Challenges with Boundary Setting *Anger Management *Conflict Resolution *Grief/ Loss *Career Related Concerns *Managing Family Related Responsibilities *Mindful Living *Issues with Anxiety or Stress Management?
(872) 216-3241 View (872) 216-3241
Photo of Stacy L. Clark, Ph.D., LLC, Psychologist in 60604, IL
Stacy L. Clark, Ph.D., LLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60604
Taking the first step towards change can feel overwhelming and I recognize the courage it takes to start the journey towards healing. I believe the therapeutic relationship with my clients has an impact on facilitating growth so I strive to create a supportive environment that assists them in navigating decisions that can keep them feeling stuck. I listen intently and seek to understand my clients so they feel cared for. My strength based approach allows me to highlight the sense of resilience that each client brings and I collaborate with clients to set goals and solve problems that lead to a healthier life.
Taking the first step towards change can feel overwhelming and I recognize the courage it takes to start the journey towards healing. I believe the therapeutic relationship with my clients has an impact on facilitating growth so I strive to create a supportive environment that assists them in navigating decisions that can keep them feeling stuck. I listen intently and seek to understand my clients so they feel cared for. My strength based approach allows me to highlight the sense of resilience that each client brings and I collaborate with clients to set goals and solve problems that lead to a healthier life.
(773) 263-0003 View (773) 263-0003
Photo of Morgan Stevens, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 60604, IL
Morgan Stevens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60604
Although beginning therapy and delving deeper into the inner workings of your life can initially be fearful, it is a courageous act and an opportunity for growth and a new understanding of who you are. I believe that the foundation of any effective therapeutic work is a genuine therapeutic relationship based on trust, honesty, and empathy. I value creating a non-judgmental environment where you feel seen, accepted, and understood and can safely explore difficult emotions and relational patterns that may have previously felt too overwhelming to embark on alone.
Although beginning therapy and delving deeper into the inner workings of your life can initially be fearful, it is a courageous act and an opportunity for growth and a new understanding of who you are. I believe that the foundation of any effective therapeutic work is a genuine therapeutic relationship based on trust, honesty, and empathy. I value creating a non-judgmental environment where you feel seen, accepted, and understood and can safely explore difficult emotions and relational patterns that may have previously felt too overwhelming to embark on alone.
(727) 788-5301 View (727) 788-5301
Photo of Patricia Nolan, Counselor in 60604, IL
Patricia Nolan
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60604
You may feel lost or need help understanding your experiences. It can often feel overwhelming or like you are not always present in the world. You may long to be close to others and, simultaneously, fear or distrust connection. You may feel stuck or questioning how you want to show up in the world. When we carry the weight of unspeakable pain or unspoken words that linger within, the echoes of our past sometimes interfere with creating an enlivened life in the present. Looking at everything that led you to this moment, you can choose what to do next and make meaningful changes in your life.
You may feel lost or need help understanding your experiences. It can often feel overwhelming or like you are not always present in the world. You may long to be close to others and, simultaneously, fear or distrust connection. You may feel stuck or questioning how you want to show up in the world. When we carry the weight of unspeakable pain or unspoken words that linger within, the echoes of our past sometimes interfere with creating an enlivened life in the present. Looking at everything that led you to this moment, you can choose what to do next and make meaningful changes in your life.
(630) 642-6049 View (630) 642-6049
Photo of Damilola Monehin, Licensed Professional Counselor in 60604, IL
Damilola Monehin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60604
I am passionate about working with clients who struggle with various forms of trauma, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, grief and loss, infertility, co-occurring disorders, personality disorders, and relationship issues. I operate with the understanding that all people innately have and contribute value to life. This guides me in providing a safe space for my clients to be heard and validated. I enjoy working closely with my clients, helping them to resolve their life challenges by offering empathic support in their self actualization journey.
