Photo of Dorothy Barnes, Counselor in Arizona
Dorothy Barnes
Counselor, LPC, CST
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85050
I've worked with a wide range of issues and have an extensive background in treating those with trauma backgrounds, sexual/relational issues, and addictive struggles.
I always start with where a client is and move through a process of self awareness and discovery that brings about lasting change and newfound joy. While that is not an easy process it is a journey I have found worth taking in my own life and feel honored to take in another's. I do not believe in a "cookie cutter" approach to recovery or self actualization. Each person I work with brings a special "psychological fingerprint" that encompasses both their past and their present life experiences. I look forward to traveling the path with you.
I've worked with a wide range of issues and have an extensive background in treating those with trauma backgrounds, sexual/relational issues, and addictive struggles.
I always start with where a client is and move through a process of self awareness and discovery that brings about lasting change and newfound joy. While that is not an easy process it is a journey I have found worth taking in my own life and feel honored to take in another's. I do not believe in a "cookie cutter" approach to recovery or self actualization. Each person I work with brings a special "psychological fingerprint" that encompasses both their past and their present life experiences. I look forward to traveling the path with you.
(480) 818-4936 View (480) 818-4936
Photo of Courtney Rando, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Courtney Rando
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
My approach to therapy is warm, compassionate and non-judgmental. I believe that a trusting therapeutic relationship helps to create the conditions for healing. Each client who walks through my door has an individual and unique need. With this in mind, I use an integrated approach tailored to each specific client. I work primarily with adults with general mental health needs (including depression, anxiety, mood issues, relationship issues, adjustment issues, substance abuse and co-occurring disorders) and specialize in treating trauma/ trauma related disorders and dissociative disorders.
My approach to therapy is warm, compassionate and non-judgmental. I believe that a trusting therapeutic relationship helps to create the conditions for healing. Each client who walks through my door has an individual and unique need. With this in mind, I use an integrated approach tailored to each specific client. I work primarily with adults with general mental health needs (including depression, anxiety, mood issues, relationship issues, adjustment issues, substance abuse and co-occurring disorders) and specialize in treating trauma/ trauma related disorders and dissociative disorders.
(480) 571-1282 View (480) 571-1282
Photo of Kammie Jo Furman, Counselor in Arizona
Kammie Jo Furman
Counselor, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85283
My name is Kammie Furman and I am a licensed associate counselor. I have experience working with a gamut of people with a variety of age demographics, gender, sexuality and cultures. I hold three master's degrees in General Psychology, Human Services Counseling, Dobson Center for Parenting and Child/Adolescent, and Clinical Mental Health Counseling. My skills are in trauma processing, emotional concerns, coping skills, couple challenges, communication, and anger to name a few.
My name is Kammie Furman and I am a licensed associate counselor. I have experience working with a gamut of people with a variety of age demographics, gender, sexuality and cultures. I hold three master's degrees in General Psychology, Human Services Counseling, Dobson Center for Parenting and Child/Adolescent, and Clinical Mental Health Counseling. My skills are in trauma processing, emotional concerns, coping skills, couple challenges, communication, and anger to name a few.
(928) 766-4774 View (928) 766-4774
Photo of Adult & Adolescent Recovery Counseling, Counselor in Arizona
Adult & Adolescent Recovery Counseling
Counselor, MSc, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85206
We are qualified to successfully treat anxiety, depression, trauma, challenges in relationships, and many more.
Here at AARC, we are dedicated to providing quality treatment that gets results. We provide individuals with the tools needed to be strong and confident about their ability to take control over their lives, and take back the power over their debilitating or undesirable moods, thoughts, and actions. One of the many rewards to providing counseling is getting to see the hope return, helping individuals recognize that they are not alone or "abnormal," and guiding people on their journey to a better life. Learn more about us by visiting www.aarctherapy.org
We are qualified to successfully treat anxiety, depression, trauma, challenges in relationships, and many more.
Here at AARC, we are dedicated to providing quality treatment that gets results. We provide individuals with the tools needed to be strong and confident about their ability to take control over their lives, and take back the power over their debilitating or undesirable moods, thoughts, and actions. One of the many rewards to providing counseling is getting to see the hope return, helping individuals recognize that they are not alone or "abnormal," and guiding people on their journey to a better life. Learn more about us by visiting www.aarctherapy.org
(602) 663-9831 View (602) 663-9831
Photo of Allison Moye, Counselor in Arizona
Allison Moye
Counselor, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85297  (Online Only)
I utilize techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Trauma Focused Therapy, and, Solution Focused Therapy.
