Photo of Alex Hind, Counselor in 21228, MD
Alex Hind
Counselor, MA, LGPC
Verified Verified
Catonsville, MD 21228  (Online Only)
I specialize in anxiety, panic disorder, and depression, attachment based trauma and complex trauma, traumatic grief and loss, non-monogamy/poly/kink affirming, parenthood, and folks who are in recovery from substance use/addiction/codependency (12 step recovery affirming).
Accepting new clients starting May 20th 2024! I believe that all people have their own inherent wisdom and as a counselor, I aim to support clients to embody their truest, most authentic self. I use a non-pathologizing model to support you to identify and understand your individualized needs. I find that understanding, empathy, and collaboration, with a focus on grounding in the here and now develops self compassion and acceptance. Often when we are in pain we have trouble accessing those parts of ourselves. Healing and recovery can happen within a safe and compassionate relationship and I aim to provide that container with you.
I specialize in anxiety, panic disorder, and depression, attachment based trauma and complex trauma, traumatic grief and loss, non-monogamy/poly/kink affirming, parenthood, and folks who are in recovery from substance use/addiction/codependency (12 step recovery affirming).
Accepting new clients starting May 20th 2024! I believe that all people have their own inherent wisdom and as a counselor, I aim to support clients to embody their truest, most authentic self. I use a non-pathologizing model to support you to identify and understand your individualized needs. I find that understanding, empathy, and collaboration, with a focus on grounding in the here and now develops self compassion and acceptance. Often when we are in pain we have trouble accessing those parts of ourselves. Healing and recovery can happen within a safe and compassionate relationship and I aim to provide that container with you.
(443) 565-6039 View (443) 565-6039
Photo of Shelby Murtagh, Marriage & Family Therapist in 21228, MD
Shelby Murtagh
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Catonsville, MD 21228  (Online Only)
I thrive when working with clients who are open to the idea of healing from their trauma. They don't need to be ready to do all the work just yet, but rather be willing to engage in the therapeutic journey, recognizing the importance of addressing past wounds to foster personal growth, and be ready to give therapy a chance. Clients receptivity to self-discovery and a collaborative approach allows us to navigate the complexities of their history together. This client values the opportunity to build a supportive and empowering therapeutic relationship, enabling us to cultivate a foundation for lasting change.
I thrive when working with clients who are open to the idea of healing from their trauma. They don't need to be ready to do all the work just yet, but rather be willing to engage in the therapeutic journey, recognizing the importance of addressing past wounds to foster personal growth, and be ready to give therapy a chance. Clients receptivity to self-discovery and a collaborative approach allows us to navigate the complexities of their history together. This client values the opportunity to build a supportive and empowering therapeutic relationship, enabling us to cultivate a foundation for lasting change.
(240) 617-4088 View (240) 617-4088
Photo of Dr. Desirée N. Robinson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 21228, MD
Dr. Desirée N. Robinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, ACS
Verified Verified
Catonsville, MD 21228  (Online Only)
Intimacy Injuries are rampant and even normalized in today’s environment. Whether these emotional wounds show up in regards to your relationship with yourself, your significant others, or your family members; the opportunity to ameliorate those hurts is here! In my work as a Psychotherapist, I specialize in Sex, Intimacy, and Trauma as well as a Bariatric Specialist with self-identity before and after Weight Loss Surgery. If you also identify as Highly Sensitive or Introverted, let's have a chat about how to uncover how you may be hiding your greatness in plain sight!
Intimacy Injuries are rampant and even normalized in today’s environment. Whether these emotional wounds show up in regards to your relationship with yourself, your significant others, or your family members; the opportunity to ameliorate those hurts is here! In my work as a Psychotherapist, I specialize in Sex, Intimacy, and Trauma as well as a Bariatric Specialist with self-identity before and after Weight Loss Surgery. If you also identify as Highly Sensitive or Introverted, let's have a chat about how to uncover how you may be hiding your greatness in plain sight!
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Photo of Liza Hicks, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 21228, MD
Liza Hicks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Catonsville, MD 21228
I have been working with individuals who have experienced trauma, grief, and intense anxiety for 17 years.
I trust that finding a therapist is challenging and can be overwhelming. I am a caring, supportive, intelligent and well trained therapist. I am committed to helping people overcome challenges and pain in their lives.
I have been working with individuals who have experienced trauma, grief, and intense anxiety for 17 years.
I trust that finding a therapist is challenging and can be overwhelming. I am a caring, supportive, intelligent and well trained therapist. I am committed to helping people overcome challenges and pain in their lives.
