Trauma and PTSD Therapists in 35209

Photo of undefined - Abundant Restoration Counseling Services, LLC, MS, LPC, NCC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Abundant Restoration Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35209  (Online Only)
You can live abundantly after trauma.
Let's talk! I am here to listen to you! I specialize in working with individuals and assisting them with exploring how traumatic experiences have impacted their self-worth, reactions and responses, and relationships. No matter how big or small your traumatic experience was, I will show you that it does not define who you are. I believe that everyone can surpass challenging experiences and create a sense of well-being. I will work alongside you and support you in unpacking hurtful feelings, managing stressors, improving relationships, and minimizing depression and anxiety.
You can live abundantly after trauma.
Let's talk! I am here to listen to you! I specialize in working with individuals and assisting them with exploring how traumatic experiences have impacted their self-worth, reactions and responses, and relationships. No matter how big or small your traumatic experience was, I will show you that it does not define who you are. I believe that everyone can surpass challenging experiences and create a sense of well-being. I will work alongside you and support you in unpacking hurtful feelings, managing stressors, improving relationships, and minimizing depression and anxiety.
(205) 931-6493 View (205) 931-6493
Photo of Shannon S Crenshaw, MEd, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shannon S Crenshaw
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35209
I work with such issues as depression, chronic pain, anxiety, trauma, grief counseling, family disruptions and transitions.
As a therapist I like to meet my clients where they are. I work with each client to develop a plan based on proven therapeutic methods. I provide mental health treatment to teens, indiviuals and families who are experiencing difficulties in their lives. Welcome to the no judgment zone.
I work with such issues as depression, chronic pain, anxiety, trauma, grief counseling, family disruptions and transitions.
As a therapist I like to meet my clients where they are. I work with each client to develop a plan based on proven therapeutic methods. I provide mental health treatment to teens, indiviuals and families who are experiencing difficulties in their lives. Welcome to the no judgment zone.
(205) 583-0367 View (205) 583-0367
Photo of Karen Black Bluestein, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Black Bluestein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35209
My primary focus is with adults ages 18-75 who have experienced trauma including sexual, physical and emotional abuse as well as trauma that is relative to the particular clients personal experiences. I will also see older teenagers with trauma related issues. Other focus areas include treating adults ages 18-75 with eating and addiction issues, depression and anxiety, issues relating to divorce or family system challenges.
My primary focus is with adults ages 18-75 who have experienced trauma including sexual, physical and emotional abuse as well as trauma that is relative to the particular clients personal experiences. I will also see older teenagers with trauma related issues. Other focus areas include treating adults ages 18-75 with eating and addiction issues, depression and anxiety, issues relating to divorce or family system challenges.
(205) 502-2587 View (205) 502-2587
Photo of Ashley Gilbert, MEd, MFT, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashley Gilbert
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, MFT, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35209
Topics with which I have worked include but are not limited to physical, medical and emotional trauma, relationship complications, family dynamics, high risk behaviors, depression, anxiety, grief, transition, blended families.
Telling your story takes tremendous courage. In my work I am constantly humbled and honored to receive those stories. As a therapist I work from the premise that people are deeply complex and multilayered beings. Our past, our present, and expectations of our future dictate how we navigate life's inevitable challenges. Because our lives are a constant state of transition, we have the opportunity to learn from the past and navigate our present through awareness and understanding of ourselves, and others. I feel it a great honor to support people in their transitions, and foster their awareness and growth.
Topics with which I have worked include but are not limited to physical, medical and emotional trauma, relationship complications, family dynamics, high risk behaviors, depression, anxiety, grief, transition, blended families.
Telling your story takes tremendous courage. In my work I am constantly humbled and honored to receive those stories. As a therapist I work from the premise that people are deeply complex and multilayered beings. Our past, our present, and expectations of our future dictate how we navigate life's inevitable challenges. Because our lives are a constant state of transition, we have the opportunity to learn from the past and navigate our present through awareness and understanding of ourselves, and others. I feel it a great honor to support people in their transitions, and foster their awareness and growth.
(205) 419-0039 View (205) 419-0039
Photo of Jerrold L. Langford, LPC, ADC, ICADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jerrold L. Langford
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ADC, ICADC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35209
Jerrold Langford is an LPC, certified in addictions counseling with experience in treating trauma, anxiety, depression, childhood behavioral issues, as well as other social and emotional issues.
