Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Luzerne County, PA

Deb Pavlico
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I work primarily with individuals coping with anxiety, trauma, grief & life transitions.
Sometimes life presents challenges that seem overwhelming. Emotional baggage is heavy and old belief systems can become outdated or irrelevant to who you are today. In a compassionate and objective setting we'll begin to redefine the old beliefs that may be keeping you from reaching your full potential. Whether it's a single life event, or a perpetual problem you are looking to resolve, it would be my privilege to walk with you on your journey.
I work primarily with individuals coping with anxiety, trauma, grief & life transitions.
Sometimes life presents challenges that seem overwhelming. Emotional baggage is heavy and old belief systems can become outdated or irrelevant to who you are today. In a compassionate and objective setting we'll begin to redefine the old beliefs that may be keeping you from reaching your full potential. Whether it's a single life event, or a perpetual problem you are looking to resolve, it would be my privilege to walk with you on your journey.

Danielle Dow
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LAPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilkes Barre, PA 18702
They might be grappling with anxiety, low self-esteem, or the aftermath of trauma, feeling stuck and craving a deeper connection to themselves.
I offer trauma-informed, personalized strategies, including mindful movement and intuitive eating to cultivate empowerment and self-acceptance. Whether you're facing anxiety, self-esteem issues, or trauma, I use a blend of therapeutic techniques—like motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioral strategies—to foster meaningful change.
They might be grappling with anxiety, low self-esteem, or the aftermath of trauma, feeling stuck and craving a deeper connection to themselves.
I offer trauma-informed, personalized strategies, including mindful movement and intuitive eating to cultivate empowerment and self-acceptance. Whether you're facing anxiety, self-esteem issues, or trauma, I use a blend of therapeutic techniques—like motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioral strategies—to foster meaningful change.

Sue Prushinski
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Nanticoke, PA 18634
Through the medium of teletherapy, I use multiple evidence-based methods to help those dealing with grief, loss, trauma, anxiety, depression, and school issues such as CBT, Trauma Focused-CBT, and Motivational Interviewing.
My professional goal is to make therapy affordable and meaningful. My work focuses on trauma/abuse survivors and those dealing with unresolved grief. Additionally, with 34 years of experience in the public school system, I also help adults and adolescents deal with academic, social-emotional, and career choice concerns.
Through the medium of teletherapy, I use multiple evidence-based methods to help those dealing with grief, loss, trauma, anxiety, depression, and school issues such as CBT, Trauma Focused-CBT, and Motivational Interviewing.
My professional goal is to make therapy affordable and meaningful. My work focuses on trauma/abuse survivors and those dealing with unresolved grief. Additionally, with 34 years of experience in the public school system, I also help adults and adolescents deal with academic, social-emotional, and career choice concerns.

Together, we will address symptom management, occupational and educational issues, interpersonal conflicts, self-esteem, trauma, grief, and goal setting.
In my social work experience, my approach is client directed. Together, we work on empathetic listening, validation, challenging thoughts, developing new coping skills, enhancing existing skills, strength building, emotional intelligence development, and self-awareness skills.
Together, we will address symptom management, occupational and educational issues, interpersonal conflicts, self-esteem, trauma, grief, and goal setting.
In my social work experience, my approach is client directed. Together, we work on empathetic listening, validation, challenging thoughts, developing new coping skills, enhancing existing skills, strength building, emotional intelligence development, and self-awareness skills.

Matthew DeBiase
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Shavertown, PA 18708
Brighter Visions Counseling, "A brighter vision for tomorrow". Providing specialized training in working with individuals, groups and the community. To help improve mental health by discussing emotions and experiences that provides focus driven solutions to your problems!
Brighter Visions Counseling, "A brighter vision for tomorrow". Providing specialized training in working with individuals, groups and the community. To help improve mental health by discussing emotions and experiences that provides focus driven solutions to your problems!

