Trauma and PTSD Counselling in Hammersmith, London

Photo of April Haesler, Psychotherapist in Hammersmith, London, England
April Haesler
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Hammersmith, London W6
I have experience with a variety of different issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, adverse life events, PTSD.
Tired of NHS waiting lists? Get in touch with me today and begin your therapy journey. I am a qualified psychotherapist with experience in private practice, specialist charities and in the NHS. I believe therapy should be a collaborative experience and I regularly check in to ensure the therapy is working for you. I have experience working with a diverse presentation of difficulties and whatever is troubling you, I can offer a safe and reflective space for you to explore your difficulties and experiences. I want to work with you to help you meet your therapeutic goals and move towards being the person you want to be.
I have experience with a variety of different issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, adverse life events, PTSD.
Tired of NHS waiting lists? Get in touch with me today and begin your therapy journey. I am a qualified psychotherapist with experience in private practice, specialist charities and in the NHS. I believe therapy should be a collaborative experience and I regularly check in to ensure the therapy is working for you. I have experience working with a diverse presentation of difficulties and whatever is troubling you, I can offer a safe and reflective space for you to explore your difficulties and experiences. I want to work with you to help you meet your therapeutic goals and move towards being the person you want to be.
020 3667 9675 View 020 3667 9675
Photo of Dr Maxine King, Psychologist in Hammersmith, London, England
Dr Maxine King
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Hammersmith, London W14  (Online Only)
I also offer eye movement desensitisation and re-processing therapy (EMDR) for the treatment of PTSD and trauma.
I am a highly experienced counselling psychologist and cognitive behavioural psychotherapist who has been in clinical practice since 2004. I offer modern, evidenced-based psychological therapy for adults experiencing emotional and psychological difficulties. I specialise in working with anxiety (including obsessive compulsive disorder, generalised anxiety, panic and post traumatic stress disorder), depression, trauma, low self-esteem and relationship problems.
I also offer eye movement desensitisation and re-processing therapy (EMDR) for the treatment of PTSD and trauma.
I am a highly experienced counselling psychologist and cognitive behavioural psychotherapist who has been in clinical practice since 2004. I offer modern, evidenced-based psychological therapy for adults experiencing emotional and psychological difficulties. I specialise in working with anxiety (including obsessive compulsive disorder, generalised anxiety, panic and post traumatic stress disorder), depression, trauma, low self-esteem and relationship problems.
01689 661687 View 01689 661687
Photo of Dr Emma Arora, Psychologist in Hammersmith, London, England
Dr Emma Arora
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Hammersmith, London W6
I work with adults with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, emotion regulation difficulties, PTSD and complex trauma.
Are you struggling with managing your mood or emotions? Or feeling the impact of past trauma on your life? You might want to make sense of these experience and learn new ways to cope, to enable you to move forward in your life. Here is where I can help. I am a compassionate, experienced and knowledgeable senior clinical psychologist and BABCP accredited Cognitive and Behavioural Psychotherapist. My practise is both collaborative, fully involving you in the process and trauma informed. My initial aim to to create a sense of safety, where you are able to explore your difficulties openly.
I work with adults with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, emotion regulation difficulties, PTSD and complex trauma.
Are you struggling with managing your mood or emotions? Or feeling the impact of past trauma on your life? You might want to make sense of these experience and learn new ways to cope, to enable you to move forward in your life. Here is where I can help. I am a compassionate, experienced and knowledgeable senior clinical psychologist and BABCP accredited Cognitive and Behavioural Psychotherapist. My practise is both collaborative, fully involving you in the process and trauma informed. My initial aim to to create a sense of safety, where you are able to explore your difficulties openly.
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Photo of Samantha McDonnell, Counsellor in Hammersmith, London, England
Samantha McDonnell
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Hammersmith, London W6
Waitlist for new clients
I have extensive experience of working with a diverse range of clients and issues, including LGBTQ, those with personality disorders, PTSD/CPTSD, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, low self-esteem, and/or survivors of bullying, sexual, domestic or historical abuse.
Are you struggling with issues like anxiety, depression, addiction, abuse, loss, or relationships? My approach is compassionate and holistic, incorporating Sensorimotor Psyhotherapy, Internal Family Systems and Emotional Freedom Technique, to treat the somatic, emotional and psychological elements of unresolved trauma. Such symptoms may lie deep within the body, often at an unconscious level, and which traditional talking therapies may fail to address. I value our uniqueness as individuals and believe that we each have an innate capacity for healing and growth. I work with adults and offer both short-term and open-ended work.
