Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Alabama

Photo of Tiffany Fuller, Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC, NCC
Tiffany Fuller
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC, NCC
Heflin, AL 36264
Are you navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, or a life transition.
I provide compassionate care for all individuals and believe every person is worthy of empathy, dignity, and the opportunity to grow in their own way, I work with individuals on a neurodivergent continuum to build upon strengths to move toward successes. I believe in and practice holding space for growth and grace.
Are you navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, or a life transition.
I provide compassionate care for all individuals and believe every person is worthy of empathy, dignity, and the opportunity to grow in their own way, I work with individuals on a neurodivergent continuum to build upon strengths to move toward successes. I believe in and practice holding space for growth and grace.
(256) 807-2240 View (256) 807-2240
Photo of Jenifer Brougham, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CCTP
Jenifer Brougham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CCTP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in anxiety and trauma, and I use a variety of evidence-based therapeutic modalities, allowing me to tailor your treatment to match your personality.
Do you feel overwhelmed, anxious, and irritable more often than not? Do you sometimes feel paralyzed by indecision, worried you will make the wrong choices? Or you may find it hard to fall asleep at night as your mind races, replaying events or worrying about the future. Imagine a future where you have the skills and tools to manage these feelings. A future where you regain control over your thoughts and find peace and calmness in situations that once overwhelmed you—a future where you confidently look forward to the day's challenges.
I specialize in anxiety and trauma, and I use a variety of evidence-based therapeutic modalities, allowing me to tailor your treatment to match your personality.
Do you feel overwhelmed, anxious, and irritable more often than not? Do you sometimes feel paralyzed by indecision, worried you will make the wrong choices? Or you may find it hard to fall asleep at night as your mind races, replaying events or worrying about the future. Imagine a future where you have the skills and tools to manage these feelings. A future where you regain control over your thoughts and find peace and calmness in situations that once overwhelmed you—a future where you confidently look forward to the day's challenges.
(205) 927-4634 View (205) 927-4634
Photo of Erica Smith, Counselor, MDiv, MA, ALC
Erica Smith
Counselor, MDiv, MA, ALC
3 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35209
By using trauma-informed modalities like Brainspotting, Internal Family Systems and other experiential therapies, I help clients heal from issues related to trauma, anxiety depression, grief, childhood neglect/ abuse, feeling stuck or sensing that something is just “not right
By integrating my clinical training in mental health counseling with my training in mindfulness, somatic work and inner healing techniques, I help clients heal from past wounding. Clients with complex trauma often feel they are accelerating their progress by using modalities like Brainspotting, Somatic Therapies, Expressive Arts Therapy, Sandtray and IFS.
By using trauma-informed modalities like Brainspotting, Internal Family Systems and other experiential therapies, I help clients heal from issues related to trauma, anxiety depression, grief, childhood neglect/ abuse, feeling stuck or sensing that something is just “not right
By integrating my clinical training in mental health counseling with my training in mindfulness, somatic work and inner healing techniques, I help clients heal from past wounding. Clients with complex trauma often feel they are accelerating their progress by using modalities like Brainspotting, Somatic Therapies, Expressive Arts Therapy, Sandtray and IFS.
(205) 839-9341 View (205) 839-9341
Photo of Megan Marie Hubacher, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Megan Marie Hubacher
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Foley, AL 36535
I am a licensed professional counselor who specializes in working with children, families, and those who have experienced trauma.
A core belief of mine is that therapy should be tailored to meet the individuals where they are at, therefore I strive to make the therapeutic process enjoyable and tailored to my clients needs. You and your child's mental health matters to me and I hope you will allow me to be a part of your healing journey.
I am a licensed professional counselor who specializes in working with children, families, and those who have experienced trauma.
A core belief of mine is that therapy should be tailored to meet the individuals where they are at, therefore I strive to make the therapeutic process enjoyable and tailored to my clients needs. You and your child's mental health matters to me and I hope you will allow me to be a part of your healing journey.
(251) 318-8983 View (251) 318-8983
Photo of Lorne Dann, Psychologist, PhD
Lorne Dann
Psychologist, PhD
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 Madelyn Bingham, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LMFTA
Madelyn Bingham
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LMFTA
4 Endorsed
Auburn, AL 36830
I work with couples, families, and individuals (ages 10 and up) dealing with things like relationship issues, trauma, and anxiety.
