Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Apex, NC

Photo of Dr. Chelece-Atavia Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Dr. Chelece-Atavia Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in helping Black and Caribbean women navigate anxiety, trauma, and life transitions with a culturally sensitive and faith-informed approach.
As a first-generation Afro-Caribbean therapist, I understand the unique challenges that come with balancing cultural expectations, faith, and mental health. I integrate evidence-based practices like CBT and trauma-informed care with a compassionate, client-centered approach that honors your story and strengths.
I specialize in helping Black and Caribbean women navigate anxiety, trauma, and life transitions with a culturally sensitive and faith-informed approach.
As a first-generation Afro-Caribbean therapist, I understand the unique challenges that come with balancing cultural expectations, faith, and mental health. I integrate evidence-based practices like CBT and trauma-informed care with a compassionate, client-centered approach that honors your story and strengths.
(919) 887-9913 View (919) 887-9913
Photo of Maureen O'Connell, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Maureen O'Connell
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Online Only
Since 2022, I have specialized in helping individuals manage OCD (all sub-types), anxiety, phobias, and panic with compassion, understanding, and effective treatment from a trauma-informed perspective.
Hello and welcome! If you or someone you love is struggling with high anxiety or intrusive thoughts, there is hope. After living with perfectionism OCD for much of my life, I finally found peace - and I want others to know that healing is possible. Anxiety and OCD can feel overwhelming, isolating, and disrupt daily life - affecting relationships, work, and your ability to feel like yourself. But with the right support and treatment, it is possible to regain control and find freedom and peace.
Since 2022, I have specialized in helping individuals manage OCD (all sub-types), anxiety, phobias, and panic with compassion, understanding, and effective treatment from a trauma-informed perspective.
Hello and welcome! If you or someone you love is struggling with high anxiety or intrusive thoughts, there is hope. After living with perfectionism OCD for much of my life, I finally found peace - and I want others to know that healing is possible. Anxiety and OCD can feel overwhelming, isolating, and disrupt daily life - affecting relationships, work, and your ability to feel like yourself. But with the right support and treatment, it is possible to regain control and find freedom and peace.
(919) 823-7367 View (919) 823-7367
Photo of Kyle Kornbau - Stonebridge Counseling, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, PLLC
Stonebridge Counseling
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, PLLC
Apex, NC 27502
Issues including, but not limited to: stress, depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, grief/loss, behavioral issues, divorce, anger, eating disorders/disordered eating, self esteem, relationship issues, teen issues, chronic illness, family conflict, and life transitions.
Asking for help is the first step towards feeling better and leading a happier, healthier life. Mental health is an important part of overall well-being. Most of us, at one time or another, are impacted by mental health concerns. We have therapists that treat adults, children, and teens. If you don't even know where to start call or e-mail the office and we will help guide you in choosing the right therapist and check your insurance benefits. To learn more about each of our therapists and their individual specialties, please visit our website
Issues including, but not limited to: stress, depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, grief/loss, behavioral issues, divorce, anger, eating disorders/disordered eating, self esteem, relationship issues, teen issues, chronic illness, family conflict, and life transitions.
Asking for help is the first step towards feeling better and leading a happier, healthier life. Mental health is an important part of overall well-being. Most of us, at one time or another, are impacted by mental health concerns. We have therapists that treat adults, children, and teens. If you don't even know where to start call or e-mail the office and we will help guide you in choosing the right therapist and check your insurance benefits. To learn more about each of our therapists and their individual specialties, please visit our website
(919) 646-5030 View (919) 646-5030
Photo of Peggy Wallace, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Peggy Wallace
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Apex, NC 27502
I specialize in working with clients navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, burnout, divorce/separation, parenting stress, and life transitions.
Openings May 2026! You can look like you're handling everything and still feel completely overwhelmed inside. Your mind does not slow down, your body stays tense, and no matter how capable you are, something still feels off. Many of the people I work with are thoughtful, high-functioning, and used to holding it all together for others, yet internally feel anxious, disconnected, or easily triggered in ways that do not quite make sense. If that resonates, you are not broken. Your nervous system is overwhelmed, and it is something we can work with together.