I have extensive experience of working with a diverse range of clients and issues, including LGBTQ, those with personality disorders, PTSD/CPTSD, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, low self-esteem, and/or survivors of bullying, sexual, domestic or historical abuse.
Are you struggling with issues like anxiety, depression, addiction, abuse, loss, or relationships? My approach is compassionate and holistic, incorporating Sensorimotor Psyhotherapy, Internal Family Systems and Emotional Freedom Technique, to treat the somatic, emotional and psychological elements of unresolved trauma. Such symptoms may lie deep within the body, often at an unconscious level, and which traditional talking therapies may fail to address. I value our uniqueness as individuals and believe that we each have an innate capacity for healing and growth. I work with adults and offer both short-term and open-ended work.
020 3973 9250 View 020 3973 9250
Photo of Carolyn Thompson, Counsellor in Hammersmith, London, England
Carolyn Thompson
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Hammersmith, London W14
I work respectfully with a diverse range of clients and situations bringing a warm, supportive and non-judgemental approach. I work with many issues including, (but not exhaustive) sexual abuse and trauma, disassociation, PTSD and complex PDST, relationships, family dynamics, cancer, dementia, addictions and carer support. It is helpful to bring what may be troubling you, either from the past or present to the safety of a counselling relationship. Many people find they are then more confident to be able to make positive changes in their lives through counselling support. I offer a free 15-minute telephone consultation.
I work respectfully with a diverse range of clients and situations bringing a warm, supportive and non-judgemental approach. I work with many issues including, (but not exhaustive) sexual abuse and trauma, disassociation, PTSD and complex PDST, relationships, family dynamics, cancer, dementia, addictions and carer support. It is helpful to bring what may be troubling you, either from the past or present to the safety of a counselling relationship. Many people find they are then more confident to be able to make positive changes in their lives through counselling support. I offer a free 15-minute telephone consultation.
020 3835 4314 View 020 3835 4314
Photo of Dr Caroline Douglas-Pennant, Psychologist in Hammersmith, London, England
Dr Caroline Douglas-Pennant
Psychologist, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Hammersmith, London W6
Further specialist interest is working with Trauma using EMDR and other evidenced based treatments to help overcome post-traumatic stress.
I have worked in the NHS for 25 years, across a variety of settings and am currently undertaking an MA in Family Therapy. Neuro-biology and Somatic psychology are also areas that inform my practice. This includes helping individuals to understand choices around mental health medication, how the body and mind are 'one' and are both informed by the 'fight or flight' response, attachment styles and survival strategies. I use NVR (Non-Violent Resolution) to support families and young people with challenging behaviours.
Further specialist interest is working with Trauma using EMDR and other evidenced based treatments to help overcome post-traumatic stress.
I have worked in the NHS for 25 years, across a variety of settings and am currently undertaking an MA in Family Therapy. Neuro-biology and Somatic psychology are also areas that inform my practice. This includes helping individuals to understand choices around mental health medication, how the body and mind are 'one' and are both informed by the 'fight or flight' response, attachment styles and survival strategies. I use NVR (Non-Violent Resolution) to support families and young people with challenging behaviours.
020 3376 8104 View 020 3376 8104
Photo of Dr Basma Abdalla, Psychologist in Hammersmith, London, England
Dr Basma Abdalla
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Hammersmith, London W6
A very warm welcome to my profile. My name is Basma, I’m a Counselling Psychologist with 5+ years experience in working with adults in a number of settings including third sector and the NHS. I have a special interest in working with individuals who have experienced relational and childhood trauma. I'm also experienced in working with a variety of difficulties, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, low self-esteem, as well as difficulties surrounding one's identity. I'm an integrative practitioner which means that I use a number of evidence-based therapeutic models to tailor therapy in a way that is suited to your needs.
A very warm welcome to my profile. My name is Basma, I’m a Counselling Psychologist with 5+ years experience in working with adults in a number of settings including third sector and the NHS. I have a special interest in working with individuals who have experienced relational and childhood trauma. I'm also experienced in working with a variety of difficulties, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, low self-esteem, as well as difficulties surrounding one's identity. I'm an integrative practitioner which means that I use a number of evidence-based therapeutic models to tailor therapy in a way that is suited to your needs.
020 3910 6702 View 020 3910 6702
Photo of Christine Fontaine, Counsellor in Hammersmith, London, England
Christine Fontaine
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Hammersmith, London W12
I am also trained to offer intervention in emergency situations, trauma; individual, corporate and societal, PTSD, relationship counselling, all forms of historic and current abuse, loss and bereavement, anxiety and depression.