Tiffany McCary
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mountain Top, PA 18707
I specialize in trauma-focused care, utilizing EMDR and TF-CBT to help individuals process and navigate difficult experiences.
Seeking therapy can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. I strive to create a warm, inviting, and safe space where you feel heard and supported. I work from a person-centered approach, meaning I tailor therapy to your unique needs, empowering you to heal and grow at your own pace.
I specialize in trauma-focused care, utilizing EMDR and TF-CBT to help individuals process and navigate difficult experiences.
Seeking therapy can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. I strive to create a warm, inviting, and safe space where you feel heard and supported. I work from a person-centered approach, meaning I tailor therapy to your unique needs, empowering you to heal and grow at your own pace.

Specializing in Relationship Therapy, Depression/Anxiety, Trauma, and Stress Management.
Telehealth only (video or phone). Stay comfortable in your own space while we meet in my virtual office.
Specializing in Relationship Therapy, Depression/Anxiety, Trauma, and Stress Management.
Telehealth only (video or phone). Stay comfortable in your own space while we meet in my virtual office.

Rob Werner at Unizon Mental Health Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, M Ed, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glen Lyon, PA 18617
I specialize in helping clients who have experienced trauma as well as those dealing with depression, anxiety, and ADHD.
Rob Werner is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who blends a variety of therapeutic approaches to help individuals navigate life’s challenges. He received his Master’s in Counseling Psychology from Temple University in 2015. He has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in a multitude of settings. He utilizes practices from somatic therapies, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to create a holistic, client-centered approach. Rob also incorporates mindfulness techniques and creative activities,
I specialize in helping clients who have experienced trauma as well as those dealing with depression, anxiety, and ADHD.
Rob Werner is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who blends a variety of therapeutic approaches to help individuals navigate life’s challenges. He received his Master’s in Counseling Psychology from Temple University in 2015. He has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in a multitude of settings. He utilizes practices from somatic therapies, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to create a holistic, client-centered approach. Rob also incorporates mindfulness techniques and creative activities,

Hope Krashnak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kingston, PA 18704
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with clinical focuses on working with trauma, anxiety disorders, gender exploration, identity issues, and sexuality/sexual orientation.
It is a brave decision to choose to be an agent for change and make this step to start treatment. Having a safe place and a person to speak with about the concerns you are having is extremely important. As someone with a trauma informed approach, I am passionate about providing that space, and will collaborate with you by supporting you in your recovery.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with clinical focuses on working with trauma, anxiety disorders, gender exploration, identity issues, and sexuality/sexual orientation.
It is a brave decision to choose to be an agent for change and make this step to start treatment. Having a safe place and a person to speak with about the concerns you are having is extremely important. As someone with a trauma informed approach, I am passionate about providing that space, and will collaborate with you by supporting you in your recovery.

Ciaruffoli Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kingston, PA 18704
I have experience working with individuals suffering from trauma, anxiety, depression, and LGBTQ+ issues.
I provide clients with a safe environment to open up about their problems. I help clients explore how the past can influence the present and identify ways to disrupt negative thinking/behaviors. While I offer feedback in sessions, my role is not to dispense advice. My goal is for clients to identify their own solutions.
I have experience working with individuals suffering from trauma, anxiety, depression, and LGBTQ+ issues.
I provide clients with a safe environment to open up about their problems. I help clients explore how the past can influence the present and identify ways to disrupt negative thinking/behaviors. While I offer feedback in sessions, my role is not to dispense advice. My goal is for clients to identify their own solutions.

