Trauma and PTSD Therapists in 04401

Photo of Derek Guerrette, Counselor in 04401, ME
Derek Guerrette
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bangor, ME 04401
If you are searching for a therapist that appreciates your strengths and past experiences, seeks to empower genuine expression, and enjoys humor, you are reading the right profile. As a therapist, I appreciate that your life's journey is unique. You are the only one who knows what is best for you. While working with me, you can expect a compassionate, genuine, trauma-sensitive experience that uses your strengths and humor to invite growth and healing into your life while also encouraging you to express yourself authentically. This is your journey. You are worth the effort.
If you are searching for a therapist that appreciates your strengths and past experiences, seeks to empower genuine expression, and enjoys humor, you are reading the right profile. As a therapist, I appreciate that your life's journey is unique. You are the only one who knows what is best for you. While working with me, you can expect a compassionate, genuine, trauma-sensitive experience that uses your strengths and humor to invite growth and healing into your life while also encouraging you to express yourself authentically. This is your journey. You are worth the effort.
(207) 481-4164 View (207) 481-4164
Photo of Shelby Prevatt, Counselor in 04401, ME
Shelby Prevatt
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bangor, ME 04401  (Online Only)
In my work, I draw from ACT (acceptance and commitment therapy), mindfulness, expressive arts, internal family systems (IFS) and other trauma-informed practices through a social justice lens.
Hi there! I’m so glad you’re taking the step to reach out and connect with someone familiar with helping people navigate the challenges life often throws at us. From depression to burnout, and anything in between, I’m here to help you not only work on the issues at hand, but help you uncover the core reason why you're no longer feeling like yourself. While I specialize in working with clients 16+ struggling with eating disorders, I’m also passionate about trauma work, neurodivergence, attachment concerns, and general mood changes.
In my work, I draw from ACT (acceptance and commitment therapy), mindfulness, expressive arts, internal family systems (IFS) and other trauma-informed practices through a social justice lens.
Hi there! I’m so glad you’re taking the step to reach out and connect with someone familiar with helping people navigate the challenges life often throws at us. From depression to burnout, and anything in between, I’m here to help you not only work on the issues at hand, but help you uncover the core reason why you're no longer feeling like yourself. While I specialize in working with clients 16+ struggling with eating disorders, I’m also passionate about trauma work, neurodivergence, attachment concerns, and general mood changes.
(207) 835-3629 View (207) 835-3629
Photo of Tanya Shan, Psychologist in 04401, ME
Tanya Shan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bangor, ME 04401  (Online Only)
I provide treatment for individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, adjustment and transition issues, relationship concerns, substance abuse disorders and post-traumatic stress.
Whatever brings someone to therapy, it generally includes some form of pain, dissatisfaction, or discomfort, and a disconnect between what is happening their life and what they want. Our work together will help to shed light on why you are struggling, and support you as you make changes, drawing on your strengths to find an approach that is more effective and aligned with how you want your life to be. I believe that effective therapy starts with a safe, compassionate, non-judgmental emotional space where clients can feel heard and understood and my work is grounded in developing a strong therapeutic relationship.
I provide treatment for individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, adjustment and transition issues, relationship concerns, substance abuse disorders and post-traumatic stress.
Whatever brings someone to therapy, it generally includes some form of pain, dissatisfaction, or discomfort, and a disconnect between what is happening their life and what they want. Our work together will help to shed light on why you are struggling, and support you as you make changes, drawing on your strengths to find an approach that is more effective and aligned with how you want your life to be. I believe that effective therapy starts with a safe, compassionate, non-judgmental emotional space where clients can feel heard and understood and my work is grounded in developing a strong therapeutic relationship.
(207) 204-3879 View (207) 204-3879
Photo of N. Janet Spors, Marriage & Family Therapist in 04401, ME
N. Janet Spors
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bangor, ME 04401
Therapy dog Noelle and therapist Janet team up to help children (ages 3+), youth and young adult clients, who suffer from trauma, overcome their obstacles for a more healthy and enjoyable life experience. Nationally certified in Trauma Focused - Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Therapy dog Noelle and therapist Janet team up to help children (ages 3+), youth and young adult clients, who suffer from trauma, overcome their obstacles for a more healthy and enjoyable life experience. Nationally certified in Trauma Focused - Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
(207) 503-2404 View (207) 503-2404
Therapeutic Services of Maine, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCPC, LCSW, CCS, CADC
Verified Verified
Bangor, ME 04401  (Online Only)
Christine Paul LCSW and Brooke Loring LCPC co-owners of Therapeutic Services of Maine LLC offer a safe and nurturing environment where clients can embark on a journey toward healing and self-discovery. Our mission is to provide personalized and compassionate care to all those seeking to improve their mental health and well-being. We specialize in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), a non-invasive and evidence-based treatment that helps clients overcome trauma and other mental health issues.
