Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Greensboro, NC

Cherie M Bohaboy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27407
Cherie has found every client is unique. She collaborates with clients for individualized treatment using their experience, strengths & aspirations to motivate change, meet objectives & reach goals. Whether coping with: anger, anxiety, depression, grief or loss; recovery; relationship & lifestyle changes; tension from stress; or experiencing nightmares; disrupted sleep; flashbacks; intrusive thoughts & other trauma symptoms (from verbal, physical, sexual abuse, assault, or witnessing), therapy helps. Cherie provides evidence-based, person-centered, trauma-informed care, to build trust with clients as a therapeutic journey unfolds.
Cherie has found every client is unique. She collaborates with clients for individualized treatment using their experience, strengths & aspirations to motivate change, meet objectives & reach goals. Whether coping with: anger, anxiety, depression, grief or loss; recovery; relationship & lifestyle changes; tension from stress; or experiencing nightmares; disrupted sleep; flashbacks; intrusive thoughts & other trauma symptoms (from verbal, physical, sexual abuse, assault, or witnessing), therapy helps. Cherie provides evidence-based, person-centered, trauma-informed care, to build trust with clients as a therapeutic journey unfolds.
(336) 753-2488 View (336) 753-2488
Photo of Dr. Jonathan Schmalz, PhD, LP, HSP-P, Psychologist
Dr. Jonathan Schmalz
Psychologist, PhD, LP, HSP-P
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27408
We often seek therapy because we are hurting and unhappy in our relationships with others and ourselves. Anxiety or sadness can clue us in that something is amiss. Therapy can help you heal from past hurts and face the future with clear-eyed resolve to live life how you want. I provide evidence-based therapy for trauma-related concerns, anxiety, autism and ADHD in adults, and gender and sexual identity development. We will create new ways to cope in the present and heal wounds from the past so that you can live the life you really want.
We often seek therapy because we are hurting and unhappy in our relationships with others and ourselves. Anxiety or sadness can clue us in that something is amiss. Therapy can help you heal from past hurts and face the future with clear-eyed resolve to live life how you want. I provide evidence-based therapy for trauma-related concerns, anxiety, autism and ADHD in adults, and gender and sexual identity development. We will create new ways to cope in the present and heal wounds from the past so that you can live the life you really want.
(336) 962-6565 View (336) 962-6565
Photo of Summer Brown, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Summer Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27401
My passion is helping individuals, couples, and families with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, self-improvement, and relationships.
My goal is to help you reach your fullest potential when life becomes overwhelming and stressful. As your therapist, I commit to creating a space where you feel heard, valued, and able to work through the challenges life may put in your path. It may feel impossible, but change is possible. I am here to help you discover and heal from pain that you may have experienced in your life. It is possible to both love your life and to love yourself. I want to help you reach that goal!
My passion is helping individuals, couples, and families with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, self-improvement, and relationships.
My goal is to help you reach your fullest potential when life becomes overwhelming and stressful. As your therapist, I commit to creating a space where you feel heard, valued, and able to work through the challenges life may put in your path. It may feel impossible, but change is possible. I am here to help you discover and heal from pain that you may have experienced in your life. It is possible to both love your life and to love yourself. I want to help you reach that goal!
(336) 900-2859 x122 View (336) 900-2859 x122
Photo of Matthew Owen Sixberry, LMFT, CCTP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Matthew Owen Sixberry
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27408
If you are struggling in your relationships, with the effects of trauma, or experiencing other issues, please contact me.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist and I earned my degree from Amridge University. I have extensive experience in working with children, adolescents, and their families to achieve wellness and balance within the family unit. I enjoy working with couples in marital and premarital therapy along with blended families. I am a veteran with 8 years in the US. Army and I understand the difficulties of transitioning to civilian life. In addition, I have worked for 20+ years in the corporate environment and I am acutely aware of the stress of the working environment, job loss, and transition to a new career.
If you are struggling in your relationships, with the effects of trauma, or experiencing other issues, please contact me.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist and I earned my degree from Amridge University. I have extensive experience in working with children, adolescents, and their families to achieve wellness and balance within the family unit. I enjoy working with couples in marital and premarital therapy along with blended families. I am a veteran with 8 years in the US. Army and I understand the difficulties of transitioning to civilian life. In addition, I have worked for 20+ years in the corporate environment and I am acutely aware of the stress of the working environment, job loss, and transition to a new career.
