Trauma and PTSD Counselling in Sydney, NSW

Photo of Ash Rehn, MSc, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ash Rehn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSc, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Surry Hills, NSW 2010
I specialise in concerns about toxic relationships, religious trauma, pornography use problems and ‘sex addiction’ from a sexuality-affirmative perspective.
I will listen, guide you with tools and strategies and encourage you to trust yourself again. Through open discussion, you can improve the relationship you have with yourself and others. My clients include LGBTQ+ identifying people, those exploring sexuality and all kinds of people recovering from religious abuse, coercive control, domestic violence and addiction. Whether you are experiencing anger, guilt, grief, shame, fear, loneliness, confusion or something else, you can benefit from professional support. These sessions give you a sounding board, a witness to your trauma or professional guidance and tools. It's your choice.
I specialise in concerns about toxic relationships, religious trauma, pornography use problems and ‘sex addiction’ from a sexuality-affirmative perspective.
I will listen, guide you with tools and strategies and encourage you to trust yourself again. Through open discussion, you can improve the relationship you have with yourself and others. My clients include LGBTQ+ identifying people, those exploring sexuality and all kinds of people recovering from religious abuse, coercive control, domestic violence and addiction. Whether you are experiencing anger, guilt, grief, shame, fear, loneliness, confusion or something else, you can benefit from professional support. These sessions give you a sounding board, a witness to your trauma or professional guidance and tools. It's your choice.
(02) 9100 0518 View (02) 9100 0518
Photo of Nina Thompson, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Nina Thompson
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenwich, NSW 2065
Along with my private practice work, I also work at one of Australia's leading treatment centres for Addiction, Trauma and Mental Health.
Using a combination of therapy, the latest research in neurobiology and behavioural tools, I support my clients to understand themselves holistically - so that they are not caught up in the past or anxious about the future, but feel empowered to work with the reality of the present moment so that they can live rich and rewarding lives.
Along with my private practice work, I also work at one of Australia's leading treatment centres for Addiction, Trauma and Mental Health.
Using a combination of therapy, the latest research in neurobiology and behavioural tools, I support my clients to understand themselves holistically - so that they are not caught up in the past or anxious about the future, but feel empowered to work with the reality of the present moment so that they can live rich and rewarding lives.
(02) 9100 0186 View (02) 9100 0186
Photo of Hee Zee Lu, PACFA, Counsellor
Hee Zee Lu
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Chatswood, NSW 2067
I hold certification with the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA) and am an approved counsellor affiliated with NSW Victim Services. I specialize in providing tailored outpatient psychological care that effectively addresses a range of challenges including trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and support for victims and caregivers navigating difficulties.
I hold certification with the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA) and am an approved counsellor affiliated with NSW Victim Services. I specialize in providing tailored outpatient psychological care that effectively addresses a range of challenges including trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and support for victims and caregivers navigating difficulties.
(02) 9100 0600 View (02) 9100 0600
Photo of Mj (Mary Joy) Basilio, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Mj (Mary Joy) Basilio
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wahroonga, NSW 2076
Waitlist for new clients
I am dedicated to delivering trauma-focused and trauma-informed care that promotes holistic recovery.
My passion lies in working with people who are ready to add joy, love, and ease to their lives. Overcoming the barriers of depression, anxiety, self-doubt, and low confidence can be daunting, but seeking help is the first stride toward a brighter future. Together we can embark on a journey to tap into your inner beauty, strength, and resilience, transforming the relationships with yourself and with those you love. By nurturing these qualities, we cultivate a solid foundation that paves the way for a life filled with greater joy, fulfillment, and purpose. If you're ready to make some changes, let's set up a time to talk.
I am dedicated to delivering trauma-focused and trauma-informed care that promotes holistic recovery.
My passion lies in working with people who are ready to add joy, love, and ease to their lives. Overcoming the barriers of depression, anxiety, self-doubt, and low confidence can be daunting, but seeking help is the first stride toward a brighter future. Together we can embark on a journey to tap into your inner beauty, strength, and resilience, transforming the relationships with yourself and with those you love. By nurturing these qualities, we cultivate a solid foundation that paves the way for a life filled with greater joy, fulfillment, and purpose. If you're ready to make some changes, let's set up a time to talk.
(02) 9541 8788 View (02) 9541 8788
Photo of Eka Goh - Luka | Counselling & Positive Behaviour Support, MC, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Luka | Counselling & Positive Behaviour Support
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rosebery, NSW 2018
My clients would also recognise someone who has lived through trauma.