Welcome. As many clients are worried about the risk of catching coronavirus I am specially trained to offer therapy via zoom as well as working face to face with individuals, couples, and groups. I work in an empathic, confidential and non-judgmental way that focuses on building a therapeutic relationship with you to facilitate trust and confidence required to manage both past and present issues. I draw on a range of psychotherapeutic styles catered to suit each individual client which includes relational psychotherapy and EMDR. Just drop me a text, email or call and we can arrange something.
I am also trained to offer intervention in emergency situations, trauma; individual, corporate and societal, PTSD, relationship counselling, all forms of historic and current abuse, loss and bereavement, anxiety and depression.
Welcome. As many clients are worried about the risk of catching coronavirus I am specially trained to offer therapy via zoom as well as working face to face with individuals, couples, and groups. I work in an empathic, confidential and non-judgmental way that focuses on building a therapeutic relationship with you to facilitate trust and confidence required to manage both past and present issues. I draw on a range of psychotherapeutic styles catered to suit each individual client which includes relational psychotherapy and EMDR. Just drop me a text, email or call and we can arrange something.
07400 290626 View 07400 290626
Photo of Marcus Gage, Psychotherapist in Hammersmith, London, England
Marcus Gage
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hammersmith, London W6
What can I help with Abuse, Anger management, Anxiety, Autism spectrum, Bereavement, Depression, Loss, Men's issues, Neurodiversity, Post-traumatic stress, Redundancy, Relationships, Self esteem, Spirituality, Stress, Work related issues.
Everybody is different and special, but has in common the need to be heard, recognised, valued and understood. As a fully qualified BACP registered person-centred counsellor trained at the Metanoia Institute those four things are at the heart of my practice. Whatever your worry, concern, or difficulty, sharing what is on your mind and in your heart in a safe space is the start of healing and self-acceptance.
What can I help with Abuse, Anger management, Anxiety, Autism spectrum, Bereavement, Depression, Loss, Men's issues, Neurodiversity, Post-traumatic stress, Redundancy, Relationships, Self esteem, Spirituality, Stress, Work related issues.
Everybody is different and special, but has in common the need to be heard, recognised, valued and understood. As a fully qualified BACP registered person-centred counsellor trained at the Metanoia Institute those four things are at the heart of my practice. Whatever your worry, concern, or difficulty, sharing what is on your mind and in your heart in a safe space is the start of healing and self-acceptance.
020 3984 9136 View 020 3984 9136
Photo of Tanya Kuznetsova, Psychotherapist in Hammersmith, London, England
Tanya Kuznetsova
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Hammersmith, London W6
Every person is unique and their situation are unique, so I will work with each person in a bespoke way, tailoring my approach to their needs and therapy goals. I also utilise EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) which is a unique, powerful therapy that helps people recover from problems triggered by traumatic events in their lives. Whilst best known for treating PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder), EMDR can help with a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, OCD, phobias, and negative self-beliefs. You can learn more about me and how I work on my website www.tktherapy.co.uk.
Every person is unique and their situation are unique, so I will work with each person in a bespoke way, tailoring my approach to their needs and therapy goals. I also utilise EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) which is a unique, powerful therapy that helps people recover from problems triggered by traumatic events in their lives. Whilst best known for treating PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder), EMDR can help with a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, OCD, phobias, and negative self-beliefs. You can learn more about me and how I work on my website www.tktherapy.co.uk.
020 8159 1003 View 020 8159 1003
Photo of Julia Sinclair, Psychologist in Hammersmith, London, England
Julia Sinclair
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Hammersmith, London W6
I see adolescents, adults and older adults with anxiety disorders (phobias, social anxiety, health anxiety, OCD, PTSD, panic attacks, GAD), depression (acute, chronic, SAD), personality disorders, bereavement, loss, abuse, neglect, anger and relationship problems.
I know how difficult it is to find a therapist you can trust for help with your emotional and psychological difficulties. Sometimes our suffering is concealed from friends, family or colleagues because we are good at hiding it but deep inside, we are left feeling far from happy, fulfilled or content. At other times our difficulties are more noticeable. I am passionate about helping people live better lives. I help them discover what matters to them, what type of person they want to be and how they would like to behave. Once their values are clarified I help them make sustainable changes towards the things that are important to them.
I see adolescents, adults and older adults with anxiety disorders (phobias, social anxiety, health anxiety, OCD, PTSD, panic attacks, GAD), depression (acute, chronic, SAD), personality disorders, bereavement, loss, abuse, neglect, anger and relationship problems.
I know how difficult it is to find a therapist you can trust for help with your emotional and psychological difficulties. Sometimes our suffering is concealed from friends, family or colleagues because we are good at hiding it but deep inside, we are left feeling far from happy, fulfilled or content. At other times our difficulties are more noticeable. I am passionate about helping people live better lives. I help them discover what matters to them, what type of person they want to be and how they would like to behave. Once their values are clarified I help them make sustainable changes towards the things that are important to them.
