Trauma and PTSD Therapists in 94022

Photo of Renee Burgard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94022, CA
Renee Burgard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Altos, CA 94022
Waitlist for new clients
I offer mindfulness-based psychotherapy, with a warm and non-judging approach, for people who are experiencing anxiety, panic, depression, post-traumatic stress, infertility, seizure disorders (including atypical seizures) and people with pain and other chronic medical conditions. Sessions involve mostly talking therapy, and may also include (depending on your needs and interests): breathing & body sensation awareness practices; emotional regulation & distress tolerance training; simple yoga & meditation; and compassion, acceptance, gratitude, and loving-kindness practices; and interactive guided imagery.
I offer mindfulness-based psychotherapy, with a warm and non-judging approach, for people who are experiencing anxiety, panic, depression, post-traumatic stress, infertility, seizure disorders (including atypical seizures) and people with pain and other chronic medical conditions. Sessions involve mostly talking therapy, and may also include (depending on your needs and interests): breathing & body sensation awareness practices; emotional regulation & distress tolerance training; simple yoga & meditation; and compassion, acceptance, gratitude, and loving-kindness practices; and interactive guided imagery.
(650) 603-0499 View (650) 603-0499
Photo of Svetlana Tikhonova, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94022, CA
Svetlana Tikhonova
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Altos, CA 94022
Waitlist for new clients
At this time, I offer in-office and Telehealth sessions, depends on needs. I work with children and adults who need help with life transitions, relationships, trauma, divorce, grief, work/ study stress and other difficult life circumstances. My approach is based on empathy, unconditional positive regard, respect to all life paths, and deep belief in a healing power of a genuine human connection.
At this time, I offer in-office and Telehealth sessions, depends on needs. I work with children and adults who need help with life transitions, relationships, trauma, divorce, grief, work/ study stress and other difficult life circumstances. My approach is based on empathy, unconditional positive regard, respect to all life paths, and deep belief in a healing power of a genuine human connection.
(650) 241-0155 View (650) 241-0155
Photo of Vera Kugel, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94022, CA
Vera Kugel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Los Altos, CA 94022
I have an extensive experience working with people with severe emotional trauma, people suffering from various addictions, women/men struggling with infertility issues, people dealing with life threatening diseases.
Congratulations! You have made a very important decision in your life - you decided to invite professional help into your life. The reasons behind your decision can vary. It can be your feeling of loneliness, difficulties to "fit in", or maybe the demons from the past affecting your life today and you feel like you stuck? Or the main goal you've had all your life seems more and more unreachable and you feel like a failure? Whatever it is, you are the only one who has the answers. You are the only expert of you. But sometimes these answers are buried too deep, so you need professional help to reach them.
I have an extensive experience working with people with severe emotional trauma, people suffering from various addictions, women/men struggling with infertility issues, people dealing with life threatening diseases.
Congratulations! You have made a very important decision in your life - you decided to invite professional help into your life. The reasons behind your decision can vary. It can be your feeling of loneliness, difficulties to "fit in", or maybe the demons from the past affecting your life today and you feel like you stuck? Or the main goal you've had all your life seems more and more unreachable and you feel like a failure? Whatever it is, you are the only one who has the answers. You are the only expert of you. But sometimes these answers are buried too deep, so you need professional help to reach them.
(408) 717-4116 View (408) 717-4116
Photo of Hila Teller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94022, CA
Hila Teller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Altos, CA 94022
I provide one-on-one therapy sessions, tailored to each client's unique needs and challenges. Through a warm and non-judgmental approach, I strive to create a secure space where clients can share their thoughts and feelings openly. I am sensitive to the impact of past traumas and approach therapy with a trauma-informed lens. I create a safe environment for clients to explore and heal from past wounds at their own pace.
I provide one-on-one therapy sessions, tailored to each client's unique needs and challenges. Through a warm and non-judgmental approach, I strive to create a secure space where clients can share their thoughts and feelings openly. I am sensitive to the impact of past traumas and approach therapy with a trauma-informed lens. I create a safe environment for clients to explore and heal from past wounds at their own pace.
(650) 502-6766 View (650) 502-6766
Photo of Tamar Berry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94022, CA
Tamar Berry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Altos, CA 94022
I have experience working with trauma, anxiety and depression.
I believe in connecting and supporting you in a compassionate way. I can help you find a resolution and create a positive change by working with the body – mind connection while applying methods such as Hakomi and IFS. When working together, we'll focus on the present moment as you head down the path to healing and health. With over 15 years in the field supporting adults, couples and families, I have developed the unique ability to bring to light your strengths while providing a platform of hope and happiness.