(443) 406-2363 View (443) 406-2363
Photo of John Lawrence Potash, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 21228, MD
John Lawrence Potash
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Catonsville, MD 21228
I've been working as a therapist for people suffering from Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, bereavement, trauma issues, and addictions for over 30 years. I've also done much couples counseling and family counseling. In 2015 I obtained 50 hours training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), now considered the gold standard for treating people with life traumas as well as anxieties (Certified 2022). I've seen great results in faster time on these & other issues since. I look forward to helping you identify the changes you'd like to make and helping you enhance your strengths for achieving your goals.
I've been working as a therapist for people suffering from Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, bereavement, trauma issues, and addictions for over 30 years. I've also done much couples counseling and family counseling. In 2015 I obtained 50 hours training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), now considered the gold standard for treating people with life traumas as well as anxieties (Certified 2022). I've seen great results in faster time on these & other issues since. I look forward to helping you identify the changes you'd like to make and helping you enhance your strengths for achieving your goals.
(410) 697-5233 View (410) 697-5233
Photo of Life Connection Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 21228, MD
Life Connection Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Catonsville, MD 21228
Nicole White-Samuels has worked in a variety of clinical settings including inpatient, outpatient, residential and private practice. Nicole White-Samuels is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), an evidenced based practice found extremely effective in providing relief and healing for those suffering with trauma, as well as Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). an evidence-based practice used in treating children impacted by trauma. She is certified in Brainspotting assisting her clients to access, process and overcome unresolved trauma, negative emotions, and pain.
Nicole White-Samuels has worked in a variety of clinical settings including inpatient, outpatient, residential and private practice. Nicole White-Samuels is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), an evidenced based practice found extremely effective in providing relief and healing for those suffering with trauma, as well as Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). an evidence-based practice used in treating children impacted by trauma. She is certified in Brainspotting assisting her clients to access, process and overcome unresolved trauma, negative emotions, and pain.
(410) 469-6681 View (410) 469-6681
Photo of Candice Richardson Dickens, Counselor in 21228, MD
Candice Richardson Dickens
Counselor, LCPC-S, LCADC, NCC, MA, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Catonsville, MD 21228
Are you tired of your past traumas getting in the way of experiencing joy, long lasting intimacy, stability and happiness? If so, I want you to know that healing is possible. and you deserve to have the life that you want. I am a trauma specialist, and I am trained in helping clients heal from past abuse, hurt, and acts of violence. Restoration, liberation from trauma, and peace are the goals for my ideal client.
Are you tired of your past traumas getting in the way of experiencing joy, long lasting intimacy, stability and happiness? If so, I want you to know that healing is possible. and you deserve to have the life that you want. I am a trauma specialist, and I am trained in helping clients heal from past abuse, hurt, and acts of violence. Restoration, liberation from trauma, and peace are the goals for my ideal client.
(443) 218-9560 View (443) 218-9560
Photo of Timothy Ashdown, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in 21228, MD
Timothy Ashdown
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Catonsville, MD 21228
Hi there. I've lived in Maryland since 2012, and I am a fully licensed therapist. I really enjoy the work that I do, and it is my hope to meet my clients exactly where they are. I utilize a cognitive-behavioral and strength-based approach with my clients. I have worked clinically with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and I specialize in working with relationship stressors. Whether it's the heavy expectation we might place on ourselves or perhaps a specific relational concern, my hope is to be alongside you in a totally non-judgmental environment.
Hi there. I've lived in Maryland since 2012, and I am a fully licensed therapist. I really enjoy the work that I do, and it is my hope to meet my clients exactly where they are. I utilize a cognitive-behavioral and strength-based approach with my clients. I have worked clinically with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and I specialize in working with relationship stressors. Whether it's the heavy expectation we might place on ourselves or perhaps a specific relational concern, my hope is to be alongside you in a totally non-judgmental environment.
(410) 413-7964 View (410) 413-7964
Photo of Gardner McCullough, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 21228, MD
Gardner McCullough
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Catonsville, MD 21228
Accepting new patients! Take a step towards healing with a compassionate LCSW-C specializing in anxiety, trauma, and depression. Drawing from over a decade of experience, I understand the unique challenges you may face. I tailor an approach to support you the way that puts your needs first and foremost with a focus on helping you reach your goal. I integrate cognitive-behavioral models, including EMDR and CBT, with a patient-centered focus. My commitment is to guide you through challenges, fostering growth and resilience. Discover personalized therapy that empowers—where your unique healing journey takes center stage.
