Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Philadelphia, PA
Rae of Light Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, CSTIP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103 (Online Only)
Welcome! My name is Nara Pezolano and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), and Certified Sex Therapy Informed Professional (CSTIP) in Pennsylvania with over 18 years of professional mental health experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse, motivation, relationship issues, self-esteem and confidence, career difficulties, personality and mood disorders, anxiety & depression, grief, and end of life issues. I take an eclectic, person-centered approach where you are in the driver seat in your own recovery.
Welcome! My name is Nara Pezolano and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), and Certified Sex Therapy Informed Professional (CSTIP) in Pennsylvania with over 18 years of professional mental health experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse, motivation, relationship issues, self-esteem and confidence, career difficulties, personality and mood disorders, anxiety & depression, grief, and end of life issues. I take an eclectic, person-centered approach where you are in the driver seat in your own recovery.
Sarah Urbanic
Pre-Licensed Professional, LAPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102 (Online Only)
I primarily work with individuals facing depression, anxiety, trauma symptoms, or challenges from chronic illnesses and autoimmune disorders.
In my practice, I specialize in helping clients navigate difficult life changes with greater peace, clarity, and confidence. I take a highly individualized, client-centered approach, exploring underlying beliefs, past experiences, and unhelpful patterns contributing to distress. Additionally, I enjoy incorporating mindfulness techniques and creative coping skills into our sessions. Through self-exploration and effective strategies, you can develop greater personal power to cope with the symptoms you’re experiencing and the stress of daily life.
I primarily work with individuals facing depression, anxiety, trauma symptoms, or challenges from chronic illnesses and autoimmune disorders.
In my practice, I specialize in helping clients navigate difficult life changes with greater peace, clarity, and confidence. I take a highly individualized, client-centered approach, exploring underlying beliefs, past experiences, and unhelpful patterns contributing to distress. Additionally, I enjoy incorporating mindfulness techniques and creative coping skills into our sessions. Through self-exploration and effective strategies, you can develop greater personal power to cope with the symptoms you’re experiencing and the stress of daily life.
Hello! I'm an LMFT who is passionate about helping people establish and maintain meaningful connections in their lives through familial, peer, and intimate relationships. I’m trained systemically and enjoy helping people explore how various aspects of their lives (e.g., family upbringing, societal influences, personal experiences) influence the way they make meaning of their lives. I take a collaborative approach with clients to identify sustainable solutions to old and new problems, and I specialize in eating disorders (HAES-informed), sexual orientation, trauma, and ADHD.
Hello! I'm an LMFT who is passionate about helping people establish and maintain meaningful connections in their lives through familial, peer, and intimate relationships. I’m trained systemically and enjoy helping people explore how various aspects of their lives (e.g., family upbringing, societal influences, personal experiences) influence the way they make meaning of their lives. I take a collaborative approach with clients to identify sustainable solutions to old and new problems, and I specialize in eating disorders (HAES-informed), sexual orientation, trauma, and ADHD.
Lorrie Chafin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MFLC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103 (Online Only)
For those who have had severe trauma, I offer the Trauma-Informed Approach.
Hello! To say my life has been interesting is an understatement. If it's unusual or a rare thing it's most likely happened to me or I've helped someone dealing with it. In order to be a well-rounded therapist, I have worked in state agencies, schools, and now for myself. I dedicated five years to fulfill contracts with the military (all over the world) to assist active duty and their families. It's very important to me to make sure your therapy is in tune with your needs. I don't do cookie-cutter therapy. I proudly call my business LHC and Company because I believe in teamwork with you and those I need to get the work done.
For those who have had severe trauma, I offer the Trauma-Informed Approach.
Hello! To say my life has been interesting is an understatement. If it's unusual or a rare thing it's most likely happened to me or I've helped someone dealing with it. In order to be a well-rounded therapist, I have worked in state agencies, schools, and now for myself. I dedicated five years to fulfill contracts with the military (all over the world) to assist active duty and their families. It's very important to me to make sure your therapy is in tune with your needs. I don't do cookie-cutter therapy. I proudly call my business LHC and Company because I believe in teamwork with you and those I need to get the work done.
Alex is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified EMDR Therapist. With over 16 years of experience working with culturally and socioeconomically diverse populations of adults, adolescents, and families in a variety of settings, including residential, inpatient, and outpatient settings, he specializes in the treatment of trauma and related challenges. His areas of specialization also include the treatment of anxiety and depression, mood disorders, relationship and adjustment challenges, attentional and behavioral difficulties, performance enhancement, anger and stress management.