I have experience working with trauma, anxiety and depression.
I believe in connecting and supporting you in a compassionate way. I can help you find a resolution and create a positive change by working with the body – mind connection while applying methods such as Hakomi and IFS. When working together, we'll focus on the present moment as you head down the path to healing and health. With over 15 years in the field supporting adults, couples and families, I have developed the unique ability to bring to light your strengths while providing a platform of hope and happiness.
(669) 221-6607 View (669) 221-6607
Photo of Jené Edwards, Psychologist in 94022, CA
Jené Edwards
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Los Altos, CA 94022  (Online Only)
Being able to find peace within our lives takes effort and a commitment to making ourselves a priority. We are bombarded with messages telling us to put family and work first, but without self-care our commitments will suffer. My passion is helping my clients understand themselves on a deeper level and be able to engage with their everyday lives in a positive way. I have interests and expertise in helping my clients work through many areas including stress and anxiety, depression, trauma, grief or loss, relationship and sexual concerns, self-esteem, and life transitions. I have experience working with teens, adults, and couples.
Being able to find peace within our lives takes effort and a commitment to making ourselves a priority. We are bombarded with messages telling us to put family and work first, but without self-care our commitments will suffer. My passion is helping my clients understand themselves on a deeper level and be able to engage with their everyday lives in a positive way. I have interests and expertise in helping my clients work through many areas including stress and anxiety, depression, trauma, grief or loss, relationship and sexual concerns, self-esteem, and life transitions. I have experience working with teens, adults, and couples.
(650) 618-1267 View (650) 618-1267
Photo of Ann LeFevre, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94022, CA
Ann LeFevre
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Los Altos, CA 94022  (Online Only)
After experiencing a tragedy, trauma, or abuse, you may have intense emotions, nightmares, and disturbing images in your mind. Perhaps you isolate or disconnect, or you keep thinking about what you should’ve done, and question why it happened. Using substances, and having increased depression, anxiety, and anger are all normal responses. Whether you've been struggling for decades, or if this is a new experience, you can regain control over your life, reconnect with others, and rebuild emotional and physical intimacy that may have been lost.
After experiencing a tragedy, trauma, or abuse, you may have intense emotions, nightmares, and disturbing images in your mind. Perhaps you isolate or disconnect, or you keep thinking about what you should’ve done, and question why it happened. Using substances, and having increased depression, anxiety, and anger are all normal responses. Whether you've been struggling for decades, or if this is a new experience, you can regain control over your life, reconnect with others, and rebuild emotional and physical intimacy that may have been lost.
(562) 573-8287 View (562) 573-8287
Photo of Kathryn Hedjasi, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94022, CA
Kathryn Hedjasi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MBA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Altos, CA 94022  (Online Only)
Specialties include: relational issues, infidelity, depression/anxiety, crisis, codependency, life transitions, suicidality, dual-diagnosis, addictions/recovery, trauma, PTSD/ 2ndary PTSD, veterans/vet families, abuse including narcissistic abuse, DV, rape/incest, self-harming behaviors, adult survivor of addicted caretaker, divorce, communication, grief, career, family issues, & the highly reactive/sensitive child/teen.
Do you find yourself struggling? Hurting? I can help you feel better! You have the ability to THRIVE regardless of your circumstances armed with my support & many new tools in your arsenal. I can help you tap into your own resilience & ability to heal. Wherever you are at in life, whether satisfied but looking to improve, struggling daily & feeling as if the floor is about to fall out, in crisis-mode, on a journey of self-discovery, or simply looking for support from a fully present empathetic skilled partner in your personal, interpersonal & professional goals. I AM HERE FOR YOU!
Specialties include: relational issues, infidelity, depression/anxiety, crisis, codependency, life transitions, suicidality, dual-diagnosis, addictions/recovery, trauma, PTSD/ 2ndary PTSD, veterans/vet families, abuse including narcissistic abuse, DV, rape/incest, self-harming behaviors, adult survivor of addicted caretaker, divorce, communication, grief, career, family issues, & the highly reactive/sensitive child/teen.
Do you find yourself struggling? Hurting? I can help you feel better! You have the ability to THRIVE regardless of your circumstances armed with my support & many new tools in your arsenal. I can help you tap into your own resilience & ability to heal. Wherever you are at in life, whether satisfied but looking to improve, struggling daily & feeling as if the floor is about to fall out, in crisis-mode, on a journey of self-discovery, or simply looking for support from a fully present empathetic skilled partner in your personal, interpersonal & professional goals. I AM HERE FOR YOU!
