Photo of Shannon Oberndorf, Marriage & Family Therapist in 80111, CO
Shannon Oberndorf
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Englewood, CO 80111
I am a trauma-informed therapist with 15 years experience assisting men, women, young adults and families challenged with anxiety, depression, substance use, and other symptoms that impact their quality of life.
Does stress and anxiety interfere with your life? Are you pushing yourself too hard or feel people walk all over you? Have trouble communicating with others? If you're looking for ways to cope when Life "lifes" you, then counseling may be right for you. I am committed to helping individuals, couples and families from all walks of life increase their communication skills, improve their relationships, and feel connected to themselves.
I am a trauma-informed therapist with 15 years experience assisting men, women, young adults and families challenged with anxiety, depression, substance use, and other symptoms that impact their quality of life.
Does stress and anxiety interfere with your life? Are you pushing yourself too hard or feel people walk all over you? Have trouble communicating with others? If you're looking for ways to cope when Life "lifes" you, then counseling may be right for you. I am committed to helping individuals, couples and families from all walks of life increase their communication skills, improve their relationships, and feel connected to themselves.
(303) 720-7932 View (303) 720-7932
Photo of Anne Alarie, Psychologist in 80111, CO
Anne Alarie
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Centennial, CO 80111
Waitlist for new clients
I treat anxiety, depressive disorders, and specialize in the treatment of PTSD where I specifically use EMDR as a treatment approach.
Welcome to Thrive Behavioral Health! Thrive Behavioral Health is committed to assisting you in moving forward and making changes in your life. We seek to help people through empowerment. Often, individuals feel powerless to make needed changes in their life. As a result, they stop believing in themselves, give up, and stop taking the risks they need to in order to make change. Therapy looks different for every individual, but often the objective is to help motivate people to discover the inner strength and courage they need to transform their life.
I treat anxiety, depressive disorders, and specialize in the treatment of PTSD where I specifically use EMDR as a treatment approach.
Welcome to Thrive Behavioral Health! Thrive Behavioral Health is committed to assisting you in moving forward and making changes in your life. We seek to help people through empowerment. Often, individuals feel powerless to make needed changes in their life. As a result, they stop believing in themselves, give up, and stop taking the risks they need to in order to make change. Therapy looks different for every individual, but often the objective is to help motivate people to discover the inner strength and courage they need to transform their life.
(720) 743-5450 View (720) 743-5450
Photo of Dr. Odessia Knowles, Psychologist in 80111, CO
Dr. Odessia Knowles
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
With a strengths-based, culturally responsive, trauma-informed, collaborative approach, KCAPS staff flexibly utilize various treatment modalities that are evidence-based.
We are happy that you are here, and we hope that we will get to walk alongside you for this portion of your life! While we cannot change the past, or sometimes the external stressors of our present lives, we can impact our trajectory going forward. And here at KCAPS, we believe in supporting people to do just that. Together we may move between past, present, and future... healing, recovering, processing, liberating, exploring, problem-solving, building, empowering, etc depending on your goals and your needs.
With a strengths-based, culturally responsive, trauma-informed, collaborative approach, KCAPS staff flexibly utilize various treatment modalities that are evidence-based.
We are happy that you are here, and we hope that we will get to walk alongside you for this portion of your life! While we cannot change the past, or sometimes the external stressors of our present lives, we can impact our trajectory going forward. And here at KCAPS, we believe in supporting people to do just that. Together we may move between past, present, and future... healing, recovering, processing, liberating, exploring, problem-solving, building, empowering, etc depending on your goals and your needs.
(855) 546-1188 View (855) 546-1188
Photo of Molly Breen, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in 80111, CO
Molly Breen
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I draw from a humanistic/person-centered orientation, additionally implementing trauma-informed, somatic, acceptance and commitment and mindfulness-based techniques.