Accepting new patients! Take a step towards healing with a compassionate LCSW-C specializing in anxiety, trauma, and depression. Drawing from over a decade of experience, I understand the unique challenges you may face. I tailor an approach to support you the way that puts your needs first and foremost with a focus on helping you reach your goal. I integrate cognitive-behavioral models, including EMDR and CBT, with a patient-centered focus. My commitment is to guide you through challenges, fostering growth and resilience. Discover personalized therapy that empowers—where your unique healing journey takes center stage.
(410) 834-4858 View (410) 834-4858
Photo of Kristin Miller, Counselor in 21228, MD
Kristin Miller
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Catonsville, MD 21228  (Online Only)
I am trained in treating trauma and PTSD through different modalities and with EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
I love that we all have our unique stories and individual perspectives, and I cannot wait to help you feel heard and take the first step toward where you want to be. I offer over 8 years of experience working with adults, teenagers, LGBTQ clients, and couples. I promise empathy, trust, and commitment to therapy designed to be a safe place for you to open up. I believe you have the solutions inside of you already and, sometimes, we just need to set aside the time and space to discover them!
I am trained in treating trauma and PTSD through different modalities and with EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
I love that we all have our unique stories and individual perspectives, and I cannot wait to help you feel heard and take the first step toward where you want to be. I offer over 8 years of experience working with adults, teenagers, LGBTQ clients, and couples. I promise empathy, trust, and commitment to therapy designed to be a safe place for you to open up. I believe you have the solutions inside of you already and, sometimes, we just need to set aside the time and space to discover them!
(410) 824-5042 View (410) 824-5042
Photo of Alan Kutner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 21228, MD
Alan Kutner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Catonsville, MD 21228  (Online Only)
I empower men to overcome anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, and more through personalized, collaborative therapy, drawing on CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy), IFS (Internal Family Systems), mindfulness, and music therapies to help them find their unique path to healing and growth.
"The problem is not the problem. The problem is your attitude about the problem." Are you tired of pretending "everything's fine", when it's not? Real men embrace vulnerability, honesty & courage. It takes guts to ask for help & face struggles head-on. It takes strength to open up & true bravery to take action for lasting change. We often hit a wall in life & reach a turning point – a bridge we need to cross. Are you looking for a therapist who is real and genuine & can guide you across? As we embark on this transformative journey, I will be here to support you every step of the way, empowering you to unlock your true potential.
I empower men to overcome anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, and more through personalized, collaborative therapy, drawing on CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy), IFS (Internal Family Systems), mindfulness, and music therapies to help them find their unique path to healing and growth.
"The problem is not the problem. The problem is your attitude about the problem." Are you tired of pretending "everything's fine", when it's not? Real men embrace vulnerability, honesty & courage. It takes guts to ask for help & face struggles head-on. It takes strength to open up & true bravery to take action for lasting change. We often hit a wall in life & reach a turning point – a bridge we need to cross. Are you looking for a therapist who is real and genuine & can guide you across? As we embark on this transformative journey, I will be here to support you every step of the way, empowering you to unlock your true potential.
(301) 273-1583 View (301) 273-1583
Photo of Carrie Holland-Lee, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in 21228, MD
Carrie Holland-Lee
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Catonsville, MD 21228
I use a client centered approach where I help the client focus on the skills and resources they have in order to help solve the problems they have in their life. I offer a warm, non-judgmental approach to therapy and am happy to help my clients learn and grow through their experiences. I am trained in EMDR and use this technique to help clients with a trauma work through and heal from their past. I also do marriage and couples counseling with all types of couples including those in non-monogamous relationships.
I use a client centered approach where I help the client focus on the skills and resources they have in order to help solve the problems they have in their life. I offer a warm, non-judgmental approach to therapy and am happy to help my clients learn and grow through their experiences. I am trained in EMDR and use this technique to help clients with a trauma work through and heal from their past. I also do marriage and couples counseling with all types of couples including those in non-monogamous relationships.
(443) 424-6237 View (443) 424-6237
Photo of Amber Hager, Psychologist in 21228, MD
Amber Hager
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Catonsville, MD 21228  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Supporting the LGBTQ+ community is my therapeutic strength and passion and I provide affirming individual and relationship therapy. Authenticity, congruence, and acceptance are foundations in my work and I am here to help you navigate the concerns that are bringing you to therapy with a warm and open style, sprinkled with humor and compassionate challenge. I can assist you in improving your relationship with yourself, partners, and family by gaining insight into interpersonal patterns, anxieties, and/or trauma responses that may be impacting relationships.
