Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Portland, ME

Photo of Ali McGrath, Counselor in Portland, ME
Ali McGrath
Counselor, MA, LCPC, LMHC, RYT, HT
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101
Hello, thank you for taking time to be here. Therapy is an investment in time, personal commitment, and money. My practice has shifted since COVID to seeing less people, for 60 to 90 minutes, and not accepting insurance. Hakomi, Mindfulness, Somatic Psychology, CBT and other modalities are part of the support provided as people move through grief (death, terminal illness, divorce...); healing past trauma, re-surfacing or ready to liberate from, the lies they embed in our narratives; and reclaiming the day to day wakefulness of being. Anxiety, depression, problems at the macro level, benefit from mindfulness and action, and therapy.
Hello, thank you for taking time to be here. Therapy is an investment in time, personal commitment, and money. My practice has shifted since COVID to seeing less people, for 60 to 90 minutes, and not accepting insurance. Hakomi, Mindfulness, Somatic Psychology, CBT and other modalities are part of the support provided as people move through grief (death, terminal illness, divorce...); healing past trauma, re-surfacing or ready to liberate from, the lies they embed in our narratives; and reclaiming the day to day wakefulness of being. Anxiety, depression, problems at the macro level, benefit from mindfulness and action, and therapy.
(207) 613-2439 View (207) 613-2439
Photo of Allen Shamon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, ME
Allen Shamon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101  (Online Only)
Hello, and welcome! I specialize in working with individuals working through difficult trauma, complex relationship issues, and the LGBTQ+ community. I work closely with individuals struggling with different forms of mental disorders and help my clients forge a new path forward toward healing and wholeness. My passion is in therapy, and I am humbled and grateful when people invite me to play a meaningful role in their lives.
Hello, and welcome! I specialize in working with individuals working through difficult trauma, complex relationship issues, and the LGBTQ+ community. I work closely with individuals struggling with different forms of mental disorders and help my clients forge a new path forward toward healing and wholeness. My passion is in therapy, and I am humbled and grateful when people invite me to play a meaningful role in their lives.
(207) 280-8698 View (207) 280-8698
Photo of Ginie Thorp, Counselor in Portland, ME
Ginie Thorp
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101
Waitlist for new clients
I work with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, life transitions, grief, loss, gender identity, trauma histories, relationship issues, chronic illness, spiritual crisis, and stage-of-life challenges.
MY PRACTICE IS CURRENTLY FULL> . I believe that we all seek to be seen and known. Counseling is a place where we can be supported and reconnect to our strengths, flexibility and resourcefulness. My approach to helping you reconnect to your strengths incorporates mind-body awareness, and relational theory. We'll work in collaboration to help you regain the balance you need to meet your challenges. I offer clients many body based tools from my training in EMDR, AEDP, IFS, meditation, yoga, acupressure, and Attunement work as well as journaling, and spirituality exploration.
I work with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, life transitions, grief, loss, gender identity, trauma histories, relationship issues, chronic illness, spiritual crisis, and stage-of-life challenges.
MY PRACTICE IS CURRENTLY FULL> . I believe that we all seek to be seen and known. Counseling is a place where we can be supported and reconnect to our strengths, flexibility and resourcefulness. My approach to helping you reconnect to your strengths incorporates mind-body awareness, and relational theory. We'll work in collaboration to help you regain the balance you need to meet your challenges. I offer clients many body based tools from my training in EMDR, AEDP, IFS, meditation, yoga, acupressure, and Attunement work as well as journaling, and spirituality exploration.
(207) 518-7554 View (207) 518-7554
Photo of Roland B. Mendiola, Psychologist in Portland, ME
Roland B. Mendiola
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04103
Waitlist for new clients
It's a joy, passion, and privilege doing this work. Over the past 20 years, I've practiced in school settings, community mental health, managed care, VA hospitals, university counseling centers, and private practice. My clinical interests are in fear, stress, depression, and suicide; creativity and the expressive arts; issues of intimacy and vulnerability in relationships; and issues of culture, identity, and liberation - especially regarding race, gender, sexuality, and spirituality. My specialized training (20 years) is in Buddhist psychology, trauma-informed creative art therapy, and exposure therapy for anxiety and trauma.
It's a joy, passion, and privilege doing this work. Over the past 20 years, I've practiced in school settings, community mental health, managed care, VA hospitals, university counseling centers, and private practice. My clinical interests are in fear, stress, depression, and suicide; creativity and the expressive arts; issues of intimacy and vulnerability in relationships; and issues of culture, identity, and liberation - especially regarding race, gender, sexuality, and spirituality. My specialized training (20 years) is in Buddhist psychology, trauma-informed creative art therapy, and exposure therapy for anxiety and trauma.
