Trauma and PTSD Therapists in 90042

Photo of Gina Hernandez, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Gina Hernandez
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90042  (Online Only)
Hi, I am Dr. Hernandez. I am a bilingual English-Spanish speaking therapist. Psychotherapy "talk therapy" to me is an evolving, supportive, and yes, at times challenging conversation(s) that can lead to personal growth and help you through life's stressors. I have experience working with individuals with symptoms of depression, trauma, anxiety, feelings of anger, and loss.
Hi, I am Dr. Hernandez. I am a bilingual English-Spanish speaking therapist. Psychotherapy "talk therapy" to me is an evolving, supportive, and yes, at times challenging conversation(s) that can lead to personal growth and help you through life's stressors. I have experience working with individuals with symptoms of depression, trauma, anxiety, feelings of anger, and loss.
(213) 212-7689 View (213) 212-7689
Photo of Amy Henderson, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Amy Henderson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90042  (Online Only)
I use a client-centered, trauma-informed, and integrative approach that interweaves social justice, anti-racism, and LGBTQIA+ affirming work to embrace the unique person you are.
I am passionate about working with young adults and LGBTQA+ folks who are survivors of trauma, sexual violence, and power-based harm. I work collaboratively with clients seeking growth, healing, and transformation in their lives due to trauma, distress, life transitions, identity exploration, or relationship issues. Together, we will use an intersectional lens to help you gain deeper insight into the underlying thoughts and patterns that underlie your distress.
I use a client-centered, trauma-informed, and integrative approach that interweaves social justice, anti-racism, and LGBTQIA+ affirming work to embrace the unique person you are.
I am passionate about working with young adults and LGBTQA+ folks who are survivors of trauma, sexual violence, and power-based harm. I work collaboratively with clients seeking growth, healing, and transformation in their lives due to trauma, distress, life transitions, identity exploration, or relationship issues. Together, we will use an intersectional lens to help you gain deeper insight into the underlying thoughts and patterns that underlie your distress.
(323) 792-8388 View (323) 792-8388
Photo of Nina Gonzaga, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nina Gonzaga
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90042  (Online Only)
I help humans struggling with generational, cultural, and developmental trauma, as well as anxiety and depression.
I hold the sacredness of authenticity, humaning alongside other humans. I focus on working with women, particularly women of color, to show up to the brutal, sweaty, and liberating work of tending to your life while challenging oppressive systems that want humans to stay small. Together, we examine trauma and pain with self-compassion, address avoidance, build vocabulary around emotions to expand your knowing, and work together to enrich relational bonds. I would love to hold space for you! I am licensed and available to work with residents of California and Washington.
I help humans struggling with generational, cultural, and developmental trauma, as well as anxiety and depression.
I hold the sacredness of authenticity, humaning alongside other humans. I focus on working with women, particularly women of color, to show up to the brutal, sweaty, and liberating work of tending to your life while challenging oppressive systems that want humans to stay small. Together, we examine trauma and pain with self-compassion, address avoidance, build vocabulary around emotions to expand your knowing, and work together to enrich relational bonds. I would love to hold space for you! I am licensed and available to work with residents of California and Washington.
(323) 366-3723 View (323) 366-3723
Photo of Rachael Radis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachael Radis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90042  (Online Only)
I combine relational, attachment-focused, and trauma-informed psychodynamic approaches to meet the unique needs of each individual.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I believe all people should have access to excellent mental health care that tends to their emotional, physical, spiritual, and social health. In my practice, I focus on providing an affirmative and authentic therapeutic space for people to heal and grow. I strive to support each client in their own unique therapeutic journey, helping them to understand their motivations, desires, and emotional experiences in a safe and supportive environment.
I combine relational, attachment-focused, and trauma-informed psychodynamic approaches to meet the unique needs of each individual.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I believe all people should have access to excellent mental health care that tends to their emotional, physical, spiritual, and social health. In my practice, I focus on providing an affirmative and authentic therapeutic space for people to heal and grow. I strive to support each client in their own unique therapeutic journey, helping them to understand their motivations, desires, and emotional experiences in a safe and supportive environment.
(213) 583-1563 View (213) 583-1563
Photo of Beatriz Muñoz-Sandoval, MA, LMFT , Marriage & Family Therapist
Beatriz Muñoz-Sandoval
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90042
Most of my work has been with clients with intensive mental health needs and whom have experience trauma in their lives.