(336) 715-3056 View (336) 715-3056
Photo of Niah Singletary, LCMHCA, CRC, MA, Counselor
Niah Singletary
Counselor, LCMHCA, CRC, MA
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27409  (Online Only)
Hello my Name is Niah and I am a doctoral candidate pursuing a degree in counselor education and counselor supervision with about seven years of experiences in human services. Therapy with me looks like a trauma-informed, solution-focused, collaborative process. This means that I believe in working together to help you heal in a way that considers your life experiences, aspirations, and goals to achieve your mental wellness. I am a huge advocate of adult play therapy, creative expression, mindfulness and centering joy in your healing process.
Hello my Name is Niah and I am a doctoral candidate pursuing a degree in counselor education and counselor supervision with about seven years of experiences in human services. Therapy with me looks like a trauma-informed, solution-focused, collaborative process. This means that I believe in working together to help you heal in a way that considers your life experiences, aspirations, and goals to achieve your mental wellness. I am a huge advocate of adult play therapy, creative expression, mindfulness and centering joy in your healing process.
(336) 872-0951 View (336) 872-0951
Photo of Kimberly Miller, MS, LCMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kimberly Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27410
I also have had specialized training in adult and childhood trauma, as a TFCBT and CPT provider, and yoga for mental health.
I believe counseling is a collaborative process in which we work together to find solutions so you can return to a full and authentic life. By providing an open/accepting environment, you will have a safe space to transform challenges into opportunities for growth and learning. I have over 20 years of experience supporting and helping people struggling with a variety of concerns including such things like anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/loss, coping skills, life transitions, self-esteem, chronic stress, and abuse.
I also have had specialized training in adult and childhood trauma, as a TFCBT and CPT provider, and yoga for mental health.
I believe counseling is a collaborative process in which we work together to find solutions so you can return to a full and authentic life. By providing an open/accepting environment, you will have a safe space to transform challenges into opportunities for growth and learning. I have over 20 years of experience supporting and helping people struggling with a variety of concerns including such things like anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/loss, coping skills, life transitions, self-esteem, chronic stress, and abuse.
(336) 697-6100 View (336) 697-6100
Photo of Ednalyn King Hurley, MS, NCC, LCMHC, LCMHCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ednalyn King Hurley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LCMHC, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27406  (Online Only)
I treat a variety of mental health challenges to include :Borderline Personality Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Anxiety, and Schizophrenia.
The individuals I work with are psychologically healthy and can learn to think and decide for themselves. Due to stress, grief, anger ,anxiety,fear etc. they may need the aid of someone to guide them toward making positive change in their lives or setting goals for a new direction in life .I enjoy serving a diverse group of people , however specialties include working with women issues such as single parents, domestic violence, and animal assisted therapy.
I treat a variety of mental health challenges to include :Borderline Personality Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Anxiety, and Schizophrenia.
The individuals I work with are psychologically healthy and can learn to think and decide for themselves. Due to stress, grief, anger ,anxiety,fear etc. they may need the aid of someone to guide them toward making positive change in their lives or setting goals for a new direction in life .I enjoy serving a diverse group of people , however specialties include working with women issues such as single parents, domestic violence, and animal assisted therapy.
(336) 645-3276 View (336) 645-3276
Photo of Jacquena L McIver, LCSWA, MSW, REIKI, OWNER, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jacquena L McIver
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA, MSW, REIKI, OWNER
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27405
Contact The Queens Healing Touch Therapy and Reiki, PLLC and allow us to help you heal from trauma and live a life full of hope and inspiration! With the help of our Counseling and Reiki services! Begin Your Journey to a Better YOU Today!.
Like the mythical Phoenix which arises anew from its ashes, we each have the capacity to survive, and emerge stronger from difficulties, life circumstances, personal and professional setbacks and tragedy. I'm the owner of TQHT Therapy & Reiki, PLLC a Therapist, Reiki Master Teacher and Life Coach, with experience and training. I have worked effectively with adolescents, college students, adults, families, teen mothers and survivors of domestic abuse; addressing issues inclusive of depression and anxiety, trauma, parent-child conflict, emotional/behavioral disruptions, life and career transitions, gender, sexuality, and spirituality.
Contact The Queens Healing Touch Therapy and Reiki, PLLC and allow us to help you heal from trauma and live a life full of hope and inspiration! With the help of our Counseling and Reiki services! Begin Your Journey to a Better YOU Today!.
Like the mythical Phoenix which arises anew from its ashes, we each have the capacity to survive, and emerge stronger from difficulties, life circumstances, personal and professional setbacks and tragedy. I'm the owner of TQHT Therapy & Reiki, PLLC a Therapist, Reiki Master Teacher and Life Coach, with experience and training. I have worked effectively with adolescents, college students, adults, families, teen mothers and survivors of domestic abuse; addressing issues inclusive of depression and anxiety, trauma, parent-child conflict, emotional/behavioral disruptions, life and career transitions, gender, sexuality, and spirituality.
