Trauma and PTSD Counselling in Richmond-Tweed, NSW

Photo of Zasha Mahini - Zasha Mahini, MSc, Psychotherapist
Zasha Mahini
Psychotherapist, MSc
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a holistic therapist, I integrate cutting-edge somatic & neuroscience-based trauma approaches such as Sensorimotor/SE & EMDR with IFS, Jungian & Psychodynamic approaches, alongside ancient shamanic wisdoms.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by past traumas, or stuck in patterns that no longer serve you? Do you wish to heal, grow, & reclaim your natural state of bliss & love? Are you yearning for peace, deeper connections, & a sense of wholeness? Are you intelligent, creative, sensitive, & driven to make a difference in the world? Are you longing to develop resilience so life's challenges do not shake you? Do you feel a deep desire to emerge as your true self, to reach your full potential & aliveness? Are you seeking a compassionate guide who has been there, understands your pain, & can support you in accelerating your healing journey?
As a holistic therapist, I integrate cutting-edge somatic & neuroscience-based trauma approaches such as Sensorimotor/SE & EMDR with IFS, Jungian & Psychodynamic approaches, alongside ancient shamanic wisdoms.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by past traumas, or stuck in patterns that no longer serve you? Do you wish to heal, grow, & reclaim your natural state of bliss & love? Are you yearning for peace, deeper connections, & a sense of wholeness? Are you intelligent, creative, sensitive, & driven to make a difference in the world? Are you longing to develop resilience so life's challenges do not shake you? Do you feel a deep desire to emerge as your true self, to reach your full potential & aliveness? Are you seeking a compassionate guide who has been there, understands your pain, & can support you in accelerating your healing journey?
(03) 7003 2279 View (03) 7003 2279
Photo of Steve Marriott, MA, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Steve Marriott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Ocean Shores, NSW 2483
In addition to providing generalist counselling, psychotherapy and mental health services, my therapeutic specialisations include couple therapy, adolescent family therapy and EMDR in the treatment of PTSD and trauma related difficulties.
Sessions Now Available! I have a busy private practice based in Ocean Shores and provide counselling and psychotherapy services to individuals, couples and families. I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker (Medicare rebates available ), a clinical member and accredited supervisor of the Australian Association of Family Therapy (AAFT) and have master’s qualifications in both Social Work and Couple & Family Therapy. I also offer professional supervision and training to health professionals.
In addition to providing generalist counselling, psychotherapy and mental health services, my therapeutic specialisations include couple therapy, adolescent family therapy and EMDR in the treatment of PTSD and trauma related difficulties.
Sessions Now Available! I have a busy private practice based in Ocean Shores and provide counselling and psychotherapy services to individuals, couples and families. I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker (Medicare rebates available ), a clinical member and accredited supervisor of the Australian Association of Family Therapy (AAFT) and have master’s qualifications in both Social Work and Couple & Family Therapy. I also offer professional supervision and training to health professionals.
(07) 5655 7538 View (07) 5655 7538
Photo of Natasha Kasselis, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Natasha Kasselis
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lismore, NSW 2480
I provide a trauma sensitive and collaborative approach in my work as a holistic psychologist and EMDR therapist. Knowing that everyone is unique, I prioritise deep, responsive listening, adaptive exploration and create a safe space for you to speak your innermost thoughts so that you can honour all parts of yourself. Most people experience significant improvements in emotional well-being within just a few sessions.
I provide a trauma sensitive and collaborative approach in my work as a holistic psychologist and EMDR therapist. Knowing that everyone is unique, I prioritise deep, responsive listening, adaptive exploration and create a safe space for you to speak your innermost thoughts so that you can honour all parts of yourself. Most people experience significant improvements in emotional well-being within just a few sessions.
(02) 5604 9619 View (02) 5604 9619
Photo of Paula Vermunt, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Paula Vermunt
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Uki, NSW 2484
I am also a qualified Biofield Tuning practioner, using the healing power of sound to address trauma held in and around the body, increasing health, creativity, wellbeing and performance.
