Trauma and PTSD Therapists in 78754

Photo of Erika Esquivel, Licensed Professional Counselor in 78754, TX
Erika Esquivel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78754  (Online Only)
I support people of diverse backgrounds seeking to manage stress, depression/anxiety and heal from experiences of trauma, sexual abuse, and/or domestic violence.
Counseling is a space where you don’t have to pretend everything is okay or hide what you’re going through. You do that enough in other areas of your life. You do not have to repeat those patterns here. In counseling, all parts of you are welcome and all the things you have gone through can be talked about. My goal is to work together to reclaim your life through talk and connection by affirming your needs, identity and beliefs while urging you to make informed decisions about therapy.
I support people of diverse backgrounds seeking to manage stress, depression/anxiety and heal from experiences of trauma, sexual abuse, and/or domestic violence.
Counseling is a space where you don’t have to pretend everything is okay or hide what you’re going through. You do that enough in other areas of your life. You do not have to repeat those patterns here. In counseling, all parts of you are welcome and all the things you have gone through can be talked about. My goal is to work together to reclaim your life through talk and connection by affirming your needs, identity and beliefs while urging you to make informed decisions about therapy.
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Photo of Olivia-Beth Horak, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 78754, TX
Olivia-Beth Horak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78754
I have worked with children and adult survivors of complex trauma for over a decade and specialize in providing body-oriented trauma therapy that integrates and honors the whole person.
Welcome! I'm OB, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker dedicated to helping children, teens, adults, and the LGBTQIA+ community navigate the complexity and stress in their lives. I know what it’s like to feel both too much and not enough. I became a therapist because I do not want anyone to feel as alone as I did in my darkest moments. I want to watch you walk away lighter, freer, and more excited to live your own personal journey after healing from wounds and obstacles in your path. My areas of clinical focus are in depression and trauma. I am trained in EMDR, Trauma-Informed Therapy, and Mindfulness-Based Psychotherapy.
I have worked with children and adult survivors of complex trauma for over a decade and specialize in providing body-oriented trauma therapy that integrates and honors the whole person.
Welcome! I'm OB, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker dedicated to helping children, teens, adults, and the LGBTQIA+ community navigate the complexity and stress in their lives. I know what it’s like to feel both too much and not enough. I became a therapist because I do not want anyone to feel as alone as I did in my darkest moments. I want to watch you walk away lighter, freer, and more excited to live your own personal journey after healing from wounds and obstacles in your path. My areas of clinical focus are in depression and trauma. I am trained in EMDR, Trauma-Informed Therapy, and Mindfulness-Based Psychotherapy.
(737) 510-7242 View (737) 510-7242
Photo of Overland Children and Family Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in 78754, TX
Overland Children and Family Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ADHD-, CCSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78754
I have assisted many parents in coping and understanding children who are suffering from (ADHD-which I also have!), Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), Trauma, Mood (DMDD), Anxiety and Attachment issues.
Defeat the bad behavior not the kid. Play is the natural language of the child. Rules without relationship equals REBELLION- are terms I have used throughout my clinical career. Parents, remember the behaviors didn't take overnight to appear, nor will they disappear overnight. But with empathy, compassion, consistency equals CHANGE. OCFS specializes in children from 3 to 13 yo. Mobile-Office-Telehealth services available. OCFS is also a proud provider of Medicaid (BCBS, Superior Health, Dells Children).
I have assisted many parents in coping and understanding children who are suffering from (ADHD-which I also have!), Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), Trauma, Mood (DMDD), Anxiety and Attachment issues.
Defeat the bad behavior not the kid. Play is the natural language of the child. Rules without relationship equals REBELLION- are terms I have used throughout my clinical career. Parents, remember the behaviors didn't take overnight to appear, nor will they disappear overnight. But with empathy, compassion, consistency equals CHANGE. OCFS specializes in children from 3 to 13 yo. Mobile-Office-Telehealth services available. OCFS is also a proud provider of Medicaid (BCBS, Superior Health, Dells Children).
(210) 405-7257 View (210) 405-7257
Photo of Venenzia Gonzalez-Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 78754, TX
Venenzia Gonzalez-Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78754
I'm grateful for serving QTBIPOC and LGBTQIA2+ communities, young adults and adults in life transitions, exploring identities, self-esteem, trauma, and healthy relationships through decolonizing approaches and nature, including somatic and mindfulness practices.