(207) 517-2390 View (207) 517-2390
Photo of Heidi Wells, Psychologist in Portland, ME
Heidi Wells
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04101  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with narcissistic abuse, sexual trauma or issues related to divorce? These are my specialty. My style incorporates several techniques. I’m influenced by positive psychology, body-based therapy, and relational therapies. Focusing on self-love is crucial for all issues! My goal is to assure that you feel supported and that you have tools to help you between our sessions. There are skills that you can incorporate into your daily life to help with all this. Let’s do that together!
Are you struggling with narcissistic abuse, sexual trauma or issues related to divorce? These are my specialty. My style incorporates several techniques. I’m influenced by positive psychology, body-based therapy, and relational therapies. Focusing on self-love is crucial for all issues! My goal is to assure that you feel supported and that you have tools to help you between our sessions. There are skills that you can incorporate into your daily life to help with all this. Let’s do that together!
(207) 994-7471 View (207) 994-7471
Photo of Timothy Vermillion, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, ME
Timothy Vermillion
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101  (Online Only)
My ideal client is a Veteran or First Responder seeking relief from PTSD, anxiety, or trauma-related challenges, possibly facing sleep issues like nightmares. They are looking specifically for EMDR therapy, valuing its evidence-based approach for emotional healing. They appreciate the flexibility and accessibility of virtual sessions, fitting therapy into their active lifestyle. Their primary goal is to overcome trauma through EMDR, regain emotional stability, and improve their daily life, leveraging the convenience of online therapy.
My ideal client is a Veteran or First Responder seeking relief from PTSD, anxiety, or trauma-related challenges, possibly facing sleep issues like nightmares. They are looking specifically for EMDR therapy, valuing its evidence-based approach for emotional healing. They appreciate the flexibility and accessibility of virtual sessions, fitting therapy into their active lifestyle. Their primary goal is to overcome trauma through EMDR, regain emotional stability, and improve their daily life, leveraging the convenience of online therapy.
(207) 715-3384 View (207) 715-3384
Photo of Pam Kern, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, ME
Pam Kern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04103
I have extensive experience with trauma and crisis with diverse global expertise in various cultures.
Connection! It is at the heart of being human. I am an experienced therapist providing a supportive environment that is free of judgment to connect and align with your purpose and meaning. I specialize in mental health and well-being in relationship dynamics, either with yourself or with others, work-life and daily living. I was clinically trained at Columbia University. My expertise ranges from traditional psychotherapy in an office setting or telehealth, counseling business executives at Employee Assistance Program, seafarer mental health in shipping, and a mental health counselor at a summer camp.
I have extensive experience with trauma and crisis with diverse global expertise in various cultures.
Connection! It is at the heart of being human. I am an experienced therapist providing a supportive environment that is free of judgment to connect and align with your purpose and meaning. I specialize in mental health and well-being in relationship dynamics, either with yourself or with others, work-life and daily living. I was clinically trained at Columbia University. My expertise ranges from traditional psychotherapy in an office setting or telehealth, counseling business executives at Employee Assistance Program, seafarer mental health in shipping, and a mental health counselor at a summer camp.
(207) 605-8571 View (207) 605-8571
Photo of Maine Psychotherapy, PLLC, Psychologist in Portland, ME
Maine Psychotherapy, PLLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04101
In addition, I have worked extensively with survivors of childhood trauma.
*My practice is currently full.* My approach to therapy is supportive and calm, allowing you space to explore your feelings, thoughts, and behaviors in a collaborative environment. During therapy, we can gain insight about where symptoms originated, while also working to cope with and mitigate distressing feelings in the present. Therapy can allow you to be healthier, feel freer, and to establish deeper, more compassionate, connections with yourself and others.
In addition, I have worked extensively with survivors of childhood trauma.
*My practice is currently full.* My approach to therapy is supportive and calm, allowing you space to explore your feelings, thoughts, and behaviors in a collaborative environment. During therapy, we can gain insight about where symptoms originated, while also working to cope with and mitigate distressing feelings in the present. Therapy can allow you to be healthier, feel freer, and to establish deeper, more compassionate, connections with yourself and others.
(207) 245-1350 View (207) 245-1350
Photo of Brittany McDonald, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, ME
Brittany McDonald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-cc
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04103  (Online Only)
I employ a trauma-informed and strengths-based lens.
