Photo of Amy Rappaport, Registered Social Worker in Vancouver, BC
Amy Rappaport
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6B
I offer a collaborative, trauma-informed approach, beginning first with establishing a strong, safe therapeutic alliance.
Welcome! I work with people experiencing a variety of life transitions and life struggles. A stressful life event, life change, or a recent loss can make it feel like your bottom has fallen out from under you. Cumulative stress, chronic worry or low mood may be interfering with your ability to live a fulfilling, meaningful life. I work with people to build safety, increase self-understanding, process painful feelings, expand coping and facilitate adjustment. I bring a diverse background of clinical experience working in Cancer Care, mental health, and trauma recovery.
I offer a collaborative, trauma-informed approach, beginning first with establishing a strong, safe therapeutic alliance.
Welcome! I work with people experiencing a variety of life transitions and life struggles. A stressful life event, life change, or a recent loss can make it feel like your bottom has fallen out from under you. Cumulative stress, chronic worry or low mood may be interfering with your ability to live a fulfilling, meaningful life. I work with people to build safety, increase self-understanding, process painful feelings, expand coping and facilitate adjustment. I bring a diverse background of clinical experience working in Cancer Care, mental health, and trauma recovery.
(873) 502-3153 View (873) 502-3153
Photo of Kajsa Futrell, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Kajsa Futrell
Counsellor, RTC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V5X
Are you tired of feeling invisible and powerless? Are you tired of hurting, feeling depressed, and hopeless and that you don't matter? Do you long to feel safe and connected? As a result of healing my own childhood trauma from sexual abuse, I now specialise in supporting people, in a trauma informed way, as they navigate the confusion of living with adversities, and trauma. I am passionate about guiding people to a place of living instead of merely surviving. The truth is that our adversities actually become windows to learning how to live magnificently. We are not what was done to us!
Are you tired of feeling invisible and powerless? Are you tired of hurting, feeling depressed, and hopeless and that you don't matter? Do you long to feel safe and connected? As a result of healing my own childhood trauma from sexual abuse, I now specialise in supporting people, in a trauma informed way, as they navigate the confusion of living with adversities, and trauma. I am passionate about guiding people to a place of living instead of merely surviving. The truth is that our adversities actually become windows to learning how to live magnificently. We are not what was done to us!
(365) 800-6144 View (365) 800-6144
Photo of Canada Online Therapy, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Canada Online Therapy
Counsellor, RCT-C, MA, BHons
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V6C  (Online Only)
Canada Online Therapy, owner Lee Park Psychotherapist offers the highest standards in therapy, psychotherapy, counseling for the last 14 years. Canada Online Therapy provides holistic, collaborative, integrative therapy providing online mental health services within a wide scope of work such as naturally treating anxiety, social anxiety, depression, post trauma, childhood trauma, personality disorders, life transitions, autism. Canada Online Therapy is LGBTQ friendly. Lee Park is a childrens, adolescent, adult, relationship, couples therapist who integrates emotion focused therapy, CBT, DBT, IFS, EMDR, psychodynamic therapies.
Canada Online Therapy, owner Lee Park Psychotherapist offers the highest standards in therapy, psychotherapy, counseling for the last 14 years. Canada Online Therapy provides holistic, collaborative, integrative therapy providing online mental health services within a wide scope of work such as naturally treating anxiety, social anxiety, depression, post trauma, childhood trauma, personality disorders, life transitions, autism. Canada Online Therapy is LGBTQ friendly. Lee Park is a childrens, adolescent, adult, relationship, couples therapist who integrates emotion focused therapy, CBT, DBT, IFS, EMDR, psychodynamic therapies.