01748 902305 View 01748 902305
Photo of Lucy Peppiatt, Counsellor in Hammersmith, London, England
Lucy Peppiatt
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Hammersmith, London W6  (Online Only)
I have also worked with a domestic violence charity, counselling women who have experienced childhood trauma, sexual abuse, anxiety/panic, low self-esteem and PTSD.
If you are suffering from acute anxiety or are finding your relationships or home life situation extremely stressful, it can be very helpful to talk about it in a safe, accepting place. As an experienced person-centred counsellor, I provide a confidential, non-judgemental environment where you can talk about what is troubling you. I can help you understand the turmoil you are experiencing and help you manage your anxieties. The therapy sessions I offer are online, on a weekly basis for individuals, and can be either short-term or long term, for as long as you need.
I have also worked with a domestic violence charity, counselling women who have experienced childhood trauma, sexual abuse, anxiety/panic, low self-esteem and PTSD.
If you are suffering from acute anxiety or are finding your relationships or home life situation extremely stressful, it can be very helpful to talk about it in a safe, accepting place. As an experienced person-centred counsellor, I provide a confidential, non-judgemental environment where you can talk about what is troubling you. I can help you understand the turmoil you are experiencing and help you manage your anxieties. The therapy sessions I offer are online, on a weekly basis for individuals, and can be either short-term or long term, for as long as you need.
020 3974 2025 View 020 3974 2025
Photo of Claire Russell, Counsellor in Hammersmith, London, England
Claire Russell
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hammersmith, London W6
I am a BACP registered counsellor and EMDR practitioner working with both adults and children who are struggling with life's challenges. My areas of special interest and experience include: anxiety, panic attacks, attachments, confidence and self esteem, stress, PTSD, trauma, loneliness, depression, relationship issues, intimacy issues, divorce, family conflict, infidelity, life transitions, peer relationships, estrangement, abuse and grief, bereavement and loss.
I am a BACP registered counsellor and EMDR practitioner working with both adults and children who are struggling with life's challenges. My areas of special interest and experience include: anxiety, panic attacks, attachments, confidence and self esteem, stress, PTSD, trauma, loneliness, depression, relationship issues, intimacy issues, divorce, family conflict, infidelity, life transitions, peer relationships, estrangement, abuse and grief, bereavement and loss.
020 4538 1397 View 020 4538 1397
Photo of Noemie Redon, Psychotherapist in Hammersmith, London, England
Noemie Redon
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Verified Verified
Hammersmith, London W6
Welcome! I’m Noemie Redon, an experienced and qualified Art Psychotherapist working with adults, young people, and children from the age of 10. My sessions are non-judgmental, honest, and committed to help you understand what is going on for you as well as respecting your pace. The sessions can be only verbal and there is no need to be skilled at art. Sometimes, talking can feel too challenging, and working with creative resources can open new ways of expression. My approach is focused on working with feelings and felt senses in the body because emotions are a key indicator of what is really going on for you.
Welcome! I’m Noemie Redon, an experienced and qualified Art Psychotherapist working with adults, young people, and children from the age of 10. My sessions are non-judgmental, honest, and committed to help you understand what is going on for you as well as respecting your pace. The sessions can be only verbal and there is no need to be skilled at art. Sometimes, talking can feel too challenging, and working with creative resources can open new ways of expression. My approach is focused on working with feelings and felt senses in the body because emotions are a key indicator of what is really going on for you.
020 3974 1058 View 020 3974 1058
Photo of Dr Sofia Ferreira, Psychologist in Hammersmith, London, England
Dr Sofia Ferreira
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Hammersmith, London W14  (Online Only)
Does your inner world feel out of balance? Perhaps you feeling stressed, worried, or overwhelmed? Or maybe you feeling unmotivated, down or disconnected? Being listened to and understood by a caring professional in an empathic therapeutic relationship can bring tremendous relief from emotional conflict and pain, develop a stronger self and promote constructive ways to live a more fulfilling and happy life. For more than 15 years I have been offering psychological assessment and treatment to adults and older adults with a range of difficulties.
Does your inner world feel out of balance? Perhaps you feeling stressed, worried, or overwhelmed? Or maybe you feeling unmotivated, down or disconnected? Being listened to and understood by a caring professional in an empathic therapeutic relationship can bring tremendous relief from emotional conflict and pain, develop a stronger self and promote constructive ways to live a more fulfilling and happy life. For more than 15 years I have been offering psychological assessment and treatment to adults and older adults with a range of difficulties.