(650) 262-4006 View (650) 262-4006
Photo of Christopher Sato-Perry, Psychologist in 94022, CA
Christopher Sato-Perry
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Los Altos, CA 94022
For over 24 years, I've collaborated with people to resolve their psychological trauma, phobias, anxiety & stress as well as maximize responses to their medical diagnoses, treatments & conditions. This clinical focus stems from both a personal medical challenge since age 12 and research on treating women with breast cancer and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Yet Kaiser research (1998) finding 70% of primary care visits are driven by mental, emotional and relational issues highlights how mind and body are interwoven for each of us. This interplay provides leverage for preventive medicine, for responding to illness and for maximizing peak performance.
For over 24 years, I've collaborated with people to resolve their psychological trauma, phobias, anxiety & stress as well as maximize responses to their medical diagnoses, treatments & conditions. This clinical focus stems from both a personal medical challenge since age 12 and research on treating women with breast cancer and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Yet Kaiser research (1998) finding 70% of primary care visits are driven by mental, emotional and relational issues highlights how mind and body are interwoven for each of us. This interplay provides leverage for preventive medicine, for responding to illness and for maximizing peak performance.
(650) 440-7197 View (650) 440-7197
Photo of Lawrence Compagnoni, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94022, CA
Lawrence Compagnoni
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Altos, CA 94022
Are you looking to improve your relationship with yourself and others in your life? If so, then perhaps I can help. I work with adults, couples, and families wanting healthier, stronger relationships, and an overall better life. I enjoy working with people who want to transform their lives and their relationships; those who are ready to release the past and live more fully in the present in order to create a better future. I work with people on issues of trauma, spirituality, and grief resulting from death, a lost relationship and/or lost opportunities. I also work with people with process and substance addictions and recovery.
Are you looking to improve your relationship with yourself and others in your life? If so, then perhaps I can help. I work with adults, couples, and families wanting healthier, stronger relationships, and an overall better life. I enjoy working with people who want to transform their lives and their relationships; those who are ready to release the past and live more fully in the present in order to create a better future. I work with people on issues of trauma, spirituality, and grief resulting from death, a lost relationship and/or lost opportunities. I also work with people with process and substance addictions and recovery.
(650) 285-4823 View (650) 285-4823
Photo of Jim Arjani, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94022, CA
Jim Arjani
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Altos, CA 94022
If you would like to learn more about me or how I treat trauma, please feel free to contact me at (650) 450-0102.
Have you recently experienced or witnessed a traumatic event? Are you going through a break-up or some other type of loss? Physical, sexual, or emotional abuse? Your sleep problems, depression, anxiety, poor performance at work and relationship issues are often the result of current of past trauma. Many of my clients include those who have come from dysfunctional families where they experienced or witnessed abuse. For the past 23 years I have been helping clients to cope with and address traumatic experiences. I have extensive training and experience in the treatment of trauma.
If you would like to learn more about me or how I treat trauma, please feel free to contact me at (650) 450-0102.
Have you recently experienced or witnessed a traumatic event? Are you going through a break-up or some other type of loss? Physical, sexual, or emotional abuse? Your sleep problems, depression, anxiety, poor performance at work and relationship issues are often the result of current of past trauma. Many of my clients include those who have come from dysfunctional families where they experienced or witnessed abuse. For the past 23 years I have been helping clients to cope with and address traumatic experiences. I have extensive training and experience in the treatment of trauma.
(650) 741-1483 View (650) 741-1483
Photo of Margaret Toews, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94022, CA
Margaret Toews
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Altos, CA 94022
I utilize ways to connect with the 'unconscious', including EMDR, also shown to be effective in alleviating PTSD and trauma.
What if you could meet with someone who is adept at eliciting submerged information that will get you sorting through what keeps you immobilized, including situations you're dealing with, in ways that expand the possibilities? I interact fluidly with what you bring in and home in on your highest aspirations and deepest truths. This affords a sense of relief and energy that brings renewed hope.Changes you may face: questioning/beginning/ending relationships, friendships, education, career, job/living situation, family stress. >Instructor, supervisor at Process Therapy Inst, Professor at JFK University for 16 years. Gateful parent.
I utilize ways to connect with the 'unconscious', including EMDR, also shown to be effective in alleviating PTSD and trauma.
What if you could meet with someone who is adept at eliciting submerged information that will get you sorting through what keeps you immobilized, including situations you're dealing with, in ways that expand the possibilities? I interact fluidly with what you bring in and home in on your highest aspirations and deepest truths. This affords a sense of relief and energy that brings renewed hope.Changes you may face: questioning/beginning/ending relationships, friendships, education, career, job/living situation, family stress. >Instructor, supervisor at Process Therapy Inst, Professor at JFK University for 16 years. Gateful parent.