My approach to working with you is deeply present, creating the space for exploration, to heal, to grow and to discover the inner resources that are uniquely yours. I am passionate about the journey of walking beside you as you transition through life changes, connecting more deeply with your authentic self. Your journey is fully supported and respected for its own timing and unique healing process. I work holistically involving the mind, body, heart and spirit. This work is deep, transformative and empowering.
I am also a qualified Biofield Tuning practioner, using the healing power of sound to address trauma held in and around the body, increasing health, creativity, wellbeing and performance.
My approach to working with you is deeply present, creating the space for exploration, to heal, to grow and to discover the inner resources that are uniquely yours. I am passionate about the journey of walking beside you as you transition through life changes, connecting more deeply with your authentic self. Your journey is fully supported and respected for its own timing and unique healing process. I work holistically involving the mind, body, heart and spirit. This work is deep, transformative and empowering.
(02) 5603 4328 View (02) 5603 4328
Photo of Zare Edwards, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Zare Edwards
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Ewingsdale, NSW 2481
Zare is a Masters trained psychologist who focuses on developing warm, respectful, and empathic therapeutic relationships with clients. With Zare, the therapy process is collaborative and trauma informed, to ensure safety, effectiveness, and sustainability. She has a particular interest in relating brain and nervous system function to clients’ lived experiences, empowering their capacity to self-regulate, develop self-compassion, and problem-solve effectively. She is a mother, a partner, has owned small businesses in health and hospitality, and has broad life and occupational experience.
Zare is a Masters trained psychologist who focuses on developing warm, respectful, and empathic therapeutic relationships with clients. With Zare, the therapy process is collaborative and trauma informed, to ensure safety, effectiveness, and sustainability. She has a particular interest in relating brain and nervous system function to clients’ lived experiences, empowering their capacity to self-regulate, develop self-compassion, and problem-solve effectively. She is a mother, a partner, has owned small businesses in health and hospitality, and has broad life and occupational experience.
(02) 5661 6161 View (02) 5661 6161
Photo of Monika Obirek - Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Monika Obirek - Psychotherapist
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mullumbimby, NSW 2482
With over a decade of experience in depth psychotherapy, my approach is experiential and highly trauma-informed.
Are you struggling to move on from a past or current relationship, and feeling like you are stuck? You may be doubting yourself and analysing what you think you may have done wrong. You are likely to be in a lot of pain. As an abandonment trauma therapist and coach, I specialize in guiding individuals through the intricate journey of healing from relational wounds. Whether you've experienced narcissistic abuse, anxious/avoidant dynamics, or found yourself in an emotionally unhealthy or toxic connection. I'm here to support you to reclaim your power, rebuild your self-worth and reconnect with your inner joy and purpose.
With over a decade of experience in depth psychotherapy, my approach is experiential and highly trauma-informed.
Are you struggling to move on from a past or current relationship, and feeling like you are stuck? You may be doubting yourself and analysing what you think you may have done wrong. You are likely to be in a lot of pain. As an abandonment trauma therapist and coach, I specialize in guiding individuals through the intricate journey of healing from relational wounds. Whether you've experienced narcissistic abuse, anxious/avoidant dynamics, or found yourself in an emotionally unhealthy or toxic connection. I'm here to support you to reclaim your power, rebuild your self-worth and reconnect with your inner joy and purpose.
(02) 5605 4934 View (02) 5605 4934
Photo of Dr Christine Ellisdon, PsychD, MAPS, Psychologist
Dr Christine Ellisdon
Psychologist, PsychD, MAPS
Verified Verified
Byron Bay, NSW 2481
Trauma, anxiety, relationship issues, insomnia are areas of special interest.
I offer in-person psychological counselling in Gold Coast and Byron Bay, plus Telehealth worldwide. Counselling can be an empowering process that supports you to develop a deeper understanding of the areas of life that are preventing you from living a full and enriching life. Many people experience difficulties with truly understanding themselves, why their relationships are stressful or dissatisfying, why they feel they're not succeeding in their work, why they engage in self-defeating behaviour patterns and self-critical ways of thinking. Counselling can help you answer these "whys" and support you in making the necessary changes.
