Trauma and PTSD Counselling in Leeds

Photo of Juna Brookes, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Juna Brookes
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Leeds LS18
Hi, my name is Juna Brookes, I am a BACP accredited counsellor and qualified EMDR Therapist in Horsforth, Leeds. I specialize in Trauma/ PTSD and anxiety treatments. I help my clients to let go and be free of the traumatic incidents in their past.
Hi, my name is Juna Brookes, I am a BACP accredited counsellor and qualified EMDR Therapist in Horsforth, Leeds. I specialize in Trauma/ PTSD and anxiety treatments. I help my clients to let go and be free of the traumatic incidents in their past.
0113 467 8327 View 0113 467 8327
Photo of Jan Freea, PsychD, MBACP, Counsellor
Jan Freea
Counsellor, PsychD, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leeds LS14
Hi my name is Heline, I am a registered BSc Integrative Counsellor MBACP with 26 years experience. A clinical trauma therapist, supervisor, play therapist and cultural sensitive Trauma informed Trainer. I work with people of all ages who have experienced mental health and complex trauma in schools, colleges, education. NHS, Foster and social care system, Addictions field, family services and in the community. I provide a range of interventions that help reduce physical and psychological ailments, depression, anxiety, self harm, loss, PTSD inter generational wounds, identity issues, self image, suicidal ideation, family issues.
Hi my name is Heline, I am a registered BSc Integrative Counsellor MBACP with 26 years experience. A clinical trauma therapist, supervisor, play therapist and cultural sensitive Trauma informed Trainer. I work with people of all ages who have experienced mental health and complex trauma in schools, colleges, education. NHS, Foster and social care system, Addictions field, family services and in the community. I provide a range of interventions that help reduce physical and psychological ailments, depression, anxiety, self harm, loss, PTSD inter generational wounds, identity issues, self image, suicidal ideation, family issues.
0113 519 7247 View 0113 519 7247
Photo of Serena Ayub, MBACP, Counsellor
Serena Ayub
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have experience working with FGM, PTSD, BPD Career and Life changes.
Are you feeling anxious in the day or at night? Do you feel overwhelmed or low? Do you feel stuck or have unhelpful thoughts that reoccur? Is the feeling of uncertainty making you feel like those thoughts are on a constant loop? Perhaps you're noticing patterns in your life that you feel are not changing. Do memories from the past keep coming back? Are they making you feel sad, confused, fearful, or angry? Or you are unable to make a decision? I can work with you to gently uncover what's going on. I will support you in overcoming the things that challenge you. It takes courage to reach out, well done you!
I have experience working with FGM, PTSD, BPD Career and Life changes.
Are you feeling anxious in the day or at night? Do you feel overwhelmed or low? Do you feel stuck or have unhelpful thoughts that reoccur? Is the feeling of uncertainty making you feel like those thoughts are on a constant loop? Perhaps you're noticing patterns in your life that you feel are not changing. Do memories from the past keep coming back? Are they making you feel sad, confused, fearful, or angry? Or you are unable to make a decision? I can work with you to gently uncover what's going on. I will support you in overcoming the things that challenge you. It takes courage to reach out, well done you!
0113 519 1952 View 0113 519 1952
Photo of Aleksandra Romana Brzezinska, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Aleksandra Romana Brzezinska
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leeds LS1
I am also trained and registered practitioner with IARTT to treat PTSD.
I can offer you a safe, confidential space where you can feel the positive acceptance which can help you to explore all your feelings and thoughts without any fear and accept yourself for who you truly are. As a psychotherapist I can help you to gain a better understanding of the root of your conflicts. I can also offer help to disconnected, distressed couples who are trying to rebuilt their relationship. If you are having difficulties dealing with traumatic events, PTSD, I can offer a short and successful technique REWIND which doesn’t require disclosure of the trauma. Available sessions via Skype and Zoom.
I am also trained and registered practitioner with IARTT to treat PTSD.
I can offer you a safe, confidential space where you can feel the positive acceptance which can help you to explore all your feelings and thoughts without any fear and accept yourself for who you truly are. As a psychotherapist I can help you to gain a better understanding of the root of your conflicts. I can also offer help to disconnected, distressed couples who are trying to rebuilt their relationship. If you are having difficulties dealing with traumatic events, PTSD, I can offer a short and successful technique REWIND which doesn’t require disclosure of the trauma. Available sessions via Skype and Zoom.
0113 519 4565 View 0113 519 4565
Photo of Jodie Slee, DCounsPsych, COSRT General, Counsellor
Jodie Slee
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, COSRT General
Verified Verified
Online Only
I also have specialist training in EMDR for PTSD and trauma.