I have always had the passion and curiosity to get to know others and learn about their unique life journeys. Through working in schools, admissions, and the hospitality industry and personal interests of travel and the arts, I have gained a deep appreciation and better understanding for different perspectives and the things that contribute to how we each walk through the world. I bring this lens, along with compassion, warmth and curiosity, into my therapy work to create a place of safety to explore and learn about yourself together, and meeting you where you are at.
I draw from a humanistic/person-centered orientation, additionally implementing trauma-informed, somatic, acceptance and commitment and mindfulness-based techniques.
I have always had the passion and curiosity to get to know others and learn about their unique life journeys. Through working in schools, admissions, and the hospitality industry and personal interests of travel and the arts, I have gained a deep appreciation and better understanding for different perspectives and the things that contribute to how we each walk through the world. I bring this lens, along with compassion, warmth and curiosity, into my therapy work to create a place of safety to explore and learn about yourself together, and meeting you where you are at.
(720) 927-8932 View (720) 927-8932
Photo of Jodi Seidel, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80111, CO
Jodi Seidel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, PACT II
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Centennial, CO 80111
I enjoy working with Couples & Individuals experiencing a wide variety of issues such as; parenting, anxiety & depression, life transitions and relationship issues, attachment injury and trauma.
“The best way out is always through." -Robert Frost This quote exemplifies my philosophy toward counseling, emotional healing and personal growth. When we are struggling with emotional issues, relationship distress or transitions in our lives we often need to work through these to gain insight, relief, emotional growth and healing. My approach to treating individuals is informed by my training in ACT, CBT, DBT, IFS, Schema Therapy and Interpersonal Neurobiology. My approach to treating couples is informed by my training in PACT II, Gottman Method I, EFT and EFFT.
I enjoy working with Couples & Individuals experiencing a wide variety of issues such as; parenting, anxiety & depression, life transitions and relationship issues, attachment injury and trauma.
“The best way out is always through." -Robert Frost This quote exemplifies my philosophy toward counseling, emotional healing and personal growth. When we are struggling with emotional issues, relationship distress or transitions in our lives we often need to work through these to gain insight, relief, emotional growth and healing. My approach to treating individuals is informed by my training in ACT, CBT, DBT, IFS, Schema Therapy and Interpersonal Neurobiology. My approach to treating couples is informed by my training in PACT II, Gottman Method I, EFT and EFFT.
(720) 743-5091 View (720) 743-5091
Photo of Patrick Weeg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 80111, CO
Patrick Weeg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
I have training in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy and EMDR to address post-traumatic stress, relational wounds, anger issues, and substance use.
My ideal clients are people who are interested in working on themselves and value personal growth; who share a passion for removing the blocks to intimate connections with themselves and others. I like working with people who have a hard time yielding into connection—who are often excellent givers but have a more difficult time receiving. I enjoy working with individuals who are successful, powerful, or workaholics who struggle with intimacy and connection and who have found external solutions such as achievement, sex, alcohol, exercise, etc. to be lacking in providing a sense of ease, meaning and comfort to their lives.
I have training in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy and EMDR to address post-traumatic stress, relational wounds, anger issues, and substance use.
My ideal clients are people who are interested in working on themselves and value personal growth; who share a passion for removing the blocks to intimate connections with themselves and others. I like working with people who have a hard time yielding into connection—who are often excellent givers but have a more difficult time receiving. I enjoy working with individuals who are successful, powerful, or workaholics who struggle with intimacy and connection and who have found external solutions such as achievement, sex, alcohol, exercise, etc. to be lacking in providing a sense of ease, meaning and comfort to their lives.
(515) 608-8463 View (515) 608-8463
Photo of Nicole Versaw, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 80111, CO
Nicole Versaw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
I specialize in working with adults and adolescents who have experienced trauma and relational wounds, suffer from anxiety or depression, struggle with self-esteem and identity, or feel emotionally disconnected from themselves and others.
