Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Salem, OR

Photo of Lucas Pitman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Salem, OR
Lucas Pitman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97301
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience in working with depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, anger, trauma, grief, personality disorders, relationship difficulties and employment struggles.
Are you ready to find the keys which will unlock the doors to your better life? Whether you are depressed, anxious or trying to make sense of difficult and traumatic past events, we will work together to find solutions in a safe, welcoming environment.
I have experience in working with depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, anger, trauma, grief, personality disorders, relationship difficulties and employment struggles.
Are you ready to find the keys which will unlock the doors to your better life? Whether you are depressed, anxious or trying to make sense of difficult and traumatic past events, we will work together to find solutions in a safe, welcoming environment.
(971) 703-5221 View (971) 703-5221
Photo of Kerry Moyer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Salem, OR
Kerry Moyer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97301
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in relational traumas (abuse, neglect, loss), PTSD, anxiety, depression, and attachment challenges.
My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe and non judgmental environment in which one can develop insight, build healthy relationships, and accomplish desired goals. I see counseling as a collaborative process and my eclectic approach to therapy is tailored to meet your needs. I have over 15 years experience working with teens, children, adults, and families.
I specialize in relational traumas (abuse, neglect, loss), PTSD, anxiety, depression, and attachment challenges.
My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe and non judgmental environment in which one can develop insight, build healthy relationships, and accomplish desired goals. I see counseling as a collaborative process and my eclectic approach to therapy is tailored to meet your needs. I have over 15 years experience working with teens, children, adults, and families.
(503) 536-1057 View (503) 536-1057
Photo of Don Erickson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Salem, OR
Don Erickson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97301  (Online Only)
This method is affective with very little time spent reviewing the traumatic events or history, which often deepens trauma rather than relieving it.
I am accepting new clients though currently only in teletherapy. At this point in my counseling career, I’m increasingly focusing trauma and toxic stress and the ways it often shows up as depression, anxiety, sadness or sometimes a loss of a clear sense of who we are. Some people describe recalling feeling joy, excitement, or self-confidence that they rarely if ever feel now. The folks I’ve been working with have been finding my approach to somatic therapy coupled with simple mindfulness and physical awareness skills very helpful or even transformative in terms of regaining their sense of self and feelings of satisfaction.
This method is affective with very little time spent reviewing the traumatic events or history, which often deepens trauma rather than relieving it.
I am accepting new clients though currently only in teletherapy. At this point in my counseling career, I’m increasingly focusing trauma and toxic stress and the ways it often shows up as depression, anxiety, sadness or sometimes a loss of a clear sense of who we are. Some people describe recalling feeling joy, excitement, or self-confidence that they rarely if ever feel now. The folks I’ve been working with have been finding my approach to somatic therapy coupled with simple mindfulness and physical awareness skills very helpful or even transformative in terms of regaining their sense of self and feelings of satisfaction.
(541) 359-3373 View (541) 359-3373
Photo of Olga Leonova, Licensed Professional Counselor in Salem, OR
Olga Leonova
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, S-PSB
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97301
Since I started my work as a therapist, I have been helping my clients heal from trauma, sexual addiction, and the life impacts of other problematic sexual behaviors and choices they have made that led them to feel shame, anxiety and depression. Through my training and experience working with clients I have become aware that the ways we as a society often respond to people who have suffered traumatic experiences are not always supportive to the recovery process.
Since I started my work as a therapist, I have been helping my clients heal from trauma, sexual addiction, and the life impacts of other problematic sexual behaviors and choices they have made that led them to feel shame, anxiety and depression. Through my training and experience working with clients I have become aware that the ways we as a society often respond to people who have suffered traumatic experiences are not always supportive to the recovery process.
(971) 273-5321 View (971) 273-5321
Photo of Sharon Cooper-Barth, Professional Counselor Associate in Salem, OR
Sharon Cooper-Barth
Professional Counselor Associate, MS
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97306  (Online Only)
I specialize in domestic abuse, sexual abuse, and trauma.
Abuse is something that affects a lot of people and in various different ways. It is something that can be hidden from the world and no one will know the pain the individual is going through. It is quiet and insidious, leaving lasting effects. It can creep up on you and make you feel alone in the world full of people. It can leave you feeling misunderstood, alone, and/or broken. There are ways to work through the trauma, safeguard yourself, and heal from parts of the abuse. You will rebuild yourself esteem, sense of self, and confidence in the process of healing. Everyone's journey is different.
