Photo of Kamyani Bansal, Counsellor in West Vancouver, BC
Kamyani Bansal
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
West Vancouver, BC V7V
Throughout my life, I have always felt passionate about working with people. It is my mission as your therapist for you to experience acceptance, belonging, purpose and hope - in the therapy room, but more importantly, to experience this in your outside life in significant new ways. My expertise is in helping others overcome the barriers that are holding them back from the life of their dreams. I will work with you with intent and care, increasing your awareness so that you can gain a deeper understanding of your unique needs and I can guide you to develop skills that improve your relationship with yourself and others.
Throughout my life, I have always felt passionate about working with people. It is my mission as your therapist for you to experience acceptance, belonging, purpose and hope - in the therapy room, but more importantly, to experience this in your outside life in significant new ways. My expertise is in helping others overcome the barriers that are holding them back from the life of their dreams. I will work with you with intent and care, increasing your awareness so that you can gain a deeper understanding of your unique needs and I can guide you to develop skills that improve your relationship with yourself and others.
(438) 800-3186 View (438) 800-3186
Photo of Nova Mental Health, Psychologist in West Vancouver, BC
Nova Mental Health
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
West Vancouver, BC V7V
At Nova Mental Health, we focus on creating a warm, collaborative, and engaging atmosphere while incorporating the latest research evidence and best-practice guidelines to help children, teens, adults and couples move through challenges. Our aim is to provide you with new tools and strategies that can help you reach your goals. We are a team of psychologists, counsellors and social workers offering online (video conferencing) and some in-person therapy. You can read more about each of our areas of practice on our website.
At Nova Mental Health, we focus on creating a warm, collaborative, and engaging atmosphere while incorporating the latest research evidence and best-practice guidelines to help children, teens, adults and couples move through challenges. Our aim is to provide you with new tools and strategies that can help you reach your goals. We are a team of psychologists, counsellors and social workers offering online (video conferencing) and some in-person therapy. You can read more about each of our areas of practice on our website.
(778) 760-3841 View (778) 760-3841

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Huda Sajjad, Counsellor in West Vancouver, BC
Huda Sajjad
Counsellor, MA, MSc, RCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6Z
My approach to counselling is strengths-focused and trauma-informed.
I offer my clients support and guidance to access and trust their inner wisdom, so that they can gain clarity on their struggles and refine their sense of purpose and direction. I also provide clients with the necessary tools to help them achieve their goals. As human beings we have a common desire to better connect with ourselves and others, and become more present and engaged with our lives. I believe that good counselling can help clients achieve insight, connection, and freedom from their personal struggles. I help clients work through struggles such as grief, depression, anxiety, relationship and family conflict.
My approach to counselling is strengths-focused and trauma-informed.
I offer my clients support and guidance to access and trust their inner wisdom, so that they can gain clarity on their struggles and refine their sense of purpose and direction. I also provide clients with the necessary tools to help them achieve their goals. As human beings we have a common desire to better connect with ourselves and others, and become more present and engaged with our lives. I believe that good counselling can help clients achieve insight, connection, and freedom from their personal struggles. I help clients work through struggles such as grief, depression, anxiety, relationship and family conflict.
(819) 410-8562 View (819) 410-8562
Photo of Dee Saini, Counsellor in West 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 Well Beings Counselling, Licensed Professional Counsellor in West 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 Shereen Khan, Counsellor in West Vancouver, BC
Shereen Khan
Counsellor, PhD MA, RCC NCC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North Vancouver, BC V7J
Are you struggling? Or have felt numb, on auto-pilot too long? I work with individuals, couples, and families to transform life challenges into opportunities for growth and connection. My experiences include working with a variety of age-groups and mental health concerns. Some of my areas of specialty include relationships, infidelity, sex, divorce and family difficulties. As well, overcoming symptoms of trauma and recovery from abuse (sexual, physical, spiritual) and grief. My aims are to help clients to feel empowered, heal from trauma, and have more understanding of themselves and others.
Are you struggling? Or have felt numb, on auto-pilot too long? I work with individuals, couples, and families to transform life challenges into opportunities for growth and connection. My experiences include working with a variety of age-groups and mental health concerns. Some of my areas of specialty include relationships, infidelity, sex, divorce and family difficulties. As well, overcoming symptoms of trauma and recovery from abuse (sexual, physical, spiritual) and grief. My aims are to help clients to feel empowered, heal from trauma, and have more understanding of themselves and others.