There are many who are ready to celebrate in our victories and joys, but we can often feel alone in the situations where we most need support – depression, grief, and pain. There is something powerful and human about having someone wade into the mire of life with you, joining you to discover yourself in a new way. I believe that being authentically with someone in this space creates a glimmer of hope and the possibility for change. To that end, I offer a therapy relationship where you can be truly seen, known, and heard in your many victories as well as your struggles.
I specialize in working with adults and adolescents who have experienced trauma and relational wounds, suffer from anxiety or depression, struggle with self-esteem and identity, or feel emotionally disconnected from themselves and others.
There are many who are ready to celebrate in our victories and joys, but we can often feel alone in the situations where we most need support – depression, grief, and pain. There is something powerful and human about having someone wade into the mire of life with you, joining you to discover yourself in a new way. I believe that being authentically with someone in this space creates a glimmer of hope and the possibility for change. To that end, I offer a therapy relationship where you can be truly seen, known, and heard in your many victories as well as your struggles.
(970) 469-7869 View (970) 469-7869
Photo of Eric J Blommel, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80111, CO
Eric J Blommel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
I use Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for relationship work, informed by work I do with individuals, where I use DBT, EMDR, IFS and Trauma Dynamics.
If you are miserable in your relationship(s), whether with loved ones or yourself, I can help. Folks who benefit most from my help are at a life transition point or at the brink of a new growth stage: in themselves, in their primary relationship, in their family, or in their career – sometimes all at once. Often times these folks feel held back by one key factor, and that key factor is either a challenge in self-knowledge and self-acceptance or an area of past trauma that is unresolved and is therefore blocked from normal growth.
I use Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for relationship work, informed by work I do with individuals, where I use DBT, EMDR, IFS and Trauma Dynamics.
If you are miserable in your relationship(s), whether with loved ones or yourself, I can help. Folks who benefit most from my help are at a life transition point or at the brink of a new growth stage: in themselves, in their primary relationship, in their family, or in their career – sometimes all at once. Often times these folks feel held back by one key factor, and that key factor is either a challenge in self-knowledge and self-acceptance or an area of past trauma that is unresolved and is therefore blocked from normal growth.
(720) 408-7721 View (720) 408-7721
Photo of Esra Nutku-Bilir, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80111, CO
Esra Nutku-Bilir
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Centennial, CO 80111
Welcome! I work with post traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, Bipolar disorders, stress and anxiety related with acute or chronic medical illnesses, developmental issues of adulthood, relationship conflicts, couple's counseling, marriage health and conflict, life transition issues such as stress during college, retirement, change that comes with adverse life events. Men's and women's developmental, family, work and relationship issues and Seniors are also my interest areas. I work with clients age between 15-95 years old.
Welcome! I work with post traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, Bipolar disorders, stress and anxiety related with acute or chronic medical illnesses, developmental issues of adulthood, relationship conflicts, couple's counseling, marriage health and conflict, life transition issues such as stress during college, retirement, change that comes with adverse life events. Men's and women's developmental, family, work and relationship issues and Seniors are also my interest areas. I work with clients age between 15-95 years old.
(720) 776-2016 View (720) 776-2016
Photo of CMH Counseling Services, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80111, CO
CMH Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCPS, EMDR
Verified Verified
My experience includes training in the Multidimensional Partner Trauma Model, Certified Clinical Partner Specialist, and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) trained therapist which is designed to help you integrate the traumatic experience in a manner that allows you to recall the memory while remaining calm and at ease.
My practice specializes in partners of an emotional or sexual betrayal which may lead to infidelity. If you have recently discovered your husband's excessive pornography use, you may be experiencing trauma from post traumatic stress, anxiety, sadness, or even anger that you doubt you can ever trust him again. Experiencing betrayal in your marriage is often a devastating, overwhelming and lonely experience. As the betrayed spouse, you may be experiencing an identity crisis leaving you doubting your marriage and yourself.
