Photo of Ellen Sloh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 21228, MD
Ellen Sloh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Catonsville, MD 21228  (Online Only)
Congrats on taking the first step towards wellness and searching for a therapist! I believe that the therapeutic Alliance is important and you are the expert of your life and I bring in the professional guidance. Consistent daily practice of self-compassion, empathy, and healthy boundaries can overcome years of trauma and unhealthy coping skills. Everyone has the capacity to move towards mental wellness given appropriate resources and empathy. I utilize an eclectic style in my approach and implement CBT,DBT, EMDR along with a client centered approach because therapy is not one size fits all. I also provide Clinical Supervision.
Congrats on taking the first step towards wellness and searching for a therapist! I believe that the therapeutic Alliance is important and you are the expert of your life and I bring in the professional guidance. Consistent daily practice of self-compassion, empathy, and healthy boundaries can overcome years of trauma and unhealthy coping skills. Everyone has the capacity to move towards mental wellness given appropriate resources and empathy. I utilize an eclectic style in my approach and implement CBT,DBT, EMDR along with a client centered approach because therapy is not one size fits all. I also provide Clinical Supervision.
(410) 883-7872 View (410) 883-7872
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 Lindsey Weller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 21228, MD
Lindsey Weller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Catonsville, MD 21228  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating individuals or couples, adults and adolescents 16+ with anxiety, OCD, trauma, depression, substance abuse, relationship issues, and PTSD but, I treat and work with many others.
Do you feel like you are not living your life to its full potential? Are you utilizing unhealthy coping strategies? If you are feeling unsure, worried, or not like yourself, you've come to the right place. I work with my clients to help them reach their optimal wellness. Together we reduce anxieties, build and mend relationships, and tackle anything life can throw at you. I use a strengths-based and solution-focused approach as well as a verity of techniques to meet each of my clients’ unique needs. www.Mindfulrecoverymd.com
I specialize in treating individuals or couples, adults and adolescents 16+ with anxiety, OCD, trauma, depression, substance abuse, relationship issues, and PTSD but, I treat and work with many others.
Do you feel like you are not living your life to its full potential? Are you utilizing unhealthy coping strategies? If you are feeling unsure, worried, or not like yourself, you've come to the right place. I work with my clients to help them reach their optimal wellness. Together we reduce anxieties, build and mend relationships, and tackle anything life can throw at you. I use a strengths-based and solution-focused approach as well as a verity of techniques to meet each of my clients’ unique needs. www.Mindfulrecoverymd.com
(410) 695-4355 View (410) 695-4355
Photo of Samantha Piekarz (Morales), Counselor in 21228, MD
Samantha Piekarz (Morales)
Counselor, MS, LGPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Catonsville, MD 21228  (Online Only)
My approach is holistic and trauma-informed; so I believe in treatment that addresses spiritual, physical, mental, emotional, and social wellness.
I decided to become a therapist to help others like myself discover their story, improve connections, and rebuild their inner worlds. If you're looking for a therapist who is compassionate, nonjudgmental, and a little goofy... you've found her! I want my clients to feel heard, understood, and supported as they process their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. We will celebrate progressive, incremental wins together, but also hold space to learn from opportunities for growth.
My approach is holistic and trauma-informed; so I believe in treatment that addresses spiritual, physical, mental, emotional, and social wellness.
I decided to become a therapist to help others like myself discover their story, improve connections, and rebuild their inner worlds. If you're looking for a therapist who is compassionate, nonjudgmental, and a little goofy... you've found her! I want my clients to feel heard, understood, and supported as they process their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. We will celebrate progressive, incremental wins together, but also hold space to learn from opportunities for growth.
(410) 498-7365 View (410) 498-7365
Photo of Paulette Williams-Tillery, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 21228, MD
Paulette Williams-Tillery
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Catonsville, MD 21228
Dr. Paulette Tillery is a licensed Social Worker with over 20 years of experience working with and impacting change for underserved populations. When one person is affected by trauma, it creates a domino effect on families and communities.
Dr. Paulette Tillery is a licensed Social Worker with over 20 years of experience working with and impacting change for underserved populations. When one person is affected by trauma, it creates a domino effect on families and communities.
(443) 251-3106 View (443) 251-3106
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 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 Keisharely Pérez-Arocho, Licensed Professional Counselor in 21228, MD
Keisharely Pérez-Arocho
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Catonsville, MD 21228  (Online Only)
I'm certified in Child and Adolescent Trauma and use person-centered, CBT, and acceptance and commitment therapy to provide personalized treatment.
