Photo of Lindsay Coffey, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lindsay Coffey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99503
Greetings and thanks for checking out my services and what I have to offer. I have been providing mental health services to children and families in Alaska since 2010. Most of my experience has been with children, teens and young adults, but I have provided services to adults as well. My passion is working with individuals, of any age, who have experienced trauma. I am certified in a number of evidence-based practices for treating trauma. I am also experienced at treating mood disorders in all ages, as well as disruptive behavior disorders in children.
Greetings and thanks for checking out my services and what I have to offer. I have been providing mental health services to children and families in Alaska since 2010. Most of my experience has been with children, teens and young adults, but I have provided services to adults as well. My passion is working with individuals, of any age, who have experienced trauma. I am certified in a number of evidence-based practices for treating trauma. I am also experienced at treating mood disorders in all ages, as well as disruptive behavior disorders in children.
(844) 972-0867 View (844) 972-0867
Photo of Lawrence Whitaker, LPC, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lawrence Whitaker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99501
I have worked successfully with: victims of trauma, major depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, anxiety and personality disorders.
Accepting telehealth clients. Really enjoy helping others find relief & working with all types of issues whether it be a life change or lingering relationship issues, I am excited to work with you. I have been lucky enough to have worked in a variety of settings giving me unique insight to critical life situations such as: divorce, loss of a loved one, legal issues, family members with severe mental illness. Master’s Level Licensed Mental Health Professional letter for emotional support animal-related services (assessments and therapeutic counseling) for adults.
I have worked successfully with: victims of trauma, major depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, anxiety and personality disorders.
Accepting telehealth clients. Really enjoy helping others find relief & working with all types of issues whether it be a life change or lingering relationship issues, I am excited to work with you. I have been lucky enough to have worked in a variety of settings giving me unique insight to critical life situations such as: divorce, loss of a loved one, legal issues, family members with severe mental illness. Master’s Level Licensed Mental Health Professional letter for emotional support animal-related services (assessments and therapeutic counseling) for adults.
(907) 420-4764 View (907) 420-4764
Photo of Sherri L Scott, LPA, LPC-S, MAGL, DCS, Psychological Associate
Sherri L Scott
Psychological Associate, LPA, LPC-S, MAGL, DCS
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99503  (Online Only)
Specifically, my expertise is working with women’s issues, behavioral and neurodevelopmental disorders, acute trauma, life crises, complex PTSD, grief, addictions and mood disorders (such as depression and anxiety).
Hi. My name is Dr. Sherri L. Scott and I am passionate to work with you in your quest for wellness and to overcome challenges that you and/or your family may be experiencing. My professional credentials are Licensed Psychological Associate, Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor, Licensed and Ordained Minister. Over 30 plus years my expertise in behavioral health services has been honed to provide Clinical Therapy, Clinical Supervision and Education in correctional, psychiatric residential treatment, university and community outpatient settings.
Specifically, my expertise is working with women’s issues, behavioral and neurodevelopmental disorders, acute trauma, life crises, complex PTSD, grief, addictions and mood disorders (such as depression and anxiety).
Hi. My name is Dr. Sherri L. Scott and I am passionate to work with you in your quest for wellness and to overcome challenges that you and/or your family may be experiencing. My professional credentials are Licensed Psychological Associate, Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor, Licensed and Ordained Minister. Over 30 plus years my expertise in behavioral health services has been honed to provide Clinical Therapy, Clinical Supervision and Education in correctional, psychiatric residential treatment, university and community outpatient settings.
(907) 341-3889 View (907) 341-3889
Photo of Amy Marie White, PhD, LPC, MAC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy Marie White
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, MAC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99503  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome to Life Centered Therapy and Spiritual Counseling, LLC. With over 20 years in the field of behavioral health and addictions, my goal is to help you achieve balance and well-being at your pace. My specialty is working with transgender individuals, spiritual connections with a lifestyle of recovery. I believe that everyone has the right to express their authentic self and reach their full potential as human beings. I provide individual psychotherapy to adolescents and adults who are struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, crisis, trauma utilizing relaxation techniques, stress management, spirituality or other challenges of daily living.
Welcome to Life Centered Therapy and Spiritual Counseling, LLC. With over 20 years in the field of behavioral health and addictions, my goal is to help you achieve balance and well-being at your pace. My specialty is working with transgender individuals, spiritual connections with a lifestyle of recovery. I believe that everyone has the right to express their authentic self and reach their full potential as human beings. I provide individual psychotherapy to adolescents and adults who are struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, crisis, trauma utilizing relaxation techniques, stress management, spirituality or other challenges of daily living.