I work with individuals struggling with PTSD/C- PTSD, trauma, and all the crap that comes from those.
I see virtual clients in PA, NJ, and SC. I offer EMDR therapy and I am working on certification in EMDR, I continue extensive trauma trainings to ensure I am up to date on the information needed to best help you, I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) and take a somatic approach.
I work with individuals struggling with PTSD/C- PTSD, trauma, and all the crap that comes from those.
I see virtual clients in PA, NJ, and SC. I offer EMDR therapy and I am working on certification in EMDR, I continue extensive trauma trainings to ensure I am up to date on the information needed to best help you, I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) and take a somatic approach.
Meet Our Trauma and PTSD Therapists

George Mercurio
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kingston, PA 18704
Maybe there is past trauma, addiction, self-doubt, anger, depression or anxiety making this path hard for you to find.
I have close to 10 years experience working with clients with a broad array of symptoms. I specialize in trauma and I am trained in EMDR, as well as a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC). I use an approach of CBT, EMDR, and Solution-Focused Therapy to help you process your trauma, overcome negative thinking, and lead a more fulfilling life.
Maybe there is past trauma, addiction, self-doubt, anger, depression or anxiety making this path hard for you to find.
I have close to 10 years experience working with clients with a broad array of symptoms. I specialize in trauma and I am trained in EMDR, as well as a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC). I use an approach of CBT, EMDR, and Solution-Focused Therapy to help you process your trauma, overcome negative thinking, and lead a more fulfilling life.

I have almost 10 years experience working with teens & adults who are struggling with issues such as substance use, depression, anxiety & past trauma.
I strongly believe that our pasts influence how we feel in the present. Together we can work to process some of the trauma that you have experienced to relieve the depression, anxiety or substance abuse that have been hindering the way you approach your future.
I have almost 10 years experience working with teens & adults who are struggling with issues such as substance use, depression, anxiety & past trauma.
I strongly believe that our pasts influence how we feel in the present. Together we can work to process some of the trauma that you have experienced to relieve the depression, anxiety or substance abuse that have been hindering the way you approach your future.

I’ve worked with a variety of clients that have experienced anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, codependency, PTSD, substance abuse/addiction, anger management, marital/relationship issues, grief and loss, trauma & abuse, stress management and OCD.
In my experience, all of us will ultimately experience problems that seem to overwhelm our normal abilities to cope. Life is hard and we need outlets to process those difficult times.
I’ve worked with a variety of clients that have experienced anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, codependency, PTSD, substance abuse/addiction, anger management, marital/relationship issues, grief and loss, trauma & abuse, stress management and OCD.
In my experience, all of us will ultimately experience problems that seem to overwhelm our normal abilities to cope. Life is hard and we need outlets to process those difficult times.

Sara L Grier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
"The therapeutic relationship-when supportive, insightful, and empathetic-is the greatest tool in the healing process." Sara Grier is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Behavioral Specialist Consultant with 15+ years of experience in the mental health field and counseling. Sara's counseling and psychotherapy experience includes sexual abuse (both offender and victim) and processing the painful effects of trauma. Her experience includes disorders of mood, anxiety, depression, adjustment, and personality in both adults and children. Sara is currently licensed in both Pennsylvania(LCSW) and Ohio(LSW).
"The therapeutic relationship-when supportive, insightful, and empathetic-is the greatest tool in the healing process." Sara Grier is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Behavioral Specialist Consultant with 15+ years of experience in the mental health field and counseling. Sara's counseling and psychotherapy experience includes sexual abuse (both offender and victim) and processing the painful effects of trauma. Her experience includes disorders of mood, anxiety, depression, adjustment, and personality in both adults and children. Sara is currently licensed in both Pennsylvania(LCSW) and Ohio(LSW).

Hollie Browning Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Kingston, PA 18704
I have experience in the treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma, oncology and resilience counseling, grief counseling, addictions counseling, co-occurring disorders and other severe mental health disorders, as well as personality disorders, couples therapy, and group therapy.
I believe life is about evolving and becoming a better version of the person we were yesterday. Telling our story is the most beautiful part of that process. I would like to help you to gain insight through exploration that increases your self-awareness and helps you make positive changes in your life.
I have experience in the treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma, oncology and resilience counseling, grief counseling, addictions counseling, co-occurring disorders and other severe mental health disorders, as well as personality disorders, couples therapy, and group therapy.
I believe life is about evolving and becoming a better version of the person we were yesterday. Telling our story is the most beautiful part of that process. I would like to help you to gain insight through exploration that increases your self-awareness and helps you make positive changes in your life.

