Trauma and PTSD Counselling in Wollongong, NSW

Photo of Elizabeth Anne O'Neill, MA, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Elizabeth Anne O'Neill
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Online Only
I provide evidence-based, individualized & holistic counselling for managing issues & diagnosis. I offer a wide range of coping skills for many mental health conditions (ie. anxiety, depression & Post Traumatic Stress Disorder PTSD). I provide Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for PTSD. I offer Schema Therapy. I work with identity issues, grief, gender issues, work stress & relationship stress. I explore individual concerns respectfully & practically for recovery from mental health & issues of distress. I have +20yrs exp. Video sessions available. Also supervision provided.
I provide evidence-based, individualized & holistic counselling for managing issues & diagnosis. I offer a wide range of coping skills for many mental health conditions (ie. anxiety, depression & Post Traumatic Stress Disorder PTSD). I provide Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for PTSD. I offer Schema Therapy. I work with identity issues, grief, gender issues, work stress & relationship stress. I explore individual concerns respectfully & practically for recovery from mental health & issues of distress. I have +20yrs exp. Video sessions available. Also supervision provided.
(02) 4210 5101 View (02) 4210 5101
Photo of Ailsa Lorraine Graham - Mind Mode, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Mind Mode
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Wollongong, NSW 2500
If you have a history of trauma, addiction and/or mental health problems then I may be able to help.
I enjoy working with adults. Mindfulness and self-compassion combined with a strength based approach underpin my therapeutic style.
If you have a history of trauma, addiction and/or mental health problems then I may be able to help.
I enjoy working with adults. Mindfulness and self-compassion combined with a strength based approach underpin my therapeutic style.
(02) 4210 5141 View (02) 4210 5141
Photo of Klaudia Gebert, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Klaudia Gebert
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Wollongong, NSW 2500
Her interests include weight/shape/body image concerns, disordered eating, eating disorders, personality disorders and complex trauma.
Klaudia believes in working collaboratively with you to help you achieve your therapeutic goals. She understands that each experience is unique, and therefore treatment must be tailored to meet individual needs. Klaudia goes beyond a band-aid treatment approach to help you understand your underlying causes, what perpetuates your current difficulties and empowers you to make lifelong sustainable changes. She has an approach that is both warm and empathically challenging to help you build motivation and accountability, while getting your needs met through the therapeutic journey.
Her interests include weight/shape/body image concerns, disordered eating, eating disorders, personality disorders and complex trauma.
Klaudia believes in working collaboratively with you to help you achieve your therapeutic goals. She understands that each experience is unique, and therefore treatment must be tailored to meet individual needs. Klaudia goes beyond a band-aid treatment approach to help you understand your underlying causes, what perpetuates your current difficulties and empowers you to make lifelong sustainable changes. She has an approach that is both warm and empathically challenging to help you build motivation and accountability, while getting your needs met through the therapeutic journey.
(02) 4288 2540 View (02) 4288 2540
Photo of Dr Cecilia Kennedy, PhD, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Dr Cecilia Kennedy
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wollongong, NSW 2500
Hi, I'm Cecilia (she/her). I am trained in clinical psychology through a combined Masters/PhD (UOW) and have experience working with adults, adolescents, children, and families across a range of clinical settings and presentations. I have been working in private practice since 2021 and am grateful for the opportunity to do the work that I do. I admire the strength it takes to be vulnerable and value building a safe and compassionate relationship with clients where they can feel supported to explore their challenges. ​​​I have a particular interest in anxiety disorders, OCD, trauma/complex trauma and pre and post-natal difficulties.
Hi, I'm Cecilia (she/her). I am trained in clinical psychology through a combined Masters/PhD (UOW) and have experience working with adults, adolescents, children, and families across a range of clinical settings and presentations. I have been working in private practice since 2021 and am grateful for the opportunity to do the work that I do. I admire the strength it takes to be vulnerable and value building a safe and compassionate relationship with clients where they can feel supported to explore their challenges. ​​​I have a particular interest in anxiety disorders, OCD, trauma/complex trauma and pre and post-natal difficulties.
