Photo of Sand Path Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 08753, NJ
Sand Path Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753  (Online Only)
I have trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), trauma-focused and solution-focused narrative therapies, Sand Play, Bowen Family Systems Theory and other modalities.
I believe knowledge of our nervous systems with its attachment and stress response functions is important. The relationship we form in therapy can help you to move toward relief, understanding and the change you are hoping for. Knowledge of the nervous system also informs how we will specifically work to heal difficult or even traumatic experiences. We will build awareness, gain skills and ultimately heal mind and body. We will work on past traumas and difficulties, leaning on strengths and natural resilience, creating personalized solutions to develop gifts, find meaning and live according to your values.
I have trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), trauma-focused and solution-focused narrative therapies, Sand Play, Bowen Family Systems Theory and other modalities.
I believe knowledge of our nervous systems with its attachment and stress response functions is important. The relationship we form in therapy can help you to move toward relief, understanding and the change you are hoping for. Knowledge of the nervous system also informs how we will specifically work to heal difficult or even traumatic experiences. We will build awareness, gain skills and ultimately heal mind and body. We will work on past traumas and difficulties, leaning on strengths and natural resilience, creating personalized solutions to develop gifts, find meaning and live according to your values.
(848) 257-5222 View (848) 257-5222
Photo of Zayna Bishop, Licensed Professional Counselor in 08753, NJ
Zayna Bishop
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
I'm Zayna, originally from Arkansas and currently residing in New Jersey. I've served as an outpatient counselor for 9 years, specializing in trauma therapy. I earned my Masters degree in Mental Health Counseling from Southern Arkansas University. While I address a range of diagnoses, my true passion lies in trauma-focused treatment. I've undergone training and certification in three distinct trauma techniques, including EMDR. In therapy, I strive to empower my clients to take control of their emotions. I customize my approach to each individual, recognizing that no two people are alike.
I'm Zayna, originally from Arkansas and currently residing in New Jersey. I've served as an outpatient counselor for 9 years, specializing in trauma therapy. I earned my Masters degree in Mental Health Counseling from Southern Arkansas University. While I address a range of diagnoses, my true passion lies in trauma-focused treatment. I've undergone training and certification in three distinct trauma techniques, including EMDR. In therapy, I strive to empower my clients to take control of their emotions. I customize my approach to each individual, recognizing that no two people are alike.
(848) 600-6705 View (848) 600-6705
Photo of Marjana York, Licensed Professional Counselor in 08753, NJ
Marjana York
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toms River, NJ 08753  (Online Only)
Clinically, I use an eclectic approach of CBT based and trauma informed interventions.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor motivated to help clients gain insight on healthy coping skills in areas of mental and emotional health. I have 7 plus years of experience working in substance abuse and mental health. I specialize in Trauma/PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, and Addiction. I also have experience working with children and adolescence on issues related to anxiety and childhood trauma.
Clinically, I use an eclectic approach of CBT based and trauma informed interventions.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor motivated to help clients gain insight on healthy coping skills in areas of mental and emotional health. I have 7 plus years of experience working in substance abuse and mental health. I specialize in Trauma/PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, and Addiction. I also have experience working with children and adolescence on issues related to anxiety and childhood trauma.
(732) 838-5923 View (732) 838-5923
Photo of Patricia F Giorgianni, Licensed Professional Counselor in 08753, NJ
Patricia F Giorgianni
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
Waitlist for new clients
Most of the work I do is with people struggling with the impact of trauma, including destructive behaviors and conflicted relationships. As a trauma survivor, I know how difficult it can be to rebuild your life and to learn to trust yourself and others. I am committed to helping my clients identify the sources of their pain, learn to tolerate those emotions, and develop new ways to cope and to live.
Most of the work I do is with people struggling with the impact of trauma, including destructive behaviors and conflicted relationships. As a trauma survivor, I know how difficult it can be to rebuild your life and to learn to trust yourself and others. I am committed to helping my clients identify the sources of their pain, learn to tolerate those emotions, and develop new ways to cope and to live.
(732) 217-7307 View (732) 217-7307
Photo of Cheryl Kasper, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 08753, NJ
Cheryl Kasper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
Do you experience anxiety? Overwhelm? Self sabotage? Or are you navigating life transitions? If so, I can help! I have 25 years experience working with adults, children & teens in a safe & supportive environment. I specialize in Anxiety Disorders, Trauma, Autism Spectrum Disorders, ADHD, OCD, & more. I use a holistic multi-modaity form of treatment so my clients can make positive changes in their lives, with a strong focus on the mind-body connection. I am certified in Neurofeedback, EMDR, Hypnotherapy, and SandPlay Therapy. I use a holistic approach to therapy and healing and incorporate energy psychology into my practice.