I specialize in domestic abuse, sexual abuse, and trauma.
Abuse is something that affects a lot of people and in various different ways. It is something that can be hidden from the world and no one will know the pain the individual is going through. It is quiet and insidious, leaving lasting effects. It can creep up on you and make you feel alone in the world full of people. It can leave you feeling misunderstood, alone, and/or broken. There are ways to work through the trauma, safeguard yourself, and heal from parts of the abuse. You will rebuild yourself esteem, sense of self, and confidence in the process of healing. Everyone's journey is different.
(503) 308-7365 View (503) 308-7365
Photo of Tyler Case, Licensed Professional Counselor in Salem, OR
Tyler Case
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CADC II
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97301
We have advanced training and experience in working with people with anxiety, depression, trauma, personality disorders, EMDR, Expressive Art, and addictions of all kinds.
No one makes it through life without picking up stuff that weighs us down or holds us back. Counseling gives us the chance to examine why we're carrying this stuff around and how to let go of it. By using Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy along with a mixture of therapeutic styles, we will work together to uncover the thoughts and beliefs that drive your emotions and behaviors so that you can move forward in your life with confidence. My associates and I work with adults of all ages and with any level of mental health goals or concerns.
We have advanced training and experience in working with people with anxiety, depression, trauma, personality disorders, EMDR, Expressive Art, and addictions of all kinds.
No one makes it through life without picking up stuff that weighs us down or holds us back. Counseling gives us the chance to examine why we're carrying this stuff around and how to let go of it. By using Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy along with a mixture of therapeutic styles, we will work together to uncover the thoughts and beliefs that drive your emotions and behaviors so that you can move forward in your life with confidence. My associates and I work with adults of all ages and with any level of mental health goals or concerns.
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Photo of Enlighten Counseling and Consulting, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Salem, OR
Enlighten Counseling and Consulting, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CRC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97304
I offer professionals in the helping and healing fields an opportunity to do their own personal work using Existential-Humanistic Counseling theory and approach, the tools and skills from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and methods of treating trauma from EMDR.
Accepting new clients both in person and telehealth - Are you someone who is looking to make changes in your current way of being? Hoping to unlock patterns that have kept you stuck? Looking to live a life of meaning? I am passionate about helping others to discover more about themselves, and to live a life of freedom from past conditioning and experiences through a combination of therapeutic approaches to provide you with the tools you need for greater understanding and insight.
I offer professionals in the helping and healing fields an opportunity to do their own personal work using Existential-Humanistic Counseling theory and approach, the tools and skills from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and methods of treating trauma from EMDR.
Accepting new clients both in person and telehealth - Are you someone who is looking to make changes in your current way of being? Hoping to unlock patterns that have kept you stuck? Looking to live a life of meaning? I am passionate about helping others to discover more about themselves, and to live a life of freedom from past conditioning and experiences through a combination of therapeutic approaches to provide you with the tools you need for greater understanding and insight.
(503) 386-0388 View (503) 386-0388
Photo of Sarah Theisen, Pre-Licensed Professional in Salem, OR
Sarah Theisen
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, QMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97301
I provide non-judgmental, supportive counseling to individual adolescents ages 15 and up, and adults who might be experiencing symptoms related to anxiety, depression, difficulty with life transitions, stress, and trauma. We all experience both tranquility and turmoil throughout our lives at different times. As we grow and learn through these experiences reaching out for help is a powerful thing that can help you regain control of your life at a time when you might feel lost. With my compassion, active listening skills, and empathetic approach to counseling my goal is that I can help guide you to regain that control.
I provide non-judgmental, supportive counseling to individual adolescents ages 15 and up, and adults who might be experiencing symptoms related to anxiety, depression, difficulty with life transitions, stress, and trauma. We all experience both tranquility and turmoil throughout our lives at different times. As we grow and learn through these experiences reaching out for help is a powerful thing that can help you regain control of your life at a time when you might feel lost. With my compassion, active listening skills, and empathetic approach to counseling my goal is that I can help guide you to regain that control.
(503) 300-5386 View (503) 300-5386
Photo of Anne Cummings, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Salem, OR
Anne Cummings
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97301
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety and trauma related disorders, using a variety of effective, evidence based modalities including, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, DBT, REBT, Mind Body Bridging, Trauma Focused Therapy, EMDR and ACT.