(705) 535-6623 View (705) 535-6623
Photo of Misha Waite, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Misha Waite
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V5L
I am an experienced Registered Clinical Counsellor working in Vancouver’s Commercial Drive area, in nature at the beautiful Pacific Spirit Trails, and online throughout British Columbia. My clients are youth, adults, and couples who want to learn how to better manage mental health issues such as stress and anxiety, depression, anger, grief or loss, or complex trauma/PTSD; or who are experiencing challenging life transitions. I approach clients as unique individuals and incorporate a holistic and trauma-informed perspective.
I am an experienced Registered Clinical Counsellor working in Vancouver’s Commercial Drive area, in nature at the beautiful Pacific Spirit Trails, and online throughout British Columbia. My clients are youth, adults, and couples who want to learn how to better manage mental health issues such as stress and anxiety, depression, anger, grief or loss, or complex trauma/PTSD; or who are experiencing challenging life transitions. I approach clients as unique individuals and incorporate a holistic and trauma-informed perspective.
(587) 875-0633 View (587) 875-0633
Photo of Caroline Wakelin, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Caroline Wakelin
Counsellor, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V5L
My approach is attachment-based, trauma-informed, client-centred, and considers the mind-body connection.
I'm a registered clinical counsellor with over 20 years of experience in the helping profession. I'm passionate about supporting clients to heal the relationship they have with themselves and others. If you are seeking meaningful change in your life, and long to feel more at home and fulfilled in yourself and your relationships I want to help. Whether you’re recovering from heartbreak, struggling to assert yourself in your most important relationships, having difficulty making decisions, or are overwhelmed by anxious thoughts and feelings, we'll work together towards your healing and growth.
My approach is attachment-based, trauma-informed, client-centred, and considers the mind-body connection.
I'm a registered clinical counsellor with over 20 years of experience in the helping profession. I'm passionate about supporting clients to heal the relationship they have with themselves and others. If you are seeking meaningful change in your life, and long to feel more at home and fulfilled in yourself and your relationships I want to help. Whether you’re recovering from heartbreak, struggling to assert yourself in your most important relationships, having difficulty making decisions, or are overwhelmed by anxious thoughts and feelings, we'll work together towards your healing and growth.
(249) 802-8691 View (249) 802-8691
Photo of Liselotte Thoraval, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Liselotte Thoraval
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V6Z
I have a trauma focused approach that offers practical solutions and therapeutic techniques that will help you heal and regain hope for what lies ahead.
Are you feeling lonely despite being in the company of others? Pretending everything is ok when you don't feel that way is hard work and can leave you feeling isolated. If you're feeling like life has gotten so difficult that you aren't able to relate to others the way you'd like, I'm here help. You don't have to do this alone and you have what it takes to get through this.
I have a trauma focused approach that offers practical solutions and therapeutic techniques that will help you heal and regain hope for what lies ahead.
Are you feeling lonely despite being in the company of others? Pretending everything is ok when you don't feel that way is hard work and can leave you feeling isolated. If you're feeling like life has gotten so difficult that you aren't able to relate to others the way you'd like, I'm here help. You don't have to do this alone and you have what it takes to get through this.
(604) 239-3040 View (604) 239-3040
Photo of Brinita Dutt, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Brinita Dutt
Counsellor, CCC, RCC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6K  (Online Only)
I always have been drawn to uncovering the complex ways we are impacted the experiences in our lives. In particular the impact of trauma on our resilience and on our 'stuck' places. Our bodies carry the weight of our histories and the histories we inherit. In reprocessing trauma it is necessary for us to be attuned to these somatic experiences and to foster the wisdom stored within our bodies.
I always have been drawn to uncovering the complex ways we are impacted the experiences in our lives. In particular the impact of trauma on our resilience and on our 'stuck' places. Our bodies carry the weight of our histories and the histories we inherit. In reprocessing trauma it is necessary for us to be attuned to these somatic experiences and to foster the wisdom stored within our bodies.
(587) 848-3184 View (587) 848-3184
Photo of Well Beings Counselling, Licensed Professional Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Well Beings Counselling
Licensed Professional Counsellor, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V6C
Our clinicians facilitate a number of therapies with areas of expertise in: Anxiety, 
Depression,
Anger, 
Families, Couples and Premarital, Grief and Loss, ICBC/motor vehicle accident, Teens, and Trauma.