I am an experienced, fully qualified psychotherapist specialising in Psychosexual, Relationship Therapy and EMDR therapy. I am qualified at MSC level and have over 15 years' experience of helping a diverse range of couples and individuals overcome relationship issues, sexual problems or trauma. I operate confidential and judgment free practice using an integrative therapeutic style, tailored to meet the individual needs of each client and work proactively using up to date strategies in psychology and behavioural sciences to help clients meet their therapeutic goals.
I also have specialist training in EMDR for PTSD and trauma.
I am an experienced, fully qualified psychotherapist specialising in Psychosexual, Relationship Therapy and EMDR therapy. I am qualified at MSC level and have over 15 years' experience of helping a diverse range of couples and individuals overcome relationship issues, sexual problems or trauma. I operate confidential and judgment free practice using an integrative therapeutic style, tailored to meet the individual needs of each client and work proactively using up to date strategies in psychology and behavioural sciences to help clients meet their therapeutic goals.
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Photo of Dr Palvinder Rao, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Palvinder Rao
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Leeds LS8
Hello, my name is Pav. I am a registered and chartered clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience in helping people with a range of problems including: depression, anxiety disorders, low self-esteem, trauma, PTSD, complex PTSD, self-harm, addictions, eating disorders, physical illness, ASD, ADHD, personality difficulties, adjustment disorders and bipolar. I also have experience of supporting those who are experiencing neurological injury, illness or disease.
Hello, my name is Pav. I am a registered and chartered clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience in helping people with a range of problems including: depression, anxiety disorders, low self-esteem, trauma, PTSD, complex PTSD, self-harm, addictions, eating disorders, physical illness, ASD, ADHD, personality difficulties, adjustment disorders and bipolar. I also have experience of supporting those who are experiencing neurological injury, illness or disease.
0113 519 5687 View 0113 519 5687
Photo of Dr Emma Sweeney, PsychD, HCPC - Forensic Psych., Psychologist
Dr Emma Sweeney
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Forensic Psych.
Verified Verified
Leeds LS7
I have experience of working with individuals with attachment difficulties, PTSD (inc.
I am a practitioner psychologist with nearly 10 years of experience working in the independent sector. I offer psychological interventions for individuals with complex mental health needs, drawing from a range of therapeutic approaches. My specialist area of interest and skill set is working with people who have experienced trauma, which is the centre of my day to day work. In addition to offering private therapy, I am also the lead psychologist for an independent hospital which offers assessment and treatment for women and gender diverse individuals with complex mental health needs.
I have experience of working with individuals with attachment difficulties, PTSD (inc.
I am a practitioner psychologist with nearly 10 years of experience working in the independent sector. I offer psychological interventions for individuals with complex mental health needs, drawing from a range of therapeutic approaches. My specialist area of interest and skill set is working with people who have experienced trauma, which is the centre of my day to day work. In addition to offering private therapy, I am also the lead psychologist for an independent hospital which offers assessment and treatment for women and gender diverse individuals with complex mental health needs.
0113 467 8195 View 0113 467 8195
Photo of Simon Kennedy, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Simon Kennedy
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Online Only
I offer private clinics in Leeds, and provide highly specialist psychological therapy to address a wide range of difficulties including (but not limited to): • Anxiety • Depression • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder ( PTSD) • Phobias • Panic Attacks • Low self-esteem • Interpersonal and relationship difficulties • Difficulty regulating emotions • Personality disorder • Hearing voices / psychosis
I offer private clinics in Leeds, and provide highly specialist psychological therapy to address a wide range of difficulties including (but not limited to): • Anxiety • Depression • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder ( PTSD) • Phobias • Panic Attacks • Low self-esteem • Interpersonal and relationship difficulties • Difficulty regulating emotions • Personality disorder • Hearing voices / psychosis
07394 470900 View 07394 470900
Photo of Ewelina Monika Ahmed - Fenix CBT Psychotherapy, Autism and OCD Specialist, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Fenix CBT Psychotherapy, Autism and OCD Specialist
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Leeds LS15
At Fenix CBT we specialise in CBT/DBT therapy specifically adapted to autistic adults, children and young people, OCD (ERP) and PTSD.