As a supportive therapist I am dedicated to helping people achieve their goals, enabling them to make important changes in their lives to improve their relationships, reduce anxiety, stress and depression. I offer a diverse approach to therapy to meet the needs of each individual, couple or family I work with and am committed to providing the essential support, compassion and empathy that they need to restore their sense of self and improve personal happiness, self esteem and self confidence.
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety and trauma related disorders, using a variety of effective, evidence based modalities including, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, DBT, REBT, Mind Body Bridging, Trauma Focused Therapy, EMDR and ACT.
As a supportive therapist I am dedicated to helping people achieve their goals, enabling them to make important changes in their lives to improve their relationships, reduce anxiety, stress and depression. I offer a diverse approach to therapy to meet the needs of each individual, couple or family I work with and am committed to providing the essential support, compassion and empathy that they need to restore their sense of self and improve personal happiness, self esteem and self confidence.
(503) 305-4661 View (503) 305-4661
Photo of Assert Your Boundaries Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Salem, OR
Assert Your Boundaries Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97301  (Online Only)
I have experience and interest in helping individuals learn and identify strategies to manage and reduce phase of life problems, symptoms of depression, stress, anxiety, psychosis, trauma, obsessive-compulsive disorder, barriers which impact self-esteem, cycle of violence, as well as types of abuse and the long term impact of abuse.
Not Accepting Clients At This Time-My name is Pauline Botchway, and I strongly believe that, as human beings, we have the ability to change and transform our lives through choice. Since no single theory can capture our experiences as human beings, I utilize an integrated approach that allows me to use some aspects of Gestalt, Existential, and Solution Focused, as well as high utilization of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and EMDR. In addition to my community mental health, I am including private practice in my line of work. My main goal as a clinician is to help and guide individuals to change their lives to improve everyday living.
I have experience and interest in helping individuals learn and identify strategies to manage and reduce phase of life problems, symptoms of depression, stress, anxiety, psychosis, trauma, obsessive-compulsive disorder, barriers which impact self-esteem, cycle of violence, as well as types of abuse and the long term impact of abuse.
Not Accepting Clients At This Time-My name is Pauline Botchway, and I strongly believe that, as human beings, we have the ability to change and transform our lives through choice. Since no single theory can capture our experiences as human beings, I utilize an integrated approach that allows me to use some aspects of Gestalt, Existential, and Solution Focused, as well as high utilization of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and EMDR. In addition to my community mental health, I am including private practice in my line of work. My main goal as a clinician is to help and guide individuals to change their lives to improve everyday living.
(541) 648-1060 View (541) 648-1060
Radical Nest, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, IMH-E
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97301
Welcome to Radical Nest! I’m a somatic therapist working across 2 generations - adults and very young children 0-5 years old. I specialize in trauma and infant & early childhood mental health and believe in healing (particularly intergenerational healing) as a radical and courageous act. If you want to compassionately challenge patterns - whether shifting patterns held in your nervous system or parenting differently than the way you were parented, and work with a human who engages critical exploration of the broader patterns of historical and systemic trauma that got us here, you've come to the right place.
Welcome to Radical Nest! I’m a somatic therapist working across 2 generations - adults and very young children 0-5 years old. I specialize in trauma and infant & early childhood mental health and believe in healing (particularly intergenerational healing) as a radical and courageous act. If you want to compassionately challenge patterns - whether shifting patterns held in your nervous system or parenting differently than the way you were parented, and work with a human who engages critical exploration of the broader patterns of historical and systemic trauma that got us here, you've come to the right place.
(971) 273-1723 View (971) 273-1723
Photo of Evergreen Behavioral Health, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Salem, OR
Evergreen Behavioral Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97302
Evergreen Behavioral Health is a growing group practice of trauma trained clinicians located in Salem, OR. Evergreen provides counseling services that specialize not only in standard trauma treatment, but in providing therapeutic services focused on attachment trauma and breaking up the cycle of intergenerational trauma. Evergreen provides services to children, adolescents, adults and families experiencing a variety of mental health challenges. Here at Evergreen we value the experience and healing that face-to-face, in-person sessions provide. While we offer telehealth as a backup option, we encourage clients to attend in person.
Evergreen Behavioral Health is a growing group practice of trauma trained clinicians located in Salem, OR. Evergreen provides counseling services that specialize not only in standard trauma treatment, but in providing therapeutic services focused on attachment trauma and breaking up the cycle of intergenerational trauma. Evergreen provides services to children, adolescents, adults and families experiencing a variety of mental health challenges. Here at Evergreen we value the experience and healing that face-to-face, in-person sessions provide. While we offer telehealth as a backup option, we encourage clients to attend in person.
