Photo of Ben Cook, MEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ben Cook
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63139
I offer queer-affirming trauma-informed care to people of all races, religions, and sexual and gender identity.
It is my goal as a therapist to foster an empathetic and collaborative space that encourages self-awareness, self-advocacy, and self-acceptance for adults of all identities. I use a holistic queer-affirming approach that uses unique exercises tailored to my client’s strengths. I am passionate about helping my clients set boundaries, build confidence, and explore new perspectives. I am a Provisionally Licensed Professional Counselor with a master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Missouri St. Louis.
I offer queer-affirming trauma-informed care to people of all races, religions, and sexual and gender identity.
It is my goal as a therapist to foster an empathetic and collaborative space that encourages self-awareness, self-advocacy, and self-acceptance for adults of all identities. I use a holistic queer-affirming approach that uses unique exercises tailored to my client’s strengths. I am passionate about helping my clients set boundaries, build confidence, and explore new perspectives. I am a Provisionally Licensed Professional Counselor with a master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Missouri St. Louis.
(314) 834-5987 View (314) 834-5987
Photo of Alwyn S Whitehead Jr, PsyD, Psychologist
Alwyn S Whitehead Jr
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63109  (Online Only)
My clients seek help with a specific difficulty. It may be depression, anxiety, PTSD, relationships, or their path in life. They want to feel happy and fulfilled but have been blocked by some difficulty. When they reach out to accept help they have made the first step in their journey of healing and happiness! We all deserve happiness and modern Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) provides tools and processes to unblock the natural flow of healing available to us. Plus, anyone can become proficient in using them and applying them to many situations in their life.
My clients seek help with a specific difficulty. It may be depression, anxiety, PTSD, relationships, or their path in life. They want to feel happy and fulfilled but have been blocked by some difficulty. When they reach out to accept help they have made the first step in their journey of healing and happiness! We all deserve happiness and modern Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) provides tools and processes to unblock the natural flow of healing available to us. Plus, anyone can become proficient in using them and applying them to many situations in their life.
(314) 897-4635 View (314) 897-4635
Photo of Nigel Cook, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nigel Cook
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63130
My specialty area is working with survivors of sexual violence to reclaim their sexuality as they process how their trauma might be impacting their sense of self, current relationships, or other areas.
Sexuality should be celebrated! Society often makes it difficult for people to express themselves in this way, and therefore I try to offer a space for clients to freely explore all aspects of their sexuality without judgement. In my practice, I work collaboratively with clients to develop sexual communication skills, process shame associated with sexuality, and learn how to practice safer (more pleasurable) sex. I have experience with many types of clients, including LGBTQ+ people, femme-people, sex workers, and people discovering themselves later in life.
My specialty area is working with survivors of sexual violence to reclaim their sexuality as they process how their trauma might be impacting their sense of self, current relationships, or other areas.
Sexuality should be celebrated! Society often makes it difficult for people to express themselves in this way, and therefore I try to offer a space for clients to freely explore all aspects of their sexuality without judgement. In my practice, I work collaboratively with clients to develop sexual communication skills, process shame associated with sexuality, and learn how to practice safer (more pleasurable) sex. I have experience with many types of clients, including LGBTQ+ people, femme-people, sex workers, and people discovering themselves later in life.
(539) 245-6060 View (539) 245-6060
Photo of undefined - Quantum Consulting Group LLC, EdD
Quantum Consulting Group LLC
EdD
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63101
2023 is your game changer year! In this world, Black and Brown people experience trauma and oppression daily. This constant stress impacts the way you feel and causes anxiety or depression. You need support from someone who understands your cultural experiences. Now, you can have support from someone who appreciates your pain and suffering because they have had their own struggles to overcome. Well, you do not have to look any further. We would love to provide you the mental health support you need. Remember, we are providing services in Missouri, Illinois, Tennessee, and Texas. You belong here!
2023 is your game changer year! In this world, Black and Brown people experience trauma and oppression daily. This constant stress impacts the way you feel and causes anxiety or depression. You need support from someone who understands your cultural experiences. Now, you can have support from someone who appreciates your pain and suffering because they have had their own struggles to overcome. Well, you do not have to look any further. We would love to provide you the mental health support you need. Remember, we are providing services in Missouri, Illinois, Tennessee, and Texas. You belong here!
(314) 208-2320 View (314) 208-2320
Photo of Gary Schmidt, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gary Schmidt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63110  (Online Only)
I have expertise in anxiety, depression, conflict resolution, and trauma-related challenges.