Christine Paul LCSW and Brooke Loring LCPC co-owners of Therapeutic Services of Maine LLC offer a safe and nurturing environment where clients can embark on a journey toward healing and self-discovery. Our mission is to provide personalized and compassionate care to all those seeking to improve their mental health and well-being. We specialize in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), a non-invasive and evidence-based treatment that helps clients overcome trauma and other mental health issues.
(207) 802-0391 View (207) 802-0391
Photo of UCP of Maine, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 04401, ME
UCP of Maine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Not Verified Not Verified
Bangor, ME 04401  (Online Only)
Our team has expertise in working with a broad range of mental health issues and life stressors including trauma, grief and loss, parent-child relationship problems, attachment, relationship issues, challenges at home and employment, LGBTQ issues, substance use, domestic violence, intellectual disabilities, and physical disabilities to name a few.
In person and telehealth counseling is available to adults, teens and children seeking individual or family therapy in a respectful, safe, and supportive environment. We want to work with you to understand your goals and help you develop plans and skills to achieve your goals that utilize your strengths. Our clinicians provide a broad spectrum of quality, evidence-based care . We help you resolve life stressors such as relationship issues, grief and loss, the effects of trauma, problems at home, school or work, behavioral problems, anxiety, depression, attachment, anger issues, and other mental health challenges.
Our team has expertise in working with a broad range of mental health issues and life stressors including trauma, grief and loss, parent-child relationship problems, attachment, relationship issues, challenges at home and employment, LGBTQ issues, substance use, domestic violence, intellectual disabilities, and physical disabilities to name a few.
In person and telehealth counseling is available to adults, teens and children seeking individual or family therapy in a respectful, safe, and supportive environment. We want to work with you to understand your goals and help you develop plans and skills to achieve your goals that utilize your strengths. Our clinicians provide a broad spectrum of quality, evidence-based care . We help you resolve life stressors such as relationship issues, grief and loss, the effects of trauma, problems at home, school or work, behavioral problems, anxiety, depression, attachment, anger issues, and other mental health challenges.
(207) 656-1962 x333 View (207) 656-1962 x333
Photo of Kaleigh Dupuis, Counselor in 04401, ME
Kaleigh Dupuis
Counselor, MEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bangor, ME 04401
I practice trauma-informed care that involves understanding, recognizing, and responding to the effects of most types of trauma and/or adversity. I bring a functional approach that is person-centered to target your individual needs within your relationship and/or self that surround the human experience. Together, we will explore what is important to you and/or your relationship. Clients that tend to fit well with me are individuals/couples who are self-motivated, witty, can enjoy healthy, light-hearted humor, and may have high empathy.
I practice trauma-informed care that involves understanding, recognizing, and responding to the effects of most types of trauma and/or adversity. I bring a functional approach that is person-centered to target your individual needs within your relationship and/or self that surround the human experience. Together, we will explore what is important to you and/or your relationship. Clients that tend to fit well with me are individuals/couples who are self-motivated, witty, can enjoy healthy, light-hearted humor, and may have high empathy.
(207) 292-7521 View (207) 292-7521
Photo of Aric P Rice, Counselor in 04401, ME
Aric P Rice
Counselor, LCPC, CADC, MA, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bangor, ME 04401
I find that EMDR is a unique and exciting way to deal with the negative effects of trauma on the brain.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and certified as an Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I offer a cognitive behavioral orientation which focuses on a goal orientated client centered approach and I am certified as a level two EMDR therapist. I have experience at both the inpatient and outpatient levels and have worked with a wide range of mental health and substance abuse topics. I currently hold a master's degree in both education and professional counseling and in the process of pursuing my PhD in psychology. I work with adolescents and adults and provide treatment for depression, anxiety, trauma, and dual diagnosis.
I find that EMDR is a unique and exciting way to deal with the negative effects of trauma on the brain.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and certified as an Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I offer a cognitive behavioral orientation which focuses on a goal orientated client centered approach and I am certified as a level two EMDR therapist. I have experience at both the inpatient and outpatient levels and have worked with a wide range of mental health and substance abuse topics. I currently hold a master's degree in both education and professional counseling and in the process of pursuing my PhD in psychology. I work with adolescents and adults and provide treatment for depression, anxiety, trauma, and dual diagnosis.
