Trauma and PTSD Counselling in Northfleet

Photo of Dr Amna Salman, Psychologist, HCPC - Forensic Psych.
Dr Amna Salman
Psychologist, HCPC - Forensic Psych.
Online Only
Life is a beautiful challenge. We all face adversity in life, whether this manifests as mental or physical illness, trauma, or difficulty coping with day to day experiences. Therapy is not just about treatment or addressing mental illness, it is a tool that we can all use to develop a better understanding of ourselves and our individual lived experience, and to reconnect with the joy in our lives. Therapy can help us identify thinking and behaviour patterns, address past and present traumas, cope with everyday fears and anxieties, and learn ways to better relate to and understand ourselves, our environments, and other people.
Life is a beautiful challenge. We all face adversity in life, whether this manifests as mental or physical illness, trauma, or difficulty coping with day to day experiences. Therapy is not just about treatment or addressing mental illness, it is a tool that we can all use to develop a better understanding of ourselves and our individual lived experience, and to reconnect with the joy in our lives. Therapy can help us identify thinking and behaviour patterns, address past and present traumas, cope with everyday fears and anxieties, and learn ways to better relate to and understand ourselves, our environments, and other people.
01474 556704 View 01474 556704
Photo of Tracy Bernadette Weber Jarvis - Tracy Jarvis BA(Hons) TJ Counselling, Counsellor, MBACP
Tracy Jarvis BA(Hons) TJ Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
I am an Integrative counsellor which means that I use a variety of counselling approaches dependant on your needs and what you want to achieve in the counselling process. Throughout the process you decide what you want to talk about and the pace you want to go. I will listen to you and help you to express and understand your emotions. Sometimes I use writing, drawing and toys to help you express difficult emotions. I have experience in helping people who want to talk through issues of Spirituality, especially their Christian faith.
I am an Integrative counsellor which means that I use a variety of counselling approaches dependant on your needs and what you want to achieve in the counselling process. Throughout the process you decide what you want to talk about and the pace you want to go. I will listen to you and help you to express and understand your emotions. Sometimes I use writing, drawing and toys to help you express difficult emotions. I have experience in helping people who want to talk through issues of Spirituality, especially their Christian faith.
01375 350600 View 01375 350600

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kim Jordan, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Kim Jordan
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
3 Endorsed
Maidstone ME14
I primarily work with Anxiety, Depression and PTSD and their associated symptoms but these can occur from a vast range of life changing events, therefore I provide bespoke Counselling based on your individual life experiences.
Good rapport with your Counsellor's the first step towards achieving change. My Counselling approach is different to anything my clients (both Adults & Children) have experienced before and it's because of this, they've felt at ease quickly and gained maximum benefit from their sessions. I've Counselled since 2019 and have a diverse range of additional skills that I integrate into my Counselling work. I work with Victims of Crime within Kent, as well as Children & Families who've been bereaved. I have over 10yrs experience working with Children & Young People, including those with additional needs, so my approach is inclusive.
I primarily work with Anxiety, Depression and PTSD and their associated symptoms but these can occur from a vast range of life changing events, therefore I provide bespoke Counselling based on your individual life experiences.
Good rapport with your Counsellor's the first step towards achieving change. My Counselling approach is different to anything my clients (both Adults & Children) have experienced before and it's because of this, they've felt at ease quickly and gained maximum benefit from their sessions. I've Counselled since 2019 and have a diverse range of additional skills that I integrate into my Counselling work. I work with Victims of Crime within Kent, as well as Children & Families who've been bereaved. I have over 10yrs experience working with Children & Young People, including those with additional needs, so my approach is inclusive.
01622 237798 View 01622 237798
Photo of Laura-Lee D'Souza, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Laura-Lee D'Souza
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Maidstone ME14
Our sessions may cover past/present relationships, PTSD, depression, anxiety, work/redundancy, life limiting conditions, personal growth & confidence building.