My experience includes training in the Multidimensional Partner Trauma Model, Certified Clinical Partner Specialist, and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) trained therapist which is designed to help you integrate the traumatic experience in a manner that allows you to recall the memory while remaining calm and at ease.
My practice specializes in partners of an emotional or sexual betrayal which may lead to infidelity. If you have recently discovered your husband's excessive pornography use, you may be experiencing trauma from post traumatic stress, anxiety, sadness, or even anger that you doubt you can ever trust him again. Experiencing betrayal in your marriage is often a devastating, overwhelming and lonely experience. As the betrayed spouse, you may be experiencing an identity crisis leaving you doubting your marriage and yourself.
(303) 536-8713 View (303) 536-8713
Photo of Tracy Gilbert, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80111, CO
Tracy Gilbert
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Centennial, CO 80111
Trauma can greatly affect how a person is able to function and enjoy daily life.
I have a passion for helping others heal from all different kinds of life problems. I incorporate a wide variety of methods in order to tailor each therapeutic experience to meet the unique needs of each client. I take great care to ensure clients feel safe, understood and authentically known so they feel comfortable sharing their deepest pain. My hope is to utilize my personhood and clinical training to be a counselor who offers acceptance, knowledge and most of all recovery.
Trauma can greatly affect how a person is able to function and enjoy daily life.
I have a passion for helping others heal from all different kinds of life problems. I incorporate a wide variety of methods in order to tailor each therapeutic experience to meet the unique needs of each client. I take great care to ensure clients feel safe, understood and authentically known so they feel comfortable sharing their deepest pain. My hope is to utilize my personhood and clinical training to be a counselor who offers acceptance, knowledge and most of all recovery.
(720) 336-5853 View (720) 336-5853
Photo of Jessika Sands, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80111, CO
Jessika Sands
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LAC, EMDR, BSP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Centennial, CO 80111
My personal journey as both a complex trauma survivor and an athlete fuels my hope and passion for enhancing the quality of life for clients.
Acknowledging and addressing traumatic experiences is crucial, yet many tend to downplay their impact. This dismissal can be profoundly painful, undermining the significance of daily struggles and accomplishments. At the core of my approach is the identification and targeting of issues in an empathic, direct, authentic, and compassionate manner – a foundation for lasting change. This inclusive approach extends to survivors of childhood abuse, individuals experiencing symptoms of C-PTSD and dissociative disorders, and athletes facing recurring or traumatic physical injuries, all who benefit from being heard and seen without judgment.
My personal journey as both a complex trauma survivor and an athlete fuels my hope and passion for enhancing the quality of life for clients.
Acknowledging and addressing traumatic experiences is crucial, yet many tend to downplay their impact. This dismissal can be profoundly painful, undermining the significance of daily struggles and accomplishments. At the core of my approach is the identification and targeting of issues in an empathic, direct, authentic, and compassionate manner – a foundation for lasting change. This inclusive approach extends to survivors of childhood abuse, individuals experiencing symptoms of C-PTSD and dissociative disorders, and athletes facing recurring or traumatic physical injuries, all who benefit from being heard and seen without judgment.
(720) 764-9328 View (720) 764-9328
Photo of Claudia Nell Hawley, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80111, CO
Claudia Nell Hawley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, ASAT, CTMH
Verified Verified
Centennial, CO 80111
Finding peace in a complex world often involves seeking answers to sensitive and sometimes distressing questions. Unexpected loss, childhood traumas, and relationship distress lead to distress and disconnection from others. My therapeutic work is attachment-based and trauma informed to foster kindness, compassion, and respect for the whole person (mind, body, and spirit). I work with individuals, teens, and couples. I have advanced training in infidelity and affair recovery for couples, betrayal trauma, and partner recovery, as well as the use of EMDR with complex trauma. Additionally I am a Level 3 Gottman Method Therapist.
