Trauma and PTSD Therapists in El Sobrante, CA

Photo of Susan Overhauser, PhD, Psychologist
Susan Overhauser
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
El Sobrante, CA 94803
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in treating trauma and attachment in all age groups (0-100).
Do you wish for greater success, self-acceptance, love and connection? Do you desire to live your life more authentically? Difficult life histories and current obstacles hinder us from becoming who we want to be. With my help, past events and unfruitful ways of being can be processed and transformed so that they no longer impact your present or future. Modalities such as EMDR, psychodynamic therapy, emotionally focused therapy and sensorimotor psychotherapy will help you discover and embody a new way of being. I am fiercely committed to helping you clear your path forward to embrace greater ease, integrity, belonging, and love.
I specialize in treating trauma and attachment in all age groups (0-100).
Do you wish for greater success, self-acceptance, love and connection? Do you desire to live your life more authentically? Difficult life histories and current obstacles hinder us from becoming who we want to be. With my help, past events and unfruitful ways of being can be processed and transformed so that they no longer impact your present or future. Modalities such as EMDR, psychodynamic therapy, emotionally focused therapy and sensorimotor psychotherapy will help you discover and embody a new way of being. I am fiercely committed to helping you clear your path forward to embrace greater ease, integrity, belonging, and love.
(925) 392-6507 View (925) 392-6507
Photo of Evgenia Feldhstern, MS, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Evgenia Feldhstern
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
El Sobrante, CA 94803
My specialties include adult, children and family relationship difficulties,children behavioral issues, parenting difficulties, family conflict issues, psychological trauma, and mood disorders.
Welcome! If you are a parent, or an adult struggling with depression, anxiety or memories of painful events, I can help you. I can help you with difficult child behaviors. If your child is angry, if they are fighting in school, or has learning difficulties, I can help you. For many years, I have been investing all my professional skills and my heart into helping wonderful children and families to heal. Please, tell me about your relationship with yourself, and with the world. Please, tell me how I can support and nurture you.
My specialties include adult, children and family relationship difficulties,children behavioral issues, parenting difficulties, family conflict issues, psychological trauma, and mood disorders.
Welcome! If you are a parent, or an adult struggling with depression, anxiety or memories of painful events, I can help you. I can help you with difficult child behaviors. If your child is angry, if they are fighting in school, or has learning difficulties, I can help you. For many years, I have been investing all my professional skills and my heart into helping wonderful children and families to heal. Please, tell me about your relationship with yourself, and with the world. Please, tell me how I can support and nurture you.
(510) 757-1853 View (510) 757-1853
Photo of Rosemary Donalson, PsyD, Psychologist
Rosemary Donalson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
El Sobrante, CA 94803
Hello and welcome. Thank you for taking the time to consider working together. I am a clinical psychologist. I work with life transitions and people on a journey of self discovery and self improvement. I have specialized training to treat trauma. I have a warm and collaborative style and enjoy working with people from all walks of life.
Hello and welcome. Thank you for taking the time to consider working together. I am a clinical psychologist. I work with life transitions and people on a journey of self discovery and self improvement. I have specialized training to treat trauma. I have a warm and collaborative style and enjoy working with people from all walks of life.
(925) 633-5629 View (925) 633-5629
Photo of Samatra Downing, LCSW, PPSC, MEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samatra Downing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PPSC, MEd
Verified Verified
El Sobrante, CA 94803  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I have a Master's degree in Social Work from San Jose State University, as well as two Pupil Personnel Service Credentials, from the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing. I specialize in work with underserved youth in urban settings. Currently, I am a full time School Social Worker for San Francisco Unified School District.I have experience in working with issues of grief and trauma, depression, anxiety, self-esteem,ADHD, parenting issues, and the supervision of ASW, and MFT Trainee's towards clinical licensure.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I have a Master's degree in Social Work from San Jose State University, as well as two Pupil Personnel Service Credentials, from the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing. I specialize in work with underserved youth in urban settings. Currently, I am a full time School Social Worker for San Francisco Unified School District.I have experience in working with issues of grief and trauma, depression, anxiety, self-esteem,ADHD, parenting issues, and the supervision of ASW, and MFT Trainee's towards clinical licensure.
(510) 892-3829 View (510) 892-3829
Photo of Kai Moyer, Psychologist
Kai Moyer
Psychologist
Verified Verified
El Sobrante, CA 94820  (Online Only)
I specialize in the treatment of trauma and am skilled at helping clients get relief from related symptoms.