Alex is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified EMDR Therapist. With over 16 years of experience working with culturally and socioeconomically diverse populations of adults, adolescents, and families in a variety of settings, including residential, inpatient, and outpatient settings, he specializes in the treatment of trauma and related challenges. His areas of specialization also include the treatment of anxiety and depression, mood disorders, relationship and adjustment challenges, attentional and behavioral difficulties, performance enhancement, anger and stress management.
I have a unique understanding of the overlap between addiction and trauma, particularly for women, and I use a gentle yet effective approach when addressing these complex, sensitive issues.
I work comfortably with people from a variety of cultural and ethnic backgrounds, and people within the LGBTQ community. In my practice I see adults, adolescents, and couples. I have a direct, interpersonal style in which I support and assist individuals in meeting their personal goals while helping them to process past and present issues related to trauma, child abuse/neglect, addiction(s), grief and loss, depression, or anxiety that may be interfering with their progress. I approach my clinical practice from a socially conscious perspective, working always to view personal difficulties within the sociocultural context in which we live.
I have a unique understanding of the overlap between addiction and trauma, particularly for women, and I use a gentle yet effective approach when addressing these complex, sensitive issues.
I work comfortably with people from a variety of cultural and ethnic backgrounds, and people within the LGBTQ community. In my practice I see adults, adolescents, and couples. I have a direct, interpersonal style in which I support and assist individuals in meeting their personal goals while helping them to process past and present issues related to trauma, child abuse/neglect, addiction(s), grief and loss, depression, or anxiety that may be interfering with their progress. I approach my clinical practice from a socially conscious perspective, working always to view personal difficulties within the sociocultural context in which we live.
Emma Chambers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103 (Online Only)
Whether you are struggling with a stressful experience, trauma, an addiction, or anxiety, I am equipped with evidence-based tools to address your needs.
Finding a therapist, especially during periods of stress, can be extremely overwhelming. Yet, the connection, the solutions, and the relief that you can access in therapy is priceless. If you’re feeling stuck and don’t know which direction to go in, or if you’re searching for ways to save your relationship, I may be the right fit for you! I have spent the last five years as a trauma therapist for the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, providing thousands of hours of psychotherapy.
Whether you are struggling with a stressful experience, trauma, an addiction, or anxiety, I am equipped with evidence-based tools to address your needs.
Finding a therapist, especially during periods of stress, can be extremely overwhelming. Yet, the connection, the solutions, and the relief that you can access in therapy is priceless. If you’re feeling stuck and don’t know which direction to go in, or if you’re searching for ways to save your relationship, I may be the right fit for you! I have spent the last five years as a trauma therapist for the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, providing thousands of hours of psychotherapy.
Juliana Collins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103 (Online Only)
I enjoy working with clients on a range of issues, including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, parenthood, grief, trauma and PTSD, sexual violence, LGBTQ+ related concerns, and gun and community violence.
My therapy focuses solely on your wants and needs. My job is not to tell you what to do, but rather to walk alongside you on your journey while identifying patterns, asking questions or offering insight along the way. I am committed to developing a trusting, authentic, and transparent relationship with each individual that I work with so that you feel comfortable being open. Reaching out for support is difficult, and I am here to be present throughout your process. My treatment emphasizes strengths and person-centered approaches, believing in the resilience and individuality of each client, that you are your own expert.
I enjoy working with clients on a range of issues, including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, parenthood, grief, trauma and PTSD, sexual violence, LGBTQ+ related concerns, and gun and community violence.
My therapy focuses solely on your wants and needs. My job is not to tell you what to do, but rather to walk alongside you on your journey while identifying patterns, asking questions or offering insight along the way. I am committed to developing a trusting, authentic, and transparent relationship with each individual that I work with so that you feel comfortable being open. Reaching out for support is difficult, and I am here to be present throughout your process. My treatment emphasizes strengths and person-centered approaches, believing in the resilience and individuality of each client, that you are your own expert.
Asia Panzino, MA has provided therapeutic support for a diverse range of concerns and experiences which include Influence of Childhood Bonding and Attachment on Lifestyle, Symptom Management for Anxiety and Depression, Safety Plans for Survivors of Intimate Partner Violence, Senior-Living, Vocational Guidance, Family Conflict, Fostered, Adopted, and Aging-Out Youth Advocacy, Self-Regulation Techniques, and Life Transitions. They have passionately worked with diagnoses such as Bi-Polar, Generalized Anxiety, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Gender Dysphoria, and PTSD.