My name is Eve Ahmed I am an owner and Lead Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (BABCP accredited) at Fenix CBT LTD. I utilise my skills and extensive experience to help my clients reach their personal targets and clinical recovery. I am very passionate about the work I do and I love helping people reach their goals. I have ten years of experience working in mental health in public and charity sector with adults and children. I completed BSc undergraduate degree in Psychology, Postgraduate Diploma in CBT and Level 3 Diploma in DBT and I also have (amongst many others) EMDR, ACT and Compassionate Mind training.
At Fenix CBT we specialise in CBT/DBT therapy specifically adapted to autistic adults, children and young people, OCD (ERP) and PTSD.
My name is Eve Ahmed I am an owner and Lead Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (BABCP accredited) at Fenix CBT LTD. I utilise my skills and extensive experience to help my clients reach their personal targets and clinical recovery. I am very passionate about the work I do and I love helping people reach their goals. I have ten years of experience working in mental health in public and charity sector with adults and children. I completed BSc undergraduate degree in Psychology, Postgraduate Diploma in CBT and Level 3 Diploma in DBT and I also have (amongst many others) EMDR, ACT and Compassionate Mind training.
0113 487 2229 View 0113 487 2229
Photo of Tallulah Francis, MA, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Tallulah Francis
Psychotherapist, MA, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Leeds LS6
I work with a wide range of anxiety disorders and my particular areas of interest are OCD, PTSD, and generalised anxiety and worry.
If you're battling depression or anxiety, dealing with PTSD or struggling to come to terms with a traumatic experience, or you're fighting OCD or feeling overwhelmed with intrusive thoughts or rituals, I can help you make a change. Therapy isn't always easy but I'm here to guide you through each step of your journey.
I work with a wide range of anxiety disorders and my particular areas of interest are OCD, PTSD, and generalised anxiety and worry.
If you're battling depression or anxiety, dealing with PTSD or struggling to come to terms with a traumatic experience, or you're fighting OCD or feeling overwhelmed with intrusive thoughts or rituals, I can help you make a change. Therapy isn't always easy but I'm here to guide you through each step of your journey.
0113 519 9754 View 0113 519 9754
Photo of Jaz O'Reilly, MBACP, Counsellor
Jaz O'Reilly
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Leeds LS8
Hello I am Jaz, a counsellor based in North Leeds. I offer compassionate and effective counselling tailored to your unique needs. My integrative approach combines person-centered, gestalt, and CBT therapies, along with a focus on the body-mind connection. I'm experienced in working with bereavement and loss, anxiety, depression and relationship difficulties. I also specialise in complex issues, including trauma and PTSD. Together, we can explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours to develop coping strategies and regain control of your life.
Hello I am Jaz, a counsellor based in North Leeds. I offer compassionate and effective counselling tailored to your unique needs. My integrative approach combines person-centered, gestalt, and CBT therapies, along with a focus on the body-mind connection. I'm experienced in working with bereavement and loss, anxiety, depression and relationship difficulties. I also specialise in complex issues, including trauma and PTSD. Together, we can explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours to develop coping strategies and regain control of your life.
0113 519 7349 View 0113 519 7349
Photo of Adeola Iluyomade, MSc, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Adeola Iluyomade
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Leeds LS16
I offer a space to talk, giving you time out to reflect and to explore self-development. As an Integrative Relational Therapeutic Counsellor, I draw on different models of therapy including Psychodynamic, Systemic, Interpersonal Process, CBT, Transactional Analysis amongst others in supporting you to reach your desired goals to maximise your full potentials. Meaning, you will find my approach friendly, empowering and conversational in style. I take great care in ensuring that you feel safe, respected and valued. I offer flexibility of short or long term therapy as tailored round your needs. I adhere to the ethics & codes of the British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy.
I offer a space to talk, giving you time out to reflect and to explore self-development. As an Integrative Relational Therapeutic Counsellor, I draw on different models of therapy including Psychodynamic, Systemic, Interpersonal Process, CBT, Transactional Analysis amongst others in supporting you to reach your desired goals to maximise your full potentials. Meaning, you will find my approach friendly, empowering and conversational in style. I take great care in ensuring that you feel safe, respected and valued. I offer flexibility of short or long term therapy as tailored round your needs. I adhere to the ethics & codes of the British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy.
0113 467 9309 View 0113 467 9309
Photo of Dr Zaynah Arshad, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Zaynah Arshad
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Leeds LS6
Hi, I’m Zaynah; I’m a trauma-informed Clinical Psychologist and have worked within mental health services in the NHS for 12 years. I have successfully worked alongside individuals with a range of difficulties, including; emotional coping difficulties, low mood/depression, anxiety, low self-esteem and relationship difficulties. I also work to support people in processing traumatic experiences ( PTSD and C- PTSD). My core values include being approachable and compassionate and this is reflected in the way in which I work. People I have worked with have described me as warm, genuine, and validating.