I am passionate about working with clients who struggle with various forms of trauma, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, grief and loss, infertility, co-occurring disorders, personality disorders, and relationship issues. I operate with the understanding that all people innately have and contribute value to life. This guides me in providing a safe space for my clients to be heard and validated. I enjoy working closely with my clients, helping them to resolve their life challenges by offering empathic support in their self actualization journey.
(630) 626-8825 View (630) 626-8825
Photo of Angela Engerer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 60604, IL
Angela Engerer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60604  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Tired of explaining what SnapChat is to your therapist? I too grew up with social media & Google induced anxiety. From all of the possible reasons why your stomach hurts, to opening an app and seeing what your ex is up to at any given time, how do you manage information overload in a rapidly changing world? If you’re feeling lost or anxious- welcome. While I’m a great listener, I’ll also help identify actionable steps to address immediate concerns & gently push you towards long-term, positive change in the process. It won't take long before you're a walking tool box of CBT, DBT, & harm reduction skills!
Tired of explaining what SnapChat is to your therapist? I too grew up with social media & Google induced anxiety. From all of the possible reasons why your stomach hurts, to opening an app and seeing what your ex is up to at any given time, how do you manage information overload in a rapidly changing world? If you’re feeling lost or anxious- welcome. While I’m a great listener, I’ll also help identify actionable steps to address immediate concerns & gently push you towards long-term, positive change in the process. It won't take long before you're a walking tool box of CBT, DBT, & harm reduction skills!
(630) 634-8752 View (630) 634-8752
Photo of Maria E Matusiewicz, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in 60604, IL
Maria E Matusiewicz
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60604  (Online Only)
A feeling of being in darkness, restlessness, or fear might be a sign of anxiety, depression, trauma, unresolved grief, or of a transition in your life. Those conditions may lead a person into being less functional, non productive, or struggling in making decisions. I believe that each of us possess an inner strength that is capable of bringing healing, restoration, and life. It sometimes may just be very difficult to recognize and to access this inner strength. We might long for relief, to raise our self esteem, a higher functionality, productivity, or just to be able to simply see the light at the end of tunnel.
A feeling of being in darkness, restlessness, or fear might be a sign of anxiety, depression, trauma, unresolved grief, or of a transition in your life. Those conditions may lead a person into being less functional, non productive, or struggling in making decisions. I believe that each of us possess an inner strength that is capable of bringing healing, restoration, and life. It sometimes may just be very difficult to recognize and to access this inner strength. We might long for relief, to raise our self esteem, a higher functionality, productivity, or just to be able to simply see the light at the end of tunnel.
(708) 381-2971 View (708) 381-2971
Photo of Prem Nikoniuk, Counselor in 60604, IL
Prem Nikoniuk
Counselor, LCPC, LPC, NCC, NCMHC, MA
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60604  (Online Only)
What's on your mind? Are you experiencing relationship problems, family troubles, money issues, health concerns? Do you feel anxious, scared, sad or stressed? Whatever it may be - it is, likely, consuming you; you are feeling out of touch, lost; as if your entire world is spinning out of control! What if you were to, for a moment, forget the destination you believe your life is headed and instead, focus on your journey? For only in the process of living your life completely and meaningfully, will you come to find its true purpose, joy, and fulfillment.
What's on your mind? Are you experiencing relationship problems, family troubles, money issues, health concerns? Do you feel anxious, scared, sad or stressed? Whatever it may be - it is, likely, consuming you; you are feeling out of touch, lost; as if your entire world is spinning out of control! What if you were to, for a moment, forget the destination you believe your life is headed and instead, focus on your journey? For only in the process of living your life completely and meaningfully, will you come to find its true purpose, joy, and fulfillment.
(331) 259-8465 View (331) 259-8465
Photo of Milo Crosswhite, Pre-Licensed Professional in 60604, IL
Milo Crosswhite
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPC-C
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60604
My passion is to serve the perinatal population, women, and parents. The miracles of life are challenging whether you have a desire to become a parent, independently or partnered, and especially as a birthing parent. The perinatal period of our lives is one of the most challenging and dramatic times in which we are often at our most vulnerable. The journey of parenthood is a ride of joys, overcasts, detours, and surprises which shape us as people. I meet my clients at the intersection of counseling and art therapy using trauma-informed, positive, person-centered, expressive arts therapy to hear, validate, and empower.