Do you experience anxiety? Overwhelm? Self sabotage? Or are you navigating life transitions? If so, I can help! I have 25 years experience working with adults, children & teens in a safe & supportive environment. I specialize in Anxiety Disorders, Trauma, Autism Spectrum Disorders, ADHD, OCD, & more. I use a holistic multi-modaity form of treatment so my clients can make positive changes in their lives, with a strong focus on the mind-body connection. I am certified in Neurofeedback, EMDR, Hypnotherapy, and SandPlay Therapy. I use a holistic approach to therapy and healing and incorporate energy psychology into my practice.
(732) 564-5323 View (732) 564-5323
Photo of Joanne Oleske, Licensed Professional Counselor in 08753, NJ
Joanne Oleske
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
I specialize in supporting clients heal from trauma they have experienced.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 10 years of experience working with adults and adolescents as they navigate through challenging times in their life or heal from past trauma. I am committed to helping clients reach their treatment goals and learn skills to cope with any life difficulties. I provide a safe, comfortable therapeutic environment and utilize various treatment approaches that best meet the needs of each client.
I specialize in supporting clients heal from trauma they have experienced.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 10 years of experience working with adults and adolescents as they navigate through challenging times in their life or heal from past trauma. I am committed to helping clients reach their treatment goals and learn skills to cope with any life difficulties. I provide a safe, comfortable therapeutic environment and utilize various treatment approaches that best meet the needs of each client.
(848) 266-5869 View (848) 266-5869
Photo of Eliezer Defranca LCSW, LCADC, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 08753, NJ
Eliezer Defranca LCSW, LCADC, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC, NCRC-1
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Toms River, NJ 08753  (Online Only)
I have worked in the field of addictions for over 20 years. People suffering from addictions and their families may have other underlying mental health issues such as trauma, depression and anxiety. Throughout my career, I have worked tirelessly with adults, adolescents, and as well as their families to address these issues and find a path to healing. My philosophy is simple: to treat the person in the surrounding environment, to see a person in the context of family, school, job, and community (and to evaluate the impact of these relationships), and to focus on the person's strengths as well as embrace their difficulties.
I have worked in the field of addictions for over 20 years. People suffering from addictions and their families may have other underlying mental health issues such as trauma, depression and anxiety. Throughout my career, I have worked tirelessly with adults, adolescents, and as well as their families to address these issues and find a path to healing. My philosophy is simple: to treat the person in the surrounding environment, to see a person in the context of family, school, job, and community (and to evaluate the impact of these relationships), and to focus on the person's strengths as well as embrace their difficulties.
(848) 251-0827 View (848) 251-0827
Photo of Chiara Barone, Licensed Professional Counselor in 08753, NJ
Chiara Barone
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Toms River, NJ 08753  (Online Only)
I work with families and individuals on various matters including substance use, impulse control, trauma, anxiety, depression, anger management, communication and relationship difficulties.
I work with families and individuals on various matters including substance use, impulse control, trauma, anxiety, depression, anger management, communication and relationship difficulties.
(973) 528-1986 View (973) 528-1986
Photo of Kyle J Gilrain, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 08753, NJ
Kyle J Gilrain
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753  (Online Only)
I specialize in a wide variety of mental health issues including depressive disorders, anxiety, and trauma.
My philosophy begins with a deep belief in the potential of every individual. I have a wide array of clinical experiences and have held leadership positions in large and complex healthcare systems. These settings include both inpatient and outpatient settings. I am a clinical supervisor and compassionate, strength-based , and trauma informed therapist. I provide compassionate, inclusive, and quality therapy to a wide range of patients from broad and diverse backgrounds. I presently hold active licenses and practice in New Jersey, New York, Florida, Louisiana, Massachusetts, and Vermont.
I specialize in a wide variety of mental health issues including depressive disorders, anxiety, and trauma.