Hi there! Our ancient bodies are wired for connection. As a decolonizing and gender-affirming therapist, I hold space for you with compassion and no-judgement, virtually or in nature. By exploring your relationships with the land, your ancestors, and community, we can work towards aligning your body, mind and spirit. We can identify tools to unstick patterns and behaviors that are no longer needed in your life. You are the expert of yourself; You get to determine how you want to flow in your life, and embrace your truest authentic self in the modern world around us.
I'm grateful for serving QTBIPOC and LGBTQIA2+ communities, young adults and adults in life transitions, exploring identities, self-esteem, trauma, and healthy relationships through decolonizing approaches and nature, including somatic and mindfulness practices.
Hi there! Our ancient bodies are wired for connection. As a decolonizing and gender-affirming therapist, I hold space for you with compassion and no-judgement, virtually or in nature. By exploring your relationships with the land, your ancestors, and community, we can work towards aligning your body, mind and spirit. We can identify tools to unstick patterns and behaviors that are no longer needed in your life. You are the expert of yourself; You get to determine how you want to flow in your life, and embrace your truest authentic self in the modern world around us.
(512) 546-3342 View (512) 546-3342
Photo of Rosy Fuentes(Bilingual), Licensed Professional Counselor in 78754, TX
Rosy Fuentes(Bilingual)
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78754
Most of my work is with individuals who are experiencing issues related to depression, anxiety, PTSD, self-esteem, family conflict, trauma and sexual abuse.
There are difficult things that are hard to talk about and you may carry them quietly for years and years. They weigh on you, causing emotional, physical and relational problems. If you've reached a point where you feel that you can no longer do it alone, I would like to help. As a counselor, I will listen, and will work together in helping you with what has or is happening. Our goal will be to accept yourself unconditionally and determine the best next steps to overcome what you are facing.
Most of my work is with individuals who are experiencing issues related to depression, anxiety, PTSD, self-esteem, family conflict, trauma and sexual abuse.
There are difficult things that are hard to talk about and you may carry them quietly for years and years. They weigh on you, causing emotional, physical and relational problems. If you've reached a point where you feel that you can no longer do it alone, I would like to help. As a counselor, I will listen, and will work together in helping you with what has or is happening. Our goal will be to accept yourself unconditionally and determine the best next steps to overcome what you are facing.
(737) 345-3002 View (737) 345-3002
Photo of Shanti Duncan, Licensed Professional Counselor in 78754, TX
Shanti Duncan
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LSOTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78754
Coping with trauma can be a lonely isolating experience and the therapeutic relationship is often a significant step in moving forward.
I AM NOT CURRENTLY ABLE TO ACCEPT NEW CLIENTS. Reaching out to a therapist for help can be an intimidating process and I strive to provide a safe, non-judgmental environment for adults, children, and teenagers, that makes talking about, and dealing with, deeply personal things less overwhelming. Many of the clients who work with me are struggling to have the kind of life they wish to have. Sometimes this is because of old behavior patterns that aren't working for them anymore, or symptoms or challenges they face because of past experiences that have made coping with current circumstances difficult.
Coping with trauma can be a lonely isolating experience and the therapeutic relationship is often a significant step in moving forward.
I AM NOT CURRENTLY ABLE TO ACCEPT NEW CLIENTS. Reaching out to a therapist for help can be an intimidating process and I strive to provide a safe, non-judgmental environment for adults, children, and teenagers, that makes talking about, and dealing with, deeply personal things less overwhelming. Many of the clients who work with me are struggling to have the kind of life they wish to have. Sometimes this is because of old behavior patterns that aren't working for them anymore, or symptoms or challenges they face because of past experiences that have made coping with current circumstances difficult.
(512) 309-7762 View (512) 309-7762
Photo of Patricia Bennett, Licensed Professional Counselor in 78754, TX
Patricia Bennett
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78754  (Online Only)
Life is challenging, and sometimes it can be overwhelming. When you are dealing with depression, anxiety, or trauma, it is OK to reach out for help. All of us need that from time to time. I can provide you with a space to step back and look at where you have been and where you are headed. I can give you the support you need to make the changes that will put you back on the road to a better life.
Life is challenging, and sometimes it can be overwhelming. When you are dealing with depression, anxiety, or trauma, it is OK to reach out for help. All of us need that from time to time. I can provide you with a space to step back and look at where you have been and where you are headed. I can give you the support you need to make the changes that will put you back on the road to a better life.
