Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Bozeman, MT

Photo of Candace Anderson, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Candace Anderson
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bozeman, MT 59718  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating individuals with severe traumas, PTSD, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, phobias, OCD and mood disorders.
I truly enjoy working with individuals to develop into the person they desire to be and to develop a life worth experiencing and living. I work with individuals to develop goals that feel attainable and are specialized to each individual's needs. I have worked with veterans suffering from PTSD and other's that have experienced significant traumas for many years and have a passion for helping these individuals work through their traumas and move into living a healthy and happy life.
I specialize in treating individuals with severe traumas, PTSD, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, phobias, OCD and mood disorders.
I truly enjoy working with individuals to develop into the person they desire to be and to develop a life worth experiencing and living. I work with individuals to develop goals that feel attainable and are specialized to each individual's needs. I have worked with veterans suffering from PTSD and other's that have experienced significant traumas for many years and have a passion for helping these individuals work through their traumas and move into living a healthy and happy life.
(406) 272-0203 View (406) 272-0203
Photo of Deborah Wilson, MTS, MSW, LCSW, LAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deborah Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MTS, MSW, LCSW, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59718
My experience over the past 20 years as a spiritual care provider and an addictions counselor influences how I view grief, trauma, and healing. I understand how being human can be a struggle and the experiences through stages of life and other transitions are not always in our control. A compassionate presence has a significant impact to ease the overwhelm and distress that are natural during these times. I trust that as we learn to navigate and unwind traumatic experiences, we will also create new sustainable conditions to live with a greater sense of understanding and wellbeing.
My experience over the past 20 years as a spiritual care provider and an addictions counselor influences how I view grief, trauma, and healing. I understand how being human can be a struggle and the experiences through stages of life and other transitions are not always in our control. A compassionate presence has a significant impact to ease the overwhelm and distress that are natural during these times. I trust that as we learn to navigate and unwind traumatic experiences, we will also create new sustainable conditions to live with a greater sense of understanding and wellbeing.
(406) 296-6919 View (406) 296-6919
Photo of Andy G Lear, MSW, LCSW, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andy G Lear
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, SEP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59718
I believe that people have a natural capacity to learn new ways to navigate their life, even when their life feels stuck. I work with people who are experiencing a broad base of issues, including anxiety, life transitions, and unresolved trauma. I offer a secure environment where you can explore at a pace that works for you. This work has a way of inviting our being into the world and letting us live more fully.
I believe that people have a natural capacity to learn new ways to navigate their life, even when their life feels stuck. I work with people who are experiencing a broad base of issues, including anxiety, life transitions, and unresolved trauma. I offer a secure environment where you can explore at a pace that works for you. This work has a way of inviting our being into the world and letting us live more fully.
(406) 564-4887 View (406) 564-4887
Photo of Leslie Dominick - Leslie Dominick Counseling, PLLC, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Leslie Dominick Counseling, PLLC
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bozeman, MT 59715
I focus on how trauma informed somatic touch allows the body’s systems to rest, relax and balance.
The foundation of my practice stems from the belief that every person has an inner capacity for well-being. I believe that when a safe environment is created, people can access their own inner resources and discover their own solutions. I strive to create a warm, supportive environment which allows children and adults to heal and begin the journey of reconnecting to themselves. I see my role in counseling being an empathic, deep listener as you explore and identify your unique values and goals.
I focus on how trauma informed somatic touch allows the body’s systems to rest, relax and balance.
The foundation of my practice stems from the belief that every person has an inner capacity for well-being. I believe that when a safe environment is created, people can access their own inner resources and discover their own solutions. I strive to create a warm, supportive environment which allows children and adults to heal and begin the journey of reconnecting to themselves. I see my role in counseling being an empathic, deep listener as you explore and identify your unique values and goals.
(406) 400-9242 View (406) 400-9242
Photo of Andrew Hinkle, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrew Hinkle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59718
I offer down-to-earth counseling, aimed at increasing the tools and resources that people have to overcome issues ranging from trauma and PTSD, depression, anxiety, divorce, marital conflict, addiction issues, social isolation, suicidal ideation, and lack of care and services.
It is my sincere honor to work with every person who walks through my office doors. It takes courage and strength to overcome the stigma and doubt that can come with entering therapy. The fundamental basis of my work begins with a genuine and authentic relationship with my clients. I have found that over time this serves as a means to jointly solve the problems in your life, and further, to achieve your highest possible dreams. If you find it difficult to make the initial leap into therapy, I'd like to help. Schedule a consultation with me today.