(02) 4214 4407 View (02) 4214 4407
Photo of Karen Lee Isbister - Becoming Whole, Psychotherapist
Becoming Whole
Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
Wollongong, NSW 2500
Karen brings the value of 20 years experience. Are you a determined, smart, driven and creative adult or teenager? Do you try hard but things that used to work don’t seem to be working anymore? Are you experiencing any of the following? : – Anxiety – Childhood Trauma – Guilt – Depression – Abuse – Shame – Conflict – Lack of Direction – Unmet Needs – Addictions – Bullying – Peer Pressure – Communication Barriers – Emotional Pain
Karen brings the value of 20 years experience. Are you a determined, smart, driven and creative adult or teenager? Do you try hard but things that used to work don’t seem to be working anymore? Are you experiencing any of the following? : – Anxiety – Childhood Trauma – Guilt – Depression – Abuse – Shame – Conflict – Lack of Direction – Unmet Needs – Addictions – Bullying – Peer Pressure – Communication Barriers – Emotional Pain
(02) 4214 4861 View (02) 4214 4861
Photo of Jane Woodbridge, PhD, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Jane Woodbridge
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wollongong, NSW 2500
If you would like some help to make real life changes, clarify your diagnosis, reach important goals, learn new skills and strategies, improve emotion management, deepen your self-insight, recover from a mental illness, process your trauma, make difficult decisions or be supported through a crisis, get in contact with me.
Offering 10 session individualised DBT programs and EMDR.
If you would like some help to make real life changes, clarify your diagnosis, reach important goals, learn new skills and strategies, improve emotion management, deepen your self-insight, recover from a mental illness, process your trauma, make difficult decisions or be supported through a crisis, get in contact with me.
Offering 10 session individualised DBT programs and EMDR.
(02) 4214 4805 View (02) 4214 4805
Photo of Samantha Pilcher, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Samantha Pilcher
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wollongong, NSW 2500
I enjoy working with young people, adolescents, & adults experiencing a broad range of psychological concerns & life challenges, however have a particular interest in working with eating disorders (Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge Eating Disorder), complex trauma/ PTSD, attachment/relational difficulties, chronic anxiety, & perinatal/postnatal concerns.
As a clinical psychologist, I take a warm and curious approach to therapy, aiming to create a space where individuals can engage in thoughtful and reflective conversations that provide a platform for self-exploration, including understanding their fears and gradually breaking through repetitive patterns and cycles that prevent them from living the life they desire. My hope is that by gaining deeper insights into themselves, their relationships, and their needs, clients will feel empowered and confident to embrace their strengths and authentic self and ultimately navigate a path forward that feels right for them.
I enjoy working with young people, adolescents, & adults experiencing a broad range of psychological concerns & life challenges, however have a particular interest in working with eating disorders (Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge Eating Disorder), complex trauma/ PTSD, attachment/relational difficulties, chronic anxiety, & perinatal/postnatal concerns.
As a clinical psychologist, I take a warm and curious approach to therapy, aiming to create a space where individuals can engage in thoughtful and reflective conversations that provide a platform for self-exploration, including understanding their fears and gradually breaking through repetitive patterns and cycles that prevent them from living the life they desire. My hope is that by gaining deeper insights into themselves, their relationships, and their needs, clients will feel empowered and confident to embrace their strengths and authentic self and ultimately navigate a path forward that feels right for them.
(02) 4214 4538 View (02) 4214 4538
Photo of Ayesha Nhem, PACFA, Counsellor
Ayesha Nhem
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wollongong, NSW 2500
I specialize in personal development & wellness with a focus on areas of relationship issues, grief and loss, mental health and trauma.
Worries, frustrations, and disappointments are common in life. But no matter if your issues are current or recurrent, the right step is to seek help. Even if your problems right now feel like they're getting the best of you - know that there is help available for this! It takes courage to seek help and I'm glad you're here. You deserve to live a life that makes you excited to get up in the morning. As your therapist, I will help you deal with emotional and behavioural problems more effectively. ‌
I specialize in personal development & wellness with a focus on areas of relationship issues, grief and loss, mental health and trauma.
Worries, frustrations, and disappointments are common in life. But no matter if your issues are current or recurrent, the right step is to seek help. Even if your problems right now feel like they're getting the best of you - know that there is help available for this! It takes courage to seek help and I'm glad you're here. You deserve to live a life that makes you excited to get up in the morning. As your therapist, I will help you deal with emotional and behavioural problems more effectively. ‌
(02) 4210 5091 View (02) 4210 5091
Photo of Peter Gormly, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Peter Gormly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Wollongong, NSW 2500
I hold trauma-informed care and safety as central to my work.