We are a team of dedicated clinicians with a variety of specializations, therapeutic modalities and various backgrounds, (both culturally and professionally) that we bring to each session. When you contact our clinic you will be greeted by our clinic coordinator Parmiss! Her priority and her passion is to connect you with the most appropriate team member, that fits not only with the treatment goals you have in mind but with your schedule as well.
Our clinicians facilitate a number of therapies with areas of expertise in: Anxiety, 
Depression,
Anger, 
Families, Couples and Premarital, Grief and Loss, ICBC/motor vehicle accident, Teens, and Trauma.
We are a team of dedicated clinicians with a variety of specializations, therapeutic modalities and various backgrounds, (both culturally and professionally) that we bring to each session. When you contact our clinic you will be greeted by our clinic coordinator Parmiss! Her priority and her passion is to connect you with the most appropriate team member, that fits not only with the treatment goals you have in mind but with your schedule as well.
(778) 767-2335 View (778) 767-2335
Photo of Kirsten Harding, Registered Social Worker in Vancouver, BC
Kirsten Harding
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6B  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I bring empathy, warmth, and collaboration as a therapist and aim to create meaningful connections through the safe exploration of experiences shaping your life. I have worked extensively with anxiety, depression, trauma (including childhood trauma), sexual assault/abuse, grief/loss, relationship/family issues, stress, as well as chronic and acute health issues. I also have a heartfelt interest, and post-graduate training, in working with individuals and couples impacted by infertility and perinatal/postpartum mental health. I bring 15 years of experience and work with adults (individuals and couples) and teens.
I bring empathy, warmth, and collaboration as a therapist and aim to create meaningful connections through the safe exploration of experiences shaping your life. I have worked extensively with anxiety, depression, trauma (including childhood trauma), sexual assault/abuse, grief/loss, relationship/family issues, stress, as well as chronic and acute health issues. I also have a heartfelt interest, and post-graduate training, in working with individuals and couples impacted by infertility and perinatal/postpartum mental health. I bring 15 years of experience and work with adults (individuals and couples) and teens.
(825) 251-6408 View (825) 251-6408
Photo of Andressa Taverna, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Andressa Taverna
Counsellor, RTC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6C
I work with many people who are struggling with anxiety, depression, childhood trauma/PTSD through the use of trauma-informed, somatic based IFS (Internal Family Systems).
Hi, I am Andressa Taverna. Being a trauma survivor has moulded me and impacted my life in many obvious and also many mysterious ways. Numbing out and dissociating has helped me bear the trauma, but burying it deep and pretending it didn’t exist never really worked. It was only when I started looking at it and inviting my demons to come forward, to speak up, to scream out their rage, that what I saw behind it was pain. Eventually, I saw that they were not demons after all, but my inner child.
I work with many people who are struggling with anxiety, depression, childhood trauma/PTSD through the use of trauma-informed, somatic based IFS (Internal Family Systems).
Hi, I am Andressa Taverna. Being a trauma survivor has moulded me and impacted my life in many obvious and also many mysterious ways. Numbing out and dissociating has helped me bear the trauma, but burying it deep and pretending it didn’t exist never really worked. It was only when I started looking at it and inviting my demons to come forward, to speak up, to scream out their rage, that what I saw behind it was pain. Eventually, I saw that they were not demons after all, but my inner child.
(249) 504-0436 View (249) 504-0436
Photo of Gloria Dykstra, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Gloria Dykstra
Counsellor, RCC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V5N
I am an existential therapist which means I am listening in particular for the ways you may be struggling with meaning-making in your life and with issues related to grief & loss and overwhelm. I am also trained in the neuro-biological, somatic treatment of trauma so we will spend time together grounding and building skills in your awareness of your own sense of safety in given contexts. Sessions with me feel conversational and will often involve humor despite the heavy content woven in. I will ask questions to help you recognize themes in your experience.