Courage is one step ahead of fear; therefore, it is in our hard times, when the HERO within us is revealed. Stress, anxiety, relationships, and other life challenges can send us into a whirlwind of instability. Also, some people are seeking refuge from the shame and guilt of addiction, unresolved childhood issues, and/or trauma. Allworld Counseling & Consulting, LLC provides a safe, private, and non-judgmental environment to help people restore belief and rebuild self-determination in order to find their inner Hero to help them transform their lives. We believe that you are so much more that what you are going through.
Jerrold Langford is an LPC, certified in addictions counseling with experience in treating trauma, anxiety, depression, childhood behavioral issues, as well as other social and emotional issues.
Courage is one step ahead of fear; therefore, it is in our hard times, when the HERO within us is revealed. Stress, anxiety, relationships, and other life challenges can send us into a whirlwind of instability. Also, some people are seeking refuge from the shame and guilt of addiction, unresolved childhood issues, and/or trauma. Allworld Counseling & Consulting, LLC provides a safe, private, and non-judgmental environment to help people restore belief and rebuild self-determination in order to find their inner Hero to help them transform their lives. We believe that you are so much more that what you are going through.
(205) 583-0237 View (205) 583-0237
Laili R Markert
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Homewood, AL 35209
Dr. Markert is a licensed clinical psychologist, with a B.A. from Emory University, Masters degrees from the University of Michigan and the University of Toledo, and a PhD from the University of Toledo. She did her internship at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Medical School. She provides assessment of mood disorders, ADHD, and cognitive problems related to school performance. Her training is in Cognitive-Behavioral and Dialectical Behavior Therapies. Dr. Markert works in therapy with adolescents and adults with a wide variety of psychological problems including: Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Adjustment Disorder, and Post-partum anxiety and depression.
Dr. Markert is a licensed clinical psychologist, with a B.A. from Emory University, Masters degrees from the University of Michigan and the University of Toledo, and a PhD from the University of Toledo. She did her internship at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Medical School. She provides assessment of mood disorders, ADHD, and cognitive problems related to school performance. Her training is in Cognitive-Behavioral and Dialectical Behavior Therapies. Dr. Markert works in therapy with adolescents and adults with a wide variety of psychological problems including: Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Adjustment Disorder, and Post-partum anxiety and depression.
(205) 877-3558 View (205) 877-3558
Photo of undefined - Broken To Art Counseling, LLC, MS, LPC-S, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Broken To Art Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35209  (Online Only)
As a counselor, I believe meeting an individual where they are is a vital part of providing best practice. With over seven years of experience assisting individuals, families, child/adolescents, and teens with a wide range of socials/personal relationships, emotional/trauma, behavioral/crisis, substance abuse, mental health issues, and many other concerns. I think that every person has the skills, abilities, and strengths to overcome and or learn to cope with any problem they may be experiencing, with a little help.
As a counselor, I believe meeting an individual where they are is a vital part of providing best practice. With over seven years of experience assisting individuals, families, child/adolescents, and teens with a wide range of socials/personal relationships, emotional/trauma, behavioral/crisis, substance abuse, mental health issues, and many other concerns. I think that every person has the skills, abilities, and strengths to overcome and or learn to cope with any problem they may be experiencing, with a little help.
(205) 224-0690 View (205) 224-0690
Photo of Loren Schouest, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Loren Schouest
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35209
I have experience working with clients struggling with trauma, relationship issues, and personality disorders.
Hello! My name is Loren and I would be honored to be a part of your mental health journey. I believe that all individuals have the ability to overcome life's struggles if they are given the needed tools and knowledge. My approach to therapy integrates highly effective therapy models such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Gottman Method with a solution-focused mindset. I believe that the client is the expert of their own life but needs some help navigating and understanding their experiences and emotions.
I have experience working with clients struggling with trauma, relationship issues, and personality disorders.
Hello! My name is Loren and I would be honored to be a part of your mental health journey. I believe that all individuals have the ability to overcome life's struggles if they are given the needed tools and knowledge. My approach to therapy integrates highly effective therapy models such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Gottman Method with a solution-focused mindset. I believe that the client is the expert of their own life but needs some help navigating and understanding their experiences and emotions.
(205) 583-0215 View (205) 583-0215
Photo of Erica Smith, MDiv, MA, ALC, Counselor
Erica Smith
Counselor, MDiv, MA, ALC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35209
I believe that as individuals make sense of their story they begin creating the life they were designed for. I work with adults who want to heal from issues related to trauma, depression, anxiety, domestic/ interpersonal violence, relational issues, grief, childhood neglect/ abuse, religious trauma, spiritual abuse, feeling stuck or sensing that something is just “not right."