My approach is you-centered, which means whilst I would try to gently initiate explorations, you, the client, are always in the driver's seat. Further, my stance on providing trauma-informed care includes acknowledging that some of our pasts can still be a place too hard to revisit, too unbearable to face. I affirm that to do a deep work together does not necessarily need a revisit the gory details of your traumatic past. Still, trauma is a shadow with many faces; people also process differently. So when you'd wish & your safety toolkit is in place, I will be walking with you through every step of opening that can.
My clients would also recognise someone who has lived through trauma.
My approach is you-centered, which means whilst I would try to gently initiate explorations, you, the client, are always in the driver's seat. Further, my stance on providing trauma-informed care includes acknowledging that some of our pasts can still be a place too hard to revisit, too unbearable to face. I affirm that to do a deep work together does not necessarily need a revisit the gory details of your traumatic past. Still, trauma is a shadow with many faces; people also process differently. So when you'd wish & your safety toolkit is in place, I will be walking with you through every step of opening that can.
(02) 9100 0459 View (02) 9100 0459
Photo of Amara Inostroza, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Amara Inostroza
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Parramatta, NSW 2150
Specialised training interventions include Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Family Therapy, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy skills (DBT), Trauma work (EMDR), Acceptance and Commitment and Schema Therapy.
Amara is a Clinical Psychologist with a Master in Clinical Psychology and a Master in Educational and Developmental Psychology. She has specialised in both adult and child psychology and has working in various roles in the public and private sector of health. She has extensive experience working with mood disorders (depression), anxiety disorders (including selective mutism, OCD, and hoarding), grief and bereavement, trauma, parenting and behavioural issues, and family relationships. Amara has a collaborative approach with clients by helping to identify factors that may be maintaining issues and setting realistic achievable goals.
Specialised training interventions include Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Family Therapy, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy skills (DBT), Trauma work (EMDR), Acceptance and Commitment and Schema Therapy.
Amara is a Clinical Psychologist with a Master in Clinical Psychology and a Master in Educational and Developmental Psychology. She has specialised in both adult and child psychology and has working in various roles in the public and private sector of health. She has extensive experience working with mood disorders (depression), anxiety disorders (including selective mutism, OCD, and hoarding), grief and bereavement, trauma, parenting and behavioural issues, and family relationships. Amara has a collaborative approach with clients by helping to identify factors that may be maintaining issues and setting realistic achievable goals.
(02) 8074 1673 View (02) 8074 1673
Photo of Dr Jason Bos, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Dr Jason Bos
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rose Bay, NSW 2029
I am a clinical psychologist with a warm, empathic and non-judgemental approach. My overarching aim is to create a therapeutic space where you can freely explore and express vulnerable thoughts and emotions, enabling you to gain a deeper and more profound understanding of yourself. As a clinical psychologist, I have extensive expertise in helping people with a range of mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, trauma and PTSD, OCD, personality-related problems and issues relating to sexuality and identity.
I am a clinical psychologist with a warm, empathic and non-judgemental approach. My overarching aim is to create a therapeutic space where you can freely explore and express vulnerable thoughts and emotions, enabling you to gain a deeper and more profound understanding of yourself. As a clinical psychologist, I have extensive expertise in helping people with a range of mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, trauma and PTSD, OCD, personality-related problems and issues relating to sexuality and identity.
(02) 9158 6281 View (02) 9158 6281
Photo of Katherine Gambell, PACFA, Counsellor
Katherine Gambell
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
I have a particular interest in trauma and somatic therapy models, utilizing the therapeutic relationship as one of the most important assets.
Are you looking for someone to process life's issues with? Perhaps you have experienced trauma, abuse, domestic violence, relationship difficulties, grief, depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts or other issues that you keep you stuck. Are you looking for someone who will walk with you on the journey and seek to really understand you? Maybe you are looking for some deeper understanding of what is going on, some goals to aim for, or some tools to help you along the way? Maybe you just need someone to listen?
I have a particular interest in trauma and somatic therapy models, utilizing the therapeutic relationship as one of the most important assets.
Are you looking for someone to process life's issues with? Perhaps you have experienced trauma, abuse, domestic violence, relationship difficulties, grief, depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts or other issues that you keep you stuck. Are you looking for someone who will walk with you on the journey and seek to really understand you? Maybe you are looking for some deeper understanding of what is going on, some goals to aim for, or some tools to help you along the way? Maybe you just need someone to listen?
(02) 8294 9321 View (02) 8294 9321
Photo of Fiona Denton - Denton Clinical Psychology, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Denton Clinical Psychology
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
I offer therapy to adults most often for depression, anxiety, trauma or relationship difficulties.