01748 901747 View 01748 901747
Photo of Maryam Bani- Sadr, Psychotherapist in Hammersmith, London, England
Maryam Bani- Sadr
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Hammersmith, London W14  (Online Only)
I am an integrative psychotherapist, hypnotherapist and certified life-coach. I have been practicing psychotherapy and hypnotherapy for the past 14 years. My experience comes from having worked as a psychotherapist, CBT and IAPT practitioner for the NHS, within the charity sector, as well as in private practice. I also offers EMDR, which is particularly useful when working with trauma.
I am an integrative psychotherapist, hypnotherapist and certified life-coach. I have been practicing psychotherapy and hypnotherapy for the past 14 years. My experience comes from having worked as a psychotherapist, CBT and IAPT practitioner for the NHS, within the charity sector, as well as in private practice. I also offers EMDR, which is particularly useful when working with trauma.
020 4538 3895 View 020 4538 3895
Photo of Rose Baverstock, Psychotherapist in Hammersmith, London, England
Rose Baverstock
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Hammersmith, London W6  (Online Only)
Senior Psychological Therapist working in the NHS, with 10+ years experience in the public and private sector. Fully Accredited with the British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies. Cambridge University graduate with extensive qualifications in a range of psychological disciplines. Committed to offering a safe space and treatment tailored to your needs. Individual, Couples, or Family therapy provided.
Senior Psychological Therapist working in the NHS, with 10+ years experience in the public and private sector. Fully Accredited with the British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies. Cambridge University graduate with extensive qualifications in a range of psychological disciplines. Committed to offering a safe space and treatment tailored to your needs. Individual, Couples, or Family therapy provided.
020 3984 9832 View 020 3984 9832
Photo of Sandra Santiago, Counsellor in Hammersmith, London, England
Sandra Santiago
Counsellor, MSc, BACP
Verified Verified
Hammersmith, London W6
My name is Sandra and I am a qualified Counsellor & Psychotherapist by Metanoia Insititute and registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and MUKCP. I have six years experience in seeing clients both privately and through the NHS. I work with individuals on an open-ended basis and for an agreed time period. I offer a safe and confidential environment in which I will enable you to change and improve your quality of life through reliable therapeutic techniques.
My name is Sandra and I am a qualified Counsellor & Psychotherapist by Metanoia Insititute and registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and MUKCP. I have six years experience in seeing clients both privately and through the NHS. I work with individuals on an open-ended basis and for an agreed time period. I offer a safe and confidential environment in which I will enable you to change and improve your quality of life through reliable therapeutic techniques.
07480 488089 View 07480 488089
Photo of Robin Robinson, Psychotherapist in Hammersmith, London, England
Robin Robinson
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Hammersmith, London W6
Waitlist for new clients
Sometimes life can be challenging and difficult. The current global climate and cost of living crisis has triggered a lot of uncertainty, anxiety, and stress in many. Perhaps you’ve suffered from workplace issues or a redundancy? Perhaps you have experienced loss or a bereavement and want to make sense of this? Perhaps you feel anxious or you feel under pressure about exams and deadlines? Maybe you are in the midst of a career change? Perhaps you don’t feel like yourself & need unbiased, confidential support. Whatever the challenge, I will help you to address your challenges and transform. Contact me today for a free consultation.
Sometimes life can be challenging and difficult. The current global climate and cost of living crisis has triggered a lot of uncertainty, anxiety, and stress in many. Perhaps you’ve suffered from workplace issues or a redundancy? Perhaps you have experienced loss or a bereavement and want to make sense of this? Perhaps you feel anxious or you feel under pressure about exams and deadlines? Maybe you are in the midst of a career change? Perhaps you don’t feel like yourself & need unbiased, confidential support. Whatever the challenge, I will help you to address your challenges and transform. Contact me today for a free consultation.
020 3962 2369 View 020 3962 2369
Photo of Iram Siddiqui, Psychotherapist in Hammersmith, London, England
Iram Siddiqui
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Hammersmith, London W6  (Online Only)
As a therapist, my primary goal is to create a safe and supportive space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviour without fear of judgment or shame. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process, and my role is to help you identify and overcome the obstacles that are preventing you from living your best life. I approach therapy from a holistic perspective, recognizing that mental health is closely connected to physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
As a therapist, my primary goal is to create a safe and supportive space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviour without fear of judgment or shame. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process, and my role is to help you identify and overcome the obstacles that are preventing you from living your best life. I approach therapy from a holistic perspective, recognizing that mental health is closely connected to physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
020 4538 0586 View 020 4538 0586

See more therapy options for Hammersmith, London

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.