(512) 337-4196 View (512) 337-4196
Photo of Polly Robertson (Enteave Counseling), Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 78754, TX
Polly Robertson (Enteave Counseling)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78754  (Online Only)
A licensed clinical social worker with more than 20 years of experience, I work with adults and teens dealing with depression, anxiety, dual-diagnosis (substance abuse), developmental disabilities, adoption issues, and trauma.
Being nervous about starting therapy is natural, which is why I work with each client to establish a relationship of honesty and openness so you can feel comfortable sharing your feelings. There is no magic wand in life but you don’t have to face challenges on your own. Therapy is a journey. I approach each session as a time to learn about you—what motivates you and what ails you. I understand the importance of each individual’s culture so I can fully understand you as a person. Together, we will determine the best possible solutions to address your individual needs.
A licensed clinical social worker with more than 20 years of experience, I work with adults and teens dealing with depression, anxiety, dual-diagnosis (substance abuse), developmental disabilities, adoption issues, and trauma.
Being nervous about starting therapy is natural, which is why I work with each client to establish a relationship of honesty and openness so you can feel comfortable sharing your feelings. There is no magic wand in life but you don’t have to face challenges on your own. Therapy is a journey. I approach each session as a time to learn about you—what motivates you and what ails you. I understand the importance of each individual’s culture so I can fully understand you as a person. Together, we will determine the best possible solutions to address your individual needs.
(512) 675-5817 View (512) 675-5817
Photo of Lerla Pettiford, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in 78754, TX
Lerla Pettiford
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78754  (Online Only)
My professional journey has afforded me the privilege of helping military families, adolescents and teens, women, and couples navigate PTSD, grief, anxiety, depression, building trust, conflict resolution, communication skills, and trauma.
Supervised by Joslyn Curley, LPC-S. I am passionate about helping the broken hearted heal and helping others find renewed life,hope and light in dark spaces. My counseling sessions are rooted in Jeremiah 31:3, “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted, and saves the crushed in spirit.” There is hope!
My professional journey has afforded me the privilege of helping military families, adolescents and teens, women, and couples navigate PTSD, grief, anxiety, depression, building trust, conflict resolution, communication skills, and trauma.
Supervised by Joslyn Curley, LPC-S. I am passionate about helping the broken hearted heal and helping others find renewed life,hope and light in dark spaces. My counseling sessions are rooted in Jeremiah 31:3, “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted, and saves the crushed in spirit.” There is hope!
(512) 402-6941 View (512) 402-6941
Photo of Kathryn Reynolds-Bukhair, Licensed Professional Counselor in 78754, TX
Kathryn Reynolds-Bukhair
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78754  (Online Only)
I work with Perinatal Mental Health (conception through 1st year postpartum), Neurodiversity, Learning Difficulties, Life Transitions, Anxiety, PTSD, trauma, and Depression. I am also a mother and work with Pregnancy, Prenatal, and Postpartum health. I always crave additional training, which is why I became certified in Perinatal Mental Health and completed EMDR basic training. I believe in the importance of focusing on the mind-body connection in a holistic manner.
I work with Perinatal Mental Health (conception through 1st year postpartum), Neurodiversity, Learning Difficulties, Life Transitions, Anxiety, PTSD, trauma, and Depression. I am also a mother and work with Pregnancy, Prenatal, and Postpartum health. I always crave additional training, which is why I became certified in Perinatal Mental Health and completed EMDR basic training. I believe in the importance of focusing on the mind-body connection in a holistic manner.
(512) 645-1760 View (512) 645-1760
Photo of Alicia Fitzpatrick, Pre-Licensed Professional in 78754, TX
Alicia Fitzpatrick
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LMSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78754  (Online Only)
Whether you're struggling with relationship issues, self-esteem, trauma, or other challenges, she's here to support you every step of the way.
Are you struggling with feelings of anxiety, depression, or overwhelming stress? Do you feel like you've lost your sense of purpose and direction in life? Alicia believes that everyone has the potential for growth, healing, and positive change. As a licensed master social worker, Alicia provides a safe, non-judgmental space for you to explore your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, and work towards a more fulfilling and meaningful life. With over 10 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families, Alicia has a proven track record of helping clients overcome a wide range of mental health and life challenges.
Whether you're struggling with relationship issues, self-esteem, trauma, or other challenges, she's here to support you every step of the way.
Are you struggling with feelings of anxiety, depression, or overwhelming stress? Do you feel like you've lost your sense of purpose and direction in life? Alicia believes that everyone has the potential for growth, healing, and positive change. As a licensed master social worker, Alicia provides a safe, non-judgmental space for you to explore your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, and work towards a more fulfilling and meaningful life. With over 10 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families, Alicia has a proven track record of helping clients overcome a wide range of mental health and life challenges.