Are you feeling stuck in conflict, disconnected, or longing for more closeness in your relationship? As a couples therapist, I help partners understand the deeper emotions beneath the surface and learn new ways to communicate that build connection instead of conflict. Whether you’re recovering from past hurts or simply wanting to feel closer again, therapy can bring you much needed relief and help you find your way back to each other.
I work with couples, families, and individuals (ages 10 and up) dealing with things like relationship issues, trauma, and anxiety.
Are you feeling stuck in conflict, disconnected, or longing for more closeness in your relationship? As a couples therapist, I help partners understand the deeper emotions beneath the surface and learn new ways to communicate that build connection instead of conflict. Whether you’re recovering from past hurts or simply wanting to feel closer again, therapy can bring you much needed relief and help you find your way back to each other.
(334) 666-6918 View (334) 666-6918
Photo of Susan C Kirkland - Dunn-Kirkland Counseling & Consulting Services,LLC, Counselor, M Ed, ALC, CCTP
Dunn-Kirkland Counseling & Consulting Services,LLC
Counselor, M Ed, ALC, CCTP
2 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35226
I have over 15 years of experience working with clients concerning: ADHD/ADD Assessments, PTSD & Trauma, Anxiety, Behavioral Issues, Conflict Resolution, Couples and Family Conflict, Depression, Divorce, Grief, Goal Setting, Stress Management, Parenting Skills Development, Prenatal and Postpartum Depression and Physical and Sexual Abuse.
Have you felt that waking up every morning has become difficult? The day to day tasks appear to be mountains that you must climb. You do not have to go through this alone. Our services are designed to meet the various mental health needs of adolescents, young adults/adults and couples as you navigate the trials of life. Take the first step by taking care of you. Here at Dunn-Kirkland Counseling & Consulting Services, you will be with someone that will allow you to breathe and assist you by using therapeutic strategies to improve your mental health and who will be with you when those conversations become difficult but necessary.
I have over 15 years of experience working with clients concerning: ADHD/ADD Assessments, PTSD & Trauma, Anxiety, Behavioral Issues, Conflict Resolution, Couples and Family Conflict, Depression, Divorce, Grief, Goal Setting, Stress Management, Parenting Skills Development, Prenatal and Postpartum Depression and Physical and Sexual Abuse.
Have you felt that waking up every morning has become difficult? The day to day tasks appear to be mountains that you must climb. You do not have to go through this alone. Our services are designed to meet the various mental health needs of adolescents, young adults/adults and couples as you navigate the trials of life. Take the first step by taking care of you. Here at Dunn-Kirkland Counseling & Consulting Services, you will be with someone that will allow you to breathe and assist you by using therapeutic strategies to improve your mental health and who will be with you when those conversations become difficult but necessary.
(205) 883-2466 View (205) 883-2466
Photo of Carrie Halladay, Counselor, LPC
Carrie Halladay
Counselor, LPC
3 Endorsed
Gadsden, AL 35901
I am also trained in Brainspotting to assist with processing and healing trauma.
Hey! I’m Carrie Halladay. I started my therapy practice with the goal of helping others find peace in their lives. You and I will work together to accomplish this mission. I offer individual counseling services for the stressed out, broken-hearted, over worked, under-appreciated, confidence-lacking, worn out, anxious and depressed. I am a no BS type of person- in my personal life and at work. I work with my clients to quickly uncover the source of anxiety, depression, and life dissatisfaction to achieve your goals.
I am also trained in Brainspotting to assist with processing and healing trauma.
Hey! I’m Carrie Halladay. I started my therapy practice with the goal of helping others find peace in their lives. You and I will work together to accomplish this mission. I offer individual counseling services for the stressed out, broken-hearted, over worked, under-appreciated, confidence-lacking, worn out, anxious and depressed. I am a no BS type of person- in my personal life and at work. I work with my clients to quickly uncover the source of anxiety, depression, and life dissatisfaction to achieve your goals.
(256) 598-8873 View (256) 598-8873
Photo of Jo Anna Johnson - Practical Choices and Healthy Change Therapy, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CCH
Practical Choices and Healthy Change Therapy, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CCH
2 Endorsed
Mobile, AL 36609
With over a decade of experience in mental health, I specialize in helping adults navigate anxiety, depression, and trauma.