Welcome to the start of a new beginning. As a therapist I believe that every day is a new opportunity for growth and taking back our power. Day to day stressors and life events can leave us feeling depressed, anxious, and powerless. As humans, we experience situations and emotions differently based on our past and current lives. I adapt my therapeutic approach and environment to meet each individual’s needs. I believe it is important to allow ourselves to experience all emotions and identify healthy ways to regulate them. As a clinician, I am inspired by an individual’s story and resilience.
I utilize techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Trauma Focused Therapy, and, Solution Focused Therapy.
Welcome to the start of a new beginning. As a therapist I believe that every day is a new opportunity for growth and taking back our power. Day to day stressors and life events can leave us feeling depressed, anxious, and powerless. As humans, we experience situations and emotions differently based on our past and current lives. I adapt my therapeutic approach and environment to meet each individual’s needs. I believe it is important to allow ourselves to experience all emotions and identify healthy ways to regulate them. As a clinician, I am inspired by an individual’s story and resilience.
(480) 613-5178 View (480) 613-5178
Photo of Jason Klarer- Wounded Healer Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Jason Klarer- Wounded Healer Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Glendale, AZ 85308  (Online Only)
I work best with clients who have difficult past experiences. I utilize EMDR (trauma therapy that involves bilateral stimuli) to assist clients in processing through traumatic events in their lives. Trauma is any experience in the past that has changed the way you see yourself and the world around you producing negative beliefs such as: "I'm not good enough", "I'm worthless", "It's not okay to feel/show my emotions" etc. The desired outcome of EMDR therapy is that you no longer believe these things about yourself and the past no longer bothers you.
I work best with clients who have difficult past experiences. I utilize EMDR (trauma therapy that involves bilateral stimuli) to assist clients in processing through traumatic events in their lives. Trauma is any experience in the past that has changed the way you see yourself and the world around you producing negative beliefs such as: "I'm not good enough", "I'm worthless", "It's not okay to feel/show my emotions" etc. The desired outcome of EMDR therapy is that you no longer believe these things about yourself and the past no longer bothers you.
(602) 833-2106 View (602) 833-2106
Photo of Rachel Hopkins, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Rachel Hopkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LISAC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85716  (Online Only)
I use a variety of approaches in the therapeutic process including: Pia Mellody's model of Co-dependency/Developmental Immaturity and relational trauma recovery, EMDR, insight oriented experiential process work, somatic, body-oriented therapies using contemplative approaches for body/emotions/awareness integration.
I have been in the health/wellness field for 20+ years using strength based/holistic recovery approaches. Integrated/experiential therapy helps you re-claim your authentic spontaneous self, creating the life you wish to live. Addressing emotional/relational wounding truly opens the door to a more empowered and fulfilling life. You can increase your self-esteem and confidence, free yourself from depression/anxiety, negative self-talk, substance or process addictions, trauma triggers, and emotional reactivity in relationships. Sometimes therapy addresses current challenges/difficulties, sometimes it's about family of origin issues using inner child work, and/or trauma reduction work.
I use a variety of approaches in the therapeutic process including: Pia Mellody's model of Co-dependency/Developmental Immaturity and relational trauma recovery, EMDR, insight oriented experiential process work, somatic, body-oriented therapies using contemplative approaches for body/emotions/awareness integration.
I have been in the health/wellness field for 20+ years using strength based/holistic recovery approaches. Integrated/experiential therapy helps you re-claim your authentic spontaneous self, creating the life you wish to live. Addressing emotional/relational wounding truly opens the door to a more empowered and fulfilling life. You can increase your self-esteem and confidence, free yourself from depression/anxiety, negative self-talk, substance or process addictions, trauma triggers, and emotional reactivity in relationships. Sometimes therapy addresses current challenges/difficulties, sometimes it's about family of origin issues using inner child work, and/or trauma reduction work.
(520) 441-3728 View (520) 441-3728
Photo of Cambria McDonald, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Cambria McDonald
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Flagstaff, AZ 86004  (Online Only)
I view counseling through a holistic lens, this means I focus on all the dimensions that make a person whole. My goal as a holistic counselor is to help you gain a deeper understanding of yourself on every level (psychological, physical, emotional, relational, spiritual). I specialize in trauma and fully realize the multitude of ways that trauma affects us (mind, body, spirit). I strive to provide a safe environment where you feel heard, understood, and validated. Together, you and I identify how your belief system has been altered by past experiences and unresolved trauma and work towards restoring your true self.