I believe that as individuals make sense of their story they begin creating the life they were designed for. I work with adults who want to heal from issues related to trauma, depression, anxiety, domestic/ interpersonal violence, relational issues, grief, childhood neglect/ abuse, religious trauma, spiritual abuse, feeling stuck or sensing that something is just “not right."
(205) 839-9341 View (205) 839-9341
Photo of Lorne Dann, PhD, Psychologist
Lorne Dann
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35209  (Online Only)
I treat adults with concerns about business/school performance and creativity, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, phobias, childhood sexual or physical abuse, adult trauma, alcohol/drug problems, HIV/AIDS, PTSD, codependency, adult children of alcoholics, and self-esteem.
You can improve performance, achieve goals, and feel well, even though you may have doubts. Sometimes you may be unaware of what actually causes you to feel as anxious, depressed, indecisive, guilty, overwhelmed, or angry as you may feel. With stress arising in relationships or work, you may sometimes wonder, "Why is this happening to me again?" I collaborate with my clients to plan strategies to resolve stress so they can feel more in control and confident. I also assist with performance enhancement to foster improvement in public speaking anxiety, social anxiety, test anxiety, work inhibition/procrastination, stage jitters, blocked creativity, etc.
I treat adults with concerns about business/school performance and creativity, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, phobias, childhood sexual or physical abuse, adult trauma, alcohol/drug problems, HIV/AIDS, PTSD, codependency, adult children of alcoholics, and self-esteem.
You can improve performance, achieve goals, and feel well, even though you may have doubts. Sometimes you may be unaware of what actually causes you to feel as anxious, depressed, indecisive, guilty, overwhelmed, or angry as you may feel. With stress arising in relationships or work, you may sometimes wonder, "Why is this happening to me again?" I collaborate with my clients to plan strategies to resolve stress so they can feel more in control and confident. I also assist with performance enhancement to foster improvement in public speaking anxiety, social anxiety, test anxiety, work inhibition/procrastination, stage jitters, blocked creativity, etc.
(205) 282-9259 View (205) 282-9259
Photo of Jeanna Reed, MA, ALC, Counselor
Jeanna Reed
Counselor, MA, ALC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Homewood, AL 35209
I've received training in eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and play therapy.
Does daily life sometimes feel like a struggle? It may be difficult to get out of your home and step into the world some days. It is okay to not be okay. I'm thankful for your courage in taking this step to find support. You have all the tools within yourself to take positive steps. As your counselor, I hope to help you navigate your world and provide empathic insight and interventions to assist you for your goals in life. I value your diversity, uniqueness, beliefs, and worldview; it is my priority to provide a nonjudgemental and emotionally safe space for you. I'm honored to be considered to help you in this season of your life.
I've received training in eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and play therapy.
Does daily life sometimes feel like a struggle? It may be difficult to get out of your home and step into the world some days. It is okay to not be okay. I'm thankful for your courage in taking this step to find support. You have all the tools within yourself to take positive steps. As your counselor, I hope to help you navigate your world and provide empathic insight and interventions to assist you for your goals in life. I value your diversity, uniqueness, beliefs, and worldview; it is my priority to provide a nonjudgemental and emotionally safe space for you. I'm honored to be considered to help you in this season of your life.
(205) 350-9411 View (205) 350-9411
Photo of undefined - Bass Assertive Solutions & Support, LLC, MSW, LICSW, PIP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bass Assertive Solutions & Support, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, PIP
Verified Verified
Homewood, AL 35209
As a mental health therapist, I provide a safe and pleasant environment for you to share your life's challenges. I believe in helping you realize your strengths and abilities to overcome these challenges. I assist you with processing and working through your troubles as well as equipping you with the knowledge and tools to combat your obstacles. Working together we will make positive changes in your life. Some of the areas I address are: depression; anxiety; physical, sexual, and emotional abuse; anger management; couple's counseling; sex therapy & concerns; PTSD; and ADHD. Telemental health therapy services are also available.
As a mental health therapist, I provide a safe and pleasant environment for you to share your life's challenges. I believe in helping you realize your strengths and abilities to overcome these challenges. I assist you with processing and working through your troubles as well as equipping you with the knowledge and tools to combat your obstacles. Working together we will make positive changes in your life. Some of the areas I address are: depression; anxiety; physical, sexual, and emotional abuse; anger management; couple's counseling; sex therapy & concerns; PTSD; and ADHD. Telemental health therapy services are also available.