(907) 312-2567 View (907) 312-2567
Photo of Jenae MacNaughton - Hope's Horizon Counseling Services, LLC, LMHC-S, LPC-S, LCMHC, LPC-MH, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hope's Horizon Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC-S, LPC-S, LCMHC, LPC-MH, LCPC
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99509  (Online Only)
Life happens; the effects of loss vary; and the impacts of stress/trauma are more ‘normal’ than most people realize. You are not alone; your struggles are real; and your mental wellness is and should be treated with as much vigor as your need for food and shelter. It is natural for our bodies to want to heal themselves; and our human strength and natural behavior is to adapt and evolve. We develop negative coping skills as we adapt to stress/trauma, grief/loss, major life changes/transitions, chronic illness/pain, identity struggles, and relationship conflicts.
Life happens; the effects of loss vary; and the impacts of stress/trauma are more ‘normal’ than most people realize. You are not alone; your struggles are real; and your mental wellness is and should be treated with as much vigor as your need for food and shelter. It is natural for our bodies to want to heal themselves; and our human strength and natural behavior is to adapt and evolve. We develop negative coping skills as we adapt to stress/trauma, grief/loss, major life changes/transitions, chronic illness/pain, identity struggles, and relationship conflicts.
(877) 274-4863 View (877) 274-4863
Photo of Ann Nelson, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ann Nelson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palmer, AK 99645
My treatment specialization includes Depression and Anxiety, Trauma Recovery, eating and image disorders, blended families, adoption issues, marital and relationship issues, behavioral issues.
I have been providing solution-focused mental health services to individuals, couples and families for 20 years. I provide a comfortable, confidential, and supportive atmosphere, I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each of my clients individual needs to help attain the personal growth they're striving for. I accept most insurances. I am unable to accept Medicaid and Denali Kid Care at this time.
My treatment specialization includes Depression and Anxiety, Trauma Recovery, eating and image disorders, blended families, adoption issues, marital and relationship issues, behavioral issues.
I have been providing solution-focused mental health services to individuals, couples and families for 20 years. I provide a comfortable, confidential, and supportive atmosphere, I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each of my clients individual needs to help attain the personal growth they're striving for. I accept most insurances. I am unable to accept Medicaid and Denali Kid Care at this time.
(907) 341-3028 View (907) 341-3028
Photo of Wendy Gause, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Wendy Gause
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99501  (Online Only)
Symptoms that result from trauma may be high emotional reactivity, relationship issues, low self-esteem, and/or identity disturbance.
NOW Accepting NEW clients! The process of finding a therapist you can trust can be intimidating, but it is the first step toward healing and growth. I'm Wendy Gause, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor specializing in treatment for trauma-related disorders. I've worked in the mental health field for the past 12 years and genuinely love what I do.
Symptoms that result from trauma may be high emotional reactivity, relationship issues, low self-esteem, and/or identity disturbance.
NOW Accepting NEW clients! The process of finding a therapist you can trust can be intimidating, but it is the first step toward healing and growth. I'm Wendy Gause, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor specializing in treatment for trauma-related disorders. I've worked in the mental health field for the past 12 years and genuinely love what I do.
(866) 880-6136 View (866) 880-6136
Photo of Sharon Litwin, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sharon Litwin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99510  (Online Only)
I'm a seasoned therapist, certified in EMDR, with a strong belief in your innate ability to heal. Does negative self-talk impair your quality of life? Are you regularly triggered by reminders of painful memories? I specialize in trauma and its symptoms of anxiety, depression, anger and complicated grief. Many are currently experiencing collective trauma and grief as a result of our tumultuous world. Those who have existing trauma and anxiety can be particularly affected.
I'm a seasoned therapist, certified in EMDR, with a strong belief in your innate ability to heal. Does negative self-talk impair your quality of life? Are you regularly triggered by reminders of painful memories? I specialize in trauma and its symptoms of anxiety, depression, anger and complicated grief. Many are currently experiencing collective trauma and grief as a result of our tumultuous world. Those who have existing trauma and anxiety can be particularly affected.
(855) 912-6218 View (855) 912-6218
Photo of George Kirchner - George R. Kirchner LLC, LPC-S, NCC, CDC-S, ABHC, Counselor
George R. Kirchner LLC
Counselor, LPC-S, NCC, CDC-S, ABHC
Verified Verified
Fairbanks, AK 99701
Trauma leaves many blocks that go unnoticed leaving us wondering why we don't accomplish the life we want.