Step into a sanctuary where every aspect of your being is acknowledged and embraced. Here, we embark on a journey of self-discovery, exploring the intricate layers of your inner world. Together, we navigate the dynamics within, recognizing the diverse parts of yourself and their unique contributions. You seek to heal past wounds and amplify the wisdom of your true essence. Through mindful exploration and compassionate connection, we pave a path towards inner harmony, confidence, and authentic living. Let's journey inward, unraveling the complexities of your psyche with grace and insight.
I have expertise in anxiety, depression, conflict resolution, and trauma-related challenges.
Step into a sanctuary where every aspect of your being is acknowledged and embraced. Here, we embark on a journey of self-discovery, exploring the intricate layers of your inner world. Together, we navigate the dynamics within, recognizing the diverse parts of yourself and their unique contributions. You seek to heal past wounds and amplify the wisdom of your true essence. Through mindful exploration and compassionate connection, we pave a path towards inner harmony, confidence, and authentic living. Let's journey inward, unraveling the complexities of your psyche with grace and insight.
(314) 526-3336 View (314) 526-3336
Photo of Greg Tissi, MA Ed, PLPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Greg Tissi
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA Ed, PLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63141  (Online Only)
Do you find yourself at a moment where you are wondering how to refine how you hold space for yourself and others around you? Get off the exhausting treadmill, move with intention, and realign with the trust you have envisioned for yourself. Expect your space to be held just for you, room to breathe, and authentic, non-judgmental support. In a sex-positive, trauma-informed, and integrative space, all genders, sexual orientations, ethnicities, ages, and bodies are welcome. If not right now, then when will it be time for you to give yourself permission to transform? Success can take many forms.
Do you find yourself at a moment where you are wondering how to refine how you hold space for yourself and others around you? Get off the exhausting treadmill, move with intention, and realign with the trust you have envisioned for yourself. Expect your space to be held just for you, room to breathe, and authentic, non-judgmental support. In a sex-positive, trauma-informed, and integrative space, all genders, sexual orientations, ethnicities, ages, and bodies are welcome. If not right now, then when will it be time for you to give yourself permission to transform? Success can take many forms.
(314) 208-3566 View (314) 208-3566
Photo of undefined - St. Louis Integrative Counseling, MA, LPC, CRADC, Counselor
St. Louis Integrative Counseling
Counselor, MA, LPC, CRADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63127
Nate and Alison Brack specialize in traumatic stress. They use approaches backed by research and brain science to address the present impacts of trauma. Nate is a certified EMDR therapist who works with adults. He also uses Internal Family Systems and somatic approaches including Deep Brain Reorientation to negotiate subtle and structural dissociation. He also specializes in problematic trauma coping including addictive behaviors and substance use. Nate is a vetted and approved first responder treatment provider in Missouri (www.missouricit.org/provider-map). Additionally, he offers PLPC clinical supervision and EMDR consultation.
Nate and Alison Brack specialize in traumatic stress. They use approaches backed by research and brain science to address the present impacts of trauma. Nate is a certified EMDR therapist who works with adults. He also uses Internal Family Systems and somatic approaches including Deep Brain Reorientation to negotiate subtle and structural dissociation. He also specializes in problematic trauma coping including addictive behaviors and substance use. Nate is a vetted and approved first responder treatment provider in Missouri (www.missouricit.org/provider-map). Additionally, he offers PLPC clinical supervision and EMDR consultation.
(314) 626-9084 View (314) 626-9084
Photo of Joshua Goff, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joshua Goff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63139
I have experience working persons who have experienced childhood and other traumas/PTSD, sexual abuse, obsessiveness/compulsiveness, LGBTQ+-identity exploration, fears and phobias, poor self-image, anxiety, depression, and more.
Life is hard enough without having to go through it alone. No matter who you are or where you are from, my greatest wish for you at the outset is for you to recognize that we all have complications — we could all benefit from growth and healing. As we embrace these realities, we also learn to embrace all of the parts of ourselves, including those that most need our attention and affection. Make no mistake, the path to growth can be difficult. It involves equal parts frustration and exploration, and even a good dose of humor! But when we face ourselves, we may also find that the outcome is beautiful, rewarding, and even enchanting.
I have experience working persons who have experienced childhood and other traumas/PTSD, sexual abuse, obsessiveness/compulsiveness, LGBTQ+-identity exploration, fears and phobias, poor self-image, anxiety, depression, and more.