(205) 703-2877 View (205) 703-2877
Photo of undefined - Interwoven Therapy LLC, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Interwoven Therapy LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35209
I utilize trauma-focused therapies such as Brainspotting and EMDR for trauma and attachment wounds.
Hi! Please call me Kat. While change can be done alone, it is often fragmented and limited to our self-awareness. I believe that the transformative power that comes from a safe, supportive, and empathic relationship can act as a fertilizer and accelerate personal and transformational growth. It is through connectedness and relationships that we can see our blind spots, discover our incongruences, and get in contact with our more authentic selves. Pursuing change in a vacuum can often leave us in a feedback loop. We may need help to redirect our focus and energy towards a more productive path.
I utilize trauma-focused therapies such as Brainspotting and EMDR for trauma and attachment wounds.
Hi! Please call me Kat. While change can be done alone, it is often fragmented and limited to our self-awareness. I believe that the transformative power that comes from a safe, supportive, and empathic relationship can act as a fertilizer and accelerate personal and transformational growth. It is through connectedness and relationships that we can see our blind spots, discover our incongruences, and get in contact with our more authentic selves. Pursuing change in a vacuum can often leave us in a feedback loop. We may need help to redirect our focus and energy towards a more productive path.
(205) 255-9164 View (205) 255-9164
Photo of Sarah McCain, MDiv, MS, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Sarah McCain
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MDiv, MS, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35209
My areas of focus include trauma (relational, religious, and systemic), spirituality, relationships, child-centered therapy, gender identity and sexuality, shame and self-worth.
I am grateful for the opportunity to walk alongside children, adults, couples, and families as they move toward understanding, healing, and connection. Though everyone deserves a deep sense of love and belonging, sometimes the ways we have learned to protect ourselves create barriers to experiencing these basic human needs. If you would like to heal your relationship with yourself and with those around you, I'm here to help.
My areas of focus include trauma (relational, religious, and systemic), spirituality, relationships, child-centered therapy, gender identity and sexuality, shame and self-worth.
I am grateful for the opportunity to walk alongside children, adults, couples, and families as they move toward understanding, healing, and connection. Though everyone deserves a deep sense of love and belonging, sometimes the ways we have learned to protect ourselves create barriers to experiencing these basic human needs. If you would like to heal your relationship with yourself and with those around you, I'm here to help.
(659) 222-2312 View (659) 222-2312
Photo of Larry Prentice, MS, NCC, LPC, CCTP, CYMHS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Larry Prentice
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC, CCTP, CYMHS
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35209  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional.
No matter the problem, I am here to help you navigate through life's difficulties and guide you to your own understanding. My therapeutic approach is quite eclectic. I have a variety of experience in depression, anxiety, anger management, ADHD, behavioral issues, relationship and family issues. I have worked with adults, children and adolescents. I have an extensive background with individual, group therapy and family therapy.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional.
No matter the problem, I am here to help you navigate through life's difficulties and guide you to your own understanding. My therapeutic approach is quite eclectic. I have a variety of experience in depression, anxiety, anger management, ADHD, behavioral issues, relationship and family issues. I have worked with adults, children and adolescents. I have an extensive background with individual, group therapy and family therapy.
(256) 637-4054 View (256) 637-4054
Photo of Joy Rabon, MA, LMFT, CCTP, CIMHP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Joy Rabon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CCTP, CIMHP
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35209  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating PTSD/Trauma, Anxiety & Depression, Coping & Stress Management, Grief & Loss, & Women's Issues. I have a combined total of over 30 years working in the mental health field in a variety of public, private, virtual, and school settings. My style is relaxed, conversational, reflective, and solution-oriented, and I am naturally empathetic and intuitive. I integrate systemic, holistic, neuro-biopsychosocial, and traditional psychotherapeutic methods to assist you in your journey toward emotional and relational balance.
I specialize in treating PTSD/Trauma, Anxiety & Depression, Coping & Stress Management, Grief & Loss, & Women's Issues. I have a combined total of over 30 years working in the mental health field in a variety of public, private, virtual, and school settings. My style is relaxed, conversational, reflective, and solution-oriented, and I am naturally empathetic and intuitive. I integrate systemic, holistic, neuro-biopsychosocial, and traditional psychotherapeutic methods to assist you in your journey toward emotional and relational balance.