(336) 361-1976 View (336) 361-1976
Photo of Patricia Garrett Fearing, LPCC, RPT, LCMHC, LPC, Counselor
Patricia Garrett Fearing
Counselor, LPCC, RPT, LCMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27406  (Online Only)
I will help you or your child/teen take the time to process their trauma through virtual play therapy, EMDR and trauma informed talk therapy.
Have you ever wondered if an event in your life could have affected your child or teen? Is your child or teen suddenly struggling with getting in trouble, isolation, depression and anxiety? Have you had experiences of childhood trauma that are still impacting you today? Does the future feel cloudy with memories of trauma from the past? I help children, teens, college students and millennial adults work through trauma and dive into the vision of their future self in NC, GA and KY.
I will help you or your child/teen take the time to process their trauma through virtual play therapy, EMDR and trauma informed talk therapy.
Have you ever wondered if an event in your life could have affected your child or teen? Is your child or teen suddenly struggling with getting in trouble, isolation, depression and anxiety? Have you had experiences of childhood trauma that are still impacting you today? Does the future feel cloudy with memories of trauma from the past? I help children, teens, college students and millennial adults work through trauma and dive into the vision of their future self in NC, GA and KY.
(859) 217-4876 View (859) 217-4876
Photo of Ashley McIntyre, LCSWA, MSW
Ashley McIntyre
LCSW Associate , LCSWA, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27401
Using somatic & trauma-informed approaches, I support clients in honing positive coping skills & empower them to take charge of their healing journey.
I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ individuals, those who are neurodivergent, and individuals dealing with addictions, substance use, trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, stress, self-esteem issues, and body positivity. My goal is to support and guide clients as they navigate their life challenges, nurturing resilience and encouraging holistic well-being.
Using somatic & trauma-informed approaches, I support clients in honing positive coping skills & empower them to take charge of their healing journey.
I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ individuals, those who are neurodivergent, and individuals dealing with addictions, substance use, trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, stress, self-esteem issues, and body positivity. My goal is to support and guide clients as they navigate their life challenges, nurturing resilience and encouraging holistic well-being.
(336) 815-4123 View (336) 815-4123
Photo of Jenna Amundson Moss, MSW, LCSWA
Jenna Amundson Moss
LCSW Associate, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27415  (Online Only)
I focus on trauma informed, person-centered, multicultural, and psychodynamic treatment, and have additional training and experience using EMDR.
Are negative, past experiences or relationships weighing you down? Traumatic experiences, still impacting you, could be contributing to a feeling of being disconnected, stuck, heavy, exhausted, reactive, anxious, or depressed. If this sounds like you, I am here to support you in exploring your past, being more present, and moving into a more hopeful place for your future.
I focus on trauma informed, person-centered, multicultural, and psychodynamic treatment, and have additional training and experience using EMDR.
Are negative, past experiences or relationships weighing you down? Traumatic experiences, still impacting you, could be contributing to a feeling of being disconnected, stuck, heavy, exhausted, reactive, anxious, or depressed. If this sounds like you, I am here to support you in exploring your past, being more present, and moving into a more hopeful place for your future.
(336) 920-7991 View (336) 920-7991
Photo of Asante McCoy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Asante McCoy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27410
Asanté McCoy is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has worked with people dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, self-esteem problems, grief, trauma, work problems, physical health problems, and relationship problems. Mental health has been Asanté's passion since childhood. She is specifically passionate about working with adolescents, young adults, and middle-aged adults. She enjoys working with clients who have a desire for change.
Asanté McCoy is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has worked with people dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, self-esteem problems, grief, trauma, work problems, physical health problems, and relationship problems. Mental health has been Asanté's passion since childhood. She is specifically passionate about working with adolescents, young adults, and middle-aged adults. She enjoys working with clients who have a desire for change.
(336) 438-2825 View (336) 438-2825
Photo of Celeste Allen, LCMHCA, MEd
Celeste Allen
LCMHCA, MEd
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27410  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with adult individuals, couples, and other relationship structures using somatic, trauma-informed and attachment-based approaches.
Are you feeling stuck despite your efforts to overcome life's challenges? Do you find the same issues resurfacing, hindering your progress? Struggling to set boundaries while maintaining connections in your relationships? Despite your accomplishments, do you feel trapped in old patterns that lead to hurt, frustration, or unhappiness? What may feel like personal shortcomings is often your body’s response to past trauma- a profound intelligence signaling the need for acknowledgment and healing.