Have you gone through difficult events or are you involved in an environment that doesn’t work for you? I empower individuals who have experienced continuous stress to get in touch with their strengths, move toward healing, and a renewed sense of agency. I am attuned to ways thoughts, feelings, and body sensations become misaligned and can support you in a shift toward more positive experiences across these areas. My practice of strengths-based and EMDR techniques help you transform depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other mental health issues, so they become less challenging.
I specialize in the treatment of trauma and am skilled at helping clients get relief from related symptoms.
Have you gone through difficult events or are you involved in an environment that doesn’t work for you? I empower individuals who have experienced continuous stress to get in touch with their strengths, move toward healing, and a renewed sense of agency. I am attuned to ways thoughts, feelings, and body sensations become misaligned and can support you in a shift toward more positive experiences across these areas. My practice of strengths-based and EMDR techniques help you transform depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other mental health issues, so they become less challenging.
(510) 588-3826 View (510) 588-3826
Photo of Karie Ochoa, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karie Ochoa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
El Sobrante, CA 94803
People come to me because they are struggling and tired. They are struggling in their relationships with others and with themselves. Often, that includes self harm or suicidal thoughts. They might be told they tend to overreact, are dramatic, or "too much". Many are struggling with identity, how they see the world and how they see themselves in the world, often still dealing with painful wounds from childhood or versions of their younger selves. My clients want to feel more balanced and in control. People come to me because day to day tasks can be so distressing and overwhelming and they want to have a better quality of life.
People come to me because they are struggling and tired. They are struggling in their relationships with others and with themselves. Often, that includes self harm or suicidal thoughts. They might be told they tend to overreact, are dramatic, or "too much". Many are struggling with identity, how they see the world and how they see themselves in the world, often still dealing with painful wounds from childhood or versions of their younger selves. My clients want to feel more balanced and in control. People come to me because day to day tasks can be so distressing and overwhelming and they want to have a better quality of life.
(510) 983-8563 View (510) 983-8563
Photo of Melissa Gilbarg, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Gilbarg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
El Sobrante, CA 94803
Are you feeling stuck? Maybe you're not sure how to describe how you're feeling. Whether it's depression, anxiety, low motivation and self-esteem, relationship issues, or something else, we can work together to figure it out. I can help you find the spark to make the changes you desire, get you feeling like yourself again, or figure out who you truly are. Sometimes we face life transitions, whether welcome or unwelcome and expected or unexpected, and we find ourselves different at the other side. We can explore the feelings and thoughts behind this and help you grow with your new reality, whatever it is.
Are you feeling stuck? Maybe you're not sure how to describe how you're feeling. Whether it's depression, anxiety, low motivation and self-esteem, relationship issues, or something else, we can work together to figure it out. I can help you find the spark to make the changes you desire, get you feeling like yourself again, or figure out who you truly are. Sometimes we face life transitions, whether welcome or unwelcome and expected or unexpected, and we find ourselves different at the other side. We can explore the feelings and thoughts behind this and help you grow with your new reality, whatever it is.
(510) 588-3105 View (510) 588-3105

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jessica Rebecca Treat, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jessica Rebecca Treat
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pinole, CA 94564
As a trauma therapist, my focus is on creating a safe haven for healing.
As a dedicated therapist, I specialize in providing compassionate support to individuals grappling with anxiety, depression, and PTSD. My therapeutic approach is diverse, incorporating a range of skills and processing therapies to meet the unique needs of each client. Utilizing innovative techniques such as Ketamine-Assisted Therapy and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), I guide clients through transformative journeys towards healing. I am particularly drawn to working with individuals who are motivated to make positive changes in their lives, helping them navigate the path to a more fulfilling life.
As a trauma therapist, my focus is on creating a safe haven for healing.
As a dedicated therapist, I specialize in providing compassionate support to individuals grappling with anxiety, depression, and PTSD. My therapeutic approach is diverse, incorporating a range of skills and processing therapies to meet the unique needs of each client. Utilizing innovative techniques such as Ketamine-Assisted Therapy and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), I guide clients through transformative journeys towards healing. I am particularly drawn to working with individuals who are motivated to make positive changes in their lives, helping them navigate the path to a more fulfilling life.
(408) 609-3956 View (408) 609-3956
Photo of Lauren Hoernig, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lauren Hoernig
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Richmond, CA 94803
I come with a trauma-informed, anti-oppressive lens.