I specialize in working with clients navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, burnout, divorce/separation, parenting stress, and life transitions.
Openings May 2026! You can look like you're handling everything and still feel completely overwhelmed inside. Your mind does not slow down, your body stays tense, and no matter how capable you are, something still feels off. Many of the people I work with are thoughtful, high-functioning, and used to holding it all together for others, yet internally feel anxious, disconnected, or easily triggered in ways that do not quite make sense. If that resonates, you are not broken. Your nervous system is overwhelmed, and it is something we can work with together.
(919) 355-9564 View (919) 355-9564
Photo of Samantha Mahon, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHCS
Samantha Mahon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHCS
1 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
My specialties include: trauma-informed therapy, women's issues and tweens & teens in transition.
Women, despite being the foundation of our society (I am a little biased, of course), are often given too much stress to manage effectively. We have to be employees, mothers, wives, friends, daughters and sisters, just to name a few roles that we play. When there is friction or "conflict" in any one of these roles, life can get complicated. I am passionate about supporting women in our many phases of life. I also serve the Latino (Spanish-speaking) community in a culturally sensitive manner.
My specialties include: trauma-informed therapy, women's issues and tweens & teens in transition.
Women, despite being the foundation of our society (I am a little biased, of course), are often given too much stress to manage effectively. We have to be employees, mothers, wives, friends, daughters and sisters, just to name a few roles that we play. When there is friction or "conflict" in any one of these roles, life can get complicated. I am passionate about supporting women in our many phases of life. I also serve the Latino (Spanish-speaking) community in a culturally sensitive manner.
(919) 794-4799 View (919) 794-4799
Photo of Diane Schachtele, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Diane Schachtele
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Apex, NC 27502
The healing journey begins with the desire for personal growth and a willingness to embrace change. Together, we can achieve this. The first question is, " Are you willing to take care of you now?" For most, this is a difficult commitment to make. For those who are willing, the rewards are immeasurable. Learning how to face problems fearlessly, improve work performance, develop healthy realtionships, or reach a state of peace and joy are within your grasp.
The healing journey begins with the desire for personal growth and a willingness to embrace change. Together, we can achieve this. The first question is, " Are you willing to take care of you now?" For most, this is a difficult commitment to make. For those who are willing, the rewards are immeasurable. Learning how to face problems fearlessly, improve work performance, develop healthy realtionships, or reach a state of peace and joy are within your grasp.
(919) 443-6550 View (919) 443-6550
Photo of Jennifer Lieberman Schiappa, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jennifer Lieberman Schiappa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with clients ages 15 on up who struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, and life changes and who desire to improve mood, gain insight, and learn healthy coping skills.
I use a Cognitive Behavioral Therapeutic approach to help people identify triggers, improve self talk, learn mindfulness skills, and learn healthy coping skills to manage struggles. "You don't have to control your thoughts. You just have to stop letting them control you." -Dan Millman
I work with clients ages 15 on up who struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, and life changes and who desire to improve mood, gain insight, and learn healthy coping skills.
I use a Cognitive Behavioral Therapeutic approach to help people identify triggers, improve self talk, learn mindfulness skills, and learn healthy coping skills to manage struggles. "You don't have to control your thoughts. You just have to stop letting them control you." -Dan Millman
(919) 635-1854 View (919) 635-1854
Photo of Shreya Gunna, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC, CRC
Shreya Gunna
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC, CRC
Apex, NC 27502
I specialize in working with adolescents and adults dealing with generalized/social anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, trauma, life transitions/building independent living skills, healthy decision making, grief/loss, and emotion management.
I am dedicated to serving my clients through an eclectic blend of Person-Centered, Cognitive-Behavioral (& Trauma-Focused CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment, Mindfulness, and DBT-Informed approaches. As a Rehabilitation Counselor, I believe in everyone's capacity to heal and grow.
I specialize in working with adolescents and adults dealing with generalized/social anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, trauma, life transitions/building independent living skills, healthy decision making, grief/loss, and emotion management.