My approach to therapy is eclectic- combining elements of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, DBT, CBT, and Motivational Interviewing with creative modalities as they best serve you. I believe in therapy as a dual process- where you are the expert in your own lived experience- and I serve to walk alongside you through change and provide new tools, strategies, and insights. Together we can dream up goals, recognize unhelpful thought patterns, and engage in the development of coping mechanisms that you can utilize when feeling anxious or dysregulated.
I employ a trauma-informed and strengths-based lens.
My approach to therapy is eclectic- combining elements of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, DBT, CBT, and Motivational Interviewing with creative modalities as they best serve you. I believe in therapy as a dual process- where you are the expert in your own lived experience- and I serve to walk alongside you through change and provide new tools, strategies, and insights. Together we can dream up goals, recognize unhelpful thought patterns, and engage in the development of coping mechanisms that you can utilize when feeling anxious or dysregulated.
(207) 515-8863 View (207) 515-8863
Photo of Lisa Ibekwe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, ME
Lisa Ibekwe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW, CAMSII
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04103  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with trauma, anxiety, self-esteem, social skills, stress and anger management, conflict resolution, and family/relationship issues.
Welcome to The Comfy Place! We know that seeking out therapy can be a new and sometimes uncomfortable experience, but we appreciate you considering us to help you on your journey. Our focus is on helping children, teens, young adults, and families heal. We understand that life has many ups and downs so, we aim to create a safe space where people can have fun, get real, and heal. We want everyone to feel like they are a part of our Comfy Place family where we welcome all with open arms no matter where they are on their walk in life. I currently serve the following states MA, PA, RI, VT, ME, NH, UT & FL via Telehealth ONLY.
I specialize in working with trauma, anxiety, self-esteem, social skills, stress and anger management, conflict resolution, and family/relationship issues.
Welcome to The Comfy Place! We know that seeking out therapy can be a new and sometimes uncomfortable experience, but we appreciate you considering us to help you on your journey. Our focus is on helping children, teens, young adults, and families heal. We understand that life has many ups and downs so, we aim to create a safe space where people can have fun, get real, and heal. We want everyone to feel like they are a part of our Comfy Place family where we welcome all with open arms no matter where they are on their walk in life. I currently serve the following states MA, PA, RI, VT, ME, NH, UT & FL via Telehealth ONLY.
(470) 333-1625 View (470) 333-1625
Photo of Margaret Munsell, Counselor in Portland, ME
Margaret Munsell
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04101  (Online Only)
I often uses a hybrid of multiple theoretical orientations, primarily drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, Trauma-focused therapy, and Person-centered therapy.
Opening up to another individual about your mental health concerns and the pain you’ve experienced throughout your life is never easy. Stepping forward and admitting that you’re struggling is such a difficult step, so kudos to you for considering counseling. I work from a person centered perspective to meet you where you are in life, while keeping your mental health goals in mind. I’m a strong believer that our wellness is rooted not only in our experiences, but in our physical, spiritual, and emotional health as well.I approach every therapeutic relationship with an open mind and tailor my therapeutic approach to each client.
I often uses a hybrid of multiple theoretical orientations, primarily drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, Trauma-focused therapy, and Person-centered therapy.
Opening up to another individual about your mental health concerns and the pain you’ve experienced throughout your life is never easy. Stepping forward and admitting that you’re struggling is such a difficult step, so kudos to you for considering counseling. I work from a person centered perspective to meet you where you are in life, while keeping your mental health goals in mind. I’m a strong believer that our wellness is rooted not only in our experiences, but in our physical, spiritual, and emotional health as well.I approach every therapeutic relationship with an open mind and tailor my therapeutic approach to each client.
(207) 481-4515 View (207) 481-4515
Photo of Max Bowen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, ME
Max Bowen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101  (Online Only)
I now provide counseling and psychotherapy telehealth sessions online only. I work with clients experiencing anxiety and stress, trauma and PTSD, mood disorders such as depression, and substance addictions. I provide a safe, empathic therapy environment in which clients can explore self-care strategies and tools to increase well-being and life satisfaction.
I now provide counseling and psychotherapy telehealth sessions online only. I work with clients experiencing anxiety and stress, trauma and PTSD, mood disorders such as depression, and substance addictions. I provide a safe, empathic therapy environment in which clients can explore self-care strategies and tools to increase well-being and life satisfaction.
(409) 263-4666 View (409) 263-4666
Photo of Dr. Sarah Durant, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, ME
Dr. Sarah Durant
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCPC, LMHC, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04101
I specialize in treatment of trauma, grief, life transitions, and relationship issues.