I offer down-to-earth counseling, aimed at increasing the tools and resources that people have to overcome issues ranging from trauma and PTSD, depression, anxiety, divorce, marital conflict, addiction issues, social isolation, suicidal ideation, and lack of care and services.
It is my sincere honor to work with every person who walks through my office doors. It takes courage and strength to overcome the stigma and doubt that can come with entering therapy. The fundamental basis of my work begins with a genuine and authentic relationship with my clients. I have found that over time this serves as a means to jointly solve the problems in your life, and further, to achieve your highest possible dreams. If you find it difficult to make the initial leap into therapy, I'd like to help. Schedule a consultation with me today.
(406) 551-1664 View (406) 551-1664
Photo of Rebekah Driessen Patrick, LCPC, Counselor
Rebekah Driessen Patrick
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bozeman, MT 59715
Would you like to be really listened to, with powerful empathy and compassion? I offer individual therapy for adults and adolescents. I provide individuals struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, loss, post-traumatic stress disorder, and self-esteem a safe place to slow down, get to know, and learn how to care for your deepest self. I can help you learn to relate to difficult emotions and aspects of yourself in ways that support your growth toward the most relaxed, self-accepting, joyful you. I am gender affirming and sex and body positive.
Would you like to be really listened to, with powerful empathy and compassion? I offer individual therapy for adults and adolescents. I provide individuals struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, loss, post-traumatic stress disorder, and self-esteem a safe place to slow down, get to know, and learn how to care for your deepest self. I can help you learn to relate to difficult emotions and aspects of yourself in ways that support your growth toward the most relaxed, self-accepting, joyful you. I am gender affirming and sex and body positive.
(406) 414-7854 View (406) 414-7854
Photo of Erin Nicole Clark, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin Nicole Clark
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59718
I specialize in EMDR, trauma, PTSD, domestic violence and anxiety.
Are you struggling to enjoy your personal, or professional life because of uncomfortable symptoms you wish to alleviate? Do you wish you could grow personally from talking about your problems? Counseling may be a great choice for you! When you feel understood, respected and believed by a counselor, a world of opportunity and personal growth can open up. Clients from all backgrounds in Bozeman seek out counseling for trauma, personal growth and overall mental health and wellbeing. I offer individualized services tailored to the client's needs. Expect to set goals and meet them, as we approach wellness, together.
I specialize in EMDR, trauma, PTSD, domestic violence and anxiety.
Are you struggling to enjoy your personal, or professional life because of uncomfortable symptoms you wish to alleviate? Do you wish you could grow personally from talking about your problems? Counseling may be a great choice for you! When you feel understood, respected and believed by a counselor, a world of opportunity and personal growth can open up. Clients from all backgrounds in Bozeman seek out counseling for trauma, personal growth and overall mental health and wellbeing. I offer individualized services tailored to the client's needs. Expect to set goals and meet them, as we approach wellness, together.
(406) 660-3166 View (406) 660-3166
Photo of Erica Blair, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Erica Blair
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bozeman, MT 59715
My therapeutic approach is holistic and integrative, drawing from emotion-focused, attachment-based, and trauma-informed perspectives. I facilitate introspection, supporting clients with understanding the root of their behaviors, emotional patterns, and relationship dynamics. Through this approach, I aim to support my clients develop the skills necessary to foster deeper connections with themselves, others, and the world around them.
My therapeutic approach is holistic and integrative, drawing from emotion-focused, attachment-based, and trauma-informed perspectives. I facilitate introspection, supporting clients with understanding the root of their behaviors, emotional patterns, and relationship dynamics. Through this approach, I aim to support my clients develop the skills necessary to foster deeper connections with themselves, others, and the world around them.
(406) 306-7145 View (406) 306-7145
Photo of Nadine Grayl, MA, MSSA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nadine Grayl
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSSA, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59715
I want to bring hope to whatever situation you are facing. As we work together in individual or couples counseling, I will help facilitate healing, growth, and self-compassion. You may be stressed beyond your limits at home and/or work with our new world realities due to COVID-19. Maybe you are dealing with past or current trauma, or struggling in your relationships. You may find yourself facing grief and loss during this time as our losses have increased due to stay-at-home orders and new ways of living. Many are struggling with anxiety, depression, hopelessness, and feelings of loneliness as a result.
I want to bring hope to whatever situation you are facing. As we work together in individual or couples counseling, I will help facilitate healing, growth, and self-compassion. You may be stressed beyond your limits at home and/or work with our new world realities due to COVID-19. Maybe you are dealing with past or current trauma, or struggling in your relationships. You may find yourself facing grief and loss during this time as our losses have increased due to stay-at-home orders and new ways of living. Many are struggling with anxiety, depression, hopelessness, and feelings of loneliness as a result.