(249) 486-6809 View (249) 486-6809
Photo of Shivanesce Wellness, Counsellor in West Vancouver, BC
Shivanesce Wellness
Counsellor, RCC, CCC, MCP-AT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6B
We are a a trauma-informed team of Clinical Counsellors, Art Therapists and other health practitioners, experienced in working with teens, youth and adults braving a range of mental health challenges. We offer Individual, Relationship, Group and Online Counselling. We hold an affirming, inclusive, non-pathologizing, culturally-safe, humility-focused and harm-reduction lens in my practice. I hold a Narrative Therapy approach and often blend it with art therapy. W have found that this way, even the people with awkward hide-and-seek relationships with their mental health make consistent progress, despite the resistance.
We are a a trauma-informed team of Clinical Counsellors, Art Therapists and other health practitioners, experienced in working with teens, youth and adults braving a range of mental health challenges. We offer Individual, Relationship, Group and Online Counselling. We hold an affirming, inclusive, non-pathologizing, culturally-safe, humility-focused and harm-reduction lens in my practice. I hold a Narrative Therapy approach and often blend it with art therapy. W have found that this way, even the people with awkward hide-and-seek relationships with their mental health make consistent progress, despite the resistance.
(604) 256-5770 View (604) 256-5770
Photo of Well Health Counselling, Counsellor in West Vancouver, BC
Well Health Counselling
Counsellor, MSc, MA, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V5Z
Treat your trauma with Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): A powerful evidence-based therapy practice to treat trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Have you been feeling stuck, or otherwise wanting to fix some behaviour, or area of your life? We can help. We help individuals who are looking to improve areas of their life. We help people with ADHD who want to learn techniques to live a more structured life. We help people wanting relief from anxious thoughts that are preventing them from the people, places, and things that they care about. We also help individuals seeking to improve their relationships. We help people who want to improve their communication skills, who want to feel more confident and to optimize aspects of their lives.
Treat your trauma with Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): A powerful evidence-based therapy practice to treat trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Have you been feeling stuck, or otherwise wanting to fix some behaviour, or area of your life? We can help. We help individuals who are looking to improve areas of their life. We help people with ADHD who want to learn techniques to live a more structured life. We help people wanting relief from anxious thoughts that are preventing them from the people, places, and things that they care about. We also help individuals seeking to improve their relationships. We help people who want to improve their communication skills, who want to feel more confident and to optimize aspects of their lives.
(873) 437-0604 View (873) 437-0604
Photo of Saima Shah, Counsellor in West Vancouver, BC
Saima Shah
Counsellor, MBA, CHT, RTC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burnaby, BC V5C  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My clients come from diverse backgrounds. People who have gone through a major life transition (trauma, loss, career change, breakup, migration, health diagnosis) may need professional support. There may be concerns around career/family and how to show up for life while feeling anxious, burnt out or feeling chronic low mood. Some clients see me for relationship struggles, or find it hard to trust their partner and/or feel insecure in relationships. Clients also see me for perfectionism, sleep issues, chronic fatigue, anxiety, depression, sports performance, enhanced self confidence, body image, self worth and self esteem.
My clients come from diverse backgrounds. People who have gone through a major life transition (trauma, loss, career change, breakup, migration, health diagnosis) may need professional support. There may be concerns around career/family and how to show up for life while feeling anxious, burnt out or feeling chronic low mood. Some clients see me for relationship struggles, or find it hard to trust their partner and/or feel insecure in relationships. Clients also see me for perfectionism, sleep issues, chronic fatigue, anxiety, depression, sports performance, enhanced self confidence, body image, self worth and self esteem.
(587) 805-0360 View (587) 805-0360
Photo of Leena, Registered Social Worker in West Vancouver, BC
Leena
Registered Social Worker, BSc, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6Z  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Sarah favors an integrative, trauma informed, client centered approach to create a healthy alliance with clients and their loved ones.