(503) 782-8257 View (503) 782-8257
Photo of Bryan Hodson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Salem, OR
Bryan Hodson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97304
Now accepting Aetna, Cigna, Optum, and Unitedhealthcare. Also Canopy/Cascade Centers EAP and Optum EAP. Accepting new clients! I have 7 years experience and specialized training to assist individuals struggling with pornography and out of control sexual behavior. I am also trained to use EMDR for clients struggling with trauma memories, PTSD, and panic attacks. I can assist clients in all other general mental health areas, including anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and conflict management.
Now accepting Aetna, Cigna, Optum, and Unitedhealthcare. Also Canopy/Cascade Centers EAP and Optum EAP. Accepting new clients! I have 7 years experience and specialized training to assist individuals struggling with pornography and out of control sexual behavior. I am also trained to use EMDR for clients struggling with trauma memories, PTSD, and panic attacks. I can assist clients in all other general mental health areas, including anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and conflict management.
(503) 925-3009 View (503) 925-3009
Photo of Neesha Roarke, Licensed Professional Counselor in Salem, OR
Neesha Roarke
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97301  (Online Only)
Youth, families, and young adults facing challenges such as communication breakdowns, behavioral concerns, anxiety, and trauma-related difficulties are looking for a safe space to express themselves, learn coping skills, improve relationships, and develop healthier patterns of interaction. I want to help clients foster resilience, enhance emotional regulations, strengthen bonds, and promote overall well-being.
Youth, families, and young adults facing challenges such as communication breakdowns, behavioral concerns, anxiety, and trauma-related difficulties are looking for a safe space to express themselves, learn coping skills, improve relationships, and develop healthier patterns of interaction. I want to help clients foster resilience, enhance emotional regulations, strengthen bonds, and promote overall well-being.
(971) 999-3266 View (971) 999-3266
Photo of Scott DeLaus Kobold, Pre-Licensed Professional in Salem, OR
Scott DeLaus Kobold
Pre-Licensed Professional, QMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97301
I specialize in helping clients from any background challenged with anxiety, depression, trauma, and chronic physical pain.
Taking New Clients! For far too long I worked in a field that gave me little to no gratification. Serendipitously, over the years I spent much of my free time volunteering for numerous causes and discovered that helping others in truly meaningful ways is the work that warms my soul. That is why I am here today offering my expertise to you. Operating from a place of compassion, my role is to gain a thorough understanding of your unique experience and how it's impacted you. I seek to identify ways I can help you alleviate harmful thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, become a happier person, and lead the life you envision.
I specialize in helping clients from any background challenged with anxiety, depression, trauma, and chronic physical pain.
Taking New Clients! For far too long I worked in a field that gave me little to no gratification. Serendipitously, over the years I spent much of my free time volunteering for numerous causes and discovered that helping others in truly meaningful ways is the work that warms my soul. That is why I am here today offering my expertise to you. Operating from a place of compassion, my role is to gain a thorough understanding of your unique experience and how it's impacted you. I seek to identify ways I can help you alleviate harmful thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, become a happier person, and lead the life you envision.
(503) 563-8818 View (503) 563-8818
Photo of Rosanne O'Connor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Salem, OR
Rosanne O'Connor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97301
It can be difficult at times to ask for help. I'm glad you have taken the first step. I am a therapist with many years experience supporting a diverse population of clients. Most recently I have been working with midlife and seniors experiencing declines in health. Before this I was a children's therapist focusing on children with disabilities, and those who have experienced trauma. I also enjoy working with individuals who have struggled with addiction as their strength is inspiring. I am a former foster/adoptive parent and enjoy supporting all members of the adoption triad. Teens and young adults are also a focus.
It can be difficult at times to ask for help. I'm glad you have taken the first step. I am a therapist with many years experience supporting a diverse population of clients. Most recently I have been working with midlife and seniors experiencing declines in health. Before this I was a children's therapist focusing on children with disabilities, and those who have experienced trauma. I also enjoy working with individuals who have struggled with addiction as their strength is inspiring. I am a former foster/adoptive parent and enjoy supporting all members of the adoption triad. Teens and young adults are also a focus.