I am an existential therapist which means I am listening in particular for the ways you may be struggling with meaning-making in your life and with issues related to grief & loss and overwhelm. I am also trained in the neuro-biological, somatic treatment of trauma so we will spend time together grounding and building skills in your awareness of your own sense of safety in given contexts. Sessions with me feel conversational and will often involve humor despite the heavy content woven in. I will ask questions to help you recognize themes in your experience.
(778) 990-5422 View (778) 990-5422
Photo of Esha Shoker MA, RCC - Wellness Talks, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Esha Shoker MA, RCC - Wellness Talks
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6B
Whether you're seeking support for conflict, self-understanding, or relationship strength, my expertise lies in individual counselling for trauma, depression, anxiety, stress, and personal empowerment.
Life's intricate twists can feel overwhelming, leaving us adrift and uncertain. As your Registered Clinical Counsellor, I extend a warm embrace to guide you through these moments. Together, we'll unravel your thoughts and emotions, restoring a sense of clarity and peace. In our eco-friendly and inclusive clinic, we value the richness of diverse backgrounds. As a BIPOC therapist, I deeply respect and acknowledge our unique perspectives, ensuring that everyone feels truly seen and heard. Beyond individual therapy, I specialize in family and couples counselling, fostering understanding and meaningful connections.
Whether you're seeking support for conflict, self-understanding, or relationship strength, my expertise lies in individual counselling for trauma, depression, anxiety, stress, and personal empowerment.
Life's intricate twists can feel overwhelming, leaving us adrift and uncertain. As your Registered Clinical Counsellor, I extend a warm embrace to guide you through these moments. Together, we'll unravel your thoughts and emotions, restoring a sense of clarity and peace. In our eco-friendly and inclusive clinic, we value the richness of diverse backgrounds. As a BIPOC therapist, I deeply respect and acknowledge our unique perspectives, ensuring that everyone feels truly seen and heard. Beyond individual therapy, I specialize in family and couples counselling, fostering understanding and meaningful connections.
(778) 879-8255 View (778) 879-8255
Photo of The Sereda Psychotherapy Group, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Vancouver, BC
The Sereda Psychotherapy Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, RCC, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V5Z  (Online Only)
Now Accepting New Clients (low-cost options available)! Life doesn't have to feel like a constant struggle - there is a way to find some peace, and life the fulfilling life you want and deserve. We will work with our clients to help them recover from a variety of concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma, narcissistic abuse, relationship and family conflict, ADHD, anger management problems, parenting struggles, work-related issues and burnout, those memories from the past that keep getting in your way - and so much more.
Now Accepting New Clients (low-cost options available)! Life doesn't have to feel like a constant struggle - there is a way to find some peace, and life the fulfilling life you want and deserve. We will work with our clients to help them recover from a variety of concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma, narcissistic abuse, relationship and family conflict, ADHD, anger management problems, parenting struggles, work-related issues and burnout, those memories from the past that keep getting in your way - and so much more.
(365) 661-5098 View (365) 661-5098
Photo of Robyn Kozak, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Robyn Kozak
Counsellor, MEd, RCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V5L
Whether it is struggles with pregnancy, postpartum, parenting, relationships, anxiety, mood, or past trauma, I support individuals with identifying what they want to be different in their life and co-creating a plan for our work together. As a counsellor, it is a privilege to support clients in their journeys to find more joy, feel less overwhelmed by difficult emotions, improve relationships, and feel more compassion for themselves. I work collaboratively with clients to explore their values and how to foster these into a meaningful life.
Whether it is struggles with pregnancy, postpartum, parenting, relationships, anxiety, mood, or past trauma, I support individuals with identifying what they want to be different in their life and co-creating a plan for our work together. As a counsellor, it is a privilege to support clients in their journeys to find more joy, feel less overwhelmed by difficult emotions, improve relationships, and feel more compassion for themselves. I work collaboratively with clients to explore their values and how to foster these into a meaningful life.