I am dedicated to serving my clients through an eclectic blend of Person-Centered, Cognitive-Behavioral (& Trauma-Focused CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment, Mindfulness, and DBT-Informed approaches. As a Rehabilitation Counselor, I believe in everyone's capacity to heal and grow.
(919) 646-3574 View (919) 646-3574
Photo of Ken Rigsby, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, MEd, EdD, CCTP
Ken Rigsby
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, MEd, EdD, CCTP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Perhaps you are feeling sad; Depression or anxiety have affected your daily functioning; Perhaps you struggle with PTSD/ trauma; You are in a relationship that isn't working and you would like to mend things or try to figure out what to do next.
Dr. Rigsby has experience with, adolescents, adults, and couples.. He has helped clients extensively with partner relationships, PTSD/ trauma (Dr. Rigsby is a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional) depression and anxiety, mood disorders, grief, obsessive compulsive disorders, adjustment disorders, LGBT issues, and alcohol and substance abuse issues..
Perhaps you are feeling sad; Depression or anxiety have affected your daily functioning; Perhaps you struggle with PTSD/ trauma; You are in a relationship that isn't working and you would like to mend things or try to figure out what to do next.
Dr. Rigsby has experience with, adolescents, adults, and couples.. He has helped clients extensively with partner relationships, PTSD/ trauma (Dr. Rigsby is a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional) depression and anxiety, mood disorders, grief, obsessive compulsive disorders, adjustment disorders, LGBT issues, and alcohol and substance abuse issues..
(727) 202-4940 View (727) 202-4940
Photo of Katherine Ference, Counselor, LMCHC-A
Katherine Ference
Counselor, LMCHC-A
1 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate that specializes in the treatment of Trauma, First Responders, LGBTQIA+ issues, and Anxiety.
I provide services for children, adolescents, and adults of all ages. Previously, I worked as an EMT-B for Wake County. I have received my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology through North Carolina State University and Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling through Southern New Hampshire University.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate that specializes in the treatment of Trauma, First Responders, LGBTQIA+ issues, and Anxiety.
I provide services for children, adolescents, and adults of all ages. Previously, I worked as an EMT-B for Wake County. I have received my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology through North Carolina State University and Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling through Southern New Hampshire University.
(984) 646-0250 View (984) 646-0250
Photo of Melissa Aguilar, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Melissa Aguilar
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Whether it be your mind constantly racing, a phobia, improving self-esteem, overcoming trauma, or needing new strategies in parenting.
Are you feeling overwhelmed in how to manage your emotions or perhaps you are feeling overwhelmed in your relationships (marital, parent-child, parent-teenager, family, or friends)? Do you find yourself becoming irritable at small things or simply being someone you do not want to be anymore? If the answer is yes to any of those questions, I am glad you have found my page. We all have difficult times throughout our life and it is okay to need and ask for help. Difficult times or difficult symptoms vary from person to person. I am here to help guide you and find ways to alleviate your concerns.
Whether it be your mind constantly racing, a phobia, improving self-esteem, overcoming trauma, or needing new strategies in parenting.
Are you feeling overwhelmed in how to manage your emotions or perhaps you are feeling overwhelmed in your relationships (marital, parent-child, parent-teenager, family, or friends)? Do you find yourself becoming irritable at small things or simply being someone you do not want to be anymore? If the answer is yes to any of those questions, I am glad you have found my page. We all have difficult times throughout our life and it is okay to need and ask for help. Difficult times or difficult symptoms vary from person to person. I am here to help guide you and find ways to alleviate your concerns.
(919) 351-6417 View (919) 351-6417
Photo of Shelby Sawyer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LPC
Shelby Sawyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LPC
Online Only
I specialize in working with individuals navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, life transitions, and identity exploration, with a special focus on, LGBTQ+ affirming care and support for first responders and military personnel .
What stands out about my approach is that I’m both compassionate and active in the therapy room. I don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all model — instead, I take an eclectic, client-centered approach that draws from a variety of evidence-based techniques to meet your unique needs.
I specialize in working with individuals navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, life transitions, and identity exploration, with a special focus on, LGBTQ+ affirming care and support for first responders and military personnel .