(406) 215-4448 View (406) 215-4448
Photo of Nikki Zelenka - Zelenka Counseling Services, PLLC, LCPC, ACEG, ASERVIC, CSJ, IAAOC, Counselor
Zelenka Counseling Services, PLLC
Counselor, LCPC, ACEG, ASERVIC, CSJ, IAAOC
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59719
Life is complicated and painful. You deserve the respect, confidentiality, attention, and compassion that I offer as a Professional Mental Health Counselor. Porn/sex addiction (and partner/familial effects), occupational stress (military/veterans, law enforcement, first responders), separation/divorce/infidelity, trauma/PTSD, domestic abuse/violence, and grief/loss issues, are some of the areas in which I have clinical experience and training. I have worked in mental health since 2008, and spent four years at an inpatient crisis residential facility working with suicidal and high-risk patients, and am a Montana Red Cross member.
Life is complicated and painful. You deserve the respect, confidentiality, attention, and compassion that I offer as a Professional Mental Health Counselor. Porn/sex addiction (and partner/familial effects), occupational stress (military/veterans, law enforcement, first responders), separation/divorce/infidelity, trauma/PTSD, domestic abuse/violence, and grief/loss issues, are some of the areas in which I have clinical experience and training. I have worked in mental health since 2008, and spent four years at an inpatient crisis residential facility working with suicidal and high-risk patients, and am a Montana Red Cross member.
(347) 492-1349 View (347) 492-1349
Photo of Tricia LeQuesne, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Tricia LeQuesne
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bozeman, MT 59715
Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, grief, anxiety, major life changes and/or relationship stress? Do you struggle with feelings of shame and guilt? My practice is grounded in the belief that everyone has the capacity to heal, achieve fulfillment, and to be fully present to life experience. I believe in the importance of our relationships with others and our connection to the natural world and how this connection can be regulating, helping us achieve freedom from shame, depression, and anxiety. Combining nature based work with somatic techniques can help release traumas stored in the body.
Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, grief, anxiety, major life changes and/or relationship stress? Do you struggle with feelings of shame and guilt? My practice is grounded in the belief that everyone has the capacity to heal, achieve fulfillment, and to be fully present to life experience. I believe in the importance of our relationships with others and our connection to the natural world and how this connection can be regulating, helping us achieve freedom from shame, depression, and anxiety. Combining nature based work with somatic techniques can help release traumas stored in the body.
(406) 623-5418 View (406) 623-5418
Photo of Kristi Lahusen, MA, PCLC, Counselor
Kristi Lahusen
Counselor, MA, PCLC
Verified Verified
Bozeman, MT 59718
My counseling approach with teens and adults is integrative, drawing from person-centered, attachment theory, neurobiological and polyvagal theory, trauma informed, choice theory, meaning-making psychology, and strengths based.
I am Kristi Lahusen, a compassionate and dedicated Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate (PLPC), working under supervision with Mark Knox, LMFT. With a background in mental health, fitness, nutrition, and a commitment to fostering overall wellbeing and positive change, I am passionate about supporting children, teens, and adults on their journey towards growth, healing, and well-being. I hold a Master's degree in clinical mental health counseling from Liberty University where I honed my skills in psychotherapy, clinical assessment, and counseling techniques and interventions.
My counseling approach with teens and adults is integrative, drawing from person-centered, attachment theory, neurobiological and polyvagal theory, trauma informed, choice theory, meaning-making psychology, and strengths based.
I am Kristi Lahusen, a compassionate and dedicated Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate (PLPC), working under supervision with Mark Knox, LMFT. With a background in mental health, fitness, nutrition, and a commitment to fostering overall wellbeing and positive change, I am passionate about supporting children, teens, and adults on their journey towards growth, healing, and well-being. I hold a Master's degree in clinical mental health counseling from Liberty University where I honed my skills in psychotherapy, clinical assessment, and counseling techniques and interventions.
(406) 730-3630 View (406) 730-3630
Photo of Erin Kempt, PCLC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Erin Kempt
Pre-Licensed Professional, PCLC
Verified Verified
Bozeman, MT 59715
I use a warm person centered approach and am experienced with trauma-informed practices and EMDR.
Sometimes being a human sucks. Each of us faces our own set of problems in life and it can be hard to see a way forward when we are in the midst of them. While you are the only one who truly knows and can change your life, it can be helpful to have an outside person to guide the process. I believe the success of therapy lies in the relationship. My goal is to build a secure relationship that encourages you to take the hard steps but also offers a safe place to return. Through this relationship, we will create an environment to explore what is and is not working, identify negative patterns, and challenge unhelpful beliefs.