My philosophy begins with a deep belief in the potential of every individual. I have a wide array of clinical experiences and have held leadership positions in large and complex healthcare systems. These settings include both inpatient and outpatient settings. I am a clinical supervisor and compassionate, strength-based , and trauma informed therapist. I provide compassionate, inclusive, and quality therapy to a wide range of patients from broad and diverse backgrounds. I presently hold active licenses and practice in New Jersey, New York, Florida, Louisiana, Massachusetts, and Vermont.
(732) 487-3309 View (732) 487-3309
Photo of Nicole Garamella, Marriage & Family Therapist in 08753, NJ
Nicole Garamella
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toms River, NJ 08753  (Online Only)
I use a trauma-informed, integrated approach built in structural family therapy, experiential therapy, and internal family systems.
My predominant focus is with couples and families, with a focus in neurodivergence, difficult life transitions, infidelity recovery, intimacy issues, blended family matters, family planning, and trauma. With individuals, I work with trauma, anxiety, ASD and ADHD, depression, LGBTQIA issues, and self esteem building. My main goal is to meet clients where they are in the moment. The focus of treatment is to create a safe space in which people can explore and understand their internal parts and systems, and disrupt old relational patterns that leave them feeling stuck and unsatisfied.
I use a trauma-informed, integrated approach built in structural family therapy, experiential therapy, and internal family systems.
My predominant focus is with couples and families, with a focus in neurodivergence, difficult life transitions, infidelity recovery, intimacy issues, blended family matters, family planning, and trauma. With individuals, I work with trauma, anxiety, ASD and ADHD, depression, LGBTQIA issues, and self esteem building. My main goal is to meet clients where they are in the moment. The focus of treatment is to create a safe space in which people can explore and understand their internal parts and systems, and disrupt old relational patterns that leave them feeling stuck and unsatisfied.
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Photo of Eileen M Keegan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 08753, NJ
Eileen M Keegan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
For clients that have experienced a trauma, I utilize EMDR.
Has life thrown you a curve ball?! Each new day can bring change or challenges that we may not always feel prepared to deal with. Please allow me to use my 20 + years of experience to assist you and/ or your family! I am a licensed clinical social worker with specialization working with children and families. I provide individual, family and group counseling for those persons experiencing mental health diagnosis(anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD), separation, divorce, parenting, behavioral, school and work related issues. I utilize a multi-modal treatment approach designed specifically to meet your unique situation and needs.
For clients that have experienced a trauma, I utilize EMDR.
Has life thrown you a curve ball?! Each new day can bring change or challenges that we may not always feel prepared to deal with. Please allow me to use my 20 + years of experience to assist you and/ or your family! I am a licensed clinical social worker with specialization working with children and families. I provide individual, family and group counseling for those persons experiencing mental health diagnosis(anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD), separation, divorce, parenting, behavioral, school and work related issues. I utilize a multi-modal treatment approach designed specifically to meet your unique situation and needs.
(732) 587-6721 View (732) 587-6721
Photo of Kristin Caccavale, Licensed Professional Counselor in 08753, NJ
Kristin Caccavale
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753  (Online Only)
I have experience working with a variety of issues including depression and anxiety, mood disorders, self-esteem struggles, relationship/interpersonal issues, severe and persistent mental illness, trauma, and co-occurring disorders.
Even when we have tremendous anxiety and pain, the strength and resilience we desire already reside within us. During times of stress, grief or uncertainty, it is common to forget this and to adopt maladaptive styles of coping and communicating that tend to deepen our distress. Sometimes we fall back into negative thinking based on faulty core beliefs about ourselves and the world. I will hold space for you with empathy and non-judgment. You will be seen, you will be heard, and you will be supported in your growth.
I have experience working with a variety of issues including depression and anxiety, mood disorders, self-esteem struggles, relationship/interpersonal issues, severe and persistent mental illness, trauma, and co-occurring disorders.
Even when we have tremendous anxiety and pain, the strength and resilience we desire already reside within us. During times of stress, grief or uncertainty, it is common to forget this and to adopt maladaptive styles of coping and communicating that tend to deepen our distress. Sometimes we fall back into negative thinking based on faulty core beliefs about ourselves and the world. I will hold space for you with empathy and non-judgment. You will be seen, you will be heard, and you will be supported in your growth.
(973) 313-5426 View (973) 313-5426
Photo of Samantha Powell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 08753, NJ
Samantha Powell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
Hello, I'm Samantha Powell, a licensed clinical social worker. My professional journey includes diverse experiences spanning developmental disabilities, child and adolescent psychology, as well as adult and geriatric clinical settings. I've worked in various environments, from inpatient psychiatric treatment homes to women's shelters, school-based therapy, and individual counseling. My expertise encompasses addressing anxious behaviors, grief, depression, self-harm, relationship issues, trauma, and a range of other challenges that may hinder individuals and families from realizing their fullest potential.