What stands out about my approach is that I’m both compassionate and active in the therapy room. I don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all model — instead, I take an eclectic, client-centered approach that draws from a variety of evidence-based techniques to meet your unique needs.
(984) 983-4829 View (984) 983-4829
Photo of Tammy Holcomb, LCMHCS, CEDS, NBCCH
Tammy Holcomb
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
I am a strong believer in the power of healing circles to help people work through issues related to trauma, addiction, and eating disorders.
Tired of facing this alone? Need someone to trust to listen without placing judgment? So often, we try to handle things alone for too long. By the time we ask for help, the problem feels out of control. I want to help you to figure this out and get out from under whatever burden or decision is on you. Whether it is the past, work stress, grief over a loss, regret, anxiety, depression, or a behavior interfering with your life goals, I will work with you to try to figure this out.
I am a strong believer in the power of healing circles to help people work through issues related to trauma, addiction, and eating disorders.
Tired of facing this alone? Need someone to trust to listen without placing judgment? So often, we try to handle things alone for too long. By the time we ask for help, the problem feels out of control. I want to help you to figure this out and get out from under whatever burden or decision is on you. Whether it is the past, work stress, grief over a loss, regret, anxiety, depression, or a behavior interfering with your life goals, I will work with you to try to figure this out.
(919) 323-4002 View (919) 323-4002
Photo of Lee Bob Smith, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CCSOTS
Lee Bob Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CCSOTS
4 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27523
The most important thing in life for our happiness is our relationships. When one of our relationships is in turmoil, everything in your life becomes more difficult. Getting out of bed, going to work, dealing with the kids, the boss, it all becomes harder. Practical Solutions is here to help you return to a happier life. We can help with all manner of challenges in life. We can help you move past them so you can count them as in the past and not interfere with your everyday existence. Call or book an appointment today.
The most important thing in life for our happiness is our relationships. When one of our relationships is in turmoil, everything in your life becomes more difficult. Getting out of bed, going to work, dealing with the kids, the boss, it all becomes harder. Practical Solutions is here to help you return to a happier life. We can help with all manner of challenges in life. We can help you move past them so you can count them as in the past and not interfere with your everyday existence. Call or book an appointment today.
(919) 705-0641 View (919) 705-0641
Photo of Madison Petermann, Pre-Licensed Professional, LCMHCA
Madison Petermann
Pre-Licensed Professional, LCMHCA
Online Only
I specialize in trauma therapy and have a particular passion for supporting people through life’s toughest moments.
My therapeutic approach is rooted in EMDR, but I also draw from ACT, DBT, and Person-centered theories. I view Clients as a whole, meaning I'll look at all the layers that influence your mental health. I aspire to create a LGBTQ+ affirming, sex/kink-positive, and neurodivergent-friendly environment where you can show up as your full self.
I specialize in trauma therapy and have a particular passion for supporting people through life’s toughest moments.
My therapeutic approach is rooted in EMDR, but I also draw from ACT, DBT, and Person-centered theories. I view Clients as a whole, meaning I'll look at all the layers that influence your mental health. I aspire to create a LGBTQ+ affirming, sex/kink-positive, and neurodivergent-friendly environment where you can show up as your full self.
(984) 422-3096 View (984) 422-3096
Photo of Ellyn Brown, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, MA, NCC
Ellyn Brown
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, MA, NCC
Apex, NC 27502
Waitlist for new clients
My areas of work include, but are not limited to, those experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions, relationship issues, career transitions, self-care, domestic violence, communication issues, parenting support, low self-esteem, and trauma work.
I utilize a systemic, strength-based, and trauma informed approach as a foundation when working with my clients. I apply evidenced-based theories, including, but not limited to, Eco-Systemic Structural Family Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
My areas of work include, but are not limited to, those experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions, relationship issues, career transitions, self-care, domestic violence, communication issues, parenting support, low self-esteem, and trauma work.