(506) 496-0803 View (506) 496-0803
Photo of Emma Ellison, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Emma Ellison
Counsellor, MCP, RCC, Doula
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V5N
I work with people navigating a range of life experiences relating to: Birth and lifespan development; Sense of Self; Emotional and somatic awareness and expression; Integration and embodiment; Trauma resolution and personal growth; and Rites of passage and psychospiritual transformation.
Just as a seed will grow into a plant, and a plant will seek water and grow towards light, there is an intrinsic capacity within all living organisms to heal and to grow, and a natural inclination to move in this direction. My practice is guided by trust in the wisdom of this inner healing intelligence. I am a holistic practitioner working in the realms of transpersonal psychotherapy and birth care, with a focus on human attachment, lifespan development, and spiritual care "from womb to tomb." Birth psychology and work with holotropic states of consciousness are areas of special interest.
I work with people navigating a range of life experiences relating to: Birth and lifespan development; Sense of Self; Emotional and somatic awareness and expression; Integration and embodiment; Trauma resolution and personal growth; and Rites of passage and psychospiritual transformation.
Just as a seed will grow into a plant, and a plant will seek water and grow towards light, there is an intrinsic capacity within all living organisms to heal and to grow, and a natural inclination to move in this direction. My practice is guided by trust in the wisdom of this inner healing intelligence. I am a holistic practitioner working in the realms of transpersonal psychotherapy and birth care, with a focus on human attachment, lifespan development, and spiritual care "from womb to tomb." Birth psychology and work with holotropic states of consciousness are areas of special interest.
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Photo of Dee Saini, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Dee Saini
Counsellor, BA, MCP, RCC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V6M
Hi, I’m Dee. I feel it would be an honour to walk beside you on your path to healing. To introduce myself briefly, I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor. I work with diverse populations and various concerns. I specialize in anxiety, depression and grief, working closely with trauma and relationship issues. My personal journey of self-exploration and deep inner work has led me to become passionate about supporting others. I offer counselling in English, Hindi, Punjabi and Urdu languages to adults, children, couples, and families. I am even certified in play therapy techniques to help children and teens with their healing and growth.
Hi, I’m Dee. I feel it would be an honour to walk beside you on your path to healing. To introduce myself briefly, I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor. I work with diverse populations and various concerns. I specialize in anxiety, depression and grief, working closely with trauma and relationship issues. My personal journey of self-exploration and deep inner work has led me to become passionate about supporting others. I offer counselling in English, Hindi, Punjabi and Urdu languages to adults, children, couples, and families. I am even certified in play therapy techniques to help children and teens with their healing and growth.
(548) 800-1376 View (548) 800-1376
Photo of Virginia McConchie, Registered Social Worker in Vancouver, BC
Virginia McConchie
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V6Z  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I work with clients experiencing trauma, anxiety, burnout, and other challenges that can make feeling connected to themselves and trusting of their own voice difficult.
With so many stressors in the world, it is easy to feel alone and uncertain of who you are or want to be. Therapy provides a space for discovery and connection. Discovery of how certain ways of understanding our place in the world emerged, and of how small shifts can help connect us with our authentic self, desires and values. My job is to help create a safe space where it is possible for you to be yourself in the fullest sense – even if you don’t quite know who that is yet. So, come to therapy as you are. Anxious. Excited. Messy. Sad. Confused. Tired. Changing. There is nothing you can’t be and can’t feel in our sessions together.
I work with clients experiencing trauma, anxiety, burnout, and other challenges that can make feeling connected to themselves and trusting of their own voice difficult.