Have you found yourself running into the same patterns over and over in relationships or in life? Perhaps therapy can help you to understand the root of these problems and make some meaningful changes. As a therapist, I provide a safe and compassionate environment where you can feel understood and supported, while offering current research-based treatment and psychoeducation related to your current goals for therapy. For more information about my practice and background, please see my website and send a message here or by email to contact me.
I specialize in treatment of trauma, grief, life transitions, and relationship issues.
Have you found yourself running into the same patterns over and over in relationships or in life? Perhaps therapy can help you to understand the root of these problems and make some meaningful changes. As a therapist, I provide a safe and compassionate environment where you can feel understood and supported, while offering current research-based treatment and psychoeducation related to your current goals for therapy. For more information about my practice and background, please see my website and send a message here or by email to contact me.
(207) 358-9519 View (207) 358-9519
Photo of Michael DiFillipo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, ME
Michael DiFillipo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101
He has also received training in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT).
Mike DiFillipo holds a master’s degree in social work with a clinical concentration from Boston College. He has worked as an outpatient clinician, providing diagnostic assessment and both individual and group therapy, and in a primary care setting as a behavioral health consultant. He also previously held supervisory positions at community mental health agencies in Ohio and Maine.
He has also received training in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT).
Mike DiFillipo holds a master’s degree in social work with a clinical concentration from Boston College. He has worked as an outpatient clinician, providing diagnostic assessment and both individual and group therapy, and in a primary care setting as a behavioral health consultant. He also previously held supervisory positions at community mental health agencies in Ohio and Maine.
(207) 742-2881 View (207) 742-2881
Photo of Mary Cole, Counselor in Portland, ME
Mary Cole
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04103
Waitlist for new clients
My specialties include attachment, trauma, anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, religious trauma, spirituality, LGBTQIA+ support/identity development, behavioral concerns, & parenting.
Hello and welcome! Please note that I have a wait list at this time. My experience is with all ages and, in therapy, you can expect a nonjudgmental environment tailored to your personality, situation, & needs. I take a collaborative approach and invite you to sit in the driver’s seat of your counseling experience; you are the expert in your life and it is likely that I have resources, strategies, and insight to offer from the passenger seat that will help you find the healing and wellness that you deserve. We will use therapeutic modalities that are accessible and supportive for you.
My specialties include attachment, trauma, anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, religious trauma, spirituality, LGBTQIA+ support/identity development, behavioral concerns, & parenting.
Hello and welcome! Please note that I have a wait list at this time. My experience is with all ages and, in therapy, you can expect a nonjudgmental environment tailored to your personality, situation, & needs. I take a collaborative approach and invite you to sit in the driver’s seat of your counseling experience; you are the expert in your life and it is likely that I have resources, strategies, and insight to offer from the passenger seat that will help you find the healing and wellness that you deserve. We will use therapeutic modalities that are accessible and supportive for you.
(207) 218-0616 View (207) 218-0616
Photo of Katherine Vilnrotter in Portland, ME
Katherine Vilnrotter
MGHI, HG DipP
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04102  (Online Only)
I experienced a severe personal trauma in 2011 and several years of PTSD.
I’m Katherine Vilnrotter. I believe that every person is important and has a voice to be heard. The stories we align ourselves with, determine our perceptions of ourselves, our situations, and others. The richer the story, the more useful tools it has to offer us on our journey. The beauty of a story is its fluidity; it is always changing, evolving, and transforming along with the characters it holds. I’m honored to witness every story and enrich it with new tools and perspectives along the way. If you'd like to get to know me a bit better, you can listen to my podcast at... https://doc.simplecast.com/episodes/youre-not-broken
I experienced a severe personal trauma in 2011 and several years of PTSD.
I’m Katherine Vilnrotter. I believe that every person is important and has a voice to be heard. The stories we align ourselves with, determine our perceptions of ourselves, our situations, and others. The richer the story, the more useful tools it has to offer us on our journey. The beauty of a story is its fluidity; it is always changing, evolving, and transforming along with the characters it holds. I’m honored to witness every story and enrich it with new tools and perspectives along the way. If you'd like to get to know me a bit better, you can listen to my podcast at... https://doc.simplecast.com/episodes/youre-not-broken
(207) 358-4502 View (207) 358-4502
Photo of Oriel Jane Offit, Psychologist in Portland, ME
Oriel Jane Offit
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04102
I've worked in a variety of mental health settings, including a high school, a college counseling center, and as the trauma specialist in a hospital substance abuse treatment program.