Supporting the LGBTQ+ community is my therapeutic strength and passion and I provide affirming individual and relationship therapy. Authenticity, congruence, and acceptance are foundations in my work and I am here to help you navigate the concerns that are bringing you to therapy with a warm and open style, sprinkled with humor and compassionate challenge. I can assist you in improving your relationship with yourself, partners, and family by gaining insight into interpersonal patterns, anxieties, and/or trauma responses that may be impacting relationships.
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Photo of Veronica George Md State Board Approved Supervisor, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in 21228, MD
Veronica George Md State Board Approved Supervisor
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Catonsville, MD 21228
Client focus are Dual Diagnosis, Spirituality, Sexual Trauma, Domestic Violence.
"Together We Achieve Freedom", the goal you want to reach to live your best life. I possess 8 professional yrs. of Master Degree level Counseling/Psychotherapy (4yrs licensed); >10yrs as pre-masters degree mental health counselor. WELCOME to Maryland Collaborative Counseling, LLC. In this outpatient safe place, all ADULT clients receive quality guidance with an individualized plan of action using a cognitive- behavioral treatment approach to individual, couples, and group issues. Together we will navigate through addictions, adjusting issues, accepting the healthy self, + other issues with competence, knowledge, and compassion.
Client focus are Dual Diagnosis, Spirituality, Sexual Trauma, Domestic Violence.
"Together We Achieve Freedom", the goal you want to reach to live your best life. I possess 8 professional yrs. of Master Degree level Counseling/Psychotherapy (4yrs licensed); >10yrs as pre-masters degree mental health counselor. WELCOME to Maryland Collaborative Counseling, LLC. In this outpatient safe place, all ADULT clients receive quality guidance with an individualized plan of action using a cognitive- behavioral treatment approach to individual, couples, and group issues. Together we will navigate through addictions, adjusting issues, accepting the healthy self, + other issues with competence, knowledge, and compassion.
Photo of Brian Edwards, Counselor in 21228, MD
Brian Edwards
Counselor, MA, MDiv, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Catonsville, MD 21228
The ability to change is within each of us. I have over twenty years of experience helping adults, adolescents, and children make meaningful, long-lasting, transformative change in their lives. My particular areas of interest include: anxiety, self-compassion, trauma, religious challenges, and adjustment disorders. I am also a consultant for groups and organizations.
The ability to change is within each of us. I have over twenty years of experience helping adults, adolescents, and children make meaningful, long-lasting, transformative change in their lives. My particular areas of interest include: anxiety, self-compassion, trauma, religious challenges, and adjustment disorders. I am also a consultant for groups and organizations.
(443) 234-0713 View (443) 234-0713
Photo of Shania S Greenwood, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in 21228, MD
Shania S Greenwood
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Catonsville, MD 21228
Some of the diagnosis I work with are grief, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Relationship/Family Concerns, ADHD, Self-Esteem, Self-Esteem, Body Image, and young adults who are transitioning into the world of adulthood.
I am so glad that you are here. Taking the steps toward healing is no easy task, so if no one has said it, I am so proud of you. Society spends so much time trying to tell us who we are and what we need to be that sometimes we forget who we are and what we are worth. The hardest part of the therapeutic process is showing up. Healing can be complicated and scary at times. However, through this process, I hope you discover all the beautiful qualities that make you exceptional.
Some of the diagnosis I work with are grief, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Relationship/Family Concerns, ADHD, Self-Esteem, Self-Esteem, Body Image, and young adults who are transitioning into the world of adulthood.
I am so glad that you are here. Taking the steps toward healing is no easy task, so if no one has said it, I am so proud of you. Society spends so much time trying to tell us who we are and what we need to be that sometimes we forget who we are and what we are worth. The hardest part of the therapeutic process is showing up. Healing can be complicated and scary at times. However, through this process, I hope you discover all the beautiful qualities that make you exceptional.
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Photo of Cheryl Anne Bruns, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 21228, MD
Cheryl Anne Bruns
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Catonsville, MD 21228
I have been a practicing clinical social worker since 1998. I have specialized in trauma, attachment related disorders, anxiety, depression and family of origin issues. My approach is to meet the client where he/she is respecting that you are the expert of you. I believe that change is always possible through finding the right support and solutions. I am always humbled by the hard work of my clients and honored to be a part of their journey.