I'm a firm believer that everyone could benefit from seeing a psychologist. We may not think twice about seeing GPs, physios, optometrists etc, all of which are important. But so is our psychological and emotional health. Whether you are facing a mental illness, going through a tough season of life, or wanting to learn how to optimise your relationships, please reach out. It is a privilege to be invited into your personal world so that you can be truly heard and seen. Therapy can help you gain insight and make changes that perhaps have been too hard to face until now. All of this will be at your own pace and questions are welcome.
I offer therapy to adults most often for depression, anxiety, trauma or relationship difficulties.
I'm a firm believer that everyone could benefit from seeing a psychologist. We may not think twice about seeing GPs, physios, optometrists etc, all of which are important. But so is our psychological and emotional health. Whether you are facing a mental illness, going through a tough season of life, or wanting to learn how to optimise your relationships, please reach out. It is a privilege to be invited into your personal world so that you can be truly heard and seen. Therapy can help you gain insight and make changes that perhaps have been too hard to face until now. All of this will be at your own pace and questions are welcome.
(02) 8403 2406 View (02) 8403 2406
Photo of Eleanor Tepper, MA, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Eleanor Tepper
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Surry Hills, NSW 2010
I offer animal-assisted walk & talk therapy in Sydney and the Inner West, focused on creating a safe & neutral space where the counsellor and client can work together. My approach is person-centred, collaborative, and trauma-informed. Together we can work towards learning to hold space for yourself and to manage life's challenges with self-compassion. My greyhound, Ruben, is a certified therapy dog and available to attend walk & talk sessions. I also provide telehealth appointments. Walk & talk sessions can also be without Ruben.
I offer animal-assisted walk & talk therapy in Sydney and the Inner West, focused on creating a safe & neutral space where the counsellor and client can work together. My approach is person-centred, collaborative, and trauma-informed. Together we can work towards learning to hold space for yourself and to manage life's challenges with self-compassion. My greyhound, Ruben, is a certified therapy dog and available to attend walk & talk sessions. I also provide telehealth appointments. Walk & talk sessions can also be without Ruben.
(02) 9100 0848 View (02) 9100 0848
Photo of Jane O’Keeffe, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Jane O’Keeffe
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Paddington, NSW 2021
I understand the impact of trauma on the body.
I have a compassionate and holistic approach to my work. I help people look into and connect with themselves and understand where they have come from and where they can go to next. I help people deal with anxiety - it may be from the past, present or due to change. In times of change we can feel uncertain, have self doubt or have old fears arise. I put tools in people's pockets to empower them to make healthy changes.
I understand the impact of trauma on the body.
I have a compassionate and holistic approach to my work. I help people look into and connect with themselves and understand where they have come from and where they can go to next. I help people deal with anxiety - it may be from the past, present or due to change. In times of change we can feel uncertain, have self doubt or have old fears arise. I put tools in people's pockets to empower them to make healthy changes.
(02) 9100 0016 View (02) 9100 0016
Photo of Natasha Kiemel-Incorvaia, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Natasha Kiemel-Incorvaia
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Online Only
With over 9 years experience as a psychologist I am skilled at combining a range of trauma (e.g. EMDR), body-based (e.g. somatic) and cognitive based therapies to support my clients holistically. This includes the vagus nerve and gut. I can support you with anxiety, stress, depression, PTSD, mindset, motivation, study, career, relationships, friendships, pregnancy, post-partum, tic disorders and more. My service is a telehealth ONLY service that is streamlined to meet your needs and fit around your busy schedule. I also offer online course options to help support your nervous system if your not your not quite ready to start therapy.
With over 9 years experience as a psychologist I am skilled at combining a range of trauma (e.g. EMDR), body-based (e.g. somatic) and cognitive based therapies to support my clients holistically. This includes the vagus nerve and gut. I can support you with anxiety, stress, depression, PTSD, mindset, motivation, study, career, relationships, friendships, pregnancy, post-partum, tic disorders and more. My service is a telehealth ONLY service that is streamlined to meet your needs and fit around your busy schedule. I also offer online course options to help support your nervous system if your not your not quite ready to start therapy.
(02) 9100 0843 View (02) 9100 0843
Photo of Peter Huang, MC, PACFA, Counsellor
Peter Huang
Counsellor, MC, PACFA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
He invites you to come on a journey of healing where there will be rediscovery of self, releasing of hurts and trauma and rebuilding of new things.
Peter understands messiness of life and how perfectly imperfect we as humans are. He believes that there is always beauty, strength and hope to be found in every circumstance. Peter’s ethos when it comes to counselling is to journey with you; helping you to process the hurt and trauma, celebrate the wins, grieve the losses, rediscover who you are, engaging in desired behavioural changes for a more meaningful and fulfilled life and lastly the discovery priceless gems on the way.