One day we may download a User's Manual for being human. Until then, therapy can help us navigate the rocky shoals and shed light onto the dark spots while setting ghosts to rest. We are far more capable than we think we are or given credit for. Napoleon Hill is quoted as saying, "What you can conceive and BELIEVE, you can achieve." That works both ways. Therapy can often re-open the doors to choice, frequently help us find our feet, and often move us to look to a bright future and to hear the music of everyday living. It is really hard to run through the woods backwards.
Trauma leaves many blocks that go unnoticed leaving us wondering why we don't accomplish the life we want.
One day we may download a User's Manual for being human. Until then, therapy can help us navigate the rocky shoals and shed light onto the dark spots while setting ghosts to rest. We are far more capable than we think we are or given credit for. Napoleon Hill is quoted as saying, "What you can conceive and BELIEVE, you can achieve." That works both ways. Therapy can often re-open the doors to choice, frequently help us find our feet, and often move us to look to a bright future and to hear the music of everyday living. It is really hard to run through the woods backwards.
(907) 331-6749 View (907) 331-6749
Photo of Olya Clem, MS, LPC, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Olya Clem
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99518
I specialize in cutting-edge trauma therapy approaches that can make a life-changing difference in your journey.
Are you tired of feeling trapped in the shadows your past? Do you long for a way out of the pain, anxiety, and emotional turmoil that seem to have taken over your life? Living with the aftermath of trauma can be a lonely, isolating road, causing profound disconnect from yourself, your body and those around you. With deep empathy and commitment to serving those affected by trauma, I help individuals confront and heal from the deep emotional scars left by the events from the past.
I specialize in cutting-edge trauma therapy approaches that can make a life-changing difference in your journey.
Are you tired of feeling trapped in the shadows your past? Do you long for a way out of the pain, anxiety, and emotional turmoil that seem to have taken over your life? Living with the aftermath of trauma can be a lonely, isolating road, causing profound disconnect from yourself, your body and those around you. With deep empathy and commitment to serving those affected by trauma, I help individuals confront and heal from the deep emotional scars left by the events from the past.
(907) 891-7502 View (907) 891-7502
Photo of Jocelyn M Figureid, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jocelyn M Figureid
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99515  (Online Only)
Why do we sometimes dwell on the worst times of our lives or spend our time and energy reliving things we wish we could change? Events, decisions, relationships, feelings etc can all end up 'stuck' and continue to negatively impact us in a variety of ways. The umbrella term 'traumatic stress' encompasses both PTSD and it's symptoms when full criteria is not met. When experiences from the past continue to impact your present, whether it be flashbacks or the way you view your place in the world, it can be very difficult to change.
Why do we sometimes dwell on the worst times of our lives or spend our time and energy reliving things we wish we could change? Events, decisions, relationships, feelings etc can all end up 'stuck' and continue to negatively impact us in a variety of ways. The umbrella term 'traumatic stress' encompasses both PTSD and it's symptoms when full criteria is not met. When experiences from the past continue to impact your present, whether it be flashbacks or the way you view your place in the world, it can be very difficult to change.
(360) 309-0086 View (360) 309-0086
Photo of Lisa Root, PsyD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa Root
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wasilla, AK 99654  (Online Only)
I have specialized in the following area's grief, trauma, gender orientation, child therapy and Christ Centered Principals.
My name is Dr. Lisa Root. As of January 2021 I will only be seeing patients through telepsych due to the high rise of the Coronvirus-19, in our area.. You are important to me, and so are others so please be mindful of others if you are ill. My specialty is trauma, family and individual therapy. I am taking new patients and I also have a passion for working with children. I utilize solution focused therapy and cognitive behavior therapy. There is a cancellation fee if you do not cancel in 24 hours, my billing company will bill you due to the expenses of 2 offices, flights, car and hotel=.
I have specialized in the following area's grief, trauma, gender orientation, child therapy and Christ Centered Principals.
My name is Dr. Lisa Root. As of January 2021 I will only be seeing patients through telepsych due to the high rise of the Coronvirus-19, in our area.. You are important to me, and so are others so please be mindful of others if you are ill. My specialty is trauma, family and individual therapy. I am taking new patients and I also have a passion for working with children. I utilize solution focused therapy and cognitive behavior therapy. There is a cancellation fee if you do not cancel in 24 hours, my billing company will bill you due to the expenses of 2 offices, flights, car and hotel=.