I have been a practicing clinical social worker since 1998. I have specialized in trauma, attachment related disorders, anxiety, depression and family of origin issues. My approach is to meet the client where he/she is respecting that you are the expert of you. I believe that change is always possible through finding the right support and solutions. I am always humbled by the hard work of my clients and honored to be a part of their journey.
(410) 218-8246 View (410) 218-8246
Photo of Mary D Hill, Psychologist in 21228, MD
Mary D Hill
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Catonsville, MD 21228
Some of my experience includes dealing with ADHD, Asperger's Syndrome and Traits, Parenting Issues, Adoption, Anxiety (including PTSD and OCD), Depression and other Mood Disorders, Marital/Couple Problems, Adult-Teen Developmental Issues and Conflicts, Problems of Early Childhood, Personality Disorders, Transitions in life such as Divorce or Loss, and formal Cognitive and Personality Assessments.
It takes a lot of courage to seek help, especially in a world that unfairly stigmatizes getting psychological services. Lack of understanding of what therapy is and how people can benefit from it prevents some from using professional services to know and understand themselves better, to improve relationships, and to live more meaningful, fulfilling lives regardless of their challenges. Sometimes people have troubling symptoms due to anxiety, depression, and other disorders and need help to address these symptoms and their causes. I use a variety of approaches to help clients. My goal is to empower clients through a healthy, therapeutic relationship.
Some of my experience includes dealing with ADHD, Asperger's Syndrome and Traits, Parenting Issues, Adoption, Anxiety (including PTSD and OCD), Depression and other Mood Disorders, Marital/Couple Problems, Adult-Teen Developmental Issues and Conflicts, Problems of Early Childhood, Personality Disorders, Transitions in life such as Divorce or Loss, and formal Cognitive and Personality Assessments.
It takes a lot of courage to seek help, especially in a world that unfairly stigmatizes getting psychological services. Lack of understanding of what therapy is and how people can benefit from it prevents some from using professional services to know and understand themselves better, to improve relationships, and to live more meaningful, fulfilling lives regardless of their challenges. Sometimes people have troubling symptoms due to anxiety, depression, and other disorders and need help to address these symptoms and their causes. I use a variety of approaches to help clients. My goal is to empower clients through a healthy, therapeutic relationship.
(443) 334-8810 View (443) 334-8810
Photo of Eric Fielding, Psychologist in 21228, MD
Eric Fielding
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Catonsville, MD 21228
I have had specialized training in psychoanalysis, trauma, and peripartum mood/anxiety/psychotic problems.
By listening to people and paying attention to what develops, I collaboratively assist them to understand feelings, thoughts, body experiences, and behaviors. This may remove barriers to living life to the full. We often create these barriers early in life and then continue them through habitual thought, feeling-management, and relationship patterns. Healing occurs in a safe, new kind of relationship. Within this relationship, people may recognize things they have known and not known. Those who openly share their thoughts, feelings, and experiences (including a hesitation to share certain things) are often able to make progress.
I have had specialized training in psychoanalysis, trauma, and peripartum mood/anxiety/psychotic problems.
By listening to people and paying attention to what develops, I collaboratively assist them to understand feelings, thoughts, body experiences, and behaviors. This may remove barriers to living life to the full. We often create these barriers early in life and then continue them through habitual thought, feeling-management, and relationship patterns. Healing occurs in a safe, new kind of relationship. Within this relationship, people may recognize things they have known and not known. Those who openly share their thoughts, feelings, and experiences (including a hesitation to share certain things) are often able to make progress.
(410) 376-7885 View (410) 376-7885
Photo of Jean L. Audain, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 21228, MD
Jean L. Audain
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Catonsville, MD 21228
Over the past 20 years, I've had the opportunity to work with children and adolescents. In the last 10 years I've increased my scope to include young and older adults. Anxiety, depression, trauma and other behavioral challenges have made up the majority of my work. In each of these situations a strength-based, goal-centric and client-empowered approach has yielded success. In my experience my clients have simply wanted to feel better about their place in life while re-learning to hope once again. My work in schools and in practice have taught me that my success begins from a place of genuine care for my client's well-being.
Over the past 20 years, I've had the opportunity to work with children and adolescents. In the last 10 years I've increased my scope to include young and older adults. Anxiety, depression, trauma and other behavioral challenges have made up the majority of my work. In each of these situations a strength-based, goal-centric and client-empowered approach has yielded success. In my experience my clients have simply wanted to feel better about their place in life while re-learning to hope once again. My work in schools and in practice have taught me that my success begins from a place of genuine care for my client's well-being.
(410) 961-0120 View (410) 961-0120
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.