Hello and Welcome! My name is Jo Anna Johnson. I am the owner of Practical Choices and Healthy Change Therapy, LLC, a Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist (CCH), and a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) for the state of Alabama. I serve adults experiencing a wide variety of issues. These issues consist of but are not limited to problems associated with managing stress, marital/relationship issues, addiction, and anger management. To schedule an appointment please visit https://pchctherapy.clientsecure.me
With over a decade of experience in mental health, I specialize in helping adults navigate anxiety, depression, and trauma.
Hello and Welcome! My name is Jo Anna Johnson. I am the owner of Practical Choices and Healthy Change Therapy, LLC, a Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist (CCH), and a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) for the state of Alabama. I serve adults experiencing a wide variety of issues. These issues consist of but are not limited to problems associated with managing stress, marital/relationship issues, addiction, and anger management. To schedule an appointment please visit https://pchctherapy.clientsecure.me
(251) 744-0713 View (251) 744-0713
Photo of Ciara Collier-Thomas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW-S
Ciara Collier-Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW-S
1 Endorsed
Madison, AL 35758
I use evidence-based therapies tailored to your needs, including EMDR, which is effective for trauma, anxiety, depression, and overwhelming experiences.
Are you feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, or emotionally stuck? Maybe you're carrying the weight of past experiences that continue to affect your daily life, or you're simply trying to function while managing persistent anxiety, sadness, or a sense of disconnection. You might be facing relationship challenges, going through a major life transition, or grieving the loss of someone important. If any of this sounds familiar, you're not alone and you don’t have to face it on your own. Reaching out for support is a brave and meaningful first step toward healing.
I use evidence-based therapies tailored to your needs, including EMDR, which is effective for trauma, anxiety, depression, and overwhelming experiences.
Are you feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, or emotionally stuck? Maybe you're carrying the weight of past experiences that continue to affect your daily life, or you're simply trying to function while managing persistent anxiety, sadness, or a sense of disconnection. You might be facing relationship challenges, going through a major life transition, or grieving the loss of someone important. If any of this sounds familiar, you're not alone and you don’t have to face it on your own. Reaching out for support is a brave and meaningful first step toward healing.
(256) 884-6949 View (256) 884-6949
Photo of Garrett Bass, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Garrett Bass
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35209
I focus primarily on treating trauma, eating disorders, addiction, and self-esteem issues.
Do you struggle to manage the lingering impact of traumatic experiences, disordered eating or addictive behaviors, or distressing thoughts and emotions? Are you dealing with feelings of guilt, shame, or hurt that are interfering with your own health and wellbeing? Do you feel like there are significant barriers that are standing in the way of truly knowing and being yourself? It can be overwhelming to find yourself trapped in unhelpful or isolating patterns with no idea of how to make a change. If this sounds familiar, I would encourage you to reach out and schedule a therapy appointment today.
I focus primarily on treating trauma, eating disorders, addiction, and self-esteem issues.
Do you struggle to manage the lingering impact of traumatic experiences, disordered eating or addictive behaviors, or distressing thoughts and emotions? Are you dealing with feelings of guilt, shame, or hurt that are interfering with your own health and wellbeing? Do you feel like there are significant barriers that are standing in the way of truly knowing and being yourself? It can be overwhelming to find yourself trapped in unhelpful or isolating patterns with no idea of how to make a change. If this sounds familiar, I would encourage you to reach out and schedule a therapy appointment today.
(205) 440-2658 View (205) 440-2658
Photo of Melissa Sanchez, Counselor, MA, ALC, NCC
Melissa Sanchez
Counselor, MA, ALC, NCC
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35206
I support individuals navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, and recovery from emotional or relational abuse.
Healing begins when we stop letting our past or fears define our future. My approach centers on one truth: you already have the strength to heal, we're just removing what's covering it up. I specialize in helping people move from survival mode to truly thriving. Many of my clients are working to reclaim their voice, rebuild a stronger sense of self, and regain their sense of power after experiencing emotional pain, difficult relationships, or major life transitions. In therapy, we uncover your inner strength and start the process of true healing and lasting change.
I support individuals navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, and recovery from emotional or relational abuse.
Healing begins when we stop letting our past or fears define our future. My approach centers on one truth: you already have the strength to heal, we're just removing what's covering it up. I specialize in helping people move from survival mode to truly thriving. Many of my clients are working to reclaim their voice, rebuild a stronger sense of self, and regain their sense of power after experiencing emotional pain, difficult relationships, or major life transitions. In therapy, we uncover your inner strength and start the process of true healing and lasting change.