I view counseling through a holistic lens, this means I focus on all the dimensions that make a person whole. My goal as a holistic counselor is to help you gain a deeper understanding of yourself on every level (psychological, physical, emotional, relational, spiritual). I specialize in trauma and fully realize the multitude of ways that trauma affects us (mind, body, spirit). I strive to provide a safe environment where you feel heard, understood, and validated. Together, you and I identify how your belief system has been altered by past experiences and unresolved trauma and work towards restoring your true self.
(210) 985-8607 View (210) 985-8607
Photo of Dr. Megan Dale, Psychologist in Arizona
Dr. Megan Dale
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chandler, AZ 85225
Whether you are undergoing a life transition, experiencing relationship conflict, or have experienced trauma or loss, I am here to help.
Life's journey can sometimes feel like an uphill climb, filled with challenges and uncertainties. When considering therapy, you might be feeling overwhelmed, hopeless, and unsure about where to begin. Whether your path to self-discovery is well-traveled, or you are just beginning to look inward, I will meet you where you are. Together, we will create a safe, nurturing, yet challenging space in which to explore and effect change.
Whether you are undergoing a life transition, experiencing relationship conflict, or have experienced trauma or loss, I am here to help.
Life's journey can sometimes feel like an uphill climb, filled with challenges and uncertainties. When considering therapy, you might be feeling overwhelmed, hopeless, and unsure about where to begin. Whether your path to self-discovery is well-traveled, or you are just beginning to look inward, I will meet you where you are. Together, we will create a safe, nurturing, yet challenging space in which to explore and effect change.
(480) 660-4144 View (480) 660-4144
Photo of Lincoln Sperry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
Lincoln Sperry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Prescott, AZ 86303
I specialize in working with compulsive sexual behaviors, addictions, trauma, depression and anxiety.
We are all whole and more resilient than we believe, but we can forget this at times. Effective therapy demands deep compassion, understanding, and strong guidance. Most of us need performance-based, solutions-focused therapy. Most of us benefit from increased personal accountability. Trauma reactions, anxiety, compulsions, depression and addictions are all forms of communication. You deserve help in decoding these problematic responses and learning better, more adaptive solutions to life's challenges. I'm prepared to help.
I specialize in working with compulsive sexual behaviors, addictions, trauma, depression and anxiety.
We are all whole and more resilient than we believe, but we can forget this at times. Effective therapy demands deep compassion, understanding, and strong guidance. Most of us need performance-based, solutions-focused therapy. Most of us benefit from increased personal accountability. Trauma reactions, anxiety, compulsions, depression and addictions are all forms of communication. You deserve help in decoding these problematic responses and learning better, more adaptive solutions to life's challenges. I'm prepared to help.
(928) 212-8626 View (928) 212-8626
Photo of Joanne Solari, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
Joanne Solari
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTS-I
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Goodyear, AZ 85395
Specialty: Comprehensive Clinical Training in DBT, DBT with Substance Abuse, Trauma Center/JRI- Complexity of Adaptation to Trauma, Vicarious Trauma & Self-Care & ARC (Attachment, Self-Regulation, & Competency).
My mission is to provide quality mental health counseling services to adolescents and adults seeking healthier solutions and support. An important factor in effective psychotherapy is the client/therapist relationship. This means that you must have a strong therapeutic alliance. Trust, honesty, and a sense of unconditional support and attunement allow individuals in psychotherapy the ability to grow and change. You can be assured that you will not be alone in this process, as I will partner with you during your personal journey. Our partnership will be combined with client-centered and evidence-based interventions.
Specialty: Comprehensive Clinical Training in DBT, DBT with Substance Abuse, Trauma Center/JRI- Complexity of Adaptation to Trauma, Vicarious Trauma & Self-Care & ARC (Attachment, Self-Regulation, & Competency).
My mission is to provide quality mental health counseling services to adolescents and adults seeking healthier solutions and support. An important factor in effective psychotherapy is the client/therapist relationship. This means that you must have a strong therapeutic alliance. Trust, honesty, and a sense of unconditional support and attunement allow individuals in psychotherapy the ability to grow and change. You can be assured that you will not be alone in this process, as I will partner with you during your personal journey. Our partnership will be combined with client-centered and evidence-based interventions.