I understand that coming to therapy for the first time can feel uncomfortable. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental space for clients to explore difficulties and build resilience. I embrace the experiences and differences that each individual brings and demonstrate compassion and respect for every client.
I'm certified in Child and Adolescent Trauma and use person-centered, CBT, and acceptance and commitment therapy to provide personalized treatment.
I understand that coming to therapy for the first time can feel uncomfortable. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental space for clients to explore difficulties and build resilience. I embrace the experiences and differences that each individual brings and demonstrate compassion and respect for every client.
(443) 846-0404 View (443) 846-0404
Photo of LaShaun Annette Williams, Psychologist in 21228, MD
LaShaun Annette Williams
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Catonsville, MD 21228
Williams has extensive experience treating mood disorders and has a clinical specialty in the treatment of trauma related disorders including dissociative disorders.
Dr. Williams provides services to individuals looking to reduce and manage symptoms of anxiety and depression, improve overall functioning, and receive support in facing life challenges. Her therapeutic approach is a collaborative one, involving a process of identifying each client’s specific needs and goals and developing a treatment plan to address these. Dr. Williams’ treatment style has been described as calm, warm, empathic and non judgmental. Within an atmosphere of respect and collaboration, Dr. Williams assists clients in discovering and making effective use of inner and outer resources, so that they may engage in meaningful life experiences.
Williams has extensive experience treating mood disorders and has a clinical specialty in the treatment of trauma related disorders including dissociative disorders.
Dr. Williams provides services to individuals looking to reduce and manage symptoms of anxiety and depression, improve overall functioning, and receive support in facing life challenges. Her therapeutic approach is a collaborative one, involving a process of identifying each client’s specific needs and goals and developing a treatment plan to address these. Dr. Williams’ treatment style has been described as calm, warm, empathic and non judgmental. Within an atmosphere of respect and collaboration, Dr. Williams assists clients in discovering and making effective use of inner and outer resources, so that they may engage in meaningful life experiences.
(202) 640-4597 View (202) 640-4597
Photo of UMBC Psychology Training Clinic, Psychologist in 21228, MD
UMBC Psychology Training Clinic
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Catonsville, MD 21228
We use evidence-based approaches to teach skills and empower clients to build a life worth living. Our clients are looking for help with many different challenges, including depression, anxiety, PTSD/trauma, substance use, life transitions, and relationships. We work collaboratively with our clients to identify their therapy goals and develop a plan to meet those goals.
We use evidence-based approaches to teach skills and empower clients to build a life worth living. Our clients are looking for help with many different challenges, including depression, anxiety, PTSD/trauma, substance use, life transitions, and relationships. We work collaboratively with our clients to identify their therapy goals and develop a plan to meet those goals.
(410) 698-4357 View (410) 698-4357
Photo of Kelly Bishop, Counselor in 21228, MD
Kelly Bishop
Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Catonsville, MD 21228
I prefer working with individuals aged 18 and up who are battling with anxiety, the trauma legacy, life transitions, ADHD, self-esteem concerns and relationship struggles.
Now Accepting New Patients for In Person ONLY in PA. The journey through life is full of ups and downs and sometimes those downs can create barriers that make us feel stuck and can impact our ability to enjoy the ups. Though it might not feel like it, you have the power and strength to overcome those struggles; it just might take a little help, and hey, we ALL can use a little help navigating the curveballs of life! My mission is to provide that guidance to help unlock the answers within you to create that change you’ve been wishing for.
I prefer working with individuals aged 18 and up who are battling with anxiety, the trauma legacy, life transitions, ADHD, self-esteem concerns and relationship struggles.
Now Accepting New Patients for In Person ONLY in PA. The journey through life is full of ups and downs and sometimes those downs can create barriers that make us feel stuck and can impact our ability to enjoy the ups. Though it might not feel like it, you have the power and strength to overcome those struggles; it just might take a little help, and hey, we ALL can use a little help navigating the curveballs of life! My mission is to provide that guidance to help unlock the answers within you to create that change you’ve been wishing for.
(717) 357-8230 View (717) 357-8230
Photo of Sara Murry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 21228, MD
Sara Murry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Catonsville, MD 21228  (Online Only)
I also hold training and certification in processing and healing from trauma in addition to recovery from substance use disorders.
Do you want to learn to manage difficult emotions, build a better life, and increase your self-acceptance? I will create a safe and affirming space to collaborate with you on your journey of self-discovery, explore your deeper issues, and move towards thriving in your well being. As a therapist I am thoughtful, warm, and communicative. I genuinely see the best in people while holding a judgement-free space to explore needs, work through challenges, and accomplish goals.