Hello, I'm Samantha Powell, a licensed clinical social worker. My professional journey includes diverse experiences spanning developmental disabilities, child and adolescent psychology, as well as adult and geriatric clinical settings. I've worked in various environments, from inpatient psychiatric treatment homes to women's shelters, school-based therapy, and individual counseling. My expertise encompasses addressing anxious behaviors, grief, depression, self-harm, relationship issues, trauma, and a range of other challenges that may hinder individuals and families from realizing their fullest potential.
(848) 276-6260 View (848) 276-6260
Photo of Susan Shafer, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in 08753, NJ
Susan Shafer
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LPC, 500-CYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toms River, NJ 08753  (Online Only)
Welcome. You are taking a step to seek help and I'm glad you found your way here. I work with adults who want improve how they deal with life stressors and possibly explore unresolved past traumatic experiences that have led to unhealthy coping skills. I specialize in developmental trauma, work-related or performance anxiety, and anger management. If you are at a point in life where you realize you put it all on yourself to work through difficult circumstances and you're tired of repeating the same negative patterns, I'm here to help. Let's begin to see your life through more curiosity, compassion, and clarity.
Welcome. You are taking a step to seek help and I'm glad you found your way here. I work with adults who want improve how they deal with life stressors and possibly explore unresolved past traumatic experiences that have led to unhealthy coping skills. I specialize in developmental trauma, work-related or performance anxiety, and anger management. If you are at a point in life where you realize you put it all on yourself to work through difficult circumstances and you're tired of repeating the same negative patterns, I'm here to help. Let's begin to see your life through more curiosity, compassion, and clarity.
(609) 528-7393 View (609) 528-7393
Photo of Kirsten Reid, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 08753, NJ
Kirsten Reid
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
Hello! I'm Kirsten Reid, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in New Jersey, bringing several years of experience to my practice. Throughout my career as a Mental Health Therapist, I've worked across various settings, including Partial Hospitalization, Intensive Outpatient, and Traditional Outpatient programs. My aim is to support clients in navigating life's hurdles, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and self-esteem issues. I'm committed to equipping clients with the tools and strategies necessary to improve their well-being and foster enduring positive change.
Hello! I'm Kirsten Reid, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in New Jersey, bringing several years of experience to my practice. Throughout my career as a Mental Health Therapist, I've worked across various settings, including Partial Hospitalization, Intensive Outpatient, and Traditional Outpatient programs. My aim is to support clients in navigating life's hurdles, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and self-esteem issues. I'm committed to equipping clients with the tools and strategies necessary to improve their well-being and foster enduring positive change.
(848) 279-8937 View (848) 279-8937
Photo of BetterWay Counseling Tamara Leah Sauer-Diner LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in 08753, NJ
BetterWay Counseling Tamara Leah Sauer-Diner LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toms River, NJ 08753  (Online Only)
Tamara Leah Sauer-Diner is an experienced therapist licensed in both NJ and California. Tamara tailors her approach to best suit the client and their needs and draws from a variety of evidence-based modalities such as CBT, DBT, Exposure Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy. Tamara has experience with crisis management, trauma, anxiety, eating disorders, depression, body image and relationship issues. Tamara obtained her master’s degree in Marriage And Family Therapy from Touro University Worldwide with Summa Cum Laude. Tamara accepts insurance.
Tamara Leah Sauer-Diner is an experienced therapist licensed in both NJ and California. Tamara tailors her approach to best suit the client and their needs and draws from a variety of evidence-based modalities such as CBT, DBT, Exposure Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy. Tamara has experience with crisis management, trauma, anxiety, eating disorders, depression, body image and relationship issues. Tamara obtained her master’s degree in Marriage And Family Therapy from Touro University Worldwide with Summa Cum Laude. Tamara accepts insurance.
(201) 817-1858 View (201) 817-1858
Photo of Tranquil Minds Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor in 08753, NJ
Tranquil Minds Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCADC, ACS
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Toms River, NJ 08753
Waitlist for new clients
Are you ready to finally be free of your past? Does it seem like every time you try to move forward in life, your anxiety, depression, or PTSD hold you back? Perhaps you feel you can’t break away from unhealthy situations or relationships. Many of my clients are dealing with past abuse or other trauma, addiction issues, or fear and shame that overwhelm them. At some point, it becomes unbearable. I work with people who are determined to be free of symptoms and move forward. You may not be able to erase the past, but with the right support, willingness, and effective therapy, you can take control of your life again.