(907) 312-2716 View (907) 312-2716
Photo of Julie L Dravis, LPC, MAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Julie L Dravis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MAC
Verified Verified
Kenai, AK 99611
I am a counselor who is passionate about helping teens and adults experience growth and healing through life challenges. Using interpersonal connection, I help clients explore what beliefs and behaviors are no longer effective in their lives and find the courage to transform these. We will collaborate through talking, writing, art and relationship to address childhood and adult experiences that may contribute to depression, anxiety, substance misuse, post-traumatic stress and interpersonal relationship difficulties.
I am a counselor who is passionate about helping teens and adults experience growth and healing through life challenges. Using interpersonal connection, I help clients explore what beliefs and behaviors are no longer effective in their lives and find the courage to transform these. We will collaborate through talking, writing, art and relationship to address childhood and adult experiences that may contribute to depression, anxiety, substance misuse, post-traumatic stress and interpersonal relationship difficulties.
(844) 735-6134 View (844) 735-6134
Photo of Brenda Kay Thayer, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brenda Kay Thayer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Sitka, AK 99835  (Online Only)
Hello! I provide telehealth counseling services to adults in the states of Alaska, Oregon, Texas, Florida, and Mississippi. Extensive history providing support to those dealing with trauma/PTSD/historical and generational trauma. I also work with people dealing with depression, anxiety, life adjustments, development of coping skills, and mood disorders.
Hello! I provide telehealth counseling services to adults in the states of Alaska, Oregon, Texas, Florida, and Mississippi. Extensive history providing support to those dealing with trauma/PTSD/historical and generational trauma. I also work with people dealing with depression, anxiety, life adjustments, development of coping skills, and mood disorders.
(866) 891-4940 View (866) 891-4940
Photo of Tezlyn 'Sam' Clark, MEd, LPC, Counselor
Tezlyn 'Sam' Clark
Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99503
I work with adolescents and adults in the following: abuse / trauma (which can also include excessive criticism or shaming, or where one's needs were not met or boundaries were not respected), addictions, parenting, child behavioral issues, anxiety, depression, codependency, identity, self-esteem, domestic violence, and anger management.
"Freedom is what you do with what has been done to you," (Jean-Paul Sartre). We all have had things done to us. These things do not define us - the key is what we do with them afterward. I believe each and every person has what they need right inside of them; thus my job is not to fix or change, but to teach the skills to help you tap into that inner source. The answers you are looking for are available and can be found.
I work with adolescents and adults in the following: abuse / trauma (which can also include excessive criticism or shaming, or where one's needs were not met or boundaries were not respected), addictions, parenting, child behavioral issues, anxiety, depression, codependency, identity, self-esteem, domestic violence, and anger management.
"Freedom is what you do with what has been done to you," (Jean-Paul Sartre). We all have had things done to us. These things do not define us - the key is what we do with them afterward. I believe each and every person has what they need right inside of them; thus my job is not to fix or change, but to teach the skills to help you tap into that inner source. The answers you are looking for are available and can be found.
(855) 956-1720 View (855) 956-1720
Photo of Ellen Andrews, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ellen Andrews
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Juneau, AK 99801
Waitlist for new clients
My approach is compassionate, collaborative and hopeful. I have extensive experience working with individuals dealing with trauma, depression, anxiety, PTSD, interpersonal violence and complex relational crises. It can be a challenge to remain present and functional in life when dealing with unresolved confusion and pain. Therapy can create space to view what’s obscured by stress/fear and develop capacity to attend to it. I offer talk therapy, somatic interventions (including EMDR, mindfulness activities & visualization), and reflective practice - there are many paths that can lead to reconnection and joy.
My approach is compassionate, collaborative and hopeful. I have extensive experience working with individuals dealing with trauma, depression, anxiety, PTSD, interpersonal violence and complex relational crises. It can be a challenge to remain present and functional in life when dealing with unresolved confusion and pain. Therapy can create space to view what’s obscured by stress/fear and develop capacity to attend to it. I offer talk therapy, somatic interventions (including EMDR, mindfulness activities & visualization), and reflective practice - there are many paths that can lead to reconnection and joy.
(907) 917-2043 View (907) 917-2043
Photo of Colleen Nusbaum, LCSW, CDCI, LPC Sup, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Colleen Nusbaum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CDCI, LPC Sup
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Soldotna, AK 99669
I have worked with individual’s ages two years to 90 years old with depression, anxiety, intellectual/physical disabilities, military individuals/families, child welfare, co-occurring substance use disorders, children, couples, severe mental illness, mood disorders, brain injury, divorce, suicide, self harm, trauma, and provided expert testimony in courts.