Trauma, anxiety, relationship issues, insomnia are areas of special interest.
I offer in-person psychological counselling in Gold Coast and Byron Bay, plus Telehealth worldwide. Counselling can be an empowering process that supports you to develop a deeper understanding of the areas of life that are preventing you from living a full and enriching life. Many people experience difficulties with truly understanding themselves, why their relationships are stressful or dissatisfying, why they feel they're not succeeding in their work, why they engage in self-defeating behaviour patterns and self-critical ways of thinking. Counselling can help you answer these "whys" and support you in making the necessary changes.
(03) 9008 1947 View (03) 9008 1947
Photo of Shellie Worth, ACA-L1, Counsellor
Shellie Worth
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Broken Head, NSW 2481
Together, we use a blend of practices to explore your unhelpful patterns & limiting beliefs, transforming your trauma responses to more helpful behaviours.
Many of us have early negative relational experiences that deeply shape our adult behaviours, often manifesting in unhelpful ways that leave us feeling stuck, misunderstood, or disconnected. These early experiences can lead to challenges in our personal or professional lives, where familiar patterns of trauma responses—such as overspending, avoidance or people-pleasing —can surface again and again. Recognizing these patterns is the first step toward understanding how they are affecting your life. While understanding these patterns can be challenging, it’s also the key to transforming them.
Together, we use a blend of practices to explore your unhelpful patterns & limiting beliefs, transforming your trauma responses to more helpful behaviours.
Many of us have early negative relational experiences that deeply shape our adult behaviours, often manifesting in unhelpful ways that leave us feeling stuck, misunderstood, or disconnected. These early experiences can lead to challenges in our personal or professional lives, where familiar patterns of trauma responses—such as overspending, avoidance or people-pleasing —can surface again and again. Recognizing these patterns is the first step toward understanding how they are affecting your life. While understanding these patterns can be challenging, it’s also the key to transforming them.
(02) 5604 2582 x61 View (02) 5604 2582 x61
Photo of Monika McIntosh, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Monika McIntosh
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
If you are worried about your child, feel overwhelmed with life demands, complicated relationships, parenting or wish to heal from your past trauma or help your child to heal, I look forward to helping you.
I am a Clinical Psychotherapist, Counsellor and EMDR therapist specialising in child, adolescent and adult development, mental health and trauma across lifespan. I am deeply aware that the story we each bring to therapy is unique. I am passionate about creating a safe and nurturing space that enables my clients, regardless of age, to find their own voice and live an authentic, fulfilling life. I believe that through having a safe space to explore our stories, feelings, thoughts, and embodied communication, we can transform this awareness into energy that supports deeper connection to self and to people and the world around us.
If you are worried about your child, feel overwhelmed with life demands, complicated relationships, parenting or wish to heal from your past trauma or help your child to heal, I look forward to helping you.
I am a Clinical Psychotherapist, Counsellor and EMDR therapist specialising in child, adolescent and adult development, mental health and trauma across lifespan. I am deeply aware that the story we each bring to therapy is unique. I am passionate about creating a safe and nurturing space that enables my clients, regardless of age, to find their own voice and live an authentic, fulfilling life. I believe that through having a safe space to explore our stories, feelings, thoughts, and embodied communication, we can transform this awareness into energy that supports deeper connection to self and to people and the world around us.
(02) 5657 6577 View (02) 5657 6577
Photo of Lisa Toman, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Lisa Toman
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Specialized training in addiction and trauma significantly informs my clinical work.
I'm here to guide your personal growth journey. Like seeds, humans thrive in nurturing environments. I explore life's interconnectedness, enriching our well-being. Challenges are opportunities for transformation. Over the years, I've had the privilege of assisting numerous individuals in turning these challenges into sources of vitality, passion and fulfilment. Every challenge uncovers hidden potential. We'll delve deep, uncovering root causes for lasting healing and growth, allowing you to flourish authentically.