Asia Panzino, MA has provided therapeutic support for a diverse range of concerns and experiences which include Influence of Childhood Bonding and Attachment on Lifestyle, Symptom Management for Anxiety and Depression, Safety Plans for Survivors of Intimate Partner Violence, Senior-Living, Vocational Guidance, Family Conflict, Fostered, Adopted, and Aging-Out Youth Advocacy, Self-Regulation Techniques, and Life Transitions. They have passionately worked with diagnoses such as Bi-Polar, Generalized Anxiety, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Gender Dysphoria, and PTSD.
Alex is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified EMDR Therapist. With over 16 years of experience working with culturally and socioeconomically diverse populations of adults, adolescents, and families in a variety of settings, including residential, inpatient, and outpatient settings, he specializes in the treatment of trauma and related challenges. His areas of specialization also include the treatment of anxiety and depression, mood disorders, relationship challenges, attentional and behavioral difficulties, performance enhancement, anger and stress management. He provides individual, couples, and family therapies.
Alex is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified EMDR Therapist. With over 16 years of experience working with culturally and socioeconomically diverse populations of adults, adolescents, and families in a variety of settings, including residential, inpatient, and outpatient settings, he specializes in the treatment of trauma and related challenges. His areas of specialization also include the treatment of anxiety and depression, mood disorders, relationship challenges, attentional and behavioral difficulties, performance enhancement, anger and stress management. He provides individual, couples, and family therapies.
Emily Koppenhofer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MSEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19128 (Online Only)
With our expertise in DBT, Person-Centered Therapy, and trauma-informed approaches, we partner with you to set and achieve goals that resonate with your deepest values.
Navigating the complexities of being human can be as rewarding as it is complicated. Our journeys are filled with moments that require us to muster resilience, practice self-compassion, and foster hope—even when the path seems unclear. It's not uncommon to find ourselves ensnared in cycles of negative thinking that foster shame, grappling with emotional regulation that impacts our relationships, or struggling to stay anchored in the present, affecting our decision-making abilities. At K & K Holistic Counseling, we are dedicated to guiding you through these challenges, helping you cultivate a life of significance and joy.
With our expertise in DBT, Person-Centered Therapy, and trauma-informed approaches, we partner with you to set and achieve goals that resonate with your deepest values.
Navigating the complexities of being human can be as rewarding as it is complicated. Our journeys are filled with moments that require us to muster resilience, practice self-compassion, and foster hope—even when the path seems unclear. It's not uncommon to find ourselves ensnared in cycles of negative thinking that foster shame, grappling with emotional regulation that impacts our relationships, or struggling to stay anchored in the present, affecting our decision-making abilities. At K & K Holistic Counseling, we are dedicated to guiding you through these challenges, helping you cultivate a life of significance and joy.
15 Second Videos
Sarah Urbanic
Liz Nolan
Emma Chambers
Sarah Kincaid
Jessica Fleeger
Therapy for Women
Elizabeth Merrell
Gordon Emmett Hall
Peter Douglass Yeomans
Courtney Douds
Tiffany Browning
Therapy Center of Philadelphia
Nikki Walter
Erica Wilkins
Darlene Nicks
Maria Beatty
Shonda Christina Walters
Adalina East
Tiffany Interra
Hannah Guy
Alayna Renwick
Johnston Tisdale
Psychotherapy for Sexually Abused Men
Jamila Saleh
Bruce Pitcairn Murray
Lillian Dunn
The Counselor's Heart Therapeutic Services
Jacquelyn Farasat
Lindsay Bauer
Anna Elisabeth Herman
Ginamarie Moure
Amy Wojenski
Matthew Weiner
Ryan O'Laughlin
SW@L LLC
Grace Molloy
Mindful Essence Therapeutic Services
Erica Schommer
Jennifer S Brey
Jonathan Bittner
Aisha Renee Moore
Melinda A Korte
Kate Wright
TeenaTalk, LLC
Sarah Babick
Gina Rothermel
Patricia Colli
Grace Bella Harman
Full Being Services
Danielle Gill
Mariah Zur
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102 (Online Only)
I have experience working with corrections officers/first responders/law enforcement (and their family members), healthcare professionals, college students and young adults on a personal journey after trauma.
I specialize in trauma therapy for professionals who take pride in their careers and relationships. Maybe you grew up in a dysfunctional family, never learned to show your emotions or cry, find yourself continuously burnout in life or work, or found yourself in relationships that led you to feel used, unworthy or weak.
I have experience working with corrections officers/first responders/law enforcement (and their family members), healthcare professionals, college students and young adults on a personal journey after trauma.