(205) 827-6474 View (205) 827-6474
Photo of Jennings Riley, Counselor, MA, ALC, LBC
Jennings Riley
Counselor, MA, ALC, LBC
9 Endorsed
Opelika, AL 36801
Using evidence based practices, like EMDR and DBT, I help people heal trauma, find relief from past wounds, have a more fulfilling present, and a more hopeful future.
Integrating cognitive, emotional, and nervous system based techniques, I provide practical tools to mange symptoms and help do the work needed to bring healing. With couples, I use the Gottman method and focus not only on developing healthy communication but also on creating greater intimacy and the emotional connection needed for relationships to thrive.
Using evidence based practices, like EMDR and DBT, I help people heal trauma, find relief from past wounds, have a more fulfilling present, and a more hopeful future.
Integrating cognitive, emotional, and nervous system based techniques, I provide practical tools to mange symptoms and help do the work needed to bring healing. With couples, I use the Gottman method and focus not only on developing healthy communication but also on creating greater intimacy and the emotional connection needed for relationships to thrive.
(334) 835-0854 View (334) 835-0854
Photo of Kim Y Nicholson, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC, CCTP
Kim Y Nicholson
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC, CCTP
Madison, AL 35756
Using Cognitive Behavior and Cognitive Processing Therapy approaches, I provide client-focused and trauma-sensitive therapy in a judgement free environment.
Hello overcomer! Yes...you! Do you look like you have it all together on the outside, but are secretly falling apart on the inside? Has daily living gotten the best of you? If so, I am here to help you take control of your thinking and behavior patterns and get back to or start living the life you desire? I am a retired Air Force Veteran and former government employee who understands how life issues can drain you. I am a great listener and look forward to helping you develop the skills needed to live the life you desire. If you ready to begin this journey...let's connect now! I see clients in AL, DC and MD.
Using Cognitive Behavior and Cognitive Processing Therapy approaches, I provide client-focused and trauma-sensitive therapy in a judgement free environment.
Hello overcomer! Yes...you! Do you look like you have it all together on the outside, but are secretly falling apart on the inside? Has daily living gotten the best of you? If so, I am here to help you take control of your thinking and behavior patterns and get back to or start living the life you desire? I am a retired Air Force Veteran and former government employee who understands how life issues can drain you. I am a great listener and look forward to helping you develop the skills needed to live the life you desire. If you ready to begin this journey...let's connect now! I see clients in AL, DC and MD.
(443) 552-7635 View (443) 552-7635
Photo of Meoshia Abrams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Meoshia Abrams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
2 Endorsed
Hoover, AL 35244
I support women healing from childhood sexual abuse, using evidence-based modalities like Trauma-Focused CBT, ACT, Emotionally Focused, and person-centered approaches.
Women living with the lingering effects of childhood sexual abuse carry an invisible weight every day. Shame, stigma, and self-blame linger, leaving you questioning your worth and struggling to trust yourself and others. While others seem to be thriving in life, you’re battling intrusive memories, sudden waves of fear, and mood shifts that disrupt your relationships and daily life. Even when you try to push the past aside, the pain resurfaces in unexpected ways, reminding you of wounds you never asked for. Deep down, you long for relief – a safe place where your voice is honored, your story is heard, and healing feels possible!
I support women healing from childhood sexual abuse, using evidence-based modalities like Trauma-Focused CBT, ACT, Emotionally Focused, and person-centered approaches.
Women living with the lingering effects of childhood sexual abuse carry an invisible weight every day. Shame, stigma, and self-blame linger, leaving you questioning your worth and struggling to trust yourself and others. While others seem to be thriving in life, you’re battling intrusive memories, sudden waves of fear, and mood shifts that disrupt your relationships and daily life. Even when you try to push the past aside, the pain resurfaces in unexpected ways, reminding you of wounds you never asked for. Deep down, you long for relief – a safe place where your voice is honored, your story is heard, and healing feels possible!