I specialize in working with adult individuals, couples, and other relationship structures using somatic, trauma-informed and attachment-based approaches.
Are you feeling stuck despite your efforts to overcome life's challenges? Do you find the same issues resurfacing, hindering your progress? Struggling to set boundaries while maintaining connections in your relationships? Despite your accomplishments, do you feel trapped in old patterns that lead to hurt, frustration, or unhappiness? What may feel like personal shortcomings is often your body’s response to past trauma- a profound intelligence signaling the need for acknowledgment and healing.
(336) 344-7137 View (336) 344-7137
Photo of Conny Wulff - Conny Wulff, MSW, LCSW, PLLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Conny Wulff, MSW, LCSW, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27401
Formal training in both child and adult trauma models helps me address concerns such as stress, emotional stability, and physical health.
Ideal clients will understand they are the expert in their own lives; I am merely here to walk alongside them in their journey. Common issues include previous trauma (e.g. sexual abuse, interpersonal violence), anxiety, depression, and chronic stress. Goals range from decreasing levels of anxiety and depression to eliminating intrusive traumatic memories and nightmares. Coming to therapy without a "real" goal is absolutely okay too! We can work together to figure out what is realistic for your circumstances.
Formal training in both child and adult trauma models helps me address concerns such as stress, emotional stability, and physical health.
Ideal clients will understand they are the expert in their own lives; I am merely here to walk alongside them in their journey. Common issues include previous trauma (e.g. sexual abuse, interpersonal violence), anxiety, depression, and chronic stress. Goals range from decreasing levels of anxiety and depression to eliminating intrusive traumatic memories and nightmares. Coming to therapy without a "real" goal is absolutely okay too! We can work together to figure out what is realistic for your circumstances.
(336) 698-3687 View (336) 698-3687
Photo of Latasha Carter - GoldStar Counseling and Wellness Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
GoldStar Counseling and Wellness Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27408
GoldStar Counseling & Wellness Center provides client-centered, therapeutic services for individuals seeking constructive solutions to regain daily, emotional stability. Key areas of focus are: sexual, emotional and physical abuse, childhood/adult trauma, depression, grief and loss, anxiety, anger management, relational problems, PTSD in addition to substance abuse and other addictions. GoldStar Counseling & Wellness Center prides itself in providing a safe, welcoming environment for clients to engage in non-judgmental conversations under the trusted guidance of our licensed therapists. Clients have the benefit of exploring both our coaching and counseling services to ensure the most effective results. Ultimately, we listen to and assess each client’s needs based on their unique set of experiences and desired goals, to provide them with the most appropriate pathway for progress. Located in the Piedmont Triad area of North Carolina, GoldStar Counseling & Wellness Center is proud to serve clients in the Greensboro, High Point, Winston Salem, Charlotte, RTP, and surrounding areas.
GoldStar Counseling & Wellness Center provides client-centered, therapeutic services for individuals seeking constructive solutions to regain daily, emotional stability. Key areas of focus are: sexual, emotional and physical abuse, childhood/adult trauma, depression, grief and loss, anxiety, anger management, relational problems, PTSD in addition to substance abuse and other addictions. GoldStar Counseling & Wellness Center prides itself in providing a safe, welcoming environment for clients to engage in non-judgmental conversations under the trusted guidance of our licensed therapists. Clients have the benefit of exploring both our coaching and counseling services to ensure the most effective results. Ultimately, we listen to and assess each client’s needs based on their unique set of experiences and desired goals, to provide them with the most appropriate pathway for progress. Located in the Piedmont Triad area of North Carolina, GoldStar Counseling & Wellness Center is proud to serve clients in the Greensboro, High Point, Winston Salem, Charlotte, RTP, and surrounding areas.
(336) 948-8879 View (336) 948-8879
Photo of Laura A Wulff, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura A Wulff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27410
We will work together to explore trauma, mental health issues, and life stressors factoring into your current situation.
It can be overwhelming to navigate life on your own. While it may be scary, going to therapy can help you feel supported as you journey through the difficulties that life can present. I appreciate those who are willing to overcome their fears and allow me the honor of being a part of your story, helping you to navigate the obstacles.
We will work together to explore trauma, mental health issues, and life stressors factoring into your current situation.
It can be overwhelming to navigate life on your own. While it may be scary, going to therapy can help you feel supported as you journey through the difficulties that life can present. I appreciate those who are willing to overcome their fears and allow me the honor of being a part of your story, helping you to navigate the obstacles.