I specialize in trauma therapy for professionals who take pride in their careers and relationships. Maybe you grew up in a dysfunctional family, never learned to show your emotions or cry, find yourself continuously burnout in life or work, or found yourself in relationships that led you to feel used, unworthy or weak.
I work with adult individuals experiencing trauma, anxiety, relationship difficulties and many other concerns using IFS.
Feeling anxious, depressed or overwhelmed? Want to improve your relationships? Challenging times can also be opportunities because they activate the parts of us that need healing. This can also cause extreme feelings and thoughts to hijack us, making us feel overwhelmed or stuck. I truly believe we each have everything we need to live from a place of calm, courage, curiosity, and creativity. We just need to release the obstacles and burdens we carry and learn how to relate to ourselves differently.
I work with adult individuals experiencing trauma, anxiety, relationship difficulties and many other concerns using IFS.
Feeling anxious, depressed or overwhelmed? Want to improve your relationships? Challenging times can also be opportunities because they activate the parts of us that need healing. This can also cause extreme feelings and thoughts to hijack us, making us feel overwhelmed or stuck. I truly believe we each have everything we need to live from a place of calm, courage, curiosity, and creativity. We just need to release the obstacles and burdens we carry and learn how to relate to ourselves differently.
Sofie Messone Tapia
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103 (Online Only)
Are you navigating the complexities of depression, anxiety, ADHD, or PTSD? Do you seek a deeper connection and harmony within your relationships? I am a licensure-track therapist dedicated to supporting you on your path to emotional wellness and fulfilling relationships. With experience in working with couples, families, and children, I bring a compassionate and knowledgeable approach to therapy. My passion lies in working primarily with couples and adults, helping you overcome challenges and build stronger, healthier relationships.
Are you navigating the complexities of depression, anxiety, ADHD, or PTSD? Do you seek a deeper connection and harmony within your relationships? I am a licensure-track therapist dedicated to supporting you on your path to emotional wellness and fulfilling relationships. With experience in working with couples, families, and children, I bring a compassionate and knowledgeable approach to therapy. My passion lies in working primarily with couples and adults, helping you overcome challenges and build stronger, healthier relationships.
Specialties: Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Body Image Trauma, Developmental Trauma, Complex Trauma, Attachment Issues/Relationship Issues, Depression, Anxiety, Life Transitions, Stress management, ADHD management.
You’ve gotten this far because your behaviors or beliefs provided a sense of safety and self-regulation at one point. Some of them may not work anymore or they’re no longer serving you in the way you want, so let’s work on meeting your needs in a different way. On top of doing trauma work, reframing negative thoughts, and giving you realistic coping skills, I put a large emphasis on educating you so you better understand why you are struggling with the things that cause you distress. I find that providing you with this type of knowledge is a form of empowerment!
Specialties: Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Body Image Trauma, Developmental Trauma, Complex Trauma, Attachment Issues/Relationship Issues, Depression, Anxiety, Life Transitions, Stress management, ADHD management.
You’ve gotten this far because your behaviors or beliefs provided a sense of safety and self-regulation at one point. Some of them may not work anymore or they’re no longer serving you in the way you want, so let’s work on meeting your needs in a different way. On top of doing trauma work, reframing negative thoughts, and giving you realistic coping skills, I put a large emphasis on educating you so you better understand why you are struggling with the things that cause you distress. I find that providing you with this type of knowledge is a form of empowerment!
Elizabeth R. Weisman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19119
Areas of focus include:OCD, PTSD, trauma, Addictions, LGBTQ+, Special Needs Parenting, Neurodiversity, PANS / PANDAS, FASD (Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder), Grief & Loss, Adoption, Relationship issues, Chronic & severe mental illness, and Mind-body Wellness.
THE ONLY WAY OUT IS THROUGH (Robert Frost)... It is human to suffer and it is human to face challenges. When the suffering becomes too great, and the challenges too large, good therapy can play a key role in bringing about change. If you decide to work with me, I would consider it an honor to become part of your journey towards increased health and well-being. When you come to therapy, you will be treated with respect. I bring many years of experience as a therapist, providing both brief evidence-based interventions and long term psychodynamic approach. I will work carefully with you to define and achieve your personal goals.
Areas of focus include:OCD, PTSD, trauma, Addictions, LGBTQ+, Special Needs Parenting, Neurodiversity, PANS / PANDAS, FASD (Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder), Grief & Loss, Adoption, Relationship issues, Chronic & severe mental illness, and Mind-body Wellness.