Welcome, people call me Laura. Do you often feel unsure, overwhelmed or not present? Would you like to feel less burdened? Quality counselling could really help. These sessions are easy to engage with because I appreciate that you don't need to feel more pressure! My clients often say that they “feel lighter” from our first session. This is a collaboration. I bring empathy & integrative techniques, including trauma informed & Person-Centred (Humanistic) therapy etc. Together we would form a therapy plan just for you, in a calm Neurodivergent friendly therapy space. Contact me free, for a no obligation, 15-minute consultation T/call.
Our sessions may cover past/present relationships, PTSD, depression, anxiety, work/redundancy, life limiting conditions, personal growth & confidence building.
Welcome, people call me Laura. Do you often feel unsure, overwhelmed or not present? Would you like to feel less burdened? Quality counselling could really help. These sessions are easy to engage with because I appreciate that you don't need to feel more pressure! My clients often say that they “feel lighter” from our first session. This is a collaboration. I bring empathy & integrative techniques, including trauma informed & Person-Centred (Humanistic) therapy etc. Together we would form a therapy plan just for you, in a calm Neurodivergent friendly therapy space. Contact me free, for a no obligation, 15-minute consultation T/call.
01622 233622 View 01622 233622
Photo of Julia Herta Elliott-Tubb, Counsellor, MBACP
Julia Herta Elliott-Tubb
Counsellor, MBACP
Maidstone ME17
It could be overwhelming thoughts, a racing mind, panic attacks, anxiety, depression, bereavement and loss, abuse, trauma, or PTSD.
I work in an integrative way, with a person centred approach, with your mind, body, and spirit. I have a Diploma in Humanistic counselling and have trained with the Sensorimotor Psychotherapy Institute, which aids me in working with the body. I include the body in therapy as both a source of information and a target for intervention, growth and healing.
It could be overwhelming thoughts, a racing mind, panic attacks, anxiety, depression, bereavement and loss, abuse, trauma, or PTSD.
I work in an integrative way, with a person centred approach, with your mind, body, and spirit. I have a Diploma in Humanistic counselling and have trained with the Sensorimotor Psychotherapy Institute, which aids me in working with the body. I include the body in therapy as both a source of information and a target for intervention, growth and healing.
01622 237490 View 01622 237490
Photo of Julia Louise Hope, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Julia Louise Hope
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
1 Endorsed
Ashford TN23
When you connect with your inner child and learn to safely hear what they need you can begin to reclaim your life from Complex PTSD, Trauma and abuse, Bereavement, Anxiety and Depression.
Healing happens in waves. It's a process. You peel back the layers. You move forward. You find new rooms within your healing, within your heart, that you are scared to go into and you learn how to open those doors. Slowly we learn how to control how those memories affect us. Slowly we learn how to approach the hard days, we learn how to let those emotions pass through us like rain, how to face the parts of ourselves that no one else claps for. With time, we learn how to remind ourselves how far we have come and how to have compassion for ourselves.
When you connect with your inner child and learn to safely hear what they need you can begin to reclaim your life from Complex PTSD, Trauma and abuse, Bereavement, Anxiety and Depression.
Healing happens in waves. It's a process. You peel back the layers. You move forward. You find new rooms within your healing, within your heart, that you are scared to go into and you learn how to open those doors. Slowly we learn how to control how those memories affect us. Slowly we learn how to approach the hard days, we learn how to let those emotions pass through us like rain, how to face the parts of ourselves that no one else claps for. With time, we learn how to remind ourselves how far we have come and how to have compassion for ourselves.
01233 560546 View 01233 560546
Photo of JoAnne Regina, Psychotherapist, MA, MBABCP
JoAnne Regina
Psychotherapist, MA, MBABCP
I have extensive training and clinical experience in the treatment of a range of psychological disorders, with a particular focus on trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder and problems caused by adverse childhood experiences including low self esteem, relationship difficulties, and emotional dysregulation.