My passion is to serve the perinatal population, women, and parents. The miracles of life are challenging whether you have a desire to become a parent, independently or partnered, and especially as a birthing parent. The perinatal period of our lives is one of the most challenging and dramatic times in which we are often at our most vulnerable. The journey of parenthood is a ride of joys, overcasts, detours, and surprises which shape us as people. I meet my clients at the intersection of counseling and art therapy using trauma-informed, positive, person-centered, expressive arts therapy to hear, validate, and empower.
(630) 283-7420 View (630) 283-7420
Photo of Maia Marie Wheeler, Counselor in 60604, IL
Maia Marie Wheeler
Counselor, LCPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60604
You deserve to feel happy and have a sense of purpose. I have worked with clients moving through a variety of issues for over 13 years. I've worked closely with individuals to clarify goals for client's to grow into their best-self. Communication and Social Skills are two areas of practice I have focused on for over 10 years. I have supported clients with special needs, medical issues, as well as people looking for general direction/advice around life issues.
You deserve to feel happy and have a sense of purpose. I have worked with clients moving through a variety of issues for over 13 years. I've worked closely with individuals to clarify goals for client's to grow into their best-self. Communication and Social Skills are two areas of practice I have focused on for over 10 years. I have supported clients with special needs, medical issues, as well as people looking for general direction/advice around life issues.
(847) 380-4465 View (847) 380-4465
Photo of Salima Al-Alwi, Licensed Professional Counselor in 60604, IL
Salima Al-Alwi
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60604
I believe in trauma-informed care and strive to provide culturally-competent counseling.
Are you going through a significant life transition? Whether it's a breakup, graduating from college, starting a new job, or adjusting to a new city, I can help. As a member of the BIPOC community, I understand the unique challenges and cultural expectations that you may be facing. I strongly believe that everyone has a story shaped by their experiences, and I am here to support you in creating the life and happiness you desire. We will work together to set goals and develop coping skills that will empower you to feel better and thrive. Let's increase your self-awareness and build the tools you need to navigate like with confidence.
I believe in trauma-informed care and strive to provide culturally-competent counseling.
Are you going through a significant life transition? Whether it's a breakup, graduating from college, starting a new job, or adjusting to a new city, I can help. As a member of the BIPOC community, I understand the unique challenges and cultural expectations that you may be facing. I strongly believe that everyone has a story shaped by their experiences, and I am here to support you in creating the life and happiness you desire. We will work together to set goals and develop coping skills that will empower you to feel better and thrive. Let's increase your self-awareness and build the tools you need to navigate like with confidence.
(630) 625-8308 View (630) 625-8308
Photo of Sarah Elizabeth Anderson, Pre-Licensed Professional in 60604, IL
Sarah Elizabeth Anderson
Pre-Licensed Professional, BFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60604
I am inspired to work on Creativity Block, Self-Worth, Intergenerational Trauma, PMDD, Self-Esteem, Anxiety, and Depression.
What's your definition of birthright? As we grow, family, culture, and society can assign meaning that does not serve our best interest but theirs. Devastatingly, we're often taught to point the finger back at ourselves when things go wrong. But I believe we heal and thrive when we nurture healthy intrinsic (fundamental to who we are) connection to ourselves and others. This work creates a safety net allowing us to build self-esteem and adapt without losing our personal power. Pursuing the arts with a former career as a performer, choreographer, and artistic director, I strongly relate to "fitting-in while trying to stand-out".
I am inspired to work on Creativity Block, Self-Worth, Intergenerational Trauma, PMDD, Self-Esteem, Anxiety, and Depression.