My job is to help you let go of what isn't working for you anymore. I focus on your current issues but also on those longstanding patterns that surface again and again throughout the life span and cause unhappiness. My approach is interpersonal and client-centered, but I also incorporate concrete strategies for symptom alleviation.
I've worked in a variety of mental health settings, including a high school, a college counseling center, and as the trauma specialist in a hospital substance abuse treatment program.
My job is to help you let go of what isn't working for you anymore. I focus on your current issues but also on those longstanding patterns that surface again and again throughout the life span and cause unhappiness. My approach is interpersonal and client-centered, but I also incorporate concrete strategies for symptom alleviation.
(207) 494-4655 View (207) 494-4655
Photo of Christine Miller, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, ME
Christine Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, TCTSY-F
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04101
I tend to work with people alleviating trauma symptoms, navigating life changes, easing anxieties and depression, exploring identity, and mending relationships.
I focus on creating a safe and collaborative relationship. I base my work in the belief that we are affected by relationships- how we relate to others, our world, and our self. When we feel a safe connection in these areas, there seems to be more peace in the present. We may tend to feel more resilient when facing stress and change. When we feel disconnected, parts of us can feel stuck in anger, fear, criticism, or sadness. Our emotional well-being and relationships may become distressed. Therapy can be a way to navigate painful emotions, connect more deeply, and awaken qualities of confidence, creativity, and compassion.
I tend to work with people alleviating trauma symptoms, navigating life changes, easing anxieties and depression, exploring identity, and mending relationships.
I focus on creating a safe and collaborative relationship. I base my work in the belief that we are affected by relationships- how we relate to others, our world, and our self. When we feel a safe connection in these areas, there seems to be more peace in the present. We may tend to feel more resilient when facing stress and change. When we feel disconnected, parts of us can feel stuck in anger, fear, criticism, or sadness. Our emotional well-being and relationships may become distressed. Therapy can be a way to navigate painful emotions, connect more deeply, and awaken qualities of confidence, creativity, and compassion.
(202) 875-6159 View (202) 875-6159
Photo of Kalie C. Harrington, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, ME
Kalie C. Harrington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04101  (Online Only)
Immediate openings via telehealth for Maine, Vermont + North Carolina clients - Welcome! I’m so glad you’re here. I’m a trauma therapist who works with women, trans + non-binary teens + adults. I focus heavily on my client relationships to ensure you can feel safe and comfortable with me. While trauma is my specialty, I also find much meaning in helping women feel empowered by (instead of a prisoner to) their depression. My hope is to help you live your life in a more meaningful and self-compassionate way. You deserve all of the kindness and warmth.
Immediate openings via telehealth for Maine, Vermont + North Carolina clients - Welcome! I’m so glad you’re here. I’m a trauma therapist who works with women, trans + non-binary teens + adults. I focus heavily on my client relationships to ensure you can feel safe and comfortable with me. While trauma is my specialty, I also find much meaning in helping women feel empowered by (instead of a prisoner to) their depression. My hope is to help you live your life in a more meaningful and self-compassionate way. You deserve all of the kindness and warmth.
(207) 825-7184 View (207) 825-7184
Photo of Marc Felix, Art Therapist in Portland, ME
Marc Felix
Art Therapist, PhD, ATR
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101
Treatment specialization includes: Therapy for Depression, Stress, and Anxiety Healing Injury and Trauma Couples Counseling Building Self-Esteem, Confidence, and Self-Worth Grief Counseling Spiritual Emergencies Work and Career issues Stress Management Pain Management Conflict Resolution Cultivating self-love and forgiveness.
I believe that "diagnosis and treatment" is too narrow a model to understand the depth and richness of our human experience, heal the wounds of our past history, and allow us to embody our joy and our fullness. I invite you to not only remove existing symptoms and change unhealthy behavior patterns, but to create a life of love, authenticity, and celebration.
Treatment specialization includes: Therapy for Depression, Stress, and Anxiety Healing Injury and Trauma Couples Counseling Building Self-Esteem, Confidence, and Self-Worth Grief Counseling Spiritual Emergencies Work and Career issues Stress Management Pain Management Conflict Resolution Cultivating self-love and forgiveness.
I believe that "diagnosis and treatment" is too narrow a model to understand the depth and richness of our human experience, heal the wounds of our past history, and allow us to embody our joy and our fullness. I invite you to not only remove existing symptoms and change unhealthy behavior patterns, but to create a life of love, authenticity, and celebration.
(207) 517-0125 View (207) 517-0125
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.