Specialized training in addiction and trauma significantly informs my clinical work.
I'm here to guide your personal growth journey. Like seeds, humans thrive in nurturing environments. I explore life's interconnectedness, enriching our well-being. Challenges are opportunities for transformation. Over the years, I've had the privilege of assisting numerous individuals in turning these challenges into sources of vitality, passion and fulfilment. Every challenge uncovers hidden potential. We'll delve deep, uncovering root causes for lasting healing and growth, allowing you to flourish authentically.
(02) 5604 8040 View (02) 5604 8040
Photo of Azriel Re'shel, MA, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Azriel Re'shel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Mullumbimby, NSW 2482
Azriel s an EMDR Therapist, Art Therapist & Mental Health Social Worker providing evidence and creative based therapies for balance and wellbeing. I work with individuals who are seeking a deeper meaning to life & wanting to resolve and heal past trauma to rediscover clarity, joy and purpose in life. I’ve worked in private practice & with a variety of organisations in mental health care, family violence and trauma. I work collaboratively to empower you to resolve trauma and create a life you love, by utilising art & expressive therapies, mindfulness & Trauma Sensitive Yoga techniques along with evidence-based psychotherapy.
Azriel s an EMDR Therapist, Art Therapist & Mental Health Social Worker providing evidence and creative based therapies for balance and wellbeing. I work with individuals who are seeking a deeper meaning to life & wanting to resolve and heal past trauma to rediscover clarity, joy and purpose in life. I’ve worked in private practice & with a variety of organisations in mental health care, family violence and trauma. I work collaboratively to empower you to resolve trauma and create a life you love, by utilising art & expressive therapies, mindfulness & Trauma Sensitive Yoga techniques along with evidence-based psychotherapy.
(02) 5604 0401 View (02) 5604 0401
Photo of Adam Blanch - Good Psychology, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Good Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Byron Bay, NSW 2481
The way I work is based on decades of study, training and experience but also built on lived experience of recovering from trauma and psychological illness.
If you are suffering from psychological and emotional pain, or problematic behaviours, I can help you to explore, understand and resolve what is causing them. Mental illness and psychological pain is confusing and often overwhelming, but it can be resolved and recovered from.
The way I work is based on decades of study, training and experience but also built on lived experience of recovering from trauma and psychological illness.
If you are suffering from psychological and emotional pain, or problematic behaviours, I can help you to explore, understand and resolve what is causing them. Mental illness and psychological pain is confusing and often overwhelming, but it can be resolved and recovered from.
(08) 9126 9341 View (08) 9126 9341
Photo of Karin McLennan, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Karin McLennan
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Byron Bay, NSW 2481
I was witness to enormous global trauma and I experienced my own.
Conflicts, challenging life circumstances and all difficult things literally shake up our world and invite us to interact with life in new ways. These transitions often uproot us, sometimes in ways we aren’t prepared for or don’t want to deal with. Yet these roadblocks can lead you to yourself, and even though this can be painful and difficult to navigate, once you move through them, you’ll appreciate they facilitated your growth as a person. To heal from major life challenges, we need to change our thoughts and belief systems to allow for new ways of responding and experiencing life. For nothing really changes, until you do.
I was witness to enormous global trauma and I experienced my own.
Conflicts, challenging life circumstances and all difficult things literally shake up our world and invite us to interact with life in new ways. These transitions often uproot us, sometimes in ways we aren’t prepared for or don’t want to deal with. Yet these roadblocks can lead you to yourself, and even though this can be painful and difficult to navigate, once you move through them, you’ll appreciate they facilitated your growth as a person. To heal from major life challenges, we need to change our thoughts and belief systems to allow for new ways of responding and experiencing life. For nothing really changes, until you do.