As a one-size-fits-all approach does not apply to the complexity of human behaviour, I draw from a wide range of approaches based on the needs of the individual and the nature of the presenting problem including EMDR, CBT, Schema Therapy, and somatic psychology.
I have extensive training and clinical experience in the treatment of a range of psychological disorders, with a particular focus on trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder and problems caused by adverse childhood experiences including low self esteem, relationship difficulties, and emotional dysregulation.
As a one-size-fits-all approach does not apply to the complexity of human behaviour, I draw from a wide range of approaches based on the needs of the individual and the nature of the presenting problem including EMDR, CBT, Schema Therapy, and somatic psychology.
01634 540623 View 01634 540623
Photo of Rebekah Dervley, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Forensic Psych.
Rebekah Dervley
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Forensic Psych.
I specialise in working with trauma, PTSD, and people who exhibit a range of coping behaviours, such as self-harm, addiction, and other behavioural issues.
I have specialist training in EMDR, Trauma-Focused Relational CBT for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Mentalization Based Therapy, and Online Sexual Behaviours. My treatment approach is integrative, drawing on CBT, CFT, DBT, MBT, and Systemic therapies. I have clinical expertise in the assessment of ADHD in children and adults.
I specialise in working with trauma, PTSD, and people who exhibit a range of coping behaviours, such as self-harm, addiction, and other behavioural issues.
I have specialist training in EMDR, Trauma-Focused Relational CBT for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Mentalization Based Therapy, and Online Sexual Behaviours. My treatment approach is integrative, drawing on CBT, CFT, DBT, MBT, and Systemic therapies. I have clinical expertise in the assessment of ADHD in children and adults.
View
Photo of Robyn Lithgoe, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Robyn Lithgoe
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Online Only
I draw on a range of therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT), to help clients manage a wide variety of anxiety and mood-related disorders, specializing in trauma and PTSD.
My name is Robyn and I am an accredited CBT Therapist with 12 years of experience supporting the emotional and psychological well-being of my clients. My approach is warm, compassionate, and collaborative, creating a non-judgmental space where nothing is off-limits or considered shameful. Together, we’ll explore your thoughts and feelings in a safe environment, with your personal experiences and values always at the heart of our work. I am passionate about helping individuals work through life’s challenges using evidence-based interventions tailored to their needs.
I draw on a range of therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT), to help clients manage a wide variety of anxiety and mood-related disorders, specializing in trauma and PTSD.
My name is Robyn and I am an accredited CBT Therapist with 12 years of experience supporting the emotional and psychological well-being of my clients. My approach is warm, compassionate, and collaborative, creating a non-judgmental space where nothing is off-limits or considered shameful. Together, we’ll explore your thoughts and feelings in a safe environment, with your personal experiences and values always at the heart of our work. I am passionate about helping individuals work through life’s challenges using evidence-based interventions tailored to their needs.
01892 337585 View 01892 337585
Photo of Devon McDonald, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Devon McDonald
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
If you are suffering from symptoms related to PTSD or complex PTSD, EMDR therapy can help to alleviate your symptoms.
I offer a safe space which offers you the experience of sharing with someone who is non-judgemental and empathic and who actively listens to what you have to say. I offer psychodynamic counselling and EMDR for PTSD. The time you spend with me is purely for and about you. In this busy world, it is a time for reflection and self care.
If you are suffering from symptoms related to PTSD or complex PTSD, EMDR therapy can help to alleviate your symptoms.
I offer a safe space which offers you the experience of sharing with someone who is non-judgemental and empathic and who actively listens to what you have to say. I offer psychodynamic counselling and EMDR for PTSD. The time you spend with me is purely for and about you. In this busy world, it is a time for reflection and self care.
01732 902012 View 01732 902012
Photo of Beverley Beckett Pncps (Acc.) Specialist Tailored Counselling, Psychotherapist, PNCPS Acc.