I use a warm person centered approach and am experienced with trauma-informed practices and EMDR.
Sometimes being a human sucks. Each of us faces our own set of problems in life and it can be hard to see a way forward when we are in the midst of them. While you are the only one who truly knows and can change your life, it can be helpful to have an outside person to guide the process. I believe the success of therapy lies in the relationship. My goal is to build a secure relationship that encourages you to take the hard steps but also offers a safe place to return. Through this relationship, we will create an environment to explore what is and is not working, identify negative patterns, and challenge unhelpful beliefs.
(406) 302-8529 View (406) 302-8529
Photo of Mary Corelli, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Mary Corelli
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bozeman, MT 59718
Hi, I am Mary Corelli with Earth Mind Therapy. I am a neurodivergent therapist, and I love to work with neurodivergent individuals. I also work well with highly sensitive people and spiritual individuals. I see lots of queer teenagers in my practice and teens with unique, passionate views about the world. I also work with young adults trying to establish healthy lives. Additionally, I love working with moms! Some of the issues I work with the most are: big emotions, anxiety, trauma, loneliness, social identity, adulting, toxic relationships, and parenting stress.
Hi, I am Mary Corelli with Earth Mind Therapy. I am a neurodivergent therapist, and I love to work with neurodivergent individuals. I also work well with highly sensitive people and spiritual individuals. I see lots of queer teenagers in my practice and teens with unique, passionate views about the world. I also work with young adults trying to establish healthy lives. Additionally, I love working with moms! Some of the issues I work with the most are: big emotions, anxiety, trauma, loneliness, social identity, adulting, toxic relationships, and parenting stress.
(406) 732-2453 View (406) 732-2453
Photo of Bridget Ashcraft - Bridget Ashcraft, LCPC, PLLC, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Bridget Ashcraft, LCPC, PLLC
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59718
Waitlist for new clients
I work from a trauma-informed, relationally oriented and somatically integrative approach to collaboratively work with clients to improve regulation and facilitate attuned relationships with their own bodies as well as with others.
Our systems – from our own bodies to the family and societal systems of which we are a part – are incredibly resourceful and complex. They carry templates and memories of past emboided and inter-generational experiences. And while our systems are adaptive and responsive, sometimes their best attempts at solving life’s challenges fall flat. In some cases, particularly where there has been acute or developmental trauma, old templates provoke pernicious repetitions – such as immobility in behaviors/relationships, or replacement of one unhelpful behavior/relationship for another equally unsatisfactory one.
I work from a trauma-informed, relationally oriented and somatically integrative approach to collaboratively work with clients to improve regulation and facilitate attuned relationships with their own bodies as well as with others.
Our systems – from our own bodies to the family and societal systems of which we are a part – are incredibly resourceful and complex. They carry templates and memories of past emboided and inter-generational experiences. And while our systems are adaptive and responsive, sometimes their best attempts at solving life’s challenges fall flat. In some cases, particularly where there has been acute or developmental trauma, old templates provoke pernicious repetitions – such as immobility in behaviors/relationships, or replacement of one unhelpful behavior/relationship for another equally unsatisfactory one.
(406) 564-4048 View (406) 564-4048
Photo of Gabbi Niemi, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gabbi Niemi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bozeman, MT 59718  (Online Only)
I have worked in the mental health field for 6 years with children, adolescents, and adults with a wide variety of mental illness including trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and more.
I am passionate about helping clients heal and move towards wellness, by providing a safe and caring environment to explore and process difficult experiences and emotions. I believe each client is the expert on his or her own experience and I work with the client to tailor treatment to the individual needs.
I have worked in the mental health field for 6 years with children, adolescents, and adults with a wide variety of mental illness including trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and more.
I am passionate about helping clients heal and move towards wellness, by providing a safe and caring environment to explore and process difficult experiences and emotions. I believe each client is the expert on his or her own experience and I work with the client to tailor treatment to the individual needs.
(406) 308-5830 View (406) 308-5830
Photo of Jessica Wohlers, MS, PCLC, Counselor
Jessica Wohlers
Counselor, MS, PCLC
Verified Verified
Bozeman, MT 59718
Waitlist for new clients
Waitlist for new clients. Welcome! I'm so glad you're here as the first step towards change. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, and difficult life transitions. My aim is to help you understand and learn about yourself so that you can thrive in all life areas. I am welcoming of cultural diversity, including supporting the LGBTQ+ community, and celebrate the uniqueness of each individual.