(207) 518-7605 View (207) 518-7605
Photo of Lisa Leadbetter, Counselor in 04401, ME
Lisa Leadbetter
Counselor, MEd, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bangor, ME 04401  (Online Only)
There can be barriers to therapy including privacy, transportation, and being too busy to make an appointment. For those living with challenges like provider burnout, anxiety, depression, professional identity, addictions, effects of trauma, abuse, or low self esteem; online teletherapy can help with the added benefit of engaging with your therapist at a time and place that is not only convenient, but private. There is decades of research that demonstrates therapy can help, and quickly. Please email me and let me answer any other questions you might have. I look forward to hearing from you. E-mail is the best way to contact me.
There can be barriers to therapy including privacy, transportation, and being too busy to make an appointment. For those living with challenges like provider burnout, anxiety, depression, professional identity, addictions, effects of trauma, abuse, or low self esteem; online teletherapy can help with the added benefit of engaging with your therapist at a time and place that is not only convenient, but private. There is decades of research that demonstrates therapy can help, and quickly. Please email me and let me answer any other questions you might have. I look forward to hearing from you. E-mail is the best way to contact me.
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Photo of Amy Goode, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 04401, ME
Amy Goode
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bangor, ME 04401
Waitlist for new clients
I provide individual therapy for adults navigating overwhelm and trauma. I have spent my career working with people who have directly experienced multiple forms of trauma and with professionals exposed to trauma in their work. My expertise comes with a strong understanding of neurobiology and helps clients understand the underpinnings of what they are experiencing. I am PSI trained in perinatal mental health and am moving towards specialization with people trying to conceive or build their families, experiencing loss or birth trauma, and adjusting to new parenthood. I am certified in Brainspotting (an offshoot of EMDR).
I provide individual therapy for adults navigating overwhelm and trauma. I have spent my career working with people who have directly experienced multiple forms of trauma and with professionals exposed to trauma in their work. My expertise comes with a strong understanding of neurobiology and helps clients understand the underpinnings of what they are experiencing. I am PSI trained in perinatal mental health and am moving towards specialization with people trying to conceive or build their families, experiencing loss or birth trauma, and adjusting to new parenthood. I am certified in Brainspotting (an offshoot of EMDR).
(207) 994-7323 View (207) 994-7323
Photo of Healing Tree Therapy LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 04401, ME
Healing Tree Therapy LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bangor, ME 04401  (Online Only)
Welcome to the start of your healing journey! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in psychotherapy for adults in Maine and New Hampshire. I offer evidenced-based practices to include cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, motivational interviewing, acceptance and commitment therapy, and trauma focused therapy. Additionally, I provide supervision for fully and conditionally licensed counselors.
Welcome to the start of your healing journey! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in psychotherapy for adults in Maine and New Hampshire. I offer evidenced-based practices to include cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, motivational interviewing, acceptance and commitment therapy, and trauma focused therapy. Additionally, I provide supervision for fully and conditionally licensed counselors.
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Photo of Charlee Kent, Counselor in 04401, ME
Charlee Kent
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bangor, ME 04401
Waitlist for new clients
Hello, when you or someone you care about is looking for a therapist it is usually a difficult time; however that is exactly when therapy can be most helpful. I primarily work with individuals who have experienced anxiety, depression, loneliness, trauma and stress. I am passionate about helping clients to create meaningful experiences and relationships in their lives, achieve personal goals and build confidence. It is my belief that each client is the expert on themselves and in therapy my role is to listen and assist clients in accessing their own internal resources, strengths and abilities.
Hello, when you or someone you care about is looking for a therapist it is usually a difficult time; however that is exactly when therapy can be most helpful. I primarily work with individuals who have experienced anxiety, depression, loneliness, trauma and stress. I am passionate about helping clients to create meaningful experiences and relationships in their lives, achieve personal goals and build confidence. It is my belief that each client is the expert on themselves and in therapy my role is to listen and assist clients in accessing their own internal resources, strengths and abilities.
(207) 649-9409 View (207) 649-9409
Photo of Helen Birk, Counselor in 04401, ME
Helen Birk
Counselor, LCPC-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bangor, ME 04401  (Online Only)
My approach to counseling combines Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, and Trauma Informed Care.
Change can be an overwhelming and frustrating journey if done alone. Seeking support from a counselor is a sign of personal strength and can help you to achieve more effective and gratifying results. I believe people have the innate strength to overcome their barriers. However, we all need guidance and support at times to learn how to untap our power, potential, and abilities. At your own pace, we will collaborate to find a balance of cognitive, behavioral, and mind/body techniques that will help you to connect to yourself, cope with stress, and create effective solutions to the challenges you may be facing.