He invites you to come on a journey of healing where there will be rediscovery of self, releasing of hurts and trauma and rebuilding of new things.
Peter understands messiness of life and how perfectly imperfect we as humans are. He believes that there is always beauty, strength and hope to be found in every circumstance. Peter’s ethos when it comes to counselling is to journey with you; helping you to process the hurt and trauma, celebrate the wins, grieve the losses, rediscover who you are, engaging in desired behavioural changes for a more meaningful and fulfilled life and lastly the discovery priceless gems on the way.
(02) 7804 4861 View (02) 7804 4861
Photo of Ethel Miman - Fountain of Hope - Counselling Services, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Fountain of Hope - Counselling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Ethel is a Senior Social Worker and Counsellor with 16 yrs+ experience and brings genuine care and a client centred approach to her therapy sessions. She has provided counselling to clients presenting with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, sleep issues, chronic illnesses, parenting, life transitions, stress, trauma, addiction & suicidality. Ethel has extensive experience supporting children, adolescents and adults within her private practice and also within specialist support services ie. Mental Health Services and Community Services.
Ethel is a Senior Social Worker and Counsellor with 16 yrs+ experience and brings genuine care and a client centred approach to her therapy sessions. She has provided counselling to clients presenting with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, sleep issues, chronic illnesses, parenting, life transitions, stress, trauma, addiction & suicidality. Ethel has extensive experience supporting children, adolescents and adults within her private practice and also within specialist support services ie. Mental Health Services and Community Services.
(02) 8503 4206 View (02) 8503 4206
Photo of Biljana (Billi) Rufati, PACFA, Counsellor
Biljana (Billi) Rufati
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Burwood, NSW 2134
It is said that the trauma we experienced in our past can inform the way we learn to experience our current world. Not having the supports we needed along the way may have also lead us to cope in unhealthy ways, all while searching for ease and peace. Unique to us all, unresolved pain and disconnection can feel too complex or overwhelming to face by ourselves. For many, a range of bio-psycho-social issues develop, including anxiety, depression, loss of motivation, interpersonal conflicts or a negative view of self or the world. So how do we begin to identify and learn healthier ways of coping and reconnecting with the self?
It is said that the trauma we experienced in our past can inform the way we learn to experience our current world. Not having the supports we needed along the way may have also lead us to cope in unhealthy ways, all while searching for ease and peace. Unique to us all, unresolved pain and disconnection can feel too complex or overwhelming to face by ourselves. For many, a range of bio-psycho-social issues develop, including anxiety, depression, loss of motivation, interpersonal conflicts or a negative view of self or the world. So how do we begin to identify and learn healthier ways of coping and reconnecting with the self?
(02) 9100 0595 View (02) 9100 0595
Photo of Dr Ashton Roberts, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Dr Ashton Roberts
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am LGBTQIA+ affirmative, and enjoy helping people adjust to new life circumstances, and exploring identity, trauma, neurodiversity and relationship difficulties.
My clinical practice focuses on creating a warm, attentive, thoughtful, and comfortable space. I encourage emotional understanding, growth, exploration, and vulnerability, in order to help people achieve whatever they are seeking. I recognise that treatment needs to be individual and tailored, and I will take the time to understand the needs of each person. I am based in Rozelle, NSW, and currently offer only Telehealth appointments on Fridays.
I am LGBTQIA+ affirmative, and enjoy helping people adjust to new life circumstances, and exploring identity, trauma, neurodiversity and relationship difficulties.
My clinical practice focuses on creating a warm, attentive, thoughtful, and comfortable space. I encourage emotional understanding, growth, exploration, and vulnerability, in order to help people achieve whatever they are seeking. I recognise that treatment needs to be individual and tailored, and I will take the time to understand the needs of each person. I am based in Rozelle, NSW, and currently offer only Telehealth appointments on Fridays.
(02) 8806 0852 View (02) 8806 0852
Photo of Kaja Gregory - The Trauma and Anxiety Clinic, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
The Trauma and Anxiety Clinic
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Balmain, NSW 2041
Waitlist for new clients
I have worked for a number of years in the specialist trauma services working with people who have complex PTSD and PTSD using a range of evidence based therapies including EMDR, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Narrative Exposure Therapy, Trauma Focused Cognitive Therapy and Compassion Focused Therapy.