(03) 4422 4239 View (03) 4422 4239
Photo of Andi Saunders, ACA-L1, Counsellor
Andi Saunders
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Lismore, NSW 2480
My clients encompass a diverse group. They often struggle with substance and behavioural addictions, trauma, attachment issues and co-dependency. They may be facing the challenges of aging or are a part of the farming community. Their common needs include navigating life transitions, reducing harmful habits, fostering healthy relationships and boundaries, boosting self-esteem and finding relational and social support. Ultimately, they desire to move from mere survival to seeking a fulfilling and balanced life.
My clients encompass a diverse group. They often struggle with substance and behavioural addictions, trauma, attachment issues and co-dependency. They may be facing the challenges of aging or are a part of the farming community. Their common needs include navigating life transitions, reducing harmful habits, fostering healthy relationships and boundaries, boosting self-esteem and finding relational and social support. Ultimately, they desire to move from mere survival to seeking a fulfilling and balanced life.
(02) 5610 9012 View (02) 5610 9012
Photo of Elaine Pollen, MA, MAPS, Psychologist
Elaine Pollen
Psychologist, MA, MAPS
Verified Verified
Online Only
Treatment approaches may include CBT, Trauma-Focused, Mindfulness, DBT, ACT, Interpersonal Psychotherapy and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT).
Elaine is a caring and compassionate Psychologist with a depth of experience treating a range of difficulties including anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder ( PTSD), childhood sexual abuse, complex trauma, grief and loss, separated parenting, relationship conflict, adjustment issues, and self-esteem difficulties. Elaine believes that everyone has the innate capacity to heal themselves and she sees her role as working together with clients to help them find their equilibrium/balance, reconnect them to their strengths and their capacity to create a stronger sense of self and wellbeing in their lives.
Treatment approaches may include CBT, Trauma-Focused, Mindfulness, DBT, ACT, Interpersonal Psychotherapy and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT).
Elaine is a caring and compassionate Psychologist with a depth of experience treating a range of difficulties including anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder ( PTSD), childhood sexual abuse, complex trauma, grief and loss, separated parenting, relationship conflict, adjustment issues, and self-esteem difficulties. Elaine believes that everyone has the innate capacity to heal themselves and she sees her role as working together with clients to help them find their equilibrium/balance, reconnect them to their strengths and their capacity to create a stronger sense of self and wellbeing in their lives.
(02) 5602 4036 View (02) 5602 4036
Photo of Nadine Jayne, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Nadine Jayne
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Byron Bay, NSW 2481
Using a holistic and trauma-informed approach, I draw upon insights from neuroscience, Buddhist psychology, attachment and systems theory, Counselling, and Hakomi Somatic Psychotherapy.
Do you want to untangle the issues driving destructive behaviours, explore the mind-body connection and enhance self-awareness, acceptance, and love? Perhaps you're curious about why you respond to life the way you do and want to learn tools to achieve healthy interpersonal relationships. Or maybe you're ready to slowly start working through psychological trauma to regain a sense of safety and predictability? I work mainly with adults, who are navigating a variety of challenges: including stress, anxiety, grief, and depression causing feelings of overwhelm or even unmanageable suffering.
Using a holistic and trauma-informed approach, I draw upon insights from neuroscience, Buddhist psychology, attachment and systems theory, Counselling, and Hakomi Somatic Psychotherapy.
Do you want to untangle the issues driving destructive behaviours, explore the mind-body connection and enhance self-awareness, acceptance, and love? Perhaps you're curious about why you respond to life the way you do and want to learn tools to achieve healthy interpersonal relationships. Or maybe you're ready to slowly start working through psychological trauma to regain a sense of safety and predictability? I work mainly with adults, who are navigating a variety of challenges: including stress, anxiety, grief, and depression causing feelings of overwhelm or even unmanageable suffering.
(02) 5746 5378 View (02) 5746 5378
Photo of Tania Mattiocco, ACA-L2, Psychotherapist
Tania Mattiocco
Psychotherapist, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Byron Bay, NSW 2481
I work with individuals that want a deeper connection to themselves and others, so they can find their own way forward with their lives. Whatever is getting in your way (e.g. anxiety, trauma, depression, relationship issues) I can help you embody and ground yourself so that your nervous system can settle, and we can journey towards the root causes and release them from your body and behaviour. I love helping people come home to themselves. I find this to be the most empowered way of moving through life.