I also hold training and certification in processing and healing from trauma in addition to recovery from substance use disorders.
Do you want to learn to manage difficult emotions, build a better life, and increase your self-acceptance? I will create a safe and affirming space to collaborate with you on your journey of self-discovery, explore your deeper issues, and move towards thriving in your well being. As a therapist I am thoughtful, warm, and communicative. I genuinely see the best in people while holding a judgement-free space to explore needs, work through challenges, and accomplish goals.
(443) 648-9760 View (443) 648-9760
Photo of Loreal Harris, Counselor in 21228, MD
Loreal Harris
Counselor, LCPC-C
Verified Verified
Catonsville, MD 21228  (Online Only)
Contemporary Counseling welcomes clients from all walks of life. Contemporary Counseling respects all individuals looking through the lens of trauma exposure coupled with psychotherapy. Contemporary Counseling offers customized treatment plans to assist each individual with creating systems of sustainability.
Contemporary Counseling welcomes clients from all walks of life. Contemporary Counseling respects all individuals looking through the lens of trauma exposure coupled with psychotherapy. Contemporary Counseling offers customized treatment plans to assist each individual with creating systems of sustainability.
(410) 541-1097 View (410) 541-1097
Photo of Brenna Neimanis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 21228, MD
Brenna Neimanis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Catonsville, MD 21228  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Body Positive, LGBTQIA+ Affirming, Trauma-Informed, and BIPOC allied therapist.
I currently have a waitlist - Welcome to therapy, I’m so happy you are here! My practice is focused on feeling at home within yourself & providing a safe place to explore your whole self through individual, partnered, and/or family therapy. I use an inclusive, holistic approach & understand that each client is a unique individual & is impacted by their experiences, as well as societal structures & norms. I work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, burn-out, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, mood disorders, difficulty coping, family/partner conflict, concerns with self-worth, & those who have experienced trauma.
I am a Body Positive, LGBTQIA+ Affirming, Trauma-Informed, and BIPOC allied therapist.
I currently have a waitlist - Welcome to therapy, I’m so happy you are here! My practice is focused on feeling at home within yourself & providing a safe place to explore your whole self through individual, partnered, and/or family therapy. I use an inclusive, holistic approach & understand that each client is a unique individual & is impacted by their experiences, as well as societal structures & norms. I work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, burn-out, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, mood disorders, difficulty coping, family/partner conflict, concerns with self-worth, & those who have experienced trauma.
(443) 457-9293 View (443) 457-9293
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 Becca @Patapsco Integrative Counseling, Counselor in 21228, MD
Becca @Patapsco Integrative Counseling
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Catonsville, MD 21228
Waitlist for new clients
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, or ADHD that affects your ability to function in your relationships, your work, and all the things you need to do to get through the daily grind? Do you feel exhausted and overwhelmed, wondering if there's even a light at the end of the tunnel? Do you ever wonder if life really can get better? Many people are struggling with anxiety and depression. Others are trying to overcome childhood abuse and trauma, and still others are trying to overcome the shame and frustration of constantly struggling with accomplishing their day-to-day tasks. I believe that there is hope for a better life.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, or ADHD that affects your ability to function in your relationships, your work, and all the things you need to do to get through the daily grind? Do you feel exhausted and overwhelmed, wondering if there's even a light at the end of the tunnel? Do you ever wonder if life really can get better? Many people are struggling with anxiety and depression. Others are trying to overcome childhood abuse and trauma, and still others are trying to overcome the shame and frustration of constantly struggling with accomplishing their day-to-day tasks. I believe that there is hope for a better life.
(443) 419-7037 View (443) 419-7037
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 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 Sara B Samedi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 21228, MD
Sara B Samedi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Catonsville, MD 21228
I am a compassionate and dedicated Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) with over 20 years of experience in the field. My practice is grounded in supporting children, families, and adults through life's challenges, utilizing a person-centered and trauma-informed approach. I specialize in working with children, families, and adults, addressing issues such as trauma, abuse, depression, anxiety, and psychosis. I am experienced in supporting individuals in making behavioral changes, developing a stronger understanding of themselves, and healing relationships with others.
I am a compassionate and dedicated Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) with over 20 years of experience in the field. My practice is grounded in supporting children, families, and adults through life's challenges, utilizing a person-centered and trauma-informed approach. I specialize in working with children, families, and adults, addressing issues such as trauma, abuse, depression, anxiety, and psychosis. I am experienced in supporting individuals in making behavioral changes, developing a stronger understanding of themselves, and healing relationships with others.
(410) 705-0402 View (410) 705-0402

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.