In addition, I have spent a significant amount of time treating trauma-related disorders.
It is essential for the client to feel safe upon entering counseling and throughout their course of treatment. I have come to believe that treatment is about increasing one’s connection with the present, while seeking solutions, rather than being stuck in one’s past. My goal with any client is to work with them, so that they can feel part of the treatment process.
In addition, I have spent a significant amount of time treating trauma-related disorders.
It is essential for the client to feel safe upon entering counseling and throughout their course of treatment. I have come to believe that treatment is about increasing one’s connection with the present, while seeking solutions, rather than being stuck in one’s past. My goal with any client is to work with them, so that they can feel part of the treatment process.

Shannon Otto
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I am a certified trauma therapist and am trained in various trauma approaches.
Areas of specialty: Trauma ( PTSD), Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders, Stress Management, Self-Esteem, Peer Relationships/Social Skills, Career Development, Coping with Illness, Caregiver Strain, Transitional Life Periods, Grief and Bereavement, ADHD, Relationship Issues, Couple's Therapy, Family Therapy
I am a certified trauma therapist and am trained in various trauma approaches.
Areas of specialty: Trauma ( PTSD), Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders, Stress Management, Self-Esteem, Peer Relationships/Social Skills, Career Development, Coping with Illness, Caregiver Strain, Transitional Life Periods, Grief and Bereavement, ADHD, Relationship Issues, Couple's Therapy, Family Therapy

Our specialties and interests include: Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), trauma resolution, pain management, testing and assessment, interpersonal issues, GLBTQ issues, women's issues, sexual issues, substance abuse and recovery, marital and family issues, childhood disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and personal growth.
I have worked to create an integrated, evidence-based, and holistic group practice where my vision of the ideal environment for growth can unfold. The associates in the practice have diverse backgrounds, interests, and training. No matter what problem or difficulty with which you present, someone in our group can assist you. We have cultivated an environment of peace, warmth, and acceptance to assure you will be respected, unconditionally.
Our specialties and interests include: Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), trauma resolution, pain management, testing and assessment, interpersonal issues, GLBTQ issues, women's issues, sexual issues, substance abuse and recovery, marital and family issues, childhood disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and personal growth.
I have worked to create an integrated, evidence-based, and holistic group practice where my vision of the ideal environment for growth can unfold. The associates in the practice have diverse backgrounds, interests, and training. No matter what problem or difficulty with which you present, someone in our group can assist you. We have cultivated an environment of peace, warmth, and acceptance to assure you will be respected, unconditionally.

I specialize in trauma, personality disorders, addiction disorders, LGBTQIA+ issues, body positivity, HIV/AIDS, forensic issues, immigrant/refugee issues, women's issues, and civil rights/social justice.
My ideal client is ready to do the work. Healing and growth can be messy and painful at times, but it's so worthwhile. I can help if you feel like you're doing mostly ok and just need someone to hold space, and I can help if you feel like you are lost and don't even know where to begin. I will teach you how to live fully in each moment, to be unapologetically and authentically you, to cope with stress and regulate your emotions more effectively, and to improve your relationships with others. It is my honor to help you toward living your best, most fulfilling life.
I specialize in trauma, personality disorders, addiction disorders, LGBTQIA+ issues, body positivity, HIV/AIDS, forensic issues, immigrant/refugee issues, women's issues, and civil rights/social justice.
My ideal client is ready to do the work. Healing and growth can be messy and painful at times, but it's so worthwhile. I can help if you feel like you're doing mostly ok and just need someone to hold space, and I can help if you feel like you are lost and don't even know where to begin. I will teach you how to live fully in each moment, to be unapologetically and authentically you, to cope with stress and regulate your emotions more effectively, and to improve your relationships with others. It is my honor to help you toward living your best, most fulfilling life.
See more therapy options for Luzerne County
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.