Additional training: addiction, suicide, PTSD, self harm, telephone communications, childhood bereavement
Person-centred counselling puts you at the centre of our sessions, while I guide our discussions and support you by introducing psychotherapy tools to provide structure to your thinking. The guiding purpose is to allow you to discover the best way forward for you as an individual - we are all unique. There are a number of reasons why you might want to engage in therapy and often our conversations can cover unexpected topics. I am a fully qualified counsellor and psychotherapist, with professional accreditation from the NCPS and I am registered with the BACP.
Additional training: addiction, suicide, PTSD, self harm, telephone communications, childhood bereavement
Person-centred counselling puts you at the centre of our sessions, while I guide our discussions and support you by introducing psychotherapy tools to provide structure to your thinking. The guiding purpose is to allow you to discover the best way forward for you as an individual - we are all unique. There are a number of reasons why you might want to engage in therapy and often our conversations can cover unexpected topics. I am a fully qualified counsellor and psychotherapist, with professional accreditation from the NCPS and I am registered with the BACP.
07401 263192 View 07401 263192
Photo of Johnnie William Taylor - Johnnie Taylor Internal Family Systems with EMDR, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Johnnie Taylor Internal Family Systems with EMDR
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Online Only
I can help you with emotional trauma, attachment issues, complex PTSD, physical co-morbidities; also codependency and people pleasing.
Hi I offer an accredited online counselling and psychotherapy service embracing modern trauma-focused therapies. In a compassionate way, we can work together to promote and restore your health and well-being. I use a combination of modern trauma-informed therapies called EMDR (eye-movement desensitisation and reprocessing) and IFS (Internal Family Systems' therapy). This integration is very effective and focused for ‘emotional trauma’ and any mental or somatic condition. I am accredited with EMDR Europe and the EMDR Association and with the IFS Institute (level 1 & 2 trained). I have NHS registration & Enhanced DBS
I can help you with emotional trauma, attachment issues, complex PTSD, physical co-morbidities; also codependency and people pleasing.
Hi I offer an accredited online counselling and psychotherapy service embracing modern trauma-focused therapies. In a compassionate way, we can work together to promote and restore your health and well-being. I use a combination of modern trauma-informed therapies called EMDR (eye-movement desensitisation and reprocessing) and IFS (Internal Family Systems' therapy). This integration is very effective and focused for ‘emotional trauma’ and any mental or somatic condition. I am accredited with EMDR Europe and the EMDR Association and with the IFS Institute (level 1 & 2 trained). I have NHS registration & Enhanced DBS
01227 202266 View 01227 202266
Photo of Angela Jullings, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Angela Jullings
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Serves Area
The main areas I work in are relationship issues, affair recovery and betrayal issues, trauma and PTSD, as well as co-dependency.
Life can be complex and challenging at times. We may feel anxious, sad, lost or overwhelmed by our relationship, work, loss of a loved one, lack of confidence or low self-worth. We may find ourselves struggling with depression, insecurity, lack of sleep, infidelity, shame, infertility and we lose hope that we'll ever feel differently again. It's at times like these that you may have wondered how psychotherapy can help you. You may feel nervous about seeking help, which is quite normal. However, you'll find a relaxed and warm atmosphere while working with me.
The main areas I work in are relationship issues, affair recovery and betrayal issues, trauma and PTSD, as well as co-dependency.
Life can be complex and challenging at times. We may feel anxious, sad, lost or overwhelmed by our relationship, work, loss of a loved one, lack of confidence or low self-worth. We may find ourselves struggling with depression, insecurity, lack of sleep, infidelity, shame, infertility and we lose hope that we'll ever feel differently again. It's at times like these that you may have wondered how psychotherapy can help you. You may feel nervous about seeking help, which is quite normal. However, you'll find a relaxed and warm atmosphere while working with me.