(334) 509-4411 View (334) 509-4411
Photo of Janice E Martin, EdD, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Janice E Martin
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Homewood, AL 35209
Waitlist for new clients
These methods can be used to manage stress, crisis, trauma, overcome challenges and obstacles, and support healing.
Most people are experiencing normal reactions to unusual stress or situations in their lives, past or present. My approaches support working through issues, and building stronger skills for meeting any additional challenges. These can include traditional and mind-body-spirit techniques, including NLP, time-line therapy, rational thinking, meditative and relaxation methods, and overall support for the journey. I work with individuals, parent-child issues, couples, and blended family relationships. Working in areas of physical and mental wellness, we partner together to support mental and physical well-being and ongoing growth.
These methods can be used to manage stress, crisis, trauma, overcome challenges and obstacles, and support healing.
Most people are experiencing normal reactions to unusual stress or situations in their lives, past or present. My approaches support working through issues, and building stronger skills for meeting any additional challenges. These can include traditional and mind-body-spirit techniques, including NLP, time-line therapy, rational thinking, meditative and relaxation methods, and overall support for the journey. I work with individuals, parent-child issues, couples, and blended family relationships. Working in areas of physical and mental wellness, we partner together to support mental and physical well-being and ongoing growth.
(205) 301-2774 View (205) 301-2774
Photo of Felicity Blunt, MA, LPC-S, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Felicity Blunt
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Homewood, AL 35209  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with individuals who want to overcome high stress, trauma related issues, grief and loss, depression, and attachment issues.
Would you like to have a more fulfilling life? Do you ever feel alone in your struggles? We all feel like this sometimes and could use some help finding answers. I can develop a unique treatment plan based on the specific goals you would like to accomplish. Please allow me to help you identify ways to bring more balance and peace to your life. Reaching for help is the first brave step toward wholeness. Please call, text, or email today.
I enjoy working with individuals who want to overcome high stress, trauma related issues, grief and loss, depression, and attachment issues.
Would you like to have a more fulfilling life? Do you ever feel alone in your struggles? We all feel like this sometimes and could use some help finding answers. I can develop a unique treatment plan based on the specific goals you would like to accomplish. Please allow me to help you identify ways to bring more balance and peace to your life. Reaching for help is the first brave step toward wholeness. Please call, text, or email today.
(205) 660-0511 View (205) 660-0511
Photo of Lucy Graves Hollis, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lucy Graves Hollis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35209
I can also help with more specific concerns such as depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and the effects of trauma.
Counseling is much more than problem solving. It's an opportunity to acknowledge your strengths and build on them to help prepare for life's challenges, big and small. I believe that first and foremost, successful counseling is built on trust and connection. Many people who struggle are reluctant to reach out. If you are seeking help you've taken an important first step.
I can also help with more specific concerns such as depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and the effects of trauma.
Counseling is much more than problem solving. It's an opportunity to acknowledge your strengths and build on them to help prepare for life's challenges, big and small. I believe that first and foremost, successful counseling is built on trust and connection. Many people who struggle are reluctant to reach out. If you are seeking help you've taken an important first step.
(205) 289-1037 View (205) 289-1037
Tom McLure Red Mountain Counseling Llc
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MAEd, MA
Verified Verified
Homewood, AL 35209
Waitlist for new clients
Trauma has far reaching effects throughout a lifetime.
Anxiety, Depression, Relationships, Addictions, Trauma. Counseling/Therapy is investment in quality of life. People seek help when frustrated, confused, overwhelmed. Does addiction (substance/behavior) control your life? Does a challenging relationship frustrate you? Are you tired of trying to change your partner? or trying to change yourself for your partner? Have you experienced painful loss? Do you frequently feel tense and uneasy? Does the life you live differ from the life you want?
Trauma has far reaching effects throughout a lifetime.
Anxiety, Depression, Relationships, Addictions, Trauma. Counseling/Therapy is investment in quality of life. People seek help when frustrated, confused, overwhelmed. Does addiction (substance/behavior) control your life? Does a challenging relationship frustrate you? Are you tired of trying to change your partner? or trying to change yourself for your partner? Have you experienced painful loss? Do you frequently feel tense and uneasy? Does the life you live differ from the life you want?
(205) 618-8840 View (205) 618-8840

See more therapy options for 35209

Trauma and PTSD Therapists

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.