THE ONLY WAY OUT IS THROUGH (Robert Frost)... It is human to suffer and it is human to face challenges. When the suffering becomes too great, and the challenges too large, good therapy can play a key role in bringing about change. If you decide to work with me, I would consider it an honor to become part of your journey towards increased health and well-being. When you come to therapy, you will be treated with respect. I bring many years of experience as a therapist, providing both brief evidence-based interventions and long term psychodynamic approach. I will work carefully with you to define and achieve your personal goals.
James R Grassi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19106 (Online Only)
I provide a safe space for my trauma survivor clients to work through the impact of trauma on one’s sense of self, behaviors, sense of trust, and relationships.
I’ve been practicing psychotherapy for over twenty years with individuals struggling with issues including trauma histories, military veteran identities, grief, depression, anxiety, and LGBT identities. I graduated with my Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Pennsylvania School of Social Policy and Practice. With respect, humor, acceptance, and empowerment, I work to increase your understanding and assist you in attaining your needs and hopes. Be assured that I will bring empathy and experience as we work together in a safe space for you to explore and experience self-awareness.
I provide a safe space for my trauma survivor clients to work through the impact of trauma on one’s sense of self, behaviors, sense of trust, and relationships.
I’ve been practicing psychotherapy for over twenty years with individuals struggling with issues including trauma histories, military veteran identities, grief, depression, anxiety, and LGBT identities. I graduated with my Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Pennsylvania School of Social Policy and Practice. With respect, humor, acceptance, and empowerment, I work to increase your understanding and assist you in attaining your needs and hopes. Be assured that I will bring empathy and experience as we work together in a safe space for you to explore and experience self-awareness.
Lisa Vinnacombe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, MLSP, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103
I have over a decade of experience helping people address anxiety, depression, challenging life transitions, grief/loss, relationship/attachment difficulties, unresolved childhood trauma and traumas in adulthood.
Have you been feeling “burnt out” and can’t figure out how to deal with the anxiety and lack of motivation? Are you in a relationship that feels unsatisfying or one sided and results in a sense of feeling stuck in a cycle that repeats itself? Have you experienced a sad loss or other emotionally painful experience that still hurts even though you feel like you should be "over it?" I hear many people who make the decision to come to therapy say “I should have done this a long time ago". If you can relate to any of the questions above, or are curious about how therapy can help you, I encourage you to reach out for a consult!
I have over a decade of experience helping people address anxiety, depression, challenging life transitions, grief/loss, relationship/attachment difficulties, unresolved childhood trauma and traumas in adulthood.
Have you been feeling “burnt out” and can’t figure out how to deal with the anxiety and lack of motivation? Are you in a relationship that feels unsatisfying or one sided and results in a sense of feeling stuck in a cycle that repeats itself? Have you experienced a sad loss or other emotionally painful experience that still hurts even though you feel like you should be "over it?" I hear many people who make the decision to come to therapy say “I should have done this a long time ago". If you can relate to any of the questions above, or are curious about how therapy can help you, I encourage you to reach out for a consult!
, trichotillomania, excoriation); PTSD; and depression.
Are you looking for a highly skilled, caring professional to help you or a motivated loved one break free from the grips of an anxiety, obsessive compulsive, or traumatic stress disorder? If so, Dr. Chazin may be the ideal match for you! With exceptional expertise and experience helping hundreds of adults and teens overcome a range of serious anxiety disorders and related issues, he combines use of the most effective, state-of-the-art cognitive-behavioral treatments with a personalized and supportive approach to help clients gain understanding and strategies and master the problems and disorders they face.
, trichotillomania, excoriation); PTSD; and depression.
Are you looking for a highly skilled, caring professional to help you or a motivated loved one break free from the grips of an anxiety, obsessive compulsive, or traumatic stress disorder? If so, Dr. Chazin may be the ideal match for you! With exceptional expertise and experience helping hundreds of adults and teens overcome a range of serious anxiety disorders and related issues, he combines use of the most effective, state-of-the-art cognitive-behavioral treatments with a personalized and supportive approach to help clients gain understanding and strategies and master the problems and disorders they face.
Jamitia Camil Wilson-Knight
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19150 (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 10+ years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, coping with addictions, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 10+ years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, coping with addictions, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
See more therapy options for Philadelphia
Nearby Trauma and PTSD Therapists Searches for Philadelphia
- Bala Cynwyd
- Cheltenham
- Elkins Park
- Lansdowne
- Manayunk
- Merion Station
- Mid City East
- Narberth
- Penn Valley
- Upper Darby
- Wynnewood
- Yeadon
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.