If you have been thinking of seeking help to process feelings that are overwhelming you in a safe space, therapy is a great place to do so. I specialize in helping clients process trauma, and past experiences that might be affecting their lives, in a empathetic and client centered approach. I like to first get to know what your strengths are, the areas in your life that you might want to see change or just pay attention to. We can discuss what are some possible ways to make does changes and together find the best strategies to help reach those goals.
Most of my work has been with clients with intensive mental health needs and whom have experience trauma in their lives.
If you have been thinking of seeking help to process feelings that are overwhelming you in a safe space, therapy is a great place to do so. I specialize in helping clients process trauma, and past experiences that might be affecting their lives, in a empathetic and client centered approach. I like to first get to know what your strengths are, the areas in your life that you might want to see change or just pay attention to. We can discuss what are some possible ways to make does changes and together find the best strategies to help reach those goals.
(323) 530-1283 View (323) 530-1283
Photo of Katherane Rackleff, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katherane Rackleff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90042  (Online Only)
Although I always approach client care with a respect for individual needs, I take a lot of inspiration from models of therapy that appreciate how family-of-origin experiences and trauma shape our capacity to cope with stress and trust others.
Hi there, congrats on starting the process of finding a therapist! You have come to the right place if you are looking for a therapist with a directive style and lots of clinical knowledge. I have a special interest in exploring how relationships, childhood experiences, and trauma affect our daily experience of ourselves and others. I am a certified Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist (TF-CBT). Additionally, I have experience treating addiction and sobriety maintenance issues in an outpatient setting.
Although I always approach client care with a respect for individual needs, I take a lot of inspiration from models of therapy that appreciate how family-of-origin experiences and trauma shape our capacity to cope with stress and trust others.
Hi there, congrats on starting the process of finding a therapist! You have come to the right place if you are looking for a therapist with a directive style and lots of clinical knowledge. I have a special interest in exploring how relationships, childhood experiences, and trauma affect our daily experience of ourselves and others. I am a certified Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist (TF-CBT). Additionally, I have experience treating addiction and sobriety maintenance issues in an outpatient setting.
(213) 996-0449 View (213) 996-0449
Photo of Shelly Elia-Shaul, AMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Shelly Elia-Shaul
Pre-Licensed Professional, AMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90042
I am an associate marriage and family therapist working with kids, teens, and adults. I help clients with trauma and complex trauma, Borderline Personality Disorder, ADHD, anxiety, identity issues, and eating disorders. Additionally, I enjoy working with highly sensitive and neurodivergent kids and teens going through relational, personal and academic challenges.
I am an associate marriage and family therapist working with kids, teens, and adults. I help clients with trauma and complex trauma, Borderline Personality Disorder, ADHD, anxiety, identity issues, and eating disorders. Additionally, I enjoy working with highly sensitive and neurodivergent kids and teens going through relational, personal and academic challenges.
(323) 709-0894 View (323) 709-0894
Photo of Katherine Chan, MS, LMFT, RYT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Katherine Chan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, RYT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90042  (Online Only)
I help adults process their emotions, end negative self-talk, and heal past traumas.
I specialize in folks who are struggling with the impact of past relational trauma. This means you might have had a difficult relationship with a parent, struggled with friendships, or have a hard time feeling like you belong or are "good enough." This often shows up in your life today as chronic anxiety and worry, depression and low self-esteem, as well as unfulfilling relationships or a lack of direction in life. You also struggle with difficult emotions, noticing yourself getting triggered by seemingly mundane moments. Overall, you're feeling lost in life and unsure of how to get past this.
I help adults process their emotions, end negative self-talk, and heal past traumas.
I specialize in folks who are struggling with the impact of past relational trauma. This means you might have had a difficult relationship with a parent, struggled with friendships, or have a hard time feeling like you belong or are "good enough." This often shows up in your life today as chronic anxiety and worry, depression and low self-esteem, as well as unfulfilling relationships or a lack of direction in life. You also struggle with difficult emotions, noticing yourself getting triggered by seemingly mundane moments. Overall, you're feeling lost in life and unsure of how to get past this.
(424) 326-8617 View (424) 326-8617
Photo of Gabriella Elise Giorgio, MS, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Gabriella Elise Giorgio
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90042
I work from a trauma-informed and an attachment-focused lens.