(609) 952-5824 View (609) 952-5824
Photo of Jessica Lowrance, Counselor in Arizona
Jessica Lowrance
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85206
Along with building a meaningful and attuned therapeutic relationship, I use EMDR, EFT, and Gottman Method Couples Therapy to help you heal from trauma and improve your relationships.
Maya Angelou said, “There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.” I agree! Our stories are a part of who we are, and they shape our experiences. When we share our stories, we can heal from trauma, connect with others, and grow as individuals. I help individuals and couples explore the themes of attachment and connection in their stories, or lack thereof, which are essential to healing and growth. I use an attachment-focused lens to help you understand how your life experiences have shaped your current relationships and sense of self, so you can feel confident in your next chapter because you know the author.
Along with building a meaningful and attuned therapeutic relationship, I use EMDR, EFT, and Gottman Method Couples Therapy to help you heal from trauma and improve your relationships.
Maya Angelou said, “There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.” I agree! Our stories are a part of who we are, and they shape our experiences. When we share our stories, we can heal from trauma, connect with others, and grow as individuals. I help individuals and couples explore the themes of attachment and connection in their stories, or lack thereof, which are essential to healing and growth. I use an attachment-focused lens to help you understand how your life experiences have shaped your current relationships and sense of self, so you can feel confident in your next chapter because you know the author.
(480) 571-9308 x1 View (480) 571-9308 x1
Photo of Devanand Heins, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Devanand Heins
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85742
I am passionate about supporting others in discovering a sense of alignment with their authentic self. My belief is when we come to peace with who we are and learn to embody the unique gifts we offer the World, our mental health is able to improve and stabilize. This includes the ability to overcome trauma, anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Through developing relationship to ourselves and our bodies, we can find untapped resilience from within. I specialize in working with adults and the aging population.
I am passionate about supporting others in discovering a sense of alignment with their authentic self. My belief is when we come to peace with who we are and learn to embody the unique gifts we offer the World, our mental health is able to improve and stabilize. This includes the ability to overcome trauma, anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Through developing relationship to ourselves and our bodies, we can find untapped resilience from within. I specialize in working with adults and the aging population.
(720) 706-3730 View (720) 706-3730
Photo of Bonnie Fenoff, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Bonnie Fenoff
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85027
I am a seasoned therapist with over a decade of experience helping individuals, and couples, cope with things that have happened to them beyond their control. People work with me when they have experienced an event, or time in their life, that is keeping them stuck and impacting other areas of their life. My passion is working with Trauma (both acute and complex), PTSD, Sexual Abuse, Domestic Violence, and Family Abuse. Feeling broken, hurt, guilty, embarrassed, or afraid can be so heavy to carry around. We can stop the triggers, the new fears, reduce shame, and get back in touch with the good parts of what life was like 'before'.
I am a seasoned therapist with over a decade of experience helping individuals, and couples, cope with things that have happened to them beyond their control. People work with me when they have experienced an event, or time in their life, that is keeping them stuck and impacting other areas of their life. My passion is working with Trauma (both acute and complex), PTSD, Sexual Abuse, Domestic Violence, and Family Abuse. Feeling broken, hurt, guilty, embarrassed, or afraid can be so heavy to carry around. We can stop the triggers, the new fears, reduce shame, and get back in touch with the good parts of what life was like 'before'.
(623) 288-0421 View (623) 288-0421
Photo of Virginia Mohammed, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
Virginia Mohammed
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Virginia Mohammed is a Licensed Master Social Worker in Arizona. She graduated with a Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Missouri and works with trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, social skills, self-esteem, and grief. She has been providing mental health services for 12 years.
Virginia Mohammed is a Licensed Master Social Worker in Arizona. She graduated with a Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Missouri and works with trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, social skills, self-esteem, and grief. She has been providing mental health services for 12 years.
(623) 624-9869 View (623) 624-9869
Photo of Stacey Rowland, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Stacey Rowland
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85028
I use a trauma-informed, strength-based approach, and have completed training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), and hold a Clinical Trauma Professional certificate (CCTP).
I have a passion for helping individuals become "unstuck", and identify healthy ways of living. I have extensive experience working with individuals with behavioral, emotional, and substance abuse issues. Are you struggling with relationships or emotional regulation? I can help! Are you struggling with substance abuse or other unhealthy ways of coping with stress? I can help! Are you a young adult that is having trouble “adulting”, or struggling socially or emotionally? I can help with that! Are you in need of assistance in reestablishing your boundaries, and improving relationships? I'm happy to help!