(650) 747-6461 View (650) 747-6461
Photo of Pantea Bozorgfar, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94022, CA
Pantea Bozorgfar
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Altos, CA 94022
Welcome! If you're struggling with challenges stemming from past trauma or current situations, such as overwhelming sadness, worry, difficulty regulating emotions, loss of enjoyment in activities, or strained relationships, I'm here to support you. If you're feeling powerless or questioning your worth, know that you're not alone. Let's work together to navigate through these difficulties.
Welcome! If you're struggling with challenges stemming from past trauma or current situations, such as overwhelming sadness, worry, difficulty regulating emotions, loss of enjoyment in activities, or strained relationships, I'm here to support you. If you're feeling powerless or questioning your worth, know that you're not alone. Let's work together to navigate through these difficulties.
(408) 755-9671 View (408) 755-9671
Photo of Alisa Vincent Psychotherapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94022, CA
Alisa Vincent Psychotherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Altos, CA 94022  (Online Only)
I am certified in EMDR and Havening, psychosensory methods which I use to work with trauma, grief, anxiety, relationships, and life transitions of all sorts.
I have a virtual private practice in California where I work with teens, and adults. I consider therapy a relationship we co-create specifically to suit your needs; one to help you feel safe, heard, and respected. I have a relational style, meaning you will receive feedback from me, and never feel like you're talking to a blank wall. We all share an intrinsic longing for hope, wholeness, empowerment, and meaning. It's my privilege to help clients nourish that longing into a drive; to help them gain a sense of mastery and direction in their own lives.
I am certified in EMDR and Havening, psychosensory methods which I use to work with trauma, grief, anxiety, relationships, and life transitions of all sorts.
I have a virtual private practice in California where I work with teens, and adults. I consider therapy a relationship we co-create specifically to suit your needs; one to help you feel safe, heard, and respected. I have a relational style, meaning you will receive feedback from me, and never feel like you're talking to a blank wall. We all share an intrinsic longing for hope, wholeness, empowerment, and meaning. It's my privilege to help clients nourish that longing into a drive; to help them gain a sense of mastery and direction in their own lives.
(510) 421-0320 View (510) 421-0320
Photo of Wray De Anda, Psychologist in 94022, CA
Wray De Anda
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Altos, CA 94022  (Online Only)
I counsel individuals, couples and families, helping them to restore hope, find solutions and transform their lives. I have extensive experience working with trauma issues, from the little hurts and rejections we go through every day, to childhood abuse and neglect. I work with individuals of all ages struggling with PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, OCD, Borderline Personality Disorder and those with a history of trauma.
I counsel individuals, couples and families, helping them to restore hope, find solutions and transform their lives. I have extensive experience working with trauma issues, from the little hurts and rejections we go through every day, to childhood abuse and neglect. I work with individuals of all ages struggling with PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, OCD, Borderline Personality Disorder and those with a history of trauma.
(714) 623-0997 View (714) 623-0997
Photo of Halima S ., Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in 94022, CA
Halima S .
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Los Altos, CA 94022  (Online Only)
Our clinicians have experience working with various issues including relationship/marriage conflicts, eating disorders, transgenerational trauma, racial trauma, adults with severe mental illness, substance use, homelessness, familial conflicts, being a first generation college student, religious and cultural barriers, etc.
We are currently accepting clients! AMALY is a virtual mental health organization that serves individuals and couples across California. We specialize in providing services to BIPOC clients.
Our clinicians have experience working with various issues including relationship/marriage conflicts, eating disorders, transgenerational trauma, racial trauma, adults with severe mental illness, substance use, homelessness, familial conflicts, being a first generation college student, religious and cultural barriers, etc.
We are currently accepting clients! AMALY is a virtual mental health organization that serves individuals and couples across California. We specialize in providing services to BIPOC clients.
(619) 505-3750 View (619) 505-3750
Photo of April Delgadillo-Jolley, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94022, CA
April Delgadillo-Jolley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Altos Hills, CA 94022  (Online Only)
I have over 12 years experience as a trauma and couples counselor helping military, veterans, and law enforcement.
You are feeling exhausted from coping with stress that you think you are handling "okay", but it just feels like groundhog day... wash. rinse. repeat. You are ready to FEEL you are handing things well. You are ready to feel relief and a sense of hope that comes from knowing "I got this!"
I have over 12 years experience as a trauma and couples counselor helping military, veterans, and law enforcement.
You are feeling exhausted from coping with stress that you think you are handling "okay", but it just feels like groundhog day... wash. rinse. repeat. You are ready to FEEL you are handing things well. You are ready to feel relief and a sense of hope that comes from knowing "I got this!"