Hi, I’m Zaynah; I’m a trauma-informed Clinical Psychologist and have worked within mental health services in the NHS for 12 years. I have successfully worked alongside individuals with a range of difficulties, including; emotional coping difficulties, low mood/depression, anxiety, low self-esteem and relationship difficulties. I also work to support people in processing traumatic experiences ( PTSD and C- PTSD). My core values include being approachable and compassionate and this is reflected in the way in which I work. People I have worked with have described me as warm, genuine, and validating.
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Photo of Julia Tiplady - CJC Counselling and psychotherapy -Julia Tiplady , DCounsPsych, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
CJC Counselling and psychotherapy -Julia Tiplady
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Leeds LS16
Hi, I'm Julia of Charlie J Counselling. Being here for you is important, whether you’re wanting help for a specific issue or just need a listening ear. Charlie J Counselling was founded in memory of my late father and I am proud to be a small personal practice, providing you a safe, confidential and non-judgmental space to explore what you need. I am able to support you with personal difficulties around mental health and well-being, including depression, anxiety and trauma. My specialist skills are in supporting people through Trauma , PTSD, bereavement and loss, people who have experienced domestic abuse and sexual abuse.
Hi, I'm Julia of Charlie J Counselling. Being here for you is important, whether you’re wanting help for a specific issue or just need a listening ear. Charlie J Counselling was founded in memory of my late father and I am proud to be a small personal practice, providing you a safe, confidential and non-judgmental space to explore what you need. I am able to support you with personal difficulties around mental health and well-being, including depression, anxiety and trauma. My specialist skills are in supporting people through Trauma , PTSD, bereavement and loss, people who have experienced domestic abuse and sexual abuse.
01535 288221 View 01535 288221
Photo of Susannah Christine Barnes - With The Seasons - Counselling & Trauma Therapy, MBACP, Counsellor
With The Seasons - Counselling & Trauma Therapy
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Leeds LS1
Waitlist for new clients
Are you feeling out of sync with the world and other people? You may be going through a bereavement or significant life changes, feeling anxious, depressed, lonely, confused, misunderstood or be living with Post Traumatic Stress ( PTSD) or Long Covid. I can help you reconnect to yourself and others. I can support you with the things that are holding you back as well as help you make more sense of the new world around you. I help you work with the body and mind together - a more effective way to stabilise and rebuild after a traumatic time as well as enable new insights and change - than bringing your pain up over and over again.
Are you feeling out of sync with the world and other people? You may be going through a bereavement or significant life changes, feeling anxious, depressed, lonely, confused, misunderstood or be living with Post Traumatic Stress ( PTSD) or Long Covid. I can help you reconnect to yourself and others. I can support you with the things that are holding you back as well as help you make more sense of the new world around you. I help you work with the body and mind together - a more effective way to stabilise and rebuild after a traumatic time as well as enable new insights and change - than bringing your pain up over and over again.
01274 015886 View 01274 015886
Photo of Tracey Louise Ward, MRes, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Tracey Louise Ward
Psychotherapist, MRes, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Tracey and I am an accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist. My work in mental health began in 2003 when I volunteered for a helpline for children. Since then I have either been in education or working in mental health. I specialize in working with adults with mental health problems. I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing (EMDR) both CBT and EMDR are evidence based psychological approaches to treat a wide range of emotional, behavioural and psychological difficulties including anxiety, depression, complex trauma, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder ( PTSD), adjustment difficulties
My name is Tracey and I am an accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist. My work in mental health began in 2003 when I volunteered for a helpline for children. Since then I have either been in education or working in mental health. I specialize in working with adults with mental health problems. I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing (EMDR) both CBT and EMDR are evidence based psychological approaches to treat a wide range of emotional, behavioural and psychological difficulties including anxiety, depression, complex trauma, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder ( PTSD), adjustment difficulties
07500 934229 View 07500 934229
Photo of Nabeela Hussain - Simply Psychotherapy Ltd., MSc, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Simply Psychotherapy Ltd.
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Online Only
At Simply Psychotherapy, our passion is helping individuals like you overcome your mental health difficulties and achieve lasting progress and wellbeing. We offer evidence-based therapies, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing (EMDR) and IPT addressing a wide range of conditions. If you are struggling with depression, excessive worrying, stress, low self-esteem, health anxiety, social anxiety, OCD, PTSD, panic attacks, body dysmorphia, binge eating, bulimia, or phobias. Through therapy we can give you effective strategies to break free from the grip of these conditions.