Waitlist for new clients. Welcome! I'm so glad you're here as the first step towards change. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, and difficult life transitions. My aim is to help you understand and learn about yourself so that you can thrive in all life areas. I am welcoming of cultural diversity, including supporting the LGBTQ+ community, and celebrate the uniqueness of each individual.
(406) 719-1753 View (406) 719-1753
Photo of Claire Lawrance - Clarity Counseling, MA, LCPC, LPCC-S, NCC, LCSW-C, Counselor
Clarity Counseling
Counselor, MA, LCPC, LPCC-S, NCC, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Bozeman, MT 59718
The treatment options we offer cover a wide range of techniques, to address a wide range of folks! We use Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, Trauma Focused Equine Assisted Psychotherapy, art therapy techniques, music and movement, Dialectical Behavior Therapy skills, CBT, and trauma-informed relational therapy to help clients progress.
When the rhythm of your life is interrupted, establishing a safe connection is the first and foremost goal of treatment. With warmth, creativity, sharp diagnostic minds and effective treatment skills, the clinicians at Clarity Counseling offer a soft place to land, where you can feel confident in the care you receive. We provide treatment options that foster new neural development, create a capacity for deeper connection, and help restore a sense of balance and health to your life and relationships. We offer varied and cutting edge approaches from knowledgable clinicians, and flexible fees to meet your needs.
The treatment options we offer cover a wide range of techniques, to address a wide range of folks! We use Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, Trauma Focused Equine Assisted Psychotherapy, art therapy techniques, music and movement, Dialectical Behavior Therapy skills, CBT, and trauma-informed relational therapy to help clients progress.
When the rhythm of your life is interrupted, establishing a safe connection is the first and foremost goal of treatment. With warmth, creativity, sharp diagnostic minds and effective treatment skills, the clinicians at Clarity Counseling offer a soft place to land, where you can feel confident in the care you receive. We provide treatment options that foster new neural development, create a capacity for deeper connection, and help restore a sense of balance and health to your life and relationships. We offer varied and cutting edge approaches from knowledgable clinicians, and flexible fees to meet your needs.
(406) 412-6216 View (406) 412-6216
Photo of Mika Awanohara, PsyD, Psychologist
Mika Awanohara
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Bozeman, MT 59718
With over 17 years of experience in the mental health field, I provide individual psychotherapy to adults struggling with anxiety, depression/mood swings, unfulfilling/unhealthy interpersonal relationships, ramifications of trauma, eating/body image concerns, multicultural/acculturation challenges, veterans issues, and self-defeating tendencies.
Nobody has to struggle alone. I believe that much of human suffering is exacerbated by the betrayals and frustrations we have felt in important relationships. As a therapist, I hold a deep conviction in the capacity of relationships to heal old wounds and to restore a sense of trust and integrity in oneself and the world. I approach my work with each patient with humility and respect for their life experiences, and I strive to create a safe space for my patients to explore how they ended up where they are and what keeps them feeling stuck.
With over 17 years of experience in the mental health field, I provide individual psychotherapy to adults struggling with anxiety, depression/mood swings, unfulfilling/unhealthy interpersonal relationships, ramifications of trauma, eating/body image concerns, multicultural/acculturation challenges, veterans issues, and self-defeating tendencies.
Nobody has to struggle alone. I believe that much of human suffering is exacerbated by the betrayals and frustrations we have felt in important relationships. As a therapist, I hold a deep conviction in the capacity of relationships to heal old wounds and to restore a sense of trust and integrity in oneself and the world. I approach my work with each patient with humility and respect for their life experiences, and I strive to create a safe space for my patients to explore how they ended up where they are and what keeps them feeling stuck.
(855) 899-6903 View (855) 899-6903
Photo of Jessica Davis, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59715
patterns, family-related stress, and trauma.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Denver. Prior to my work in outpatient counseling, I worked with children and adolescents to enhance their emotional well-being and improve their academic performance. I have worked with diverse client populations in a variety of settings including community based, residential care, crisis intervention, domestic violence shelters, and school systems. I am a trauma-engaged, strengths-based clinician with 8+ years of experience working with adjustment issues across the lifespan, emotional distress, problematic relationship
patterns, family-related stress, and trauma.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Denver. Prior to my work in outpatient counseling, I worked with children and adolescents to enhance their emotional well-being and improve their academic performance. I have worked with diverse client populations in a variety of settings including community based, residential care, crisis intervention, domestic violence shelters, and school systems. I am a trauma-engaged, strengths-based clinician with 8+ years of experience working with adjustment issues across the lifespan, emotional distress, problematic relationship
(406) 577-8058 View (406) 577-8058
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.