I‘m Peter; I provide counselling for both couples and individuals. I’ve been helping people with the trauma affecting their lives for over 20 years. Trauma can include child and adolescent mental health, medical procedures, bullying, sexual assault, domestic violence, palliative care, oncology, chronic pain and homelessness. The traumatic experience remains and influences our daily lives and our decisions.
I hold trauma-informed care and safety as central to my work.
I‘m Peter; I provide counselling for both couples and individuals. I’ve been helping people with the trauma affecting their lives for over 20 years. Trauma can include child and adolescent mental health, medical procedures, bullying, sexual assault, domestic violence, palliative care, oncology, chronic pain and homelessness. The traumatic experience remains and influences our daily lives and our decisions.
(02) 9100 0749 View (02) 9100 0749
Photo of Dr Stephanie Shippen, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Dr Stephanie Shippen
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Wollongong, NSW 2500
My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, trauma, couples therapy, gender affirming care, adjusting to parenthood, eating concerns and body image and multicultural concerns.
Being human can be hard! From daily stressors to big events, life can feel overwhelming and difficult. You may feel alone in your struggles. It's important to have a place where you can let your guard down, acknowledge what you're facing, and begin healing. I love providing clients with this type of support. I help clients get to know themselves more deeply. I enjoy working with clients to identify and overcome barriers, prepare and cope with life transitions, heal from trauma, tend and befriend feelings, cultivate self-acceptance and self-compassion, build healthy relationships, and foster meaning and purpose in their life.
My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, trauma, couples therapy, gender affirming care, adjusting to parenthood, eating concerns and body image and multicultural concerns.
Being human can be hard! From daily stressors to big events, life can feel overwhelming and difficult. You may feel alone in your struggles. It's important to have a place where you can let your guard down, acknowledge what you're facing, and begin healing. I love providing clients with this type of support. I help clients get to know themselves more deeply. I enjoy working with clients to identify and overcome barriers, prepare and cope with life transitions, heal from trauma, tend and befriend feelings, cultivate self-acceptance and self-compassion, build healthy relationships, and foster meaning and purpose in their life.
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Photo of Natasha Lawson, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Natasha Lawson
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Wollongong, NSW 2500
I'm an experienced EMDR practitioner providing support to adults (ages 18+yrs) with issues such as: Acute stress response & PTSD, adjustment difficulties, stress, anxiety, skill building (e.g. communication, assertiveness, problem solving, emotion regulation & coping), significant life events/changes, sleep difficulties, and improving general wellbeing.
I'm an experienced EMDR practitioner providing support to adults (ages 18+yrs) with issues such as: Acute stress response & PTSD, adjustment difficulties, stress, anxiety, skill building (e.g. communication, assertiveness, problem solving, emotion regulation & coping), significant life events/changes, sleep difficulties, and improving general wellbeing.
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Photo of Christina Perez, MSc, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Christina Perez
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Wollongong, NSW 2500
Waitlist for new clients
I work from a client centred, trauma informed model.
I’m a Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years’ experience. I provide therapy for adults and older adults and provide treatment across a range of presenting difficulties, such as relationships, trauma, anxiety, depression, adjustment difficulties, emotion regulation difficulties and other complex mental health conditions. I provide both individual therapy and couples therapy, and am a Level 2 Gottman Certified Therapist. I’m also a Board-Certified Supervisor and provide supervision for interns looking to complete their training.
I work from a client centred, trauma informed model.
I’m a Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years’ experience. I provide therapy for adults and older adults and provide treatment across a range of presenting difficulties, such as relationships, trauma, anxiety, depression, adjustment difficulties, emotion regulation difficulties and other complex mental health conditions. I provide both individual therapy and couples therapy, and am a Level 2 Gottman Certified Therapist. I’m also a Board-Certified Supervisor and provide supervision for interns looking to complete their training.
(02) 4210 5870 View (02) 4210 5870
Photo of Nadine Wright - Inner Calm Clinical Psychology, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Inner Calm Clinical Psychology
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Wollongong, NSW 2500
We are a group of skilled Clinical Psychologists that specialise in a wide range of mental health challenges. We assess and tailor effective treatment for mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, attachment issues, difficulties with relationships, self-esteem issues, body dysmorphia, and parenting challenges. We love to work and forge a relationship of trust and collaboration on this journey inwards, it can confronting to look at our shadows but the reward of letting them drop away can be life changing. We really hope you reach out to us and start your journey.