My clients are couples who want to feel confident without punishing themselves and build sturdy and sustainable self-trust. They desire closeness and the ability to lean on each other without being codependent. They value autonomy in their relationship while generating shared future dreams and meaning. We will navigate and explore the meaning behind feelings, behaviors, and challenges and observe possible differences between intent and impact. You can expect couples therapy with me to be tailored to you and your partner, structured with flexibility, and clear with tangible steps for the communication and dynamic change you want.
I work from a trauma-informed and an attachment-focused lens.
My clients are couples who want to feel confident without punishing themselves and build sturdy and sustainable self-trust. They desire closeness and the ability to lean on each other without being codependent. They value autonomy in their relationship while generating shared future dreams and meaning. We will navigate and explore the meaning behind feelings, behaviors, and challenges and observe possible differences between intent and impact. You can expect couples therapy with me to be tailored to you and your partner, structured with flexibility, and clear with tangible steps for the communication and dynamic change you want.
(213) 318-3125 View (213) 318-3125
Photo of Hatty J Lee, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Hatty J Lee
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
17 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90042
I am interested in your story - where you have been and hope to go, what you have done and dream of doing, and who you are and have yet to become. My clients are often highly intuitive and high achieving adults, creatives in the art and entertainment industry, helpers, parentified adult children, entrepreneurs, executives, couples, Asian American professionals, and parents. Common issues include: relationship issues with loved ones, dissatisfaction with current life/direction, work/life balance stress, burnout, codependency, self-neglect, complex family dynamics, performance/creative blocks, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
I am interested in your story - where you have been and hope to go, what you have done and dream of doing, and who you are and have yet to become. My clients are often highly intuitive and high achieving adults, creatives in the art and entertainment industry, helpers, parentified adult children, entrepreneurs, executives, couples, Asian American professionals, and parents. Common issues include: relationship issues with loved ones, dissatisfaction with current life/direction, work/life balance stress, burnout, codependency, self-neglect, complex family dynamics, performance/creative blocks, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
(213) 536-0361 View (213) 536-0361
Photo of Melissa Tines, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Tines
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90042
Integrating principles from psychodynamic theory, a somatic approach, as well as my training in EMDR, we delve into your personal history and examine trauma or emotionally disturbing experiences, including external influences such as systems, and explore how they have influenced our relationship with ourselves and others.
I am passionate about supporting folx who identify as first generation, third culture kids, are from multicultural backgrounds or have experiences of trauma. I deeply enjoy working with couples to explore how our past experiences inform challenges within our relationships and to explore how you can communicate emotions and needs to those we are in community with. I believe relational repair is an imperative aspect of our healing.
Integrating principles from psychodynamic theory, a somatic approach, as well as my training in EMDR, we delve into your personal history and examine trauma or emotionally disturbing experiences, including external influences such as systems, and explore how they have influenced our relationship with ourselves and others.
I am passionate about supporting folx who identify as first generation, third culture kids, are from multicultural backgrounds or have experiences of trauma. I deeply enjoy working with couples to explore how our past experiences inform challenges within our relationships and to explore how you can communicate emotions and needs to those we are in community with. I believe relational repair is an imperative aspect of our healing.
(213) 205-0070 View (213) 205-0070
Photo of Nicolette Mullins - Sonder Therapy, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sonder Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90042
I help people dealing with the effects of trauma, grief and codependency using attachment theory and mindfulness in my work.
What is important when looking for a therapist? Fees, location and availability are all important, but finding a therapist that you can trust with the different parts of yourself is important, too. There is no shame in taking time to find the therapist that is right for you-the therapist that you can be emotionally safe with. I tend to work with people who suffer from trauma responses that have impacted their quality of life.
I help people dealing with the effects of trauma, grief and codependency using attachment theory and mindfulness in my work.
What is important when looking for a therapist? Fees, location and availability are all important, but finding a therapist that you can trust with the different parts of yourself is important, too. There is no shame in taking time to find the therapist that is right for you-the therapist that you can be emotionally safe with. I tend to work with people who suffer from trauma responses that have impacted their quality of life.
(323) 990-4272 View (323) 990-4272
Photo of Resha Altai, MSW, ACSW
Resha Altai
Associate Clinical Social Worker, MSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90042
I’m a queer, mixed, Arab woman dedicated to providing trauma-informed, LGBTQIA+ affirming therapy.
You’re a sensitive person who thinks and feels deeply about the world around you. Sometimes it’s hard to honor your boundaries. You’re often your own biggest critic. It may not have started with you. Perhaps you’re healing from a painful childhood, relationship, or experience that continues to impact your daily life in frustrating ways. You’re looking for a space to show up fully as yourself, set down masks, and work with the messiness of being human. You're ready to integrate your experiences and cultivate more ease in your life. Welcome, I’m so glad that you’re here.