Adults/teens, couples/relationships, and groups. Bring your anxiety or depression, issues with identity, sexuality, life purpose and meaning, your trauma, your grief. Build self awareness, self acceptance, self compassion. Strengthen your relationships and work through communication barriers. Work through trauma, get support through addiction, be present and live more fully. LGBTQ+, BIMPOC, non-monogamy, sex work competent and responsive. I come with 18+ years of experience as a case manager, special educator, and wilderness first responder.
I come with a trauma-informed, anti-oppressive lens.
Adults/teens, couples/relationships, and groups. Bring your anxiety or depression, issues with identity, sexuality, life purpose and meaning, your trauma, your grief. Build self awareness, self acceptance, self compassion. Strengthen your relationships and work through communication barriers. Work through trauma, get support through addiction, be present and live more fully. LGBTQ+, BIMPOC, non-monogamy, sex work competent and responsive. I come with 18+ years of experience as a case manager, special educator, and wilderness first responder.
(510) 867-3496 View (510) 867-3496
Photo of Sik-Lam Wong, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sik-Lam Wong
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pinole, CA 94564
For trauma and emotional issues I help clients explore their old hurts.
Do you feel anxious and overwhelmed? Are you on an endless treadmill of conflicts, or under the grip of anger, depression or trauma from the past? I work with individuals and couples on emotional and relationship issues, helping them resolve issues from the past that are affecting their present. Perhaps I can help you resolve your issues also.
For trauma and emotional issues I help clients explore their old hurts.
Do you feel anxious and overwhelmed? Are you on an endless treadmill of conflicts, or under the grip of anger, depression or trauma from the past? I work with individuals and couples on emotional and relationship issues, helping them resolve issues from the past that are affecting their present. Perhaps I can help you resolve your issues also.
(510) 500-8567 View (510) 500-8567
Photo of Christopher Fenaroli - Chris Fenaroli MFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Chris Fenaroli MFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Richmond, CA 94803  (Online Only)
Both IFS and The Work are proven effective for trauma, anxiety and depression.
I enjoy working with all kinds of people. Doing work on past trauma, depression or anxiety is hard work, and I respect and admire people who are willing to do it. Like physical health, mental health isn’t a one shot, once a week thing. I encourage clients to integrate self-care in ways that make sense to them. Life can be challenging. Things like anxiety and depression don't go away entirely. We change our relationship with them. We practice kindness with ourselves and others. When we feel depressed or anxious, we practice self-care. The work that I do will help you to learn compassion and understanding with yourself and others.
Both IFS and The Work are proven effective for trauma, anxiety and depression.
I enjoy working with all kinds of people. Doing work on past trauma, depression or anxiety is hard work, and I respect and admire people who are willing to do it. Like physical health, mental health isn’t a one shot, once a week thing. I encourage clients to integrate self-care in ways that make sense to them. Life can be challenging. Things like anxiety and depression don't go away entirely. We change our relationship with them. We practice kindness with ourselves and others. When we feel depressed or anxious, we practice self-care. The work that I do will help you to learn compassion and understanding with yourself and others.
(510) 462-3523 View (510) 462-3523
Photo of Savita Carothers, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Savita Carothers
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Richmond, CA 94806
Savita Carothers, is a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT), with 16 years of experience working with individuals, couples and youth and families. She will meet you where you are comfortable and willing to go, specializing in helping individuals to overcome depression, anxiety, trauma, families in crisis, sexual abuse, marriage and partnership struggles adolescents, and parenting issues. Her therapeutic approach is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) ; Solution Focused and Family Systems.
Savita Carothers, is a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT), with 16 years of experience working with individuals, couples and youth and families. She will meet you where you are comfortable and willing to go, specializing in helping individuals to overcome depression, anxiety, trauma, families in crisis, sexual abuse, marriage and partnership struggles adolescents, and parenting issues. Her therapeutic approach is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) ; Solution Focused and Family Systems.
(408) 669-4667 View (408) 669-4667
Photo of Manda Selva, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Manda Selva
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pinole, CA 94564  (Online Only)
I've many yrs of experience working with clients who are depressed, anxious, or have trauma.
Accepting New Clients. Do you find it hard to cope with life due to relationship or career-related stress, grief, depression, childhood trauma and PTSD, unresolved family dynamics, or parenting challenges? Sometimes "feeling stuck" could be due to a recent or prior trauma or thinking that you are undeserving. Are you a couple or family who is out of sync or finding hard to communicate? Are you a First/Second generation struggling with family/culture-based expectations or trying to negotiate between 2 cultures? My style is warm, engaged & curious, and my role is to increase awareness and help you develop effective coping strategies.