What's your definition of birthright? As we grow, family, culture, and society can assign meaning that does not serve our best interest but theirs. Devastatingly, we're often taught to point the finger back at ourselves when things go wrong. But I believe we heal and thrive when we nurture healthy intrinsic (fundamental to who we are) connection to ourselves and others. This work creates a safety net allowing us to build self-esteem and adapt without losing our personal power. Pursuing the arts with a former career as a performer, choreographer, and artistic director, I strongly relate to "fitting-in while trying to stand-out".
(773) 873-2494 View (773) 873-2494
Photo of Erik Schuster, Licensed Professional Counselor in 60604, IL
Erik Schuster
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60604
“How is this therapist going to help me?” Fair question. From over 10,000 hours in my broad clinical career to my own harrowing lived experiences, I will bring you a time-tested perspective ready to address your real-life concerns in therapy. The clients I serve come from diverse ethnic, economic and cultural backgrounds, but share the essential similarity of readiness for change. Furthermore, the clinical issues I help individuals and couples to address range from chronic mental illness, neurodivergent struggles, substance misuse, gender/sexuality development, general life "stuck-ness" and differing forms of infidelity.
“How is this therapist going to help me?” Fair question. From over 10,000 hours in my broad clinical career to my own harrowing lived experiences, I will bring you a time-tested perspective ready to address your real-life concerns in therapy. The clients I serve come from diverse ethnic, economic and cultural backgrounds, but share the essential similarity of readiness for change. Furthermore, the clinical issues I help individuals and couples to address range from chronic mental illness, neurodivergent struggles, substance misuse, gender/sexuality development, general life "stuck-ness" and differing forms of infidelity.
(312) 606-7352 View (312) 606-7352
Photo of Dr. Travis Musich, Pre-Licensed Professional in 60604, IL
Dr. Travis Musich
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60604
In addition to treating anxiety, depression, body image, grief, relationship difficulties, I also specialize in working with trauma, dissociation, psychosis, and other difficult experiences.
In therapy, my approach is nondirective, genuine, warm, and empathic. I am nonjudgmental, accepting, and understanding. I follow my clients as they focus on whatever feels most important to them. My goal is to build a safe therapeutic relationship for clients to explore the depths of their most significant and often challenging life experiences. I listen and respond with empathic understanding of these experiences while my clients find meaning that is congruent with their whole self. Clients often feel deeply understood during this process, which is a profoundly healing experience.
In addition to treating anxiety, depression, body image, grief, relationship difficulties, I also specialize in working with trauma, dissociation, psychosis, and other difficult experiences.
In therapy, my approach is nondirective, genuine, warm, and empathic. I am nonjudgmental, accepting, and understanding. I follow my clients as they focus on whatever feels most important to them. My goal is to build a safe therapeutic relationship for clients to explore the depths of their most significant and often challenging life experiences. I listen and respond with empathic understanding of these experiences while my clients find meaning that is congruent with their whole self. Clients often feel deeply understood during this process, which is a profoundly healing experience.
(312) 548-1368 View (312) 548-1368
Photo of Crystal Kannankeril, Psychologist in 60604, IL
Crystal Kannankeril
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60604  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I work with a range of concerns, including: depression, anxiety, relationships, life transitions, self-esteem/positive identity development, trauma, stress, body image, and multicultural development.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist providing individual and couples psychotherapy for late adolescents to older adults. My approach is rooted in creating a collaborative, compassionate, and safe environment to explore reasons for distress and practice ways to process, cope, and heal from them. My work is holistic and integrative, meaning that I draw from different theoretical approaches to tailor therapy to each person's unique needs. I aim to link current stressors with past events to provide insight and corrective emotional experiences while empowering clients to build on their innate strengths.
I work with a range of concerns, including: depression, anxiety, relationships, life transitions, self-esteem/positive identity development, trauma, stress, body image, and multicultural development.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist providing individual and couples psychotherapy for late adolescents to older adults. My approach is rooted in creating a collaborative, compassionate, and safe environment to explore reasons for distress and practice ways to process, cope, and heal from them. My work is holistic and integrative, meaning that I draw from different theoretical approaches to tailor therapy to each person's unique needs. I aim to link current stressors with past events to provide insight and corrective emotional experiences while empowering clients to build on their innate strengths.