I use a trauma-informed, strength-based approach, and have completed training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), and hold a Clinical Trauma Professional certificate (CCTP).
I have a passion for helping individuals become "unstuck", and identify healthy ways of living. I have extensive experience working with individuals with behavioral, emotional, and substance abuse issues. Are you struggling with relationships or emotional regulation? I can help! Are you struggling with substance abuse or other unhealthy ways of coping with stress? I can help! Are you a young adult that is having trouble “adulting”, or struggling socially or emotionally? I can help with that! Are you in need of assistance in reestablishing your boundaries, and improving relationships? I'm happy to help!
(480) 405-0381 View (480) 405-0381
Photo of Suzanne Sanders, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Suzanne Sanders
Licensed Professional Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85204
My experience in working with teens & adults struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and loss.
My approach to therapy is collaborative and established in openness, trust, honesty and humor. I believe that our work is rooted in the relationship we build together and should build upon your strengths and uniqueness. It is a privilege for me to be invited to work with my clients as they go through challenges and transitions. I am very passionate about being able to provide a safe, non-judgmental and compassionate space where you can feel supported and understood. My aim is to help you feel empowered, live freely and authentically, thrive in your relationships with yourself and others, and experience healing and change.
My experience in working with teens & adults struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and loss.
My approach to therapy is collaborative and established in openness, trust, honesty and humor. I believe that our work is rooted in the relationship we build together and should build upon your strengths and uniqueness. It is a privilege for me to be invited to work with my clients as they go through challenges and transitions. I am very passionate about being able to provide a safe, non-judgmental and compassionate space where you can feel supported and understood. My aim is to help you feel empowered, live freely and authentically, thrive in your relationships with yourself and others, and experience healing and change.
(480) 780-2471 View (480) 780-2471
Photo of Lisa Barras, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Lisa Barras
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LISAC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chandler, AZ 85224
Whether it was a deeply distressing experience, unpleasant emotions, or feeling stuck, it can be hard to manage these feelings and thoughts alone. At Arizona Trauma Counseling and Therapy we work as a partner with you to achieve a full resolution of the symptoms you experience daily and develop a new way of thinking. We understand that the trauma and negative experiences you have had can impact everything you do and believe that being a supportive partner in the healing process will supporting you in overcoming your experiences.
Whether it was a deeply distressing experience, unpleasant emotions, or feeling stuck, it can be hard to manage these feelings and thoughts alone. At Arizona Trauma Counseling and Therapy we work as a partner with you to achieve a full resolution of the symptoms you experience daily and develop a new way of thinking. We understand that the trauma and negative experiences you have had can impact everything you do and believe that being a supportive partner in the healing process will supporting you in overcoming your experiences.
(480) 992-8329 View (480) 992-8329
Photo of Maria C Avena, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Maria C Avena
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85016
Saturday appointments available. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master of Arts of Professional Counseling from Ottawa University. I have a concentration on Trauma Abuse and Depravation, EMDR certified, 12 years of experience in the counseling field working in the following areas; anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, sexual, physical and mental abuse, attachment issues, self-esteem issues, shame, anger management, relationships issues, alcohol and substance abuse, addictive behaviors, life transitions, grief and loss and domestic violence.
Saturday appointments available. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master of Arts of Professional Counseling from Ottawa University. I have a concentration on Trauma Abuse and Depravation, EMDR certified, 12 years of experience in the counseling field working in the following areas; anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, sexual, physical and mental abuse, attachment issues, self-esteem issues, shame, anger management, relationships issues, alcohol and substance abuse, addictive behaviors, life transitions, grief and loss and domestic violence.
(602) 833-7246 View (602) 833-7246
Photo of Ian Barnes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
Ian Barnes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85044  (Online Only)
I am trained and well experienced in experiential trauma therapies like EMDR and IFS and have a holistic focus trying to focus on improving body, mind, and relationships.
My ideal client is someone who is motivated to work towards becoming their best selves. They are not afraid to seek hard answers and are willing to work hard at the goals they set for themselves.
I am trained and well experienced in experiential trauma therapies like EMDR and IFS and have a holistic focus trying to focus on improving body, mind, and relationships.
My ideal client is someone who is motivated to work towards becoming their best selves. They are not afraid to seek hard answers and are willing to work hard at the goals they set for themselves.
(520) 416-4851 View (520) 416-4851
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.