My current favourite quote is "You are not Lazy, unmotivated, or stuck. After years of living your life in survival mode, you are exhausted. There is a difference" - Nahela Homer. It really resonates with me because therapy should be about helping you to shift perspective from that critical inner voice that tears you down and makes you feel distress (whether it's shame, guilt, anxiety, depression or anger), into a more balanced and compassionate perspective. You deserve to live a life you love, to work towards being who you want to be, or to do the things you want without fear or shame holding you back.
I have worked for a number of years in the specialist trauma services working with people who have complex PTSD and PTSD using a range of evidence based therapies including EMDR, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Narrative Exposure Therapy, Trauma Focused Cognitive Therapy and Compassion Focused Therapy.
My current favourite quote is "You are not Lazy, unmotivated, or stuck. After years of living your life in survival mode, you are exhausted. There is a difference" - Nahela Homer. It really resonates with me because therapy should be about helping you to shift perspective from that critical inner voice that tears you down and makes you feel distress (whether it's shame, guilt, anxiety, depression or anger), into a more balanced and compassionate perspective. You deserve to live a life you love, to work towards being who you want to be, or to do the things you want without fear or shame holding you back.
(02) 9100 0859 View (02) 9100 0859
Photo of Andrea Szasz - Brave Therapy TM, MSc, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Brave Therapy TM
Psychotherapist, MSc, PACFA
Verified Verified
Woollahra, NSW 2025
By finding ways to liberate yourself from the chaos and trauma of the past, you can deal with stressful situations positively, and begin to feel optimistic.
Are you feeling disconnected from yourself and others? You could be feeling depressed, maybe you suffer from anxiety. You might feel overwhelmed by your emotions at times. Sadness. Anger. Confusion. Sometimes they all mix together into one big negative feeling that threatens to overtake you. Or, maybe you just feel numb–you go about your life… like you are living in a daze not knowing what you feel or what you want. Maybe you feel simply just not good enough.
By finding ways to liberate yourself from the chaos and trauma of the past, you can deal with stressful situations positively, and begin to feel optimistic.
Are you feeling disconnected from yourself and others? You could be feeling depressed, maybe you suffer from anxiety. You might feel overwhelmed by your emotions at times. Sadness. Anger. Confusion. Sometimes they all mix together into one big negative feeling that threatens to overtake you. Or, maybe you just feel numb–you go about your life… like you are living in a daze not knowing what you feel or what you want. Maybe you feel simply just not good enough.
(02) 9100 0322 View (02) 9100 0322
Photo of Amy Joscelyne, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Amy Joscelyne
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ultimo, NSW 2007
I work from a place of respect and compassion to help you overcome challenges such as: trauma and loss, anxiety, relationship difficulties, low self-esteem, fertility issues, pregnancy loss, sexual difficulties such as vaginismus and erectile dysfunction, alcohol and substance abuse, worry, low mood, negative thinking, narcissistic abuse, difficulty finding a partner, and navigating major transitions in life. Whatever the cause of your concern, my primary goal is to support you in feeling better.
I work from a place of respect and compassion to help you overcome challenges such as: trauma and loss, anxiety, relationship difficulties, low self-esteem, fertility issues, pregnancy loss, sexual difficulties such as vaginismus and erectile dysfunction, alcohol and substance abuse, worry, low mood, negative thinking, narcissistic abuse, difficulty finding a partner, and navigating major transitions in life. Whatever the cause of your concern, my primary goal is to support you in feeling better.
(02) 9046 8415 View (02) 9046 8415
Photo of Felicity Jefferson, MA, MACPA, Psychologist
Felicity Jefferson
Psychologist, MA, MACPA
Verified Verified
Stanmore, NSW 2048
Immediate availability for in person and online sessions for adult and adolescent clients over 16 years. If you feel weighed down by the past or blocked by self-sabotaging beliefs or patterns I would be honoured to use my skills and expertise as a Clinical Psychologist to support you to heal your concerns. I am experienced in treating a range of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, OCD, eating disorders, addiction, anger, recovery from childhood abuse and/or neglect, self-esteem issues, perfectionism, procrastination and relationship difficulties. I am a sensitive, compassionate and down to earth clinician.
Immediate availability for in person and online sessions for adult and adolescent clients over 16 years. If you feel weighed down by the past or blocked by self-sabotaging beliefs or patterns I would be honoured to use my skills and expertise as a Clinical Psychologist to support you to heal your concerns. I am experienced in treating a range of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, OCD, eating disorders, addiction, anger, recovery from childhood abuse and/or neglect, self-esteem issues, perfectionism, procrastination and relationship difficulties. I am a sensitive, compassionate and down to earth clinician.
(02) 9100 0490 View (02) 9100 0490
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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.