(336) 272-8090 View (336) 272-8090
Photo of April Fjeld, MEd, MA, LCMHC-A, NCC, Counselor
April Fjeld
Counselor, MEd, MA, LCMHC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27410
Life is hard. Are you like 2018 me-always giving & doing for others, while putting yourself last? Ready to snap if one more person suggests self-care as the magic cure & all you need (oh thank you friend, if only I had taken a bubble bath..)? Counseling may have been an idea for a while, but just taking the next step feels exhausting? You've heard things like "work through your problems & past," but you have no clue what that looks like? I thought putting trauma in a box was me working through it. From the outside it appeared like I had it all together, until I didn't. You are not meant to carry this weight alone.
Life is hard. Are you like 2018 me-always giving & doing for others, while putting yourself last? Ready to snap if one more person suggests self-care as the magic cure & all you need (oh thank you friend, if only I had taken a bubble bath..)? Counseling may have been an idea for a while, but just taking the next step feels exhausting? You've heard things like "work through your problems & past," but you have no clue what that looks like? I thought putting trauma in a box was me working through it. From the outside it appeared like I had it all together, until I didn't. You are not meant to carry this weight alone.
(336) 439-1964 View (336) 439-1964
Photo of Renee Heagney, LCMHC, NCC, BC-DMT
Renee Heagney
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, BC-DMT
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27410
Hi, my name is Renee Heagney, LCMHC. I earned my degree in Dance/Movement Therapy from Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, NY. I am a licensed clinical mental health counselor and board certified dance/movement therapist. I also have training in adaptive yoga interventions. My work experience has been in hospitals, schools, and community mental health settings. I am rostered to provide TF-CBT, and specialize in treating trauma and working with and advocating for the LGBTQIA+ community.
Hi, my name is Renee Heagney, LCMHC. I earned my degree in Dance/Movement Therapy from Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, NY. I am a licensed clinical mental health counselor and board certified dance/movement therapist. I also have training in adaptive yoga interventions. My work experience has been in hospitals, schools, and community mental health settings. I am rostered to provide TF-CBT, and specialize in treating trauma and working with and advocating for the LGBTQIA+ community.
(336) 344-9635 View (336) 344-9635
Photo of Paula B Salmon, MA, NCC, LCMHC
Paula B Salmon
MA, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27401
I come with knowledge from formal education, extra training in trauma, and wisdom that can only come from my own life experiences.
At the heart of every successful therapy experience, is a genuine connection and trust between client and counselor. The very first step in healing and recovery, is finding someone with whom you feel safe opening up, someone who you feel sincerely cares about your life, and someone who can and wants to understand exactly what you are going through.
I come with knowledge from formal education, extra training in trauma, and wisdom that can only come from my own life experiences.
At the heart of every successful therapy experience, is a genuine connection and trust between client and counselor. The very first step in healing and recovery, is finding someone with whom you feel safe opening up, someone who you feel sincerely cares about your life, and someone who can and wants to understand exactly what you are going through.
(336) 542-2239 View (336) 542-2239
Photo of Ansley Hayes, LCMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ansley Hayes
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27408
If you're feeling overwhelmed by anxiety from past trauma, trying to get enough sleep, remember meals, and handle work, school, and home tasks can be a real struggle.
Life is exhausting for anxious trauma survivors. Even when you bust your ass to stabilize your life, you spend hours worrying about and planning for an uncertain future. Despite leaving home and finding your people, you still get stuck in painful memories from the past. You expect life to be hard, because, for you, it has been. You long for more ease, connection, and joy. At the very least, you want to sleep better, to take breaks from your responsibilities, and to feel a little better about your body. You’re tired of struggling through your day. You dream of a life that doesn't need constant fixing—a life that lets you truly rest.
If you're feeling overwhelmed by anxiety from past trauma, trying to get enough sleep, remember meals, and handle work, school, and home tasks can be a real struggle.
Life is exhausting for anxious trauma survivors. Even when you bust your ass to stabilize your life, you spend hours worrying about and planning for an uncertain future. Despite leaving home and finding your people, you still get stuck in painful memories from the past. You expect life to be hard, because, for you, it has been. You long for more ease, connection, and joy. At the very least, you want to sleep better, to take breaks from your responsibilities, and to feel a little better about your body. You’re tired of struggling through your day. You dream of a life that doesn't need constant fixing—a life that lets you truly rest.
(336) 337-5469 View (336) 337-5469
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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.