At Simply Psychotherapy, our passion is helping individuals like you overcome your mental health difficulties and achieve lasting progress and wellbeing. We offer evidence-based therapies, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing (EMDR) and IPT addressing a wide range of conditions. If you are struggling with depression, excessive worrying, stress, low self-esteem, health anxiety, social anxiety, OCD, PTSD, panic attacks, body dysmorphia, binge eating, bulimia, or phobias. Through therapy we can give you effective strategies to break free from the grip of these conditions.
020 3828 7360 View 020 3828 7360
Photo of Dr Rebecca Szlachcic, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Rebecca Szlachcic
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Leeds LS1
I am an experienced HCPC Registered Clinical Psychologist working in the NHS and in the private sector. I am a trauma informed therapist, recognising that many people are trying their best to cope and live with the difficult life experiences they have been through. I understand the importance of the therapeutic relationship in finding a ‘good fit’ with a therapist. I enjoy working collaboratively and creatively with individuals and have experience in working with people with mild to severe mental health difficulties including anxiety, depression, PTSD, psychosis and personality difficulties.
I am an experienced HCPC Registered Clinical Psychologist working in the NHS and in the private sector. I am a trauma informed therapist, recognising that many people are trying their best to cope and live with the difficult life experiences they have been through. I understand the importance of the therapeutic relationship in finding a ‘good fit’ with a therapist. I enjoy working collaboratively and creatively with individuals and have experience in working with people with mild to severe mental health difficulties including anxiety, depression, PTSD, psychosis and personality difficulties.
0113 467 9507 View 0113 467 9507
Photo of Dr Charlotte Lucy Caton - Northern Lighthouse Psychology Ltd, PhD, HCPC - Forensic Psych., Psychologist
Northern Lighthouse Psychology Ltd
Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Forensic Psych.
Verified Verified
Leeds LS27
Hi, I’m Charlotte. I am a Registered Psychologist and Accredited EMDR therapist. I have 20 years of experience working with people suffering with mental health difficulties. I am passionate about helping people struggling with distressing emotions which may lead to suicidal & self-injurious thinking and behaviour. I also have significant experience working with people who have experienced trauma (and may have a PTSD diagnosis) and may have been given a personality disorder diagnosis. In addition to using EMDR I am also trained in DBT and schema therapy so tend to use a combined approach tailored to the needs of the individual.
Hi, I’m Charlotte. I am a Registered Psychologist and Accredited EMDR therapist. I have 20 years of experience working with people suffering with mental health difficulties. I am passionate about helping people struggling with distressing emotions which may lead to suicidal & self-injurious thinking and behaviour. I also have significant experience working with people who have experienced trauma (and may have a PTSD diagnosis) and may have been given a personality disorder diagnosis. In addition to using EMDR I am also trained in DBT and schema therapy so tend to use a combined approach tailored to the needs of the individual.
01924 938670 View 01924 938670
Photo of Anya Zinkivskay, MRes, MBACP, Counsellor
Anya Zinkivskay
Counsellor, MRes, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leeds LS1
Waitlist for new clients
I specialise in working with clients affected by complex trauma and PTSD (rooted in armed conflicts, physical or sexual abuse, childhood trauma), Anxiety disorders (i.
As private practice and NHS practitioner, with a 20-year background in neuropsychology, I structure therapy around the needs of my clients. Using Trauma-informed practice I employ Evidence-based techniques such as CBT, ERP and EMDR, in conjunction with psychoeducation. Client-Centred approach is central to my therapeutic aim of growing self-awareness and offering clients a proactive involvement in their therapeutic process. My private practice is based in Derbyshire and virtually on Zoom, where in a confidential, safe and empathic environment I have been supporting clients from across the UK and Europe.
I specialise in working with clients affected by complex trauma and PTSD (rooted in armed conflicts, physical or sexual abuse, childhood trauma), Anxiety disorders (i.
As private practice and NHS practitioner, with a 20-year background in neuropsychology, I structure therapy around the needs of my clients. Using Trauma-informed practice I employ Evidence-based techniques such as CBT, ERP and EMDR, in conjunction with psychoeducation. Client-Centred approach is central to my therapeutic aim of growing self-awareness and offering clients a proactive involvement in their therapeutic process. My private practice is based in Derbyshire and virtually on Zoom, where in a confidential, safe and empathic environment I have been supporting clients from across the UK and Europe.
01663 790112 View 01663 790112
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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.