I was born in Anchorage, Alaska and have lived on the Kenai Peninsula with my mother, husband and two daughters since 2005. Since 2010, I’ve dedicated myself to mental/behavioral health challenges and teamed with my clients in order to help them achieve healthy/balanced personal lives and relationships. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and member of the Kenai Peninsula Community, I’m deeply committed to being there when you need me most—helping you explore, heal, and move forward into a happy and healthy mindset. I work with all ages from 2 years to our elders. I'm here for you, get in touch and book your session today...
I have worked with individual’s ages two years to 90 years old with depression, anxiety, intellectual/physical disabilities, military individuals/families, child welfare, co-occurring substance use disorders, children, couples, severe mental illness, mood disorders, brain injury, divorce, suicide, self harm, trauma, and provided expert testimony in courts.
I was born in Anchorage, Alaska and have lived on the Kenai Peninsula with my mother, husband and two daughters since 2005. Since 2010, I’ve dedicated myself to mental/behavioral health challenges and teamed with my clients in order to help them achieve healthy/balanced personal lives and relationships. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and member of the Kenai Peninsula Community, I’m deeply committed to being there when you need me most—helping you explore, heal, and move forward into a happy and healthy mindset. I work with all ages from 2 years to our elders. I'm here for you, get in touch and book your session today...
(907) 394-4442 View (907) 394-4442
Photo of Roni Jay Lanier, MSCP, LPC, CDC I, Licensed Professional Counselor
Roni Jay Lanier
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSCP, LPC, CDC I
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99508  (Online Only)
I am skilled in working with individuals who experience adjustment issues, trauma histories, challenges with mood regulation, relationship challenges, stress, gender dysphoria, and other many other life challenges including addiction. I especially enjoy working with those individuals who live alternative lifestyles and who have alternative relationships. I specialize in gender identity. I am comfortable working with individuals under the GLBTQ+ umbrella. While working on my Master's Degree (2007-2010), I had a concentrated focus on gender dysphoria and transgender issues. I have been working with individuals who are dually diagnosed (serious mental illness and addiction or developmental disabilities and serious mental illness since 1991.)
I am skilled in working with individuals who experience adjustment issues, trauma histories, challenges with mood regulation, relationship challenges, stress, gender dysphoria, and other many other life challenges including addiction. I especially enjoy working with those individuals who live alternative lifestyles and who have alternative relationships. I specialize in gender identity. I am comfortable working with individuals under the GLBTQ+ umbrella. While working on my Master's Degree (2007-2010), I had a concentrated focus on gender dysphoria and transgender issues. I have been working with individuals who are dually diagnosed (serious mental illness and addiction or developmental disabilities and serious mental illness since 1991.)
(907) 312-2472 View (907) 312-2472
Photo of Tammy Foster Harban - Seasons Change Counseling, MS, LPC, LMHC, Counselor
Seasons Change Counseling
Counselor, MS, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fairbanks, AK 99701  (Online Only)
I am passionate and trained in trauma and EMDR.
If you are looking for a change in your life - this is it. We all have seasons in our life where it is hard to manage, hard to deal with, and hard to figure out on our own. Sometimes we just can't cope with all the challenges of daily life and need someone to help navigate and offer a fresh new look. Doesn't matter what you are looking for, we can problem-solve it together and get you feeling better soon!
I am passionate and trained in trauma and EMDR.
If you are looking for a change in your life - this is it. We all have seasons in our life where it is hard to manage, hard to deal with, and hard to figure out on our own. Sometimes we just can't cope with all the challenges of daily life and need someone to help navigate and offer a fresh new look. Doesn't matter what you are looking for, we can problem-solve it together and get you feeling better soon!
(907) 318-7067 View (907) 318-7067
Photo of Christopher Mark Glanzer, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christopher Mark Glanzer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Ketchikan, AK 99901
With 24 years of experience in agency work and emergency psychiatric services, I am humbled to walk by your side through a range of challenges, including depression, anxiety, trauma, marriage and family, and personality disorders.
Your Story Matters. That is the philosophy behind Healthy Minds Counseling. Before any movement can occur, you need a safe and non-judgmental space where your concerns, fears, and goals can be identified and addressed for the singular purpose of positive personal growth.
With 24 years of experience in agency work and emergency psychiatric services, I am humbled to walk by your side through a range of challenges, including depression, anxiety, trauma, marriage and family, and personality disorders.
Your Story Matters. That is the philosophy behind Healthy Minds Counseling. Before any movement can occur, you need a safe and non-judgmental space where your concerns, fears, and goals can be identified and addressed for the singular purpose of positive personal growth.
(907) 225-7686 View (907) 225-7686
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.