Sarah Ahmed completed her undergraduate degree in Psychology and Masters of Social Work degree from University of Toronto, specializing in Mental Health and Addictions. Sarah has worked with a diverse clientele within a multitude of clinical inpatient and outpatient settings. Sarah provides individual and group counselling to individuals suffering from mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, borderline personality disorder, coupled with co-occurring substance use issues. Additionally, Sarah also provides support for loved ones on how to sustain healthy relationships and manage life stressors.
Sarah favors an integrative, trauma informed, client centered approach to create a healthy alliance with clients and their loved ones.
Sarah Ahmed completed her undergraduate degree in Psychology and Masters of Social Work degree from University of Toronto, specializing in Mental Health and Addictions. Sarah has worked with a diverse clientele within a multitude of clinical inpatient and outpatient settings. Sarah provides individual and group counselling to individuals suffering from mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, borderline personality disorder, coupled with co-occurring substance use issues. Additionally, Sarah also provides support for loved ones on how to sustain healthy relationships and manage life stressors.
(647) 490-8723 View (647) 490-8723
Photo of Vaishali Kumar, Counsellor in West Vancouver, BC
Vaishali Kumar
Counsellor, RCC, MACP, BSc
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V5K
Small changes in how you think and feel can lead to an amazing life. Together, we can create lasting transformation, healing, and help you fulfill your goals, so you can experience greater peace and happiness. I have over 15 years of experience working with individuals, couples, children, and families to overcome areas of conflict and challenges. My unique approach is rooted in science and spirituality and focuses on the connection between the three layers of a human being: the emotional, psychological (mind), and physical (body). This integrative and holistic approach helps to collectively heal and align all parts of your life.
Small changes in how you think and feel can lead to an amazing life. Together, we can create lasting transformation, healing, and help you fulfill your goals, so you can experience greater peace and happiness. I have over 15 years of experience working with individuals, couples, children, and families to overcome areas of conflict and challenges. My unique approach is rooted in science and spirituality and focuses on the connection between the three layers of a human being: the emotional, psychological (mind), and physical (body). This integrative and holistic approach helps to collectively heal and align all parts of your life.
(343) 801-4355 View (343) 801-4355
Photo of Ummara Ashfaq, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in West Vancouver, BC
Ummara Ashfaq
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BSc, MACP, CCC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V5K  (Online Only)
Are you a highly sensitive person struggling with mood regulation and/or an anxious attachment style? You may struggle with anxiety, high stress levels, and maintaining stable relationships. Criticism or conflict might hit you harder than it does others. Endless arguments over the same issue and ineffective communication hurts both you and your partner. Past grievances often resurface, intensifying the conflict. You're sensitive to any signs of perceived distance or disinterest from your partner, which can trigger feelings of anxiety and insecurity. You long for emotional stability, and a sense of connection yet fear intimacy.
Are you a highly sensitive person struggling with mood regulation and/or an anxious attachment style? You may struggle with anxiety, high stress levels, and maintaining stable relationships. Criticism or conflict might hit you harder than it does others. Endless arguments over the same issue and ineffective communication hurts both you and your partner. Past grievances often resurface, intensifying the conflict. You're sensitive to any signs of perceived distance or disinterest from your partner, which can trigger feelings of anxiety and insecurity. You long for emotional stability, and a sense of connection yet fear intimacy.
(365) 363-0140 View (365) 363-0140
Photo of Hira Imam, Counsellor in West Vancouver, BC
Hira Imam
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V6S
The people I often work with are struggling with the feeling that they don't belong anywhere - whether that be with friends, family or at school, or work. They feel like they aren't 'good enough,' to be in the spaces or roles that they are in. Some find their relationships complicated - with friends, family, or romantic partners - where others don’t understand their values and what they want. You deserve to be heard, you deserve to live life on your terms with your values, and you deserve space to belong.
The people I often work with are struggling with the feeling that they don't belong anywhere - whether that be with friends, family or at school, or work. They feel like they aren't 'good enough,' to be in the spaces or roles that they are in. Some find their relationships complicated - with friends, family, or romantic partners - where others don’t understand their values and what they want. You deserve to be heard, you deserve to live life on your terms with your values, and you deserve space to belong.