(312) 834-3076 View (312) 834-3076
Photo of Meridith Oliver, Counselor in 60604, IL
Meridith Oliver
Counselor, MA, LCPC, RDT, LCAT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60604
Are you struggling to manage feelings of anxiety, depression, anger or stress? Are you experiencing increased stressors due to life transitions or relationship concerns? I can help you gain skills to manage your stressors, discover your inner strengths, and support you in making positive changes. I specialize in supporting individuals of all ages struggling with managing distressing emotions, stressful life transitions, and challenging interpersonal relationships.
Are you struggling to manage feelings of anxiety, depression, anger or stress? Are you experiencing increased stressors due to life transitions or relationship concerns? I can help you gain skills to manage your stressors, discover your inner strengths, and support you in making positive changes. I specialize in supporting individuals of all ages struggling with managing distressing emotions, stressful life transitions, and challenging interpersonal relationships.
(312) 376-0389 View (312) 376-0389
Photo of Jacob Kaufman, Counselor in 60604, IL
Jacob Kaufman
Counselor, JD, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60604
Sometimes it is time to just stop. Stop believing that voice in your head that is so demanding, so critical, so unkind. Stop running, stop fighting, stop avoiding, stop numbing. Sometimes it is time to start. Start waking up, start feeling more alive, start coming home, start loving yourself and others more deeply than ever before. Becoming more present in this constantly beeping and flickering culture of ours is the major personal challenge of the 21st century. Feelings of joy and contentment take place now, not in the future or the past. Experiencing your feelings fully is the key to opening the door to a more satisfying life.
Sometimes it is time to just stop. Stop believing that voice in your head that is so demanding, so critical, so unkind. Stop running, stop fighting, stop avoiding, stop numbing. Sometimes it is time to start. Start waking up, start feeling more alive, start coming home, start loving yourself and others more deeply than ever before. Becoming more present in this constantly beeping and flickering culture of ours is the major personal challenge of the 21st century. Feelings of joy and contentment take place now, not in the future or the past. Experiencing your feelings fully is the key to opening the door to a more satisfying life.
(630) 912-0284 View (630) 912-0284
Photo of Dr. Shanyta Russell, Psychologist in 60604, IL
Dr. Shanyta Russell
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60604  (Online Only)
I utilize an integrative & client-centered approach through various evidenced based strategies (CBT, Person-Centered, Trauma-Focused and Solution-Focused therapies), tailored to meet your specific needs and therapeutic goals.
Browsing through this site is a choice. I congratulate you for taking this step towards finding the support you need and deserve. Life can really be tough; full of twists and turns which may lead to obstacles that are difficult to overcome alone. Sometimes, we may feel stuck, numb and just like we are going through the motions. If you feel like you are on autopilot and want to make positive changes in your thoughts, feelings and actions, you are already headed in right direction! I believe that building trust & listening are key components to therapy. As your therapist, I will provide a warm, safe, nonjudgmental & supportive space.
I utilize an integrative & client-centered approach through various evidenced based strategies (CBT, Person-Centered, Trauma-Focused and Solution-Focused therapies), tailored to meet your specific needs and therapeutic goals.
Browsing through this site is a choice. I congratulate you for taking this step towards finding the support you need and deserve. Life can really be tough; full of twists and turns which may lead to obstacles that are difficult to overcome alone. Sometimes, we may feel stuck, numb and just like we are going through the motions. If you feel like you are on autopilot and want to make positive changes in your thoughts, feelings and actions, you are already headed in right direction! I believe that building trust & listening are key components to therapy. As your therapist, I will provide a warm, safe, nonjudgmental & supportive space.
(646) 849-2351 View (646) 849-2351
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.