Finding peace in a complex world often involves seeking answers to sensitive and sometimes distressing questions. Unexpected loss, childhood traumas, and relationship distress lead to distress and disconnection from others. My therapeutic work is attachment-based and trauma informed to foster kindness, compassion, and respect for the whole person (mind, body, and spirit). I work with individuals, teens, and couples. I have advanced training in infidelity and affair recovery for couples, betrayal trauma, and partner recovery, as well as the use of EMDR with complex trauma. Additionally I am a Level 3 Gottman Method Therapist.
(720) 463-0639 View (720) 463-0639
Photo of Chelsey Deane Summers, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80111, CO
Chelsey Deane Summers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
My passion is working with individuals who are struggling with addiction, trauma, relationships, and attachment. I believe that it is every person's goal to feel more connected and attached to people in their life.
My passion is working with individuals who are struggling with addiction, trauma, relationships, and attachment. I believe that it is every person's goal to feel more connected and attached to people in their life.
(720) 583-8686 View (720) 583-8686
Photo of Carrie A Brown, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80111, CO
Carrie A Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Centennial, CO 80111
I am an EMDR Certified Therapist and have advanced training in betrayal trauma and Brainspotting.
I believe that while our circumstances and stories are varied, we are all seeking connection, understanding and relief. Depression and anxiety often stem from profound experiences of loss or a disrupted sense of belonging. When we undergo significant losses, whether the death of a loved one, the end of a relationship, or the departure from a familiar community, we can feel adrift and disconnected. These experiences can erode our sense of purpose and identity, leading to feelings of isolation and despair, Rebuilding a sense of connection and finding new sources of support are crucial steps in the healing journey.
I am an EMDR Certified Therapist and have advanced training in betrayal trauma and Brainspotting.
I believe that while our circumstances and stories are varied, we are all seeking connection, understanding and relief. Depression and anxiety often stem from profound experiences of loss or a disrupted sense of belonging. When we undergo significant losses, whether the death of a loved one, the end of a relationship, or the departure from a familiar community, we can feel adrift and disconnected. These experiences can erode our sense of purpose and identity, leading to feelings of isolation and despair, Rebuilding a sense of connection and finding new sources of support are crucial steps in the healing journey.
(720) 964-1867 View (720) 964-1867
Photo of Michelle L Kaye, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80111, CO
Michelle L Kaye
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EAGALA, EGE
Verified Verified
With over 30 years as an educator, 20 years as a counselor, and over 11 years working exclusively with the Warrior and Protector communities, my holistic approach includes the following: Trauma-informed training.
We all get stuck or feel lost sometimes. It's an inevitable part of being human. But for members of the Military, First Responders, and their families, this can be especially difficult. I don't feel that people are "broken," and I don't feel that people need to be "fixed." Sometimes, we may feel that way, but that doesn't make it true. If you are an Active Military service member, a Veteran, an Emergency Responder, or a family member or caregiver in these communities, then I am here to help, guide, counsel, and to listen without judgment.
With over 30 years as an educator, 20 years as a counselor, and over 11 years working exclusively with the Warrior and Protector communities, my holistic approach includes the following: Trauma-informed training.
We all get stuck or feel lost sometimes. It's an inevitable part of being human. But for members of the Military, First Responders, and their families, this can be especially difficult. I don't feel that people are "broken," and I don't feel that people need to be "fixed." Sometimes, we may feel that way, but that doesn't make it true. If you are an Active Military service member, a Veteran, an Emergency Responder, or a family member or caregiver in these communities, then I am here to help, guide, counsel, and to listen without judgment.
(720) 379-3759 View (720) 379-3759
Photo of Rachael Starr, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 80111, CO
Rachael Starr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Centennial, CO 80111
Are you ready begin the journey to healing and happiness? You have suffered with these triggers and trauma long enough.
Do you want to improve your life? Become a happier, healthier person? Do you want a therapist who is always honest with you? I aim to help my clients achieve all their goals, and help them develop the tools to fill their needs. I will work as often as they might want to in order to help them heal. We can work together on any issues they have so that they can live their best life!