01748 901270 View 01748 901270
Photo of Sorrell Raikes, Counsellor, BACP
Sorrell Raikes
Counsellor, BACP
Working together we can explore issues including; Anxiety-Stress-Depression-Low self-esteem-Grief-Relationship problems-Recent&Childhood Trauma- PTSD-Body Dysmorphia-Eating Disorders
I provide therapeutic services for individuals, young people, as well as couples. I offer a safe and confidential space online and in Tunbridge Wells to work on a short or long term basis depending on your need. If you haven't had counselling before, the thought of talking to a stranger about something that's troubling you can seem frightening. You may have an idea of the changes you want to make, or simply be aware that you want something in your life to be different without being sure how to achieve this. I am qualified to practise Transactional Analysis psychotherapy and can support you to initiate the changes you seek to make.
Working together we can explore issues including; Anxiety-Stress-Depression-Low self-esteem-Grief-Relationship problems-Recent&Childhood Trauma- PTSD-Body Dysmorphia-Eating Disorders
I provide therapeutic services for individuals, young people, as well as couples. I offer a safe and confidential space online and in Tunbridge Wells to work on a short or long term basis depending on your need. If you haven't had counselling before, the thought of talking to a stranger about something that's troubling you can seem frightening. You may have an idea of the changes you want to make, or simply be aware that you want something in your life to be different without being sure how to achieve this. I am qualified to practise Transactional Analysis psychotherapy and can support you to initiate the changes you seek to make.
020 3962 0127 View 020 3962 0127
Photo of Inez Lane, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Inez Lane
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Online Only
My training in various therapeutic modalities, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), has allowed me to support individuals in overcoming challenges such as PTSD, anxiety disorders, depression, self harm and complex trauma.
Hello! I am a clinical psychologist with over 10 years of experience, working with people from many different walks of life. I have a strong belief in seeing someone as a whole person and I tailor my methods to fit the unique needs of each person I work with. I know seeking help can be difficult and knowing who to trust or who you can work with can be anxiety provoking. Feeling safe with a therapist is really important and I know it can take time to trust a stranger with your innermost thoughts.
My training in various therapeutic modalities, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), has allowed me to support individuals in overcoming challenges such as PTSD, anxiety disorders, depression, self harm and complex trauma.
Hello! I am a clinical psychologist with over 10 years of experience, working with people from many different walks of life. I have a strong belief in seeing someone as a whole person and I tailor my methods to fit the unique needs of each person I work with. I know seeking help can be difficult and knowing who to trust or who you can work with can be anxiety provoking. Feeling safe with a therapist is really important and I know it can take time to trust a stranger with your innermost thoughts.
01795 904849 View 01795 904849
Photo of Sue Aylott Mbacp, Counsellor, MBACP
Sue Aylott Mbacp
Counsellor, MBACP
I work with individuals and couples, specializing in relationships, anxiety, depression, complex trauma and PTSD.
Counselling isn't just about talking—it's about being truly heard, gaining clarity, and taking steps towards positive change. If you're wrestling with feelings of overwhelm, anxiety, depression, or a sense of purposelessness, know that you're not alone. I'm here to help. When things get too much it's often hard to see clearly and find the right path. Life's challenges may have knocked you down, but they don't define you. Through counselling, you'll regain a sense of self and learn how to unleash your full potential. Join me in-person, on line or in the presence of natures very own therapy room with a walk and talk therapy session.
I work with individuals and couples, specializing in relationships, anxiety, depression, complex trauma and PTSD.
Counselling isn't just about talking—it's about being truly heard, gaining clarity, and taking steps towards positive change. If you're wrestling with feelings of overwhelm, anxiety, depression, or a sense of purposelessness, know that you're not alone. I'm here to help. When things get too much it's often hard to see clearly and find the right path. Life's challenges may have knocked you down, but they don't define you. Through counselling, you'll regain a sense of self and learn how to unleash your full potential. Join me in-person, on line or in the presence of natures very own therapy room with a walk and talk therapy session.