I work with individuals that want a deeper connection to themselves and others, so they can find their own way forward with their lives. Whatever is getting in your way (e.g. anxiety, trauma, depression, relationship issues) I can help you embody and ground yourself so that your nervous system can settle, and we can journey towards the root causes and release them from your body and behaviour. I love helping people come home to themselves. I find this to be the most empowered way of moving through life.
(07) 5655 7416 View (07) 5655 7416
Photo of Christina de Wit, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Christina de Wit
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Billinudgel, NSW 2483
I work with many modalitiies and have extensive training in resolving (the effects of) trauma through EMD&R.
When you are scrolling here, you might be struggling with emotional hardship and/or psychological pain in the form of anxious or depressed feelings, stress,loneliness, difficulty coping, grief, etc. I have found myself in those shoes at different times in my life; searching for someone capable and kind who would be able to support me. In my experience, it was invaluable to have a therapist who, besides being experienced and skillfull, was warm and personable and able to really meet me. I wish to offer such service for my clients. I have worked for many years in various public health roles and over 12 years in private practice.
I work with many modalitiies and have extensive training in resolving (the effects of) trauma through EMD&R.
When you are scrolling here, you might be struggling with emotional hardship and/or psychological pain in the form of anxious or depressed feelings, stress,loneliness, difficulty coping, grief, etc. I have found myself in those shoes at different times in my life; searching for someone capable and kind who would be able to support me. In my experience, it was invaluable to have a therapist who, besides being experienced and skillfull, was warm and personable and able to really meet me. I wish to offer such service for my clients. I have worked for many years in various public health roles and over 12 years in private practice.
(02) 5605 0980 View (02) 5605 0980
Photo of Luke Mahon, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Luke Mahon
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Byron Bay, NSW 2481
Extensive experience and training in addictions and childhood and adult trauma further supports my clinical work with couples and individuals.
In an age where we are loosing connection with our selves and others, I was inspired to establish a space to support people to manage life and all the stresses that come with it. Challenging times in life can lead to a disconnect, a sense of hopelessness, fear and isolation. It's a sign of strength to reach out for support. Humans are born wired for connection – it’s in our DNA. Through Psychotherapy, Counselling and mindfulness practices my intention is to facilitate connection, awareness and healthy emotional relationships with ourselves and in turn, those around us.
Extensive experience and training in addictions and childhood and adult trauma further supports my clinical work with couples and individuals.
In an age where we are loosing connection with our selves and others, I was inspired to establish a space to support people to manage life and all the stresses that come with it. Challenging times in life can lead to a disconnect, a sense of hopelessness, fear and isolation. It's a sign of strength to reach out for support. Humans are born wired for connection – it’s in our DNA. Through Psychotherapy, Counselling and mindfulness practices my intention is to facilitate connection, awareness and healthy emotional relationships with ourselves and in turn, those around us.
(02) 8074 5828 View (02) 8074 5828
Photo of Joanne Walker, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Joanne Walker
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mullumbimby, NSW 2482
I have spent many years working with adults, children, families and professionals most notably those that have experienced trauma, but also addiction, grief, anxiety, emotional, relationship, parenting and other difficulties. I have spent time in indigenous communities and bring cultural awareness and sensitivity to a variety of cultural and other minority groups such as gender diverse.
I have spent many years working with adults, children, families and professionals most notably those that have experienced trauma, but also addiction, grief, anxiety, emotional, relationship, parenting and other difficulties. I have spent time in indigenous communities and bring cultural awareness and sensitivity to a variety of cultural and other minority groups such as gender diverse.
(07) 5655 7413 View (07) 5655 7413

See more therapy options for Richmond-Tweed

Trauma and PTSD Counsellors

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.