Life is hard enough without having to go through it alone. No matter who you are or where you are from, my greatest wish for you at the outset is for you to recognize that we all have complications — we could all benefit from growth and healing. As we embrace these realities, we also learn to embrace all of the parts of ourselves, including those that most need our attention and affection. Make no mistake, the path to growth can be difficult. It involves equal parts frustration and exploration, and even a good dose of humor! But when we face ourselves, we may also find that the outcome is beautiful, rewarding, and even enchanting.
(314) 947-2585 View (314) 947-2585
Photo of undefined - Matthew Morgan Henderson Counseling LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Matthew Morgan Henderson Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63110
I can help you deal with difficult life circumstances and transitions, work through relationship problems, get a handle on anxiety and depression, and break free from trauma and addictions.
I can help you deal with difficult life circumstances and transitions, work through relationship problems, get a handle on anxiety and depression, and break free from trauma and addictions.
(314) 668-9198 View (314) 668-9198
Photo of Chris Scarberry, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chris Scarberry
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63109
Trained in Prolonged Exposure for trauma.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 20 years of experience working both as a therapist and doing community-based crisis intervention. I enjoy helping clients to maximize their potential by focusing upon their strengths and past successes. I believe that therapy is a cooperative endeavor that should assist the client in discovering his/her/their own abilities and coping strategies. I relish the opportunity to support clients through trying situations and to help them to process grief. I speak at conferences on HIV/AIDS, work with LGBTQIA clients, and other topics. I served on the HIV service funding Planning Council.
Trained in Prolonged Exposure for trauma.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 20 years of experience working both as a therapist and doing community-based crisis intervention. I enjoy helping clients to maximize their potential by focusing upon their strengths and past successes. I believe that therapy is a cooperative endeavor that should assist the client in discovering his/her/their own abilities and coping strategies. I relish the opportunity to support clients through trying situations and to help them to process grief. I speak at conferences on HIV/AIDS, work with LGBTQIA clients, and other topics. I served on the HIV service funding Planning Council.
(314) 877-8381 View (314) 877-8381
Photo of Shawn G FitzWilliam, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shawn G FitzWilliam
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63103
Waitlist for new clients
I am proud to work with fellow healthcare professionals, individuals from different cultural backgrounds, individuals in the LGBTQ+ community, and anyone who is new to therapy or has tried therapy before but without success. My ideal client is any adult who currently struggles with anxiety, depression, PTSD or other trauma, OCD, burnout, or relationship concerns who is ready to commit to treatment. I believe in meeting clients where they are. I view my job as being your guide to better manage symptoms that represent barriers to you moving forward in your life, following a path determined by your personal values.
I am proud to work with fellow healthcare professionals, individuals from different cultural backgrounds, individuals in the LGBTQ+ community, and anyone who is new to therapy or has tried therapy before but without success. My ideal client is any adult who currently struggles with anxiety, depression, PTSD or other trauma, OCD, burnout, or relationship concerns who is ready to commit to treatment. I believe in meeting clients where they are. I view my job as being your guide to better manage symptoms that represent barriers to you moving forward in your life, following a path determined by your personal values.
(314) 648-8485 View (314) 648-8485
Photo of Brandon Noel, MSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brandon Noel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63139
I enjoy working with young and older adults in areas related to anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, relationships, identity (including LGBTQ+), self-esteem, and family dynamics.
Each day brings new challenges. Some involve our families or our jobs or our relationships, but all involve our minds. Healing begins with the recognition that these battles are not obstacles, but doorways, to a better life — opportunities to develop ourselves in ways we couldn’t previously imagine. You possess the capacity for greatness. You have a purpose! Awareness and the vulnerability to trust another human are keys to unlocking your potential in these ways. Therapy provides an outlet to experience yourself as such, and to work toward the harmony and inner peace you’ve longed for.
I enjoy working with young and older adults in areas related to anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, relationships, identity (including LGBTQ+), self-esteem, and family dynamics.
Each day brings new challenges. Some involve our families or our jobs or our relationships, but all involve our minds. Healing begins with the recognition that these battles are not obstacles, but doorways, to a better life — opportunities to develop ourselves in ways we couldn’t previously imagine. You possess the capacity for greatness. You have a purpose! Awareness and the vulnerability to trust another human are keys to unlocking your potential in these ways. Therapy provides an outlet to experience yourself as such, and to work toward the harmony and inner peace you’ve longed for.