I've many yrs of experience working with clients who are depressed, anxious, or have trauma.
Accepting New Clients. Do you find it hard to cope with life due to relationship or career-related stress, grief, depression, childhood trauma and PTSD, unresolved family dynamics, or parenting challenges? Sometimes "feeling stuck" could be due to a recent or prior trauma or thinking that you are undeserving. Are you a couple or family who is out of sync or finding hard to communicate? Are you a First/Second generation struggling with family/culture-based expectations or trying to negotiate between 2 cultures? My style is warm, engaged & curious, and my role is to increase awareness and help you develop effective coping strategies.
(510) 216-1287 View (510) 216-1287
Photo of Jill Nicole Peeler, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jill Nicole Peeler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Richmond, CA 94803
Let’s overcome trauma and build a healthier, more resilient you.
I am a LMFT serving first responders, military and their families in the State of California. I offer counseling services to first responders, including law enforcement officers, firefighters, EMS personnel, veterans, dispatchers, medical professionals and their families. I educate my clients on recognizing the signs of Post-Traumatic Stress ( PTSD), Depression, Anxiety, Stress, empowering them to identify intrusive thoughts, emotional detachment, relationship challenges and other symptoms commonly associated with trauma exposure. By fostering a supportive environment, I strive to promote resilience, and coping skills.
Let’s overcome trauma and build a healthier, more resilient you.
I am a LMFT serving first responders, military and their families in the State of California. I offer counseling services to first responders, including law enforcement officers, firefighters, EMS personnel, veterans, dispatchers, medical professionals and their families. I educate my clients on recognizing the signs of Post-Traumatic Stress ( PTSD), Depression, Anxiety, Stress, empowering them to identify intrusive thoughts, emotional detachment, relationship challenges and other symptoms commonly associated with trauma exposure. By fostering a supportive environment, I strive to promote resilience, and coping skills.
(415) 523-9061 View (415) 523-9061
Photo of Cori Pansarasa, PsyD, Psychologist
Cori Pansarasa
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Richmond, CA 94805  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with trauma, anxiety and mood disorders, childhood physical/sexual abuse and neglect, and aging issues.
Would you like to feel more present in life and more secure in relationships? I have helped many to move past difficult experiences to reconnect with the beauty of life. My treatment focus is helping people to effect change through making different life choices, and on therapy as a working partnership. Trained in both traditional and holistic understandings of mind-body-spirit, my experience includes private practice; crisis work; directorships at mental health agencies; supervision of student therapists; and consultation for providers and organizations. I also integrate spiritual and energy healing perspectives when appropriate.
I have extensive experience working with trauma, anxiety and mood disorders, childhood physical/sexual abuse and neglect, and aging issues.
Would you like to feel more present in life and more secure in relationships? I have helped many to move past difficult experiences to reconnect with the beauty of life. My treatment focus is helping people to effect change through making different life choices, and on therapy as a working partnership. Trained in both traditional and holistic understandings of mind-body-spirit, my experience includes private practice; crisis work; directorships at mental health agencies; supervision of student therapists; and consultation for providers and organizations. I also integrate spiritual and energy healing perspectives when appropriate.
(510) 817-0685 View (510) 817-0685
Photo of Giancarlo Scherillo, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Giancarlo Scherillo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Richmond, CA 94806
I work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues providing services that span from therapy for depression to mindfulness-based stress reduction, trauma resolution and beyond.
As a mindfulness and somatic based therapist, my approach is to provide a safe and supportive environment for your therapy process. I have an approach to therapy that includes both self-discovery with educational resources. I believe in supporting the internal process of the client unfolding it at their own pace. We can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your current life. By applying mindfulness techniques with somatic therapy approaches and techniques, we will examine long-standing behavior patterns or negative beliefs that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
I work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues providing services that span from therapy for depression to mindfulness-based stress reduction, trauma resolution and beyond.
As a mindfulness and somatic based therapist, my approach is to provide a safe and supportive environment for your therapy process. I have an approach to therapy that includes both self-discovery with educational resources. I believe in supporting the internal process of the client unfolding it at their own pace. We can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your current life. By applying mindfulness techniques with somatic therapy approaches and techniques, we will examine long-standing behavior patterns or negative beliefs that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(415) 723-4322 View (415) 723-4322
Photo of Natalya Kuzmicheva, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Natalya Kuzmicheva
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Richmond, CA 94806  (Online Only)
I have training and experience working with trauma and PTSD, following EMDR and TRIM approaches.