My approach to counseling combines Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, and Trauma Informed Care.
Change can be an overwhelming and frustrating journey if done alone. Seeking support from a counselor is a sign of personal strength and can help you to achieve more effective and gratifying results. I believe people have the innate strength to overcome their barriers. However, we all need guidance and support at times to learn how to untap our power, potential, and abilities. At your own pace, we will collaborate to find a balance of cognitive, behavioral, and mind/body techniques that will help you to connect to yourself, cope with stress, and create effective solutions to the challenges you may be facing.
(207) 956-5977 View (207) 956-5977
Photo of Dr. Noelle Deckman, Psychologist in 04401, ME
Dr. Noelle Deckman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bangor, ME 04401  (Online Only)
I practice CBT (includes ERP, CPT, ACT, DBT) to treat OCD and Related Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Trauma- and Stressor-Related Disorders, Somatic Symptom Disorders, and I provide group therapy for OCD.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist serving residents of California and Maine. Due to the barriers people often face while seeking help, my hope is to make the process a little easier by offering a secure space to participate in therapy from the privacy of your own home via Telehealth. I offer evidence-based care for people who may struggle to find help due to geographic location, impact of mental health on daily functioning, etc. Working collaboratively with each person is something I strongly prioritize throughout the treatment process, while also striving to empower people to make effective, long-lasting changes in their lives.
I practice CBT (includes ERP, CPT, ACT, DBT) to treat OCD and Related Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Trauma- and Stressor-Related Disorders, Somatic Symptom Disorders, and I provide group therapy for OCD.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist serving residents of California and Maine. Due to the barriers people often face while seeking help, my hope is to make the process a little easier by offering a secure space to participate in therapy from the privacy of your own home via Telehealth. I offer evidence-based care for people who may struggle to find help due to geographic location, impact of mental health on daily functioning, etc. Working collaboratively with each person is something I strongly prioritize throughout the treatment process, while also striving to empower people to make effective, long-lasting changes in their lives.
(949) 942-8753 View (949) 942-8753
Photo of Lorraine Fern, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 04401, ME
Lorraine Fern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bangor, ME 04401
Trained in attachment-focused, trauma-informed therapist, including EMDR, poly-vagal theory, intersectional and systems focused therapies, I work together with clients to build resilience, to witness their own strength, and to feel empowered.
It’s important to feel comfortable coming to therapy just as you are. Many of us experience major life changes, challenging relationships, grief, guilt, anxiety, or trauma reactions, that cause us to feel self-doubt, to feel disconnected from our needs and bodies, and to even minimize our own experiences. My approach, which is intersectional, developmentally focused, and trauma-informed, helps you tap into the knowledge your body and emotions have for you, while developing skills so these feelings don’t overwhelm and take center stage. I have current openings for EMDR, new parents with perinatal mood disorders, and LGBTQ folks.
Trained in attachment-focused, trauma-informed therapist, including EMDR, poly-vagal theory, intersectional and systems focused therapies, I work together with clients to build resilience, to witness their own strength, and to feel empowered.
It’s important to feel comfortable coming to therapy just as you are. Many of us experience major life changes, challenging relationships, grief, guilt, anxiety, or trauma reactions, that cause us to feel self-doubt, to feel disconnected from our needs and bodies, and to even minimize our own experiences. My approach, which is intersectional, developmentally focused, and trauma-informed, helps you tap into the knowledge your body and emotions have for you, while developing skills so these feelings don’t overwhelm and take center stage. I have current openings for EMDR, new parents with perinatal mood disorders, and LGBTQ folks.
(517) 743-0899 View (517) 743-0899
Photo of Michaele J Potvin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 04401, ME
Michaele J Potvin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bangor, ME 04401  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with older adolescents, young adults through adult who are struggling with behavioral/emotional/or cognitive symptoms related to anxiety and trauma especially developmental trauma. Developmental trauma unlike an intense event, happens through our developmental growth period it is how we learned to see ourselves, sense our own innate human value and how we interacted with the world. This may show up in your life as perfectionism, difficulty doing boundaries or being assertive, difficulty with self care etc. I utilize experiential neuroscience and trauma interventions to help identify and break through barriers
I specialize in working with older adolescents, young adults through adult who are struggling with behavioral/emotional/or cognitive symptoms related to anxiety and trauma especially developmental trauma. Developmental trauma unlike an intense event, happens through our developmental growth period it is how we learned to see ourselves, sense our own innate human value and how we interacted with the world. This may show up in your life as perfectionism, difficulty doing boundaries or being assertive, difficulty with self care etc. I utilize experiential neuroscience and trauma interventions to help identify and break through barriers
(207) 477-7404 View (207) 477-7404
Photo of Bryan Double, Counselor in 04401, ME
Bryan Double
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bangor, ME 04401  (Online Only)
I offer trauma informed care in a virtual setting using a variety of techniques including CBT, SFBT, existential themes and narrative exploration of trauma related symptoms and the impact they have on our lives.