(314) 582-3574 View (314) 582-3574
Photo of Jason Eccker, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jason Eccker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63139
Waitlist for new clients
As a social worker, my goal is to partner with my clients so that they may achieve their goals. I have a diverse background in treating trauma, addiction and mental health from a strengths-based perspective, and I have been successful in helping clients to integrate long-term solutions in their daily lives. I feel that my ability to create a strong therapeutic alliance with clients as one of my biggest strengths. For those suffering from PTSD/other past trauma, I offer EMDR therapy which continues to be researched as highly effective for individuals suffering from these conditions.
As a social worker, my goal is to partner with my clients so that they may achieve their goals. I have a diverse background in treating trauma, addiction and mental health from a strengths-based perspective, and I have been successful in helping clients to integrate long-term solutions in their daily lives. I feel that my ability to create a strong therapeutic alliance with clients as one of my biggest strengths. For those suffering from PTSD/other past trauma, I offer EMDR therapy which continues to be researched as highly effective for individuals suffering from these conditions.
(314) 696-6089 View (314) 696-6089
Photo of L. Charlie Janski-Ogunfidodo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
L. Charlie Janski-Ogunfidodo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63118  (Online Only)
During my career, I have worked with both individual and group settings, including adults with people living with HIV, veterans, incarcerated people and transgender/gender variant individuals. These populations included people with depression, bi-polar disorder, personality disorders, anxiety, PTSD and depression. I co-facilitated a group for trans youth and co-coordinated it for 6 years. As a proud bisexual, trans man, I love to work with my LGBT communities. I celebrate kinky and poly people. I strive to be an imperfect ally to non-binary trans people and people of color. I take private pay/in person through findingnormalstl.com
During my career, I have worked with both individual and group settings, including adults with people living with HIV, veterans, incarcerated people and transgender/gender variant individuals. These populations included people with depression, bi-polar disorder, personality disorders, anxiety, PTSD and depression. I co-facilitated a group for trans youth and co-coordinated it for 6 years. As a proud bisexual, trans man, I love to work with my LGBT communities. I celebrate kinky and poly people. I strive to be an imperfect ally to non-binary trans people and people of color. I take private pay/in person through findingnormalstl.com
(314) 350-4422 View (314) 350-4422
Photo of undefined - First Choice Counseling Professional Corporation, PhD CES, ThD PSY, MAC, MA, LPCCS, Counselor
First Choice Counseling Professional Corporation
Counselor, PhD CES, ThD PSY, MAC, MA, LPCCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63102
Eye movement desensitization reprocessing (EMDR), is used to address complex trauma, and triggers.
I hold two doctorates one in psychology and a master's degree in clinical mental health care, and professional counseling making me a highly qualified professional counselor, clinician, and therapist. Additionally, I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR). My expertise lies in providing talk therapy to individuals of all ages, including adolescents, adults, seniors, families, and groups. To ensure the best outcomes for my clients, I utilize cognitive-behavioral therapy as an initial approach. This allows me to effectively address their specific situations and circumstances.
Eye movement desensitization reprocessing (EMDR), is used to address complex trauma, and triggers.
I hold two doctorates one in psychology and a master's degree in clinical mental health care, and professional counseling making me a highly qualified professional counselor, clinician, and therapist. Additionally, I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR). My expertise lies in providing talk therapy to individuals of all ages, including adolescents, adults, seniors, families, and groups. To ensure the best outcomes for my clients, I utilize cognitive-behavioral therapy as an initial approach. This allows me to effectively address their specific situations and circumstances.
(314) 947-3660 View (314) 947-3660
Photo of Nick T Butcher, MA, LPC-MO, LCPC-KS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nick T Butcher
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-MO, LCPC-KS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63101
If you are reading this right now, then you are likely exploring change of some kind in your life. It's not uncommon for someone to explore change if they are experiencing troublesome thoughts, feelings or behaviors. These may be the result of feeling overstimulated, mentally blocked, stuck or even paralyzed by a problem, trauma, belief, or struggle with identity. It can be difficult to think of or put into words what it is that we really want and why. I would like to help in this process.
If you are reading this right now, then you are likely exploring change of some kind in your life. It's not uncommon for someone to explore change if they are experiencing troublesome thoughts, feelings or behaviors. These may be the result of feeling overstimulated, mentally blocked, stuck or even paralyzed by a problem, trauma, belief, or struggle with identity. It can be difficult to think of or put into words what it is that we really want and why. I would like to help in this process.