We are a group of skilled Clinical Psychologists that specialise in a wide range of mental health challenges. We assess and tailor effective treatment for mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, attachment issues, difficulties with relationships, self-esteem issues, body dysmorphia, and parenting challenges. We love to work and forge a relationship of trust and collaboration on this journey inwards, it can confronting to look at our shadows but the reward of letting them drop away can be life changing. We really hope you reach out to us and start your journey.
(02) 9159 6616 View (02) 9159 6616
Photo of Sharon Wallace - Core Counselling Services, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Core Counselling Services
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Wollongong, NSW 2500
I often help clients unpack past trauma and difficult relationships with either parents or other significant people in their lives.
Are you experiencing difficulty in life at the moment? I help clients address problems in a positive way by helping to clarify the issues, increase self-awareness, empower, explore options and develop strategies . As an experienced and Registered Counsellor, I provide a safe place to be heard and feel valued. I help clients question things which can help them understand why they occur at a deeper level, and provide practical tools so they feel inspired to create the change they're looking for. ​​
I often help clients unpack past trauma and difficult relationships with either parents or other significant people in their lives.
Are you experiencing difficulty in life at the moment? I help clients address problems in a positive way by helping to clarify the issues, increase self-awareness, empower, explore options and develop strategies . As an experienced and Registered Counsellor, I provide a safe place to be heard and feel valued. I help clients question things which can help them understand why they occur at a deeper level, and provide practical tools so they feel inspired to create the change they're looking for. ​​
(02) 4214 8086 View (02) 4214 8086
Photo of Sheree Blanch, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Sheree Blanch
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wollongong, NSW 2500
My treatment focuses include OCD, anxiety, depression, support with the infertility journey, perinatal (pre-and-postnatal) support, parenting, PTSD and complex trauma.
I have several years’ experience in supporting adolescents, adults and parents using a collaborative treatment approach. Depending on your needs and preferences my therapeutic approach draws on several evidence-based models including cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Interpersonal Therapy, Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT) and motivational interviewing.
My treatment focuses include OCD, anxiety, depression, support with the infertility journey, perinatal (pre-and-postnatal) support, parenting, PTSD and complex trauma.
I have several years’ experience in supporting adolescents, adults and parents using a collaborative treatment approach. Depending on your needs and preferences my therapeutic approach draws on several evidence-based models including cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Interpersonal Therapy, Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT) and motivational interviewing.
(02) 4210 5805 View (02) 4210 5805
Photo of Mia Kennedy - Mia Rochelle , MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Mia Rochelle
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Wollongong, NSW 2500
These therapies are specific to trauma which means they focus on not re-triggering the individual during therapy.
Dealing with the impact of life stressors, PTSD, depression, anxiety, trauma, and addiction can be overwhelming, but you are not alone. Mia Rochelle offers compassionate therapy tailored to your unique needs. Evidence-based therapies such as Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) empowers individuals to build resilience and move forward in their lives. Many clients report long-lasting improvements with both reduction of distress and increased mental and emotional well-being. Mia Rochelle is also an Integrative Couples therapist who uses a range of modalities including Gottman; Imago; and Emotion Focused Therapy.
These therapies are specific to trauma which means they focus on not re-triggering the individual during therapy.
Dealing with the impact of life stressors, PTSD, depression, anxiety, trauma, and addiction can be overwhelming, but you are not alone. Mia Rochelle offers compassionate therapy tailored to your unique needs. Evidence-based therapies such as Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) empowers individuals to build resilience and move forward in their lives. Many clients report long-lasting improvements with both reduction of distress and increased mental and emotional well-being. Mia Rochelle is also an Integrative Couples therapist who uses a range of modalities including Gottman; Imago; and Emotion Focused Therapy.
(02) 4214 8621 View (02) 4214 8621
Photo of Crystal (Yee Tak) Lee, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Crystal (Yee Tak) Lee
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Wollongong, NSW 2500
I work with individuals aged 15 years and above who experience mild to severe levels of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, stress, sleep issues, intrusive and/or self-loathing thoughts, interpersonal issues, complicated grief, childhood trauma and personality disorders. I incorporate a range of evidence-based treatments, including Schema Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal therapy (IPT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), mindfulness and relaxation techniques.