(657) 385-8542 View (657) 385-8542
Photo of Maria Holden, Psychologist in 94022, CA
Maria Holden
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Los Altos, CA 94022  (Online Only)
Are you working through trauma or a difficult life transition? Are you in relationship with a toxic or narcissistic person? Are you facing painful loss? Do you want to use principles of spirituality to strengthen you and answer life's deepest questions? Do you suffer from DID or dissociative disorder? For 30 years, I have guided people toward authentic ways of living and relating. Through many types of treatment, I help people to understand how traumatic life events change us and how to transform thoughts, feelings, and relationships. We focus on real actions you can take to find the power to reverse the effects of pain and trauma.
Are you working through trauma or a difficult life transition? Are you in relationship with a toxic or narcissistic person? Are you facing painful loss? Do you want to use principles of spirituality to strengthen you and answer life's deepest questions? Do you suffer from DID or dissociative disorder? For 30 years, I have guided people toward authentic ways of living and relating. Through many types of treatment, I help people to understand how traumatic life events change us and how to transform thoughts, feelings, and relationships. We focus on real actions you can take to find the power to reverse the effects of pain and trauma.
(510) 216-1317 View (510) 216-1317
Photo of Siyi Joely Zheng, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94022, CA
Siyi Joely Zheng
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Altos, CA 94022  (Online Only)
I am an EMDR Certified Therapist and specialize in working with traumas, PTSD, depression, anxiety, issues with self-esteem and relationship challenges, infidelity, grief and loss, life transitions, cross-cultural issues, intergenerational differences in acculturation, cross-cultural transition, and psychological adaptation of international students.
There are times we will feel stuck in life, paralyzed by anxiety, unsure of our next steps. We try to climb out of the slump but oftentimes we do not know how. Changes, growth, and healing are not easy, they often come with pain and take time. You do not need to do this all alone. We are all humans and sometimes we all need support. As a therapist, I am here to walk through this journey with you, providing you with support, empathy, and guidance. I can help you understand your experiences, feelings, and emotional needs, and learn adaptive coping skills. I also speak Mandarin and Cantonese (我提供普通话和广东话的服务).
I am an EMDR Certified Therapist and specialize in working with traumas, PTSD, depression, anxiety, issues with self-esteem and relationship challenges, infidelity, grief and loss, life transitions, cross-cultural issues, intergenerational differences in acculturation, cross-cultural transition, and psychological adaptation of international students.
There are times we will feel stuck in life, paralyzed by anxiety, unsure of our next steps. We try to climb out of the slump but oftentimes we do not know how. Changes, growth, and healing are not easy, they often come with pain and take time. You do not need to do this all alone. We are all humans and sometimes we all need support. As a therapist, I am here to walk through this journey with you, providing you with support, empathy, and guidance. I can help you understand your experiences, feelings, and emotional needs, and learn adaptive coping skills. I also speak Mandarin and Cantonese (我提供普通话和广东话的服务).
(657) 530-6481 View (657) 530-6481
Photo of Marv Zauderer, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94022, CA
Marv Zauderer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Altos, CA 94022
I'm skilled at working with relationship issues, including adults with narcissistic partners or narcissistic parents, trauma, anxiety including panic & OCD, depression, losses & life transitions, workplace issues, and a wide variety of other challenges.
I’m a warm, experienced, interactive therapist who brings a compassionate heart, an active mind, and a calm presence to this work. I’m deeply interested in learning what you know about yourself, including your strengths, pivotal experiences, and challenges. Integrating techniques from therapeutic models such as IFS & cognitive-behavioral therapy, my trauma-informed approach to our work is attuned to your individuality. I bring diverse professional & life experience, a sensitivity to culture & all other components of your identity, and an array of tools that you can use to find the growth, solutions, well-being, or healing you seek.
I'm skilled at working with relationship issues, including adults with narcissistic partners or narcissistic parents, trauma, anxiety including panic & OCD, depression, losses & life transitions, workplace issues, and a wide variety of other challenges.
I’m a warm, experienced, interactive therapist who brings a compassionate heart, an active mind, and a calm presence to this work. I’m deeply interested in learning what you know about yourself, including your strengths, pivotal experiences, and challenges. Integrating techniques from therapeutic models such as IFS & cognitive-behavioral therapy, my trauma-informed approach to our work is attuned to your individuality. I bring diverse professional & life experience, a sensitivity to culture & all other components of your identity, and an array of tools that you can use to find the growth, solutions, well-being, or healing you seek.
(415) 843-4368 View (415) 843-4368
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.