I’m a queer, mixed, Arab woman dedicated to providing trauma-informed, LGBTQIA+ affirming therapy.
You’re a sensitive person who thinks and feels deeply about the world around you. Sometimes it’s hard to honor your boundaries. You’re often your own biggest critic. It may not have started with you. Perhaps you’re healing from a painful childhood, relationship, or experience that continues to impact your daily life in frustrating ways. You’re looking for a space to show up fully as yourself, set down masks, and work with the messiness of being human. You're ready to integrate your experiences and cultivate more ease in your life. Welcome, I’m so glad that you’re here.
(213) 523-7630 View (213) 523-7630
Photo of Samuel Kim, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Samuel Kim
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90042  (Online Only)
Trauma doesn't have to hold you back! Your body deserves to feel safe with you and be freed from the trauma that's been keeping you down.
Avoid or control: these are the two ways you’ve coped with your experiences. And you’re resilient! Your strategy has worked—at least it used to work… Now, you’re realizing you’re reacting to your trauma in ways that are no longer helpful. You’re shaming yourself, isolating, and shutting down, and you frequently find yourself back to that familiar numbness. Even if you’re able to identify these maladaptive patterns, nothing you’ve tried seems to change anything. You wonder if this is just how life is going to be, as everything continues to spiral out of control. You need to feel safe, but you don’t know how.
Trauma doesn't have to hold you back! Your body deserves to feel safe with you and be freed from the trauma that's been keeping you down.
Avoid or control: these are the two ways you’ve coped with your experiences. And you’re resilient! Your strategy has worked—at least it used to work… Now, you’re realizing you’re reacting to your trauma in ways that are no longer helpful. You’re shaming yourself, isolating, and shutting down, and you frequently find yourself back to that familiar numbness. Even if you’re able to identify these maladaptive patterns, nothing you’ve tried seems to change anything. You wonder if this is just how life is going to be, as everything continues to spiral out of control. You need to feel safe, but you don’t know how.
(323) 870-6904 View (323) 870-6904
Photo of Erika Moreira, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Erika Moreira
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Highland Park, CA 90042
I have extensive experience in providing trauma-focused, creative arts therapy and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy to people of diverse culture, education, and economic backgrounds in LA.
You may've wondered why you couldn't just be happier, more confident, or less anxious. Perhaps you find yourself heartbroken or sense that your relationship is in trouble. You may feel stuck in a career or project with little motivation to move forward. Maybe you're struggling to handle painful emotions or a traumatic past. If left unaddressed, these difficulties may lead to depression, anxiety, or a host of relationship issues that can stop you from creating the life you want.
I have extensive experience in providing trauma-focused, creative arts therapy and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy to people of diverse culture, education, and economic backgrounds in LA.
You may've wondered why you couldn't just be happier, more confident, or less anxious. Perhaps you find yourself heartbroken or sense that your relationship is in trouble. You may feel stuck in a career or project with little motivation to move forward. Maybe you're struggling to handle painful emotions or a traumatic past. If left unaddressed, these difficulties may lead to depression, anxiety, or a host of relationship issues that can stop you from creating the life you want.
View
Photo of Sandra Davis, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sandra Davis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90042
I work through modalities that meet my client's needs including Attachment Based, Relational, Family/Martial, Strength Based, Trauma Focused, Cognitive Behavioral etc.
I see therapy as working towards a new improved and more empowered you. I view and treat my client as the expert in his/her life. I view myself as a facilitator of emotional healing and change. I provide a non-judgmental environment where my client can explore relationships and other aspects of his or her life and decide upon changes or adjustments he or she can implement. Therapy is a safe space where perfection is not required or expected.
I work through modalities that meet my client's needs including Attachment Based, Relational, Family/Martial, Strength Based, Trauma Focused, Cognitive Behavioral etc.
I see therapy as working towards a new improved and more empowered you. I view and treat my client as the expert in his/her life. I view myself as a facilitator of emotional healing and change. I provide a non-judgmental environment where my client can explore relationships and other aspects of his or her life and decide upon changes or adjustments he or she can implement. Therapy is a safe space where perfection is not required or expected.