I work with individuals aged 15 years and above who experience mild to severe levels of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, stress, sleep issues, intrusive and/or self-loathing thoughts, interpersonal issues, complicated grief, childhood trauma and personality disorders. I incorporate a range of evidence-based treatments, including Schema Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal therapy (IPT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), mindfulness and relaxation techniques.
(02) 4214 8063 View (02) 4214 8063
Photo of Oliver Lewis, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Oliver Lewis
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Online Only
I aim to create a safe, non-judgemental space for clients to explore their issues (at their own pace) and understand that trauma therapy can be a daunting and confronting process.
I am a qualified counsellor/psychotherapist based in Canberra who specialises in trauma and addiction. I have extensive experience in the not-for-profit and private sectors, supporting adults with mental health and psychosocial conditions, such as PTSD, CPTSD, substance use disorders, personality disorders, anxiety and depression. I’m an accredited EMDR practitioner, a registered clinical counsellor with PACFA and a qualified Social Worker and member of the AASW. I provide online psychotherapy sessions to adults (aged 18 and over) across all regions of Australia.
I aim to create a safe, non-judgemental space for clients to explore their issues (at their own pace) and understand that trauma therapy can be a daunting and confronting process.
I am a qualified counsellor/psychotherapist based in Canberra who specialises in trauma and addiction. I have extensive experience in the not-for-profit and private sectors, supporting adults with mental health and psychosocial conditions, such as PTSD, CPTSD, substance use disorders, personality disorders, anxiety and depression. I’m an accredited EMDR practitioner, a registered clinical counsellor with PACFA and a qualified Social Worker and member of the AASW. I provide online psychotherapy sessions to adults (aged 18 and over) across all regions of Australia.
(02) 5135 1932 View (02) 5135 1932
Photo of Kim Leone Taylor - Spirited Life Counselling and Therapy, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Spirited Life Counselling and Therapy
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Wollongong, NSW 2500
I use EMDR therapy to reprocess trauma memories as an adult or child.
People attend counselling and psychotherapy because they are feeling upset, in emotional pain or have a long-standing problem that needs attention and clarity. I assist people to work through the issues they bring and not just focus on the problem but the whole person and how this is impacting their lives. Issues I can assist with are Anger Management, Anxiety, Childhood Abuse, Depression, Emotional & Physical Abuse, Emotional Crisis, Grief, Loss, Trauma, Cancer and Palliative Care, Life Transitions, Relationships, Self-esteem, Sexual Issues, Stress Management and Couples/Marriage Affairs, Trust Issues and Communication.
I use EMDR therapy to reprocess trauma memories as an adult or child.
People attend counselling and psychotherapy because they are feeling upset, in emotional pain or have a long-standing problem that needs attention and clarity. I assist people to work through the issues they bring and not just focus on the problem but the whole person and how this is impacting their lives. Issues I can assist with are Anger Management, Anxiety, Childhood Abuse, Depression, Emotional & Physical Abuse, Emotional Crisis, Grief, Loss, Trauma, Cancer and Palliative Care, Life Transitions, Relationships, Self-esteem, Sexual Issues, Stress Management and Couples/Marriage Affairs, Trust Issues and Communication.
(02) 4401 9611 View (02) 4401 9611
Photo of Lauren Reiners - Thrive Holistic Therapies, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Thrive Holistic Therapies
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Wollongong, NSW 2500
Over the past decade, I have specialised in helping people overcome the devastating effects of domestic violence and trauma.
Are you at a crossroads in your career or emotional life? Do you want to change your negative patterns or habits permanently? Ready for deep healing of old hurts or letting go of past issues? I not only provide a safe space for you to uncover and heal but also can help you release any physical, mental and spiritual blocks in your life through counselling, trauma recovery, hypnotherapy and reiki. I believe that you have the strength not just to survive, but to truly thrive, let me support you in taking your power back and transforming your life.
Over the past decade, I have specialised in helping people overcome the devastating effects of domestic violence and trauma.
Are you at a crossroads in your career or emotional life? Do you want to change your negative patterns or habits permanently? Ready for deep healing of old hurts or letting go of past issues? I not only provide a safe space for you to uncover and heal but also can help you release any physical, mental and spiritual blocks in your life through counselling, trauma recovery, hypnotherapy and reiki. I believe that you have the strength not just to survive, but to truly thrive, let me support you in taking your power back and transforming your life.
(02) 4214 4922 View (02) 4214 4922
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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.