(506) 804-4270 View (506) 804-4270
Photo of Sonia Ahmad, Counsellor in West Vancouver, BC
Sonia Ahmad
Counsellor, CCC, MACP
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V5T  (Online Only)
As your therapist, I guide you toward healing through the art of conversation. Many therapists consider themselves to be just that: therapists. For me, therapy is a form of art. I believe healing takes place through feeling real, human connection, which means taking time to build an authentic, trusting relationship with each other. I work with you to explore emotional patterns, thoughts, and feelings, so you can step into the world as your most authentic, peaceful self. I strive to offer a peaceful environment where we can slow down and unpack difficult experiences together.
As your therapist, I guide you toward healing through the art of conversation. Many therapists consider themselves to be just that: therapists. For me, therapy is a form of art. I believe healing takes place through feeling real, human connection, which means taking time to build an authentic, trusting relationship with each other. I work with you to explore emotional patterns, thoughts, and feelings, so you can step into the world as your most authentic, peaceful self. I strive to offer a peaceful environment where we can slow down and unpack difficult experiences together.
(306) 988-0973 View (306) 988-0973

Online Therapists

Photo of Ayesha Omar, Counsellor in West Vancouver, BC
Ayesha Omar
Counsellor, MCP, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Langley, BC V2Y
Healing is one of the bravest choices we can make for ourselves. My experience in working with clients who have lived through trauma has afforded me a deeper understanding of the mind-body connection, and how we can struggle to live full and connected lives when we are out of sync with our needs and values. I hope to support clients in resolving challenges by building upon their strengths and tools. From my own lived history, I also take special interest in working with issues around acculturation, identity, and cultural and spiritual abuse.
Healing is one of the bravest choices we can make for ourselves. My experience in working with clients who have lived through trauma has afforded me a deeper understanding of the mind-body connection, and how we can struggle to live full and connected lives when we are out of sync with our needs and values. I hope to support clients in resolving challenges by building upon their strengths and tools. From my own lived history, I also take special interest in working with issues around acculturation, identity, and cultural and spiritual abuse.
(587) 609-9023 View (587) 609-9023
Photo of Ravi Teja, Counsellor in West Vancouver, BC
Ravi Teja
Counsellor, MEd, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, BC V6Y
My name is Ravi Teja and I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor with over 20 years of experience. I am trained to utilize EMDR, CBT, DBT, EFT, and Gottman’s couples therapy. I use somatic and mindfulness-based psychotherapy for trauma stabilization and mental health. In my sessions, I provide safety & empathy in a non-judgmental environment through therapeutic clinical conversations. I create a space for your validation and to resolve enmeshed unresolved challenges related to past experiences.
My name is Ravi Teja and I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor with over 20 years of experience. I am trained to utilize EMDR, CBT, DBT, EFT, and Gottman’s couples therapy. I use somatic and mindfulness-based psychotherapy for trauma stabilization and mental health. In my sessions, I provide safety & empathy in a non-judgmental environment through therapeutic clinical conversations. I create a space for your validation and to resolve enmeshed unresolved challenges related to past experiences.
(604) 265-7071 View (604) 265-7071
Photo of Kamalpreet Kaur, Counsellor in West Vancouver, BC
Kamalpreet Kaur
Counsellor, CCC, RCC, MCP
Verified Verified
Surrey, BC V3S
I am a certified EMDR therapist and have experienced it as a very effective and promising tool in unpacking PTSD, past traumatic memories, and attachment wounds.
I hold a master’s degree in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University. I have 5+ years of experience in the mental health field and have been working as a trauma therapist for the past 2 years. I am passionate about supporting individuals struggling with anxiety, grief & loss, substance abuse, relationship difficulties, and traumatic experiences. I work from an eclectic, strength-based therapeutic approach taking clients’ unique experiences, therapeutic needs, and contextual factors into account. Besides English, I can speak and provide counselling in Punjabi, Hindi, and Dutch.
I am a certified EMDR therapist and have experienced it as a very effective and promising tool in unpacking PTSD, past traumatic memories, and attachment wounds.
I hold a master’s degree in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University. I have 5+ years of experience in the mental health field and have been working as a trauma therapist for the past 2 years. I am passionate about supporting individuals struggling with anxiety, grief & loss, substance abuse, relationship difficulties, and traumatic experiences. I work from an eclectic, strength-based therapeutic approach taking clients’ unique experiences, therapeutic needs, and contextual factors into account. Besides English, I can speak and provide counselling in Punjabi, Hindi, and Dutch.