(903) 666-5115 View (903) 666-5115
Photo of Karen M Curtin, Licensed Professional Counselor in 78754, TX
Karen M Curtin
Licensed Professional Counselor, BFA, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78754  (Online Only)
Achieve your highest potential! Create the life you want to live! Release tension, alleviate suffering, heal relationships, calm stress, enhance creativity, improve performance. As a clinical therapist in psychology, I am dedicated to guiding you through growth and change. As an artist I embrace creativity, which encourages you to approach your transformation with a fresh perspective, switching from negative thinking and limiting beliefs to positive thinking and highly effective beliefs. Through my yoga practice I continue to develop an understanding of mind-body-spirit connection.
Achieve your highest potential! Create the life you want to live! Release tension, alleviate suffering, heal relationships, calm stress, enhance creativity, improve performance. As a clinical therapist in psychology, I am dedicated to guiding you through growth and change. As an artist I embrace creativity, which encourages you to approach your transformation with a fresh perspective, switching from negative thinking and limiting beliefs to positive thinking and highly effective beliefs. Through my yoga practice I continue to develop an understanding of mind-body-spirit connection.
(512) 488-5751 View (512) 488-5751
Photo of Leila Anderson, Marriage & Family Therapist in 78754, TX
Leila Anderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT-S, LCDC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78754  (Online Only)
In my private practice, I specialize primarily in the treatment of ambiguous trauma and grief - problems like spiritual or religious trauma that may not be easily recognized, or like the loss of an imagined future that may be hard to pin down.
My ideal client is thoughtful, driven, and ready to push through discomfort if it means they'll see the progress they want to see. They may be dealing with trauma, life stressors, grief, relationship issues, or tendency to self-sabotage out of shame. They value open-mindedness, honesty, and growth. They are open to understanding mental health symptoms as, in part, a function of the sick society in which we live and willing to make changes beyond "thinking differently" to get some relief.
In my private practice, I specialize primarily in the treatment of ambiguous trauma and grief - problems like spiritual or religious trauma that may not be easily recognized, or like the loss of an imagined future that may be hard to pin down.
My ideal client is thoughtful, driven, and ready to push through discomfort if it means they'll see the progress they want to see. They may be dealing with trauma, life stressors, grief, relationship issues, or tendency to self-sabotage out of shame. They value open-mindedness, honesty, and growth. They are open to understanding mental health symptoms as, in part, a function of the sick society in which we live and willing to make changes beyond "thinking differently" to get some relief.
(512) 798-4529 View (512) 798-4529
John Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78754
I believe in the basic goodness of man kind and the client's right to self-determination. We are all doing the best we can. Sometimes experiences from the past affect our present and we need help in clarifying the differences; accepting our past and our present self. You deserve to live your life fully present.
I believe in the basic goodness of man kind and the client's right to self-determination. We are all doing the best we can. Sometimes experiences from the past affect our present and we need help in clarifying the differences; accepting our past and our present self. You deserve to live your life fully present.
(512) 354-7938 View (512) 354-7938
Photo of Texas Trails Therapeutic Services, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 78754, TX
Texas Trails Therapeutic Services, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT™
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78754  (Online Only)
Hello! I'm Sarah Smith and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Registered Play Therapist(TM). If your family is looking for relief from with emotional outbursts, healing from traumatic experiences, or growth in the areas of connection and communication, Texas Trails could be a great fit for you! I believe in using a dual approach: psychotherapeutic growth and healing for the client AND easy to implement, practical tools for the whole family. I am excited to learn about your problem points and create a plan to help you reach your goals.
Hello! I'm Sarah Smith and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Registered Play Therapist(TM). If your family is looking for relief from with emotional outbursts, healing from traumatic experiences, or growth in the areas of connection and communication, Texas Trails could be a great fit for you! I believe in using a dual approach: psychotherapeutic growth and healing for the client AND easy to implement, practical tools for the whole family. I am excited to learn about your problem points and create a plan to help you reach your goals.
(512) 337-4383 View (512) 337-4383
Photo of Nicole Warren, Marriage & Family Therapist in 78754, TX
Nicole Warren
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT-S, LCDC, RYT
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78754
*Not currently taking new clients* Hello! I provide support to those of us who don't always fit in and have experienced some rough times. Being human is not always easy and it can generate “stuff”. Maybe the “stuff” you're experiencing right now is feeling overwhelmed from anxiety, addiction or life transitions. It may feel like nothing seems to be helping and you're alone… like your miles away from the “you” that you want to be. Let’s get you some tools to break this pattern because you're looking here and you're ready for a change.