Are you ready begin the journey to healing and happiness? You have suffered with these triggers and trauma long enough.
Do you want to improve your life? Become a happier, healthier person? Do you want a therapist who is always honest with you? I aim to help my clients achieve all their goals, and help them develop the tools to fill their needs. I will work as often as they might want to in order to help them heal. We can work together on any issues they have so that they can live their best life!
(772) 783-9574 View (772) 783-9574
Photo of Jennifer Jonell, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80111, CO
Jennifer Jonell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, SEP
Verified Verified
Waitlist for new clients
Healing is a healthy process our body knows how to do. Sometimes we just need support to find the process. Therapy can be this safe place to explore where we need healing in our lives. I believe your past does not define your future. I can help with emotional or physical trauma, grief and loss, healing from fear, anxiety or depression, and painful relationship changes. We can work to restore empowerment, rejuvenating a sense of hope and peace and create the vitality and life force in your being. Healing also comes with connecting with yourself and with others, developing healthy boundaries and compassion for yourself.
Healing is a healthy process our body knows how to do. Sometimes we just need support to find the process. Therapy can be this safe place to explore where we need healing in our lives. I believe your past does not define your future. I can help with emotional or physical trauma, grief and loss, healing from fear, anxiety or depression, and painful relationship changes. We can work to restore empowerment, rejuvenating a sense of hope and peace and create the vitality and life force in your being. Healing also comes with connecting with yourself and with others, developing healthy boundaries and compassion for yourself.
(720) 744-3540 View (720) 744-3540
Photo of Kate Calhoon, Psychologist in 80111, CO
Kate Calhoon
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
I work with clients on a broad range of concerns including depression, anxiety, healing from trauma, eating disorders, relationship issues, life transitions, grief and loss, and more.
Hello! I am a clinical psychologist providing therapy services in the South Denver area. Since you are searching this website, you have already begun the important (and often challenging) process of seeking positive change. I recognize this takes both motivation and courage. I'm a big believer in people's ability to make significant changes in their lives. You are on your way. It would be a pleasure and privilege to be your partner and collaborator in this process.
I work with clients on a broad range of concerns including depression, anxiety, healing from trauma, eating disorders, relationship issues, life transitions, grief and loss, and more.
Hello! I am a clinical psychologist providing therapy services in the South Denver area. Since you are searching this website, you have already begun the important (and often challenging) process of seeking positive change. I recognize this takes both motivation and courage. I'm a big believer in people's ability to make significant changes in their lives. You are on your way. It would be a pleasure and privilege to be your partner and collaborator in this process.
(720) 903-1887 View (720) 903-1887
Photo of Cali Babey, Psychologist in 80111, CO
Cali Babey
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I do not use a “one size fits all" approach but hold a relational and trauma-informed lens.
I am able to offer in-person services to clients near Centennial, CO and telehealth virtual services to clients in 39 PsyPACT states. I work primarily with adults and I particularly enjoy working with clients who are navigating life transitions and identity development. I welcome the exploration of identity and intersectionality as it impacts wellness and fully embodied living. I am passionate about working with the LGBTQIA+ community and have been dedicated to advocacy, learning, and empowerment within the community for well over a decade. I am a NARM therapist and also provide consultation and supervision for fellow clinicians.
I do not use a “one size fits all" approach but hold a relational and trauma-informed lens.
I am able to offer in-person services to clients near Centennial, CO and telehealth virtual services to clients in 39 PsyPACT states. I work primarily with adults and I particularly enjoy working with clients who are navigating life transitions and identity development. I welcome the exploration of identity and intersectionality as it impacts wellness and fully embodied living. I am passionate about working with the LGBTQIA+ community and have been dedicated to advocacy, learning, and empowerment within the community for well over a decade. I am a NARM therapist and also provide consultation and supervision for fellow clinicians.
(720) 784-5912 View (720) 784-5912
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.