I’m inspired by the stories individuals share, how they derive meaning, hope and empowerment in constructively shaping the potential for growth. I specialize in using narrative techniques within a person-centered framework to in refining your strengths, in addressing your trauma related symptoms and in developing tangible solutions in efforts to life a more balanced life.
I offer trauma informed care in a virtual setting using a variety of techniques including CBT, SFBT, existential themes and narrative exploration of trauma related symptoms and the impact they have on our lives.
I’m inspired by the stories individuals share, how they derive meaning, hope and empowerment in constructively shaping the potential for growth. I specialize in using narrative techniques within a person-centered framework to in refining your strengths, in addressing your trauma related symptoms and in developing tangible solutions in efforts to life a more balanced life.
(207) 606-7513 View (207) 606-7513
Photo of Brittany McDonald, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 04401, ME
Brittany McDonald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-cc
Verified Verified
Bangor, ME 04401  (Online Only)
I employ a trauma-informed, strengths-based lens.
My approach to therapy is eclectic- with an effort to combine aspects of ACT, DBT, Narrative Therapy and Motivational Interviewing with creative modalities as they best serve you. I believe in therapy as a dual process- where you as the client are the expert in your own lived experience- and I serve to help guide you through the steps of change and provide new tools, strategies, and insights. Together we can identify goals, thought patterns, or behaviors that are not serving you, and engage in the development of coping mechanisms that you can utilize when feeling anxious, dysregulated, or triggered.
I employ a trauma-informed, strengths-based lens.
My approach to therapy is eclectic- with an effort to combine aspects of ACT, DBT, Narrative Therapy and Motivational Interviewing with creative modalities as they best serve you. I believe in therapy as a dual process- where you as the client are the expert in your own lived experience- and I serve to help guide you through the steps of change and provide new tools, strategies, and insights. Together we can identify goals, thought patterns, or behaviors that are not serving you, and engage in the development of coping mechanisms that you can utilize when feeling anxious, dysregulated, or triggered.
(207) 515-8863 View (207) 515-8863
Photo of Michelle Darby-O'Bar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 04401, ME
Michelle Darby-O'Bar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW-CP, LICSW, CCTP-2, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Bangor, ME 04401  (Online Only)
I support adults experiencing a variety of life challenges including anxiety, depression, trauma, gender dysphoria, and other day to day life struggles. Proudly serving the LGBTQIA+ community (including letters for gender affirming surgery).
I support adults experiencing a variety of life challenges including anxiety, depression, trauma, gender dysphoria, and other day to day life struggles. Proudly serving the LGBTQIA+ community (including letters for gender affirming surgery).
(207) 275-6430 View (207) 275-6430
Photo of Demi Keitel, Counselor in 04401, ME
Demi Keitel
Counselor, MA, LPC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Bangor, ME 04401
I have a trauma informed care lens and utilize a multitude of modalities depending on a client’s specific needs some of which include EMDR, mindfulness, creative interventions and an experiential approach.
Starting a therapeutic journey that explores change is a big decision. One of the most important parts of this endeavor is to be paired with a mental health provider that is right for you. I'm here to help clients navigate a sense of self, life goals, and relationships. Many of my clients are struggling with anxiety, depression, suicidality, mood disorders, body image, eating disorders, codependency, and strained relationships. We work together in a supportive environment to move through these experiences and build coping skills. I have extensive experience working with healthcare professionals and first responders.
I have a trauma informed care lens and utilize a multitude of modalities depending on a client’s specific needs some of which include EMDR, mindfulness, creative interventions and an experiential approach.
Starting a therapeutic journey that explores change is a big decision. One of the most important parts of this endeavor is to be paired with a mental health provider that is right for you. I'm here to help clients navigate a sense of self, life goals, and relationships. Many of my clients are struggling with anxiety, depression, suicidality, mood disorders, body image, eating disorders, codependency, and strained relationships. We work together in a supportive environment to move through these experiences and build coping skills. I have extensive experience working with healthcare professionals and first responders.
(802) 456-4051 View (802) 456-4051
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.