With so many stressors in the world, it is easy to feel alone and uncertain of who you are or want to be. Therapy provides a space for discovery and connection. Discovery of how certain ways of understanding our place in the world emerged, and of how small shifts can help connect us with our authentic self, desires and values. My job is to help create a safe space where it is possible for you to be yourself in the fullest sense – even if you don’t quite know who that is yet. So, come to therapy as you are. Anxious. Excited. Messy. Sad. Confused. Tired. Changing. There is nothing you can’t be and can’t feel in our sessions together.
(249) 488-2185 View (249) 488-2185
Photo of Soraya Mortimer, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Soraya Mortimer
Counsellor, MA, MFT, RCC, CSAT
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V6Z  (Online Only)
I am dedicated to supporting individuals, couples and families struggling with intimacy disorders including love, sex, porn addictions and trauma.
I’ve been working in the field of intimacy disorders, sex, love and pornography addiction since 2015. I am Certified Sex Addictions Therapist (CSAT). I hold a master’s degree in Marriage, Couples, and Family Counseling from Lewis and Clark with a track in Sex Therapy. I have a double degree from Naropa University, where I completed studies in Visual Arts and Contemplative Psychology with a concentration in Transpersonal Psychology. Learn more about me at: https://www.connectiontherapy.space
I am dedicated to supporting individuals, couples and families struggling with intimacy disorders including love, sex, porn addictions and trauma.
I’ve been working in the field of intimacy disorders, sex, love and pornography addiction since 2015. I am Certified Sex Addictions Therapist (CSAT). I hold a master’s degree in Marriage, Couples, and Family Counseling from Lewis and Clark with a track in Sex Therapy. I have a double degree from Naropa University, where I completed studies in Visual Arts and Contemplative Psychology with a concentration in Transpersonal Psychology. Learn more about me at: https://www.connectiontherapy.space
(226) 270-5188 View (226) 270-5188
Photo of Andrea Lauren Yeung, Counsellor in Vancouver, BC
Andrea Lauren Yeung
Counsellor, BA, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V5Y  (Online Only)
Andrea counsels from a trauma-informed, culturally sensitive lens, and she seeks to see each individual as a whole person.
Andrea provides a safe and compassionate space for people to process through thoughts and emotions, gain insights about life patterns, and move towards a place of healing and freedom. She specializes in collaborating with individuals to find their unique path of transformation and self-discovery, while working towards their therapeutic goals. Andrea is committed to walking with people through the challenges, pain, trauma, and transitions that arise in life.
Andrea counsels from a trauma-informed, culturally sensitive lens, and she seeks to see each individual as a whole person.
Andrea provides a safe and compassionate space for people to process through thoughts and emotions, gain insights about life patterns, and move towards a place of healing and freedom. She specializes in collaborating with individuals to find their unique path of transformation and self-discovery, while working towards their therapeutic goals. Andrea is committed to walking with people through the challenges, pain, trauma, and transitions that arise in life.
(604) 670-4557 View (604) 670-4557
Photo of Alshaba Billawala, Psychologist in Vancouver, BC
Alshaba Billawala
Psychologist, RPsych
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V6C  (Online Only)
If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, or have been through trauma, you might be feeling frustrated, hopeless, or overwhelmed trying to figure out how to address these difficulties. Or maybe you are in a relationship and are finding it difficult to communicate, resolve conflict, or connect with your partner and you've tried everything you can think of. In my practice, I can support you in identifying any patterns/behaviours that may keep you or your partner stuck and help you learn tools and strategies to work towards improving your mental health, well-being, and your relationship.
If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, or have been through trauma, you might be feeling frustrated, hopeless, or overwhelmed trying to figure out how to address these difficulties. Or maybe you are in a relationship and are finding it difficult to communicate, resolve conflict, or connect with your partner and you've tried everything you can think of. In my practice, I can support you in identifying any patterns/behaviours that may keep you or your partner stuck and help you learn tools and strategies to work towards improving your mental health, well-being, and your relationship.
(819) 410-9262 View (819) 410-9262

See more therapy options for Vancouver

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.