(323) 929-2233 View (323) 929-2233
Photo of Eileen Flores, Amft, Marriage & Family Therapist
Eileen Flores
Marriage & Family Therapist, Amft
Verified Verified
Highland Park, CA 90042  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am passionate about the healing process, whether its healing from past traumas, navigating life as a first generation college student, parenting, or managing the stress that comes with building a career and family.
As a first generation Latina and trauma sensitive therapist, I create a safe therapeutic space to help my clients work through symptoms of depression, anxiety, PTSD and complex traumas they may feel are standing in the way of becoming their best selves.
I am passionate about the healing process, whether its healing from past traumas, navigating life as a first generation college student, parenting, or managing the stress that comes with building a career and family.
As a first generation Latina and trauma sensitive therapist, I create a safe therapeutic space to help my clients work through symptoms of depression, anxiety, PTSD and complex traumas they may feel are standing in the way of becoming their best selves.
View
Photo of Leo Hernandez, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Leo Hernandez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90042  (Online Only)
I provide trauma informed care and utilize EMDR, CBT/TF-CBT and Seeking Safety therapeutic modalities in addition to mindfulness, narrative and affirmative therapy techniques.
As a first-generation Spanish-speaking Mexican American I bring understanding to the struggle that comes with navigating generational trauma and cultural and sexual identity. I am aware of how cultural and sociopolitical factors impact our sense of well-being and relationships. Together we can work on overcoming the problems that adversely impact your life. We can also work on healing emotional wounds that may be keeping you stuck from moving forward. I will empower your journey as you cultivate better relationships, foster a happier sense of self and learn to embrace all aspects of your identity.
I provide trauma informed care and utilize EMDR, CBT/TF-CBT and Seeking Safety therapeutic modalities in addition to mindfulness, narrative and affirmative therapy techniques.
As a first-generation Spanish-speaking Mexican American I bring understanding to the struggle that comes with navigating generational trauma and cultural and sexual identity. I am aware of how cultural and sociopolitical factors impact our sense of well-being and relationships. Together we can work on overcoming the problems that adversely impact your life. We can also work on healing emotional wounds that may be keeping you stuck from moving forward. I will empower your journey as you cultivate better relationships, foster a happier sense of self and learn to embrace all aspects of your identity.
(747) 285-4054 View (747) 285-4054
Photo of Leslie Saavedraramirez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leslie Saavedraramirez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90042
My practice framework varies from cognitive behavior therapy, mindfulness, and trauma-focused approach, including inner child work.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California, and I have been practicing for the last 9 years. I have extensive experience working with individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, trauma, addiction, grief and loss, relationship struggles, and difficult life transitions. My goal is to assist my clients in improving their lives by taking a holistic, client-centered, integrative approach that is culturally affirming. I strive to create a safe space that is collaborative, non-judgmental, and strength-based, which aids in promoting healing.
My practice framework varies from cognitive behavior therapy, mindfulness, and trauma-focused approach, including inner child work.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California, and I have been practicing for the last 9 years. I have extensive experience working with individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, trauma, addiction, grief and loss, relationship struggles, and difficult life transitions. My goal is to assist my clients in improving their lives by taking a holistic, client-centered, integrative approach that is culturally affirming. I strive to create a safe space that is collaborative, non-judgmental, and strength-based, which aids in promoting healing.
(310) 564-0663 View (310) 564-0663
Photo of Cynthia A. Henrie, LMFT, BCETS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cynthia A. Henrie
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, BCETS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90042
Do you feel like the weight of past experiences, secrets, or questions about your identity are holding you back from living a fulfilling life? Are you struggling with sexual trauma, childhood abuse, or other forms of trauma that have left you feeling overwhelmed & powerless? I'm here to help. As a feminist therapist & board-certified expert in treating trauma & PTSD, I have extensive experience in helping people just like you regain control of their lives. Whether you're dealing w/ sexual, gender, cultural identity issues, or any form of abuse, I offer a safe and empowering space where you can work through your struggles & heal.
Do you feel like the weight of past experiences, secrets, or questions about your identity are holding you back from living a fulfilling life? Are you struggling with sexual trauma, childhood abuse, or other forms of trauma that have left you feeling overwhelmed & powerless? I'm here to help. As a feminist therapist & board-certified expert in treating trauma & PTSD, I have extensive experience in helping people just like you regain control of their lives. Whether you're dealing w/ sexual, gender, cultural identity issues, or any form of abuse, I offer a safe and empowering space where you can work through your struggles & heal.
(323) 918-3874 View (323) 918-3874
1
...
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.