(816) 624-2754 View (816) 624-2754
Photo of undefined - First Choice Counseling Professional Corporation, ThD Psy, PhD CES, LPCCS, MAC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
First Choice Counseling Professional Corporation
Licensed Professional Counselor, ThD Psy, PhD CES, LPCCS, MAC, NCC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63102
We specialize in complex trauma using EMDR and Cognitive behavioral therapy CBT, to address client/participant challenges, concerning behavioral health and wellness.
Our patients are individuals, couples or groups who have been struggling with depression, anxiety, mood disorder and other behavioral challenges that have made ordinary day to day functioning impossible or extremely difficult. Through evidence-based clinical mental health therapy that includes EMDR, CBT, DBT, and SFBT, we assess, and diagnose individuals, couples and groups providing evidenced-based treatment plans.
We specialize in complex trauma using EMDR and Cognitive behavioral therapy CBT, to address client/participant challenges, concerning behavioral health and wellness.
Our patients are individuals, couples or groups who have been struggling with depression, anxiety, mood disorder and other behavioral challenges that have made ordinary day to day functioning impossible or extremely difficult. Through evidence-based clinical mental health therapy that includes EMDR, CBT, DBT, and SFBT, we assess, and diagnose individuals, couples and groups providing evidenced-based treatment plans.
(314) 784-5915 View (314) 784-5915
Photo of Ken Ovitz, LCSW, CSAT, CMAT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ken Ovitz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAT, CMAT
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63101
I am honored that my clients share their deepest secrets with me every day. I am grateful for the trust they place in me and I value their need for confidentiality. I make an effort to listen to my clients and hear what they say to learn what they need to grow. Every client is a person who is much greater than their problem behavior or diagnosis. While I have extensive training in treating trauma and sexual behavior problems, I also have experience and training in treating other mental health problems such as: Depression, Anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Panic Disorder, ADHD, and chemical as well as process addictions.
I am honored that my clients share their deepest secrets with me every day. I am grateful for the trust they place in me and I value their need for confidentiality. I make an effort to listen to my clients and hear what they say to learn what they need to grow. Every client is a person who is much greater than their problem behavior or diagnosis. While I have extensive training in treating trauma and sexual behavior problems, I also have experience and training in treating other mental health problems such as: Depression, Anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Panic Disorder, ADHD, and chemical as well as process addictions.
(856) 651-6640 View (856) 651-6640
Photo of Dr. John Thomas Nanney, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. John Thomas Nanney
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63101
I'm always honored to help adults and adolescents who are recovering and learning to thrive following acute and complex trauma. Traumatic stress reactions can take many forms including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, emotion dysregulation, substance misuse, and difficulties in relationships. Through a careful assessment and individualized formulation, trauma-focused psychotherapy can help to address them all. I particularly enjoy working with those who have experienced or lost loved-ones through community gun violence and veterans with combat trauma or challenges reintegrating into civilian life.
I'm always honored to help adults and adolescents who are recovering and learning to thrive following acute and complex trauma. Traumatic stress reactions can take many forms including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, emotion dysregulation, substance misuse, and difficulties in relationships. Through a careful assessment and individualized formulation, trauma-focused psychotherapy can help to address them all. I particularly enjoy working with those who have experienced or lost loved-ones through community gun violence and veterans with combat trauma or challenges reintegrating into civilian life.
(314) 936-4738 View (314) 936-4738
Photo of Christopher Vollmer, LCSW, CSW-G, ACHP-SW, CDP, PEL, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christopher Vollmer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSW-G, ACHP-SW, CDP, PEL
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63104
Life can be difficult. It’s easy to become overwhelmed and to lose our sense of well-being and security. We look around each day and wonder why other people seem to have no trouble living life free from the sort of difficulties with which we struggle. We can begin to feel hopeless. But there is something inside each and every one of us, something beautiful and strong that cannot be touched by our trauma and recurring troubles, but can be obscured by them. Reconnecting with this part of ourselves in a safe, healing atmosphere can help us meet life’s challenges with a greater measure of peace with ourselves and the world.
Life can be difficult. It’s easy to become overwhelmed and to lose our sense of well-being and security. We look around each day and wonder why other people seem to have no trouble living life free from the sort of difficulties with which we struggle. We can begin to feel hopeless. But there is something inside each and every one of us, something beautiful and strong that cannot be touched by our trauma and recurring troubles, but can be obscured by them. Reconnecting with this part of ourselves in a safe, healing atmosphere can help us meet life’s challenges with a greater measure of peace with ourselves and the world.
(618) 230-4620 View (618) 230-4620

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.