(205) 852-8208 View (205) 852-8208
Photo of Emma Kathryn Moates, Counselor, MS, ALC
Emma Kathryn Moates
Counselor, MS, ALC
Birmingham, AL 35216
I am a trauma-informed psychotherapist. As a clinician, my role is to assist you with setting and maintaining goals that are rooted in your unique core values. I provide gender affirming, LGBTQ+ affirming care and work from the "health at every size" philosophy. I work with issues pertaining to grief and loss, anxiety and depression, and PTSD. I have experience working with folks who are recovering from domestic and intimate partner violence, process addictions, substance misuse and eating disorders, with a focus on harm reduction. It’s never too late to ask for help! I seek to practice radical gentleness in a challenging world.
I am a trauma-informed psychotherapist. As a clinician, my role is to assist you with setting and maintaining goals that are rooted in your unique core values. I provide gender affirming, LGBTQ+ affirming care and work from the "health at every size" philosophy. I work with issues pertaining to grief and loss, anxiety and depression, and PTSD. I have experience working with folks who are recovering from domestic and intimate partner violence, process addictions, substance misuse and eating disorders, with a focus on harm reduction. It’s never too late to ask for help! I seek to practice radical gentleness in a challenging world.
(205) 772-1852 View (205) 772-1852
Photo of Tonya A Hillman - DaVine Counseling Center, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, LPC-S
DaVine Counseling Center, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, LPC-S
1 Endorsed
Daphne, AL 36526
We have experience in anxiety, loss and grief, depression, trauma, bipolar, and Christian counsel if requested.
Everyone is welcome to come and talk a bit about whatever they want to talk about. My motto is that anyone who wants help will get it regardless of their situation. We will figure out a way.
We have experience in anxiety, loss and grief, depression, trauma, bipolar, and Christian counsel if requested.
Everyone is welcome to come and talk a bit about whatever they want to talk about. My motto is that anyone who wants help will get it regardless of their situation. We will figure out a way.
(251) 325-5336 View (251) 325-5336
Photo of Terri Williams-Glass, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, SEP
Terri Williams-Glass
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, SEP
1 Endorsed
Vestavia Hills, AL 35243
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with clients who have depression, anxiety, trauma and substance use .
I provide a safe and caring environment for people to find and share their truth. Blending compassion with connections and skill building, together we will explore the root of your suffering and empower healing within you. I have 20+ years of experience working with people in recovery and with people who have mental health concerns.
I specialize in working with clients who have depression, anxiety, trauma and substance use .
I provide a safe and caring environment for people to find and share their truth. Blending compassion with connections and skill building, together we will explore the root of your suffering and empower healing within you. I have 20+ years of experience working with people in recovery and with people who have mental health concerns.
(205) 317-9451 View (205) 317-9451
Photo of Caroline Bishop, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Caroline Bishop
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
3 Endorsed
Hartselle, AL 35640
Waitlist for new clients
Let's work together on your ADHD, anxiety, coping skills, communication skills, depression, life transitions, PTSD, trauma, self-care, self-esteem, and work-life balance.
I recently completed intensive training on EMDR therapy and working towards becoming certified! I also use CBT, Solution-Focused therapy, Client-centered, and many others. I also love incorporating humor, metaphors, and out-of-the-box solutions into my sessions. I strive to create an office space that feels cozy and comforting, so you can feel at ease.
Let's work together on your ADHD, anxiety, coping skills, communication skills, depression, life transitions, PTSD, trauma, self-care, self-esteem, and work-life balance.
I recently completed intensive training on EMDR therapy and working towards becoming certified! I also use CBT, Solution-Focused therapy, Client-centered, and many others. I also love incorporating humor, metaphors, and out-of-the-box solutions into my sessions. I strive to create an office space that feels cozy and comforting, so you can feel at ease.
(256) 908-8705 View (256) 908-8705
Photo of Dondra Goldsby, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CGT, CSAT, EMDR
Dondra Goldsby
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CGT, CSAT, EMDR
1 Endorsed
Pelham, AL 35124
Relationships are essential to our well-being. When you are experiencing difficulties in your relationship, it can disrupt several areas of your life. You may be facing betrayal, infidelity, sexual issues, or you may even be considering divorce. During this painful time, you need to know that hope and healing is possible.
Relationships are essential to our well-being. When you are experiencing difficulties in your relationship, it can disrupt several areas of your life. You may be facing betrayal, infidelity, sexual issues, or you may even be considering divorce. During this painful time, you need to know that hope and healing is possible.
(205) 255-1249 View (205) 255-1249

See more therapy options for Alabama

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.