View
Photo of Shinnie Steven, Counsellor in West Vancouver, BC
Shinnie Steven
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Langley, BC V3A
With over 15 years of experience in the field, I have had the privilege of helping numerous individuals find the path to restoration and healing from a spectrum of issues, including depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, & adverse childhood experiences.
Are you experiencing a profound sense of hopelessness, wishing you could simply stay in bed and escape the burdens of the day? Are you yearning to rediscover the joy in life, to look forward with anticipation once more? I understand that many people find themselves in this place, and I want to assure you that hope can be found even in the darkest of moments. I am here to assist you in navigating your challenges, providing a safe sanctuary where you can embark on your healing journey. My goal is to empower you with the resilience necessary to not only face life's inevitable trials but also to rise above them, soaring like an eagle.
With over 15 years of experience in the field, I have had the privilege of helping numerous individuals find the path to restoration and healing from a spectrum of issues, including depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, & adverse childhood experiences.
Are you experiencing a profound sense of hopelessness, wishing you could simply stay in bed and escape the burdens of the day? Are you yearning to rediscover the joy in life, to look forward with anticipation once more? I understand that many people find themselves in this place, and I want to assure you that hope can be found even in the darkest of moments. I am here to assist you in navigating your challenges, providing a safe sanctuary where you can embark on your healing journey. My goal is to empower you with the resilience necessary to not only face life's inevitable trials but also to rise above them, soaring like an eagle.
(548) 901-0918 View (548) 901-0918
Photo of Mehreen Masud, Counsellor in West Vancouver, BC
Mehreen Masud
Counsellor, MACP, RCC
Verified Verified
Surrey, BC V3W
I approach my clients with a culturally sensitive and trauma informed lens.
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor with a number of experience working with people struggling with various mental health issues including but not limited to; trauma, addiction, emotion dysregulation, and relationships. I believe in humans’ natural tendency to ‘bounce back’ from distressing life events. Often, perception of our inner strengths gets clouded due to prolonged stress, and we give up living a life we truly deserve. In my practice, I work together with my clients as a team to redefine their strengths and help them achieve their sense of well- being and self worth.
I approach my clients with a culturally sensitive and trauma informed lens.
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor with a number of experience working with people struggling with various mental health issues including but not limited to; trauma, addiction, emotion dysregulation, and relationships. I believe in humans’ natural tendency to ‘bounce back’ from distressing life events. Often, perception of our inner strengths gets clouded due to prolonged stress, and we give up living a life we truly deserve. In my practice, I work together with my clients as a team to redefine their strengths and help them achieve their sense of well- being and self worth.
(506) 804-2674 View (506) 804-2674
Photo of Life Wise Counselling - Neelam Olk , Counsellor in West Vancouver, BC
Life Wise Counselling - Neelam Olk
Counsellor, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burnaby, BC V5H
Our highly skilled team of trauma-informed counsellors is dedicated to your wellbeing through specialized training in the mind-body connection.
Life Wise was founded to support the active healing process for individuals & couples who are ready for change. We are committed to informing your journey overcoming Depression, Anxiety, Addiction, Trauma and relational challenges through a compassionate lens. We strongly believe in the power of connection, necessary for cultivating growth. However, past wounds can show up in our relationships, making true connection difficult to find. At Life Wise, our goal is to create a therapeutic connection that allows you to explore your story in a way that is empowering and constructive.
Our highly skilled team of trauma-informed counsellors is dedicated to your wellbeing through specialized training in the mind-body connection.
Life Wise was founded to support the active healing process for individuals & couples who are ready for change. We are committed to informing your journey overcoming Depression, Anxiety, Addiction, Trauma and relational challenges through a compassionate lens. We strongly believe in the power of connection, necessary for cultivating growth. However, past wounds can show up in our relationships, making true connection difficult to find. At Life Wise, our goal is to create a therapeutic connection that allows you to explore your story in a way that is empowering and constructive.
(587) 849-0736 View (587) 849-0736

See more therapy options for West 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.