I utilize a systemic, strength-based, and trauma informed approach as a foundation when working with my clients. I apply evidenced-based theories, including, but not limited to, Eco-Systemic Structural Family Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
(984) 409-9861 x120177 View (984) 409-9861 x120177
Photo of Kendall Panciera, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA, EMDR-T
Kendall Panciera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA, EMDR-T
3 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
Within this foundation, I utilize EMDR alongside ego state therapy, parts work, and somatic awareness to create a comprehensive, trauma-informed healing process.
With a holistic, strength-based approach, I center my work on the belief that healing begins with connection and resilience. As an EMDR-trained therapist, I understand that many of the wounds we carry didn't begin with a single event- they were woven into our earliest experiences of attachment, safety, and belonging. The nervous system remembers what the mind sometimes cannot name. I believe that symptoms are not signs of brokenness- they are signs of survival. Together, we will work to explore the parts of you that developed to protect, to cope, and to endure, honoring those adaptations while holding space for something new.
Within this foundation, I utilize EMDR alongside ego state therapy, parts work, and somatic awareness to create a comprehensive, trauma-informed healing process.
With a holistic, strength-based approach, I center my work on the belief that healing begins with connection and resilience. As an EMDR-trained therapist, I understand that many of the wounds we carry didn't begin with a single event- they were woven into our earliest experiences of attachment, safety, and belonging. The nervous system remembers what the mind sometimes cannot name. I believe that symptoms are not signs of brokenness- they are signs of survival. Together, we will work to explore the parts of you that developed to protect, to cope, and to endure, honoring those adaptations while holding space for something new.
(919) 877-6863 View (919) 877-6863
Photo of Rachelle Heller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS-A
Rachelle Heller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS-A
Online Only
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker & Psychotherapist with experience in treating children, adolescents, & adults with relationship issues, substance abuse, trauma, personality disorders, anxiety & depression.
In addition to these areas, a particular interest of mine is working with mothers in all walks of life. If you’re struggling with the stress of raising young children, being a single parent, adoption or having fertility issues, I'd love to hear from you!
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker & Psychotherapist with experience in treating children, adolescents, & adults with relationship issues, substance abuse, trauma, personality disorders, anxiety & depression.
In addition to these areas, a particular interest of mine is working with mothers in all walks of life. If you’re struggling with the stress of raising young children, being a single parent, adoption or having fertility issues, I'd love to hear from you!
(919) 823-3851 View (919) 823-3851
Photo of Sydney Menigoz Rudy, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Sydney Menigoz Rudy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
4 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
Whether you're navigating trauma, big emotions, or trying to help your child through something hard, this is a space built for exactly that.
Specializing in complex trauma, EMDR, Sandtray Therapy, anxiety, and children's mental health, I strive to tailor every session to meet you exactly where you are — whether that's untangling old patterns, processing grief, or simply building more ease in daily life. No two paths look the same, and that's exactly how it should be.
Whether you're navigating trauma, big emotions, or trying to help your child through something hard, this is a space built for exactly that.
Specializing in complex trauma, EMDR, Sandtray Therapy, anxiety, and children's mental health, I strive to tailor every session to meet you exactly where you are — whether that's untangling old patterns, processing grief, or simply building more ease in daily life. No two paths look the same, and that's exactly how it should be.
(919) 804-1182 View (919) 804-1182
Photo of Nathan Webber, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMCHC
Nathan Webber
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMCHC
3 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
Finding the right counselor is very important! With that in mind, don't read a bio and pick someone. Take advantage of my free 20 minute phone consultation! That's all it's going to take to tell if I'll be a good fit or not. I have over 15 years of experience working with children, families, and adults. I'm good at getting people to talk about what the real problem is and not dance around the elephant in the room. You are not always going to get from me what you want to hear but I guarantee you are going to get from me what you need to hear.
Finding the right counselor is very important! With that in mind, don't read a bio and pick someone. Take advantage of my free 20 minute phone consultation! That's all it's going to take to tell if I'll be a good fit or not. I have over 15 years of experience working with children, families, and adults. I'm good at getting people to talk about what the real problem is and not dance around the elephant in the room. You are not always going to get from me what you want to hear but I guarantee you are going to get from me what you need to hear.
(919) 229-8990 View (919) 229-8990

See more therapy options for Apex

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.