(503) 987-3535 View (503) 987-3535
Photo of Julie O'Connor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Salem, OR
Julie O'Connor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97306  (Online Only)
Welcome! I currently work with OHP clients who reside primarily in Marion & Polk County. I am genuinely glad you are considering counseling. I have a broad range of experience working with clients across the life span from children to adults, including those in their 80's or older. I currently serve clients 16 or older. I enjoy working with a wide range of client ages and concerns including but not limited to; trauma, life transitions, grief & loss, relationship concerns and self-esteem issues. I currently work as an independent contractor for Valley Mental Health as a Certified Clinician for the Oregon Health Plan.
Welcome! I currently work with OHP clients who reside primarily in Marion & Polk County. I am genuinely glad you are considering counseling. I have a broad range of experience working with clients across the life span from children to adults, including those in their 80's or older. I currently serve clients 16 or older. I enjoy working with a wide range of client ages and concerns including but not limited to; trauma, life transitions, grief & loss, relationship concerns and self-esteem issues. I currently work as an independent contractor for Valley Mental Health as a Certified Clinician for the Oregon Health Plan.
(503) 486-4943 View (503) 486-4943
Photo of Leah Mangis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Salem, OR
Leah Mangis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97301
There is hope! Starting therapy takes a lot of courage and bravery, especially if you are wanting to heal from trauma(s). I utilize a mind-body-spirit, holistic approach to therapy. Whether this be your first time coming to therapy or you are coming back again, welcome. My approach is strength-based and client focused. I believe in order to achieve your goals, practice of coping skills is imperative. Light homework is assigned if you choose a trauma therapy or specialized treatment.
There is hope! Starting therapy takes a lot of courage and bravery, especially if you are wanting to heal from trauma(s). I utilize a mind-body-spirit, holistic approach to therapy. Whether this be your first time coming to therapy or you are coming back again, welcome. My approach is strength-based and client focused. I believe in order to achieve your goals, practice of coping skills is imperative. Light homework is assigned if you choose a trauma therapy or specialized treatment.
(503) 616-5149 View (503) 616-5149
Photo of Night Sky Therapy, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Salem, OR
Night Sky Therapy, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CADCI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97301  (Online Only)
I am passionate about providing an open, informed, and non-judgmental space for clients to decompress and learn skills around sometimes (ok, almost always) uncomfortable issues like sexuality, addiction/compulsion, recovery, postpartum stressors, and trauma.
Living in a society that is both sexually repressed and obsessed with sex is confusing at the best of times. Overwhelmingly we weren’t offered the correct information about our natural urges or bodies, and we are sometimes even shamed for asking. This can often result in low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, guilt, shame, and isolation. I can help you navigate in improving your courage, mastery, and gaining healthier boundaries (that you are worthy of!) in order to be your most genuine self. We will work together at your pace in order to identify strengths and barriers and to gain confidence in making life choices and transitions.
I am passionate about providing an open, informed, and non-judgmental space for clients to decompress and learn skills around sometimes (ok, almost always) uncomfortable issues like sexuality, addiction/compulsion, recovery, postpartum stressors, and trauma.
Living in a society that is both sexually repressed and obsessed with sex is confusing at the best of times. Overwhelmingly we weren’t offered the correct information about our natural urges or bodies, and we are sometimes even shamed for asking. This can often result in low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, guilt, shame, and isolation. I can help you navigate in improving your courage, mastery, and gaining healthier boundaries (that you are worthy of!) in order to be your most genuine self. We will work together at your pace in order to identify strengths and barriers and to gain confidence in making life choices and transitions.
(503) 854-5626 View (503) 854-5626
Photo of Shyn Childress, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Salem, OR
Shyn Childress
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97302
My vision is to empower every person who seeks help to achieve balance in their lives by offering the opportunity to access new tools and improve unwanted behaviors. I provide affordable therapeutic interventions to the adult population seeking help with depression, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, burnout (political, professional, social media, etc.) or other emotional disturbances. My experience enables me to offer effective outpatient, individualized, psychological care and provide a neutral ground for individuals and couples who are committed to working toward their goals and values.
My vision is to empower every person who seeks help to achieve balance in their lives by offering the opportunity to access new tools and improve unwanted behaviors. I provide affordable therapeutic interventions to the adult population seeking help with depression, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, burnout (political, professional, social media, etc.) or other emotional disturbances. My experience enables me to offer effective outpatient, individualized, psychological care and provide a neutral ground for individuals and couples who are committed to working toward their goals and values.
(971) 273-5313 View (971) 273-5313

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.