*Not currently taking new clients* Hello! I provide support to those of us who don't always fit in and have experienced some rough times. Being human is not always easy and it can generate “stuff”. Maybe the “stuff” you're experiencing right now is feeling overwhelmed from anxiety, addiction or life transitions. It may feel like nothing seems to be helping and you're alone… like your miles away from the “you” that you want to be. Let’s get you some tools to break this pattern because you're looking here and you're ready for a change.
(737) 204-3467 View (737) 204-3467
Photo of Madison Holloway, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 78754, TX
Madison Holloway
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78754
Do you struggle with unstable moods or negative thoughts you wish you could simply make go away? Wanting those dark thoughts to change, or hoping to run away from them, is completely normal. But avoiding those thoughts can leave us even more stressed, irritable, and disconnected from our loved ones. I promote compassion, honesty, and empowerment while working with clients who struggle with a range of issues, including anxiety, depression, and life transitions. I’m especially passionate about helping adolescents, young adults, and LGBTQ+ individuals struggling with mood, personality, and eating disorders.
Do you struggle with unstable moods or negative thoughts you wish you could simply make go away? Wanting those dark thoughts to change, or hoping to run away from them, is completely normal. But avoiding those thoughts can leave us even more stressed, irritable, and disconnected from our loved ones. I promote compassion, honesty, and empowerment while working with clients who struggle with a range of issues, including anxiety, depression, and life transitions. I’m especially passionate about helping adolescents, young adults, and LGBTQ+ individuals struggling with mood, personality, and eating disorders.
(512) 931-3811 View (512) 931-3811
Photo of Hugh Simmons, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 78754, TX
Hugh Simmons, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78754
I celebrate diversity, which means I welcome you. I offer a safe place for you to talk at your own pace about issues that may feel impossible to discuss anywhere else. Focus areas include interpersonal/relationship challenges, LGBTQ+/queer concerns, stress, parenting, anxiety, depression, a general sense of feeling unhappy, and more.
I celebrate diversity, which means I welcome you. I offer a safe place for you to talk at your own pace about issues that may feel impossible to discuss anywhere else. Focus areas include interpersonal/relationship challenges, LGBTQ+/queer concerns, stress, parenting, anxiety, depression, a general sense of feeling unhappy, and more.
(347) 706-4604 View (347) 706-4604
Photo of Claudia Torresmutt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 78754, TX
Claudia Torresmutt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CCM
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78754
Take this as your sign. You deserve to have the life you desire as opposed to carrying the weight of unescapable emotions and stress. I want nothing more than to offer others a safe, confidential, and non-biased place to explore any concerns and feelings without judgement. Getting connected with your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors can lead you to a better understanding of yourself and build the foundation to work towards overcoming any obstacle in your path. My therapy approach is client-centered and I will meet you wherever you are spiritually, mentally, and emotionally.
Take this as your sign. You deserve to have the life you desire as opposed to carrying the weight of unescapable emotions and stress. I want nothing more than to offer others a safe, confidential, and non-biased place to explore any concerns and feelings without judgement. Getting connected with your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors can lead you to a better understanding of yourself and build the foundation to work towards overcoming any obstacle in your path. My therapy approach is client-centered and I will meet you wherever you are spiritually, mentally, and emotionally.
(512) 890-0714 View (512) 890-0714
Photo of Yolanda Diana Johnson Affiliated With Deeper Connection Llc, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in 78754, TX
Yolanda Diana Johnson Affiliated With Deeper Connection Llc
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LCDC, LPC-A, CTTS, CAMS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78754  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
This practice is ideal for people struggling with alcohol or other drug addiction and prefers to start their recovery in individual sessions with a drug and alcohol counselor rather than by entering treatment in a formal rehab setting. It is also indicated for those who have alcohol and drug addiction assessments and could use the help of a counselor to build sober support. Counseling is typically combined with 12-step or other mutual support group attendance.
This practice is ideal for people struggling with alcohol or other drug addiction and prefers to start their recovery in individual sessions with a drug and alcohol counselor rather than by entering treatment in a formal rehab setting. It is also indicated for those who have alcohol and drug addiction assessments and could use the help of a counselor to build sober support. Counseling is typically combined with 12-step or other mutual support group attendance.
(512) 856-1329 View (512) 856-1329

See more therapy options for 78754

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.