Every patient is unique, and so is every therapist. I have lived and practiced therapy in two very different cultures, which has given me insight into culturally specific and universal issues that underlie personal and interpersonal conflicts. I approach every client with acceptance and understanding, providing them with a compassionate space for exploring challenges and obstacles to happiness in themselves and their relationships. I enjoy working with people of all ages and backgrounds, seeking to understand each client's worldview and to help them to discover their own solutions to the difficulties they face, including anxiety, depression, and relationship conflicts.
I have training and experience working with trauma and PTSD, following EMDR and TRIM approaches.
Every patient is unique, and so is every therapist. I have lived and practiced therapy in two very different cultures, which has given me insight into culturally specific and universal issues that underlie personal and interpersonal conflicts. I approach every client with acceptance and understanding, providing them with a compassionate space for exploring challenges and obstacles to happiness in themselves and their relationships. I enjoy working with people of all ages and backgrounds, seeking to understand each client's worldview and to help them to discover their own solutions to the difficulties they face, including anxiety, depression, and relationship conflicts.
(858) 352-7322 View (858) 352-7322
Photo of Tasha B Pera, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tasha B Pera
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
El Cerrito, CA 94530
I am currently providing telehealth Hippaa-compliant videoconferencing! We each have the tools within ourselves to make it possible to improve our lives. At times, however, we may be so overwhelmed with difficult circumstances, relationships, or transitions, that we want help from a professional. I have worked with individuals, couples and families who struggle with a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, marital and family conflicts, food and substance use. I tend to see many adults, as well as adolescents who mainly suffer with anxiety-related problems. I have a positive and respectful attitude.
I am currently providing telehealth Hippaa-compliant videoconferencing! We each have the tools within ourselves to make it possible to improve our lives. At times, however, we may be so overwhelmed with difficult circumstances, relationships, or transitions, that we want help from a professional. I have worked with individuals, couples and families who struggle with a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, marital and family conflicts, food and substance use. I tend to see many adults, as well as adolescents who mainly suffer with anxiety-related problems. I have a positive and respectful attitude.
(510) 400-8075 View (510) 400-8075
Photo of Jill Pettegrew, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jill Pettegrew
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
El Cerrito, CA 94530
Providing Somatic Psychotherapy, Somatic Experiencing, Ketamine-Assisted Therapy, and Psychedelic Integration. I specialize in supporting people with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other mood-related issues. I am dedicated to helping you find balance, clarity and meaning in your livfe through evidence-based mind-body psychotherapy. My goal is to create a safe and comfortable space to explore and grow, going at a pace that does not overwhelm the nervous system, and allows for integration.
Providing Somatic Psychotherapy, Somatic Experiencing, Ketamine-Assisted Therapy, and Psychedelic Integration. I specialize in supporting people with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other mood-related issues. I am dedicated to helping you find balance, clarity and meaning in your livfe through evidence-based mind-body psychotherapy. My goal is to create a safe and comfortable space to explore and grow, going at a pace that does not overwhelm the nervous system, and allows for integration.
(925) 308-6168 View (925) 308-6168
Photo of Priscilla Aguirre, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Priscilla Aguirre
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hercules, CA 94547  (Online Only)
My areas of focus include, but are not limited to, healing from trauma and PTSD, embracing intersectionality and diversity, managing anxiety and depression, nurturing relationships, and exploring spirituality.
Wherever you are on your healing journey, I want to honor and thank you for taking this step toward self-care today. Life’s challenges—whether they stem from trauma, stress, sadness, or anxiety—may be making it hard for you to create the nurturing and restorative spaces you deserve. Together, we will gently explore the unique intersections of your identity and how they shape your physical, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being. As we walk this path side by side, my goal is to support you in rediscovering, reconnecting with, and fully embracing your authentic self.
My areas of focus include, but are not limited to, healing from trauma and PTSD, embracing intersectionality and diversity, managing anxiety and depression, nurturing relationships, and exploring spirituality.
Wherever you are on your healing journey, I want to honor and thank you for taking this step toward self-care today. Life’s challenges—whether they stem from trauma, stress, sadness, or anxiety—may be making it hard for you to create the nurturing and restorative spaces you deserve. Together, we will gently explore the unique intersections of your identity and how they shape your physical, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being. As we walk this path side by side, my goal is to support you in rediscovering, reconnecting with, and fully embracing your authentic self.
(510) 272-7109 View (510) 272-7109

See more therapy options for El Sobrante

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.