Are you ready to finally be free of your past? Does it seem like every time you try to move forward in life, your anxiety, depression, or PTSD hold you back? Perhaps you feel you can’t break away from unhealthy situations or relationships. Many of my clients are dealing with past abuse or other trauma, addiction issues, or fear and shame that overwhelm them. At some point, it becomes unbearable. I work with people who are determined to be free of symptoms and move forward. You may not be able to erase the past, but with the right support, willingness, and effective therapy, you can take control of your life again.
(848) 251-0224 View (848) 251-0224
Photo of Elisabeth Kvalo-Savino, Licensed Professional Counselor in 08753, NJ
Elisabeth Kvalo-Savino
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toms River, NJ 08753
I am trained in play therapy, motivational interviewing, client centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and Trauma Focused CBT.
I am a licensed professional counselor with over 30 years of experience working with children, adolescents, individuals and families . I am very passionate about helping others. I provide a warm, empathetic, non-judgmental environment where a trusting relationship is built so we can begin to do the work to help bring about positive change in your life. I use a multi-modal approach, taking each client's individual needs into consideration.
I am trained in play therapy, motivational interviewing, client centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and Trauma Focused CBT.
I am a licensed professional counselor with over 30 years of experience working with children, adolescents, individuals and families . I am very passionate about helping others. I provide a warm, empathetic, non-judgmental environment where a trusting relationship is built so we can begin to do the work to help bring about positive change in your life. I use a multi-modal approach, taking each client's individual needs into consideration.
(732) 783-5106 View (732) 783-5106
Photo of Rose J Testa LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 08753, NJ
Rose J Testa LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toms River, NJ 08753
Therapy can be a wonderful process to examine self, reflect, and grow toward the direction of hope and healing. I offer a safe, supportive and private environment where you may explore and work through life challenges. If you're struggling with anxiety, depression, grief and loss,`the aftermath of trauma, or panic attacks therapy can be an viable source of comfort and healing. At times life gives us more than we can handle and the challenges seem to go beyond our ability to cope. It is at these times when therapy can be most beneficial.
Therapy can be a wonderful process to examine self, reflect, and grow toward the direction of hope and healing. I offer a safe, supportive and private environment where you may explore and work through life challenges. If you're struggling with anxiety, depression, grief and loss,`the aftermath of trauma, or panic attacks therapy can be an viable source of comfort and healing. At times life gives us more than we can handle and the challenges seem to go beyond our ability to cope. It is at these times when therapy can be most beneficial.
(848) 224-6178 View (848) 224-6178
Photo of Nicole Tilton, Licensed Professional Counselor in 08753, NJ
Nicole Tilton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, ACS, CCTP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Toms River, NJ 08753
To receive the credential of Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Nicole has completed and continues to receive education that consisted of the classifications of trauma and trauma-related disorders, assessment of psychological trauma including PTSD and complex trauma, evidenced based trauma approaches, and primary treatment issues in trauma therapy.
Nicole Tilton is a LPC in the State of NJ who has been working in the field for over 10 years. She has in BA Psychology from The Richard Stockton College of New Jersey and a MS in Mental Health Counseling with a certificate in Couples & Family Counseling from Monmouth University. She also is a National Certified Counselor, an Approved Clinical Supervisor, and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. Nicole works with individuals who have been affected by trauma as well as grief and loss. She also works with primary mental health diagnoses.
To receive the credential of Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Nicole has completed and continues to receive education that consisted of the classifications of trauma and trauma-related disorders, assessment of psychological trauma including PTSD and complex trauma, evidenced based trauma approaches, and primary treatment issues in trauma therapy.
Nicole Tilton is a LPC in the State of NJ who has been working in the field for over 10 years. She has in BA Psychology from The Richard Stockton College of New Jersey and a MS in Mental Health Counseling with a certificate in Couples & Family Counseling from Monmouth University. She also is a National Certified Counselor, an Approved Clinical Supervisor, and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. Nicole works with individuals who have been affected by trauma as well as grief and loss. She also works with primary mental health diagnoses.
(732) 943-1521 View (732) 943-1521
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.