07480 535242 View 07480 535242
Photo of Paul Gebka-Scuffins - Talking Therapy UK - Online CBT Brainspotting EMDR, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Talking Therapy UK - Online CBT Brainspotting EMDR
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Serves Area
You are possibly describing some symptoms of trauma, loss or even PTSD.
The brain is like a computer, everyday it is processing and tidying up the emotional information naturally. But, with major trauma or loss, the brain can block this healing process to cope, like pressing pause. Often people describe feeling stuck, numb, robotic, not really living. I use EMDR, Brainspotting and CBT to restart the natural healing process.
You are possibly describing some symptoms of trauma, loss or even PTSD.
The brain is like a computer, everyday it is processing and tidying up the emotional information naturally. But, with major trauma or loss, the brain can block this healing process to cope, like pressing pause. Often people describe feeling stuck, numb, robotic, not really living. I use EMDR, Brainspotting and CBT to restart the natural healing process.
01227 949206 View 01227 949206
Photo of Janet Ann Rich - Dr Janet Rich Clinical Psychologist , Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Janet Rich Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Mayfield TN20
I also have significant experience working with PTSD and anxiety disorders.
Life can be challenging at times and we can struggle to understand why we feel unhappy, worried and disconnected with people close to us. Often being able to talk about these difficult feelings with someone without judgement in full confidence to explore problems, hopes and fears. Whether struggling with anxiety and or depression, reaching out is the first step towards recovery.
I also have significant experience working with PTSD and anxiety disorders.
Life can be challenging at times and we can struggle to understand why we feel unhappy, worried and disconnected with people close to us. Often being able to talk about these difficult feelings with someone without judgement in full confidence to explore problems, hopes and fears. Whether struggling with anxiety and or depression, reaching out is the first step towards recovery.
01335 218750 View 01335 218750
Photo of Jo Davies, Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Jo Davies
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Serves Area
Trauma from childhood experiences - Imagery Rescripting has been proven effective at changing PTSD symptoms resulting from this.
I work with people who have experienced difficult/abusive childhoods, bereavement, loss, anxiety or low mood, and have done so for over 25 years, initially as a qualified social worker and now as a qualified counsellor. You will be able to work through your emotions in a safe place in our counselling sessions. I offer a warm and empathic environment to support you in understanding what is happening in your life and relationships, and how you want to move forward.
Trauma from childhood experiences - Imagery Rescripting has been proven effective at changing PTSD symptoms resulting from this.
I work with people who have experienced difficult/abusive childhoods, bereavement, loss, anxiety or low mood, and have done so for over 25 years, initially as a qualified social worker and now as a qualified counsellor. You will be able to work through your emotions in a safe place in our counselling sessions. I offer a warm and empathic environment to support you in understanding what is happening in your life and relationships, and how you want to move forward.
01227 936517 View 01227 936517
Photo of Jasmin Court, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Jasmin Court
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
I specialise in CBT to support adults aged 18–50 who struggle with low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and related challenges like social anxiety, panic, and stress.
Hi, I’m Jasmin. If you often feel not good enough, struggle with self-doubt, or find it hard to accept and value yourself, you’re not alone. I specialise in helping adults aged 18–50 overcome low self-esteem through CBT, guiding you to understand and challenge negative thought patterns. Together, we’ll build practical tools to boost your confidence, improve your relationships, and create a more fulfilling life. I offer a free 15-minute consultation to see if working together feels right. Sessions are in Tunbridge Wells or online.
I specialise in CBT to support adults aged 18–50 who struggle with low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and related challenges like social anxiety, panic, and stress.
Hi, I’m Jasmin. If you often feel not good enough, struggle with self-doubt, or find it hard to accept and value yourself, you’re not alone. I specialise in helping adults aged 18–50 overcome low self-esteem through CBT, guiding you to understand and challenge negative thought patterns. Together, we’ll build practical tools to boost your confidence, improve your relationships, and create a more fulfilling life. I offer a free 15-minute consultation to see if working together feels right. Sessions are in Tunbridge Wells or online.
01892 571262 View 01892 571262
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.