Photo of Jeanna Pennington, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Jeanna Pennington
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RTP
Verified Verified
Little Rock, AR 72211
She completed her undergraduate degree in Psychology with an emphasis in child psychology from Columbia Southern University, a graduate degree in Counseling from Southern Arkansas University – Magnolia, and is currently certified in Clinical Trauma and has advanced training in TFCB-T.
Jeanna started her career in mental health as a psychiatric case manager and then transitioned to a mental health therapist working for an outpatient clinic (office and school-based clients). She has been working in mental health for more than seven years and finds joy in helping others find their own path.
She completed her undergraduate degree in Psychology with an emphasis in child psychology from Columbia Southern University, a graduate degree in Counseling from Southern Arkansas University – Magnolia, and is currently certified in Clinical Trauma and has advanced training in TFCB-T.
Jeanna started her career in mental health as a psychiatric case manager and then transitioned to a mental health therapist working for an outpatient clinic (office and school-based clients). She has been working in mental health for more than seven years and finds joy in helping others find their own path.
(501) 290-4150 View (501) 290-4150
Photo of Laurent Lefevre, Counselor in Arkansas
Laurent Lefevre
Counselor, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
Laurent has received specialized training in infant mental health as well as treatments for trauma including Child Parent Psychotherapy (CPP), TF-CBT, and CPT for PTSD.
Laurent Lefevre (they/them) is an outpatient psychotherapist at Cardinal Counseling. Laurent specializes in treating trauma, depression, and anxiety across the lifespan, and is experienced in providing individual and family therapy. With a background in outpatient clinic settings, school-based environments, and university counseling settings, they are dedicated to guiding individuals and families toward healing and growth. As a bilingual Belgian-American citizen, Laurent is sensitive to cross-cultural experiences and is dedicated to holding space for everyone, especially LGBTQIA+ individuals and families.
Laurent has received specialized training in infant mental health as well as treatments for trauma including Child Parent Psychotherapy (CPP), TF-CBT, and CPT for PTSD.
Laurent Lefevre (they/them) is an outpatient psychotherapist at Cardinal Counseling. Laurent specializes in treating trauma, depression, and anxiety across the lifespan, and is experienced in providing individual and family therapy. With a background in outpatient clinic settings, school-based environments, and university counseling settings, they are dedicated to guiding individuals and families toward healing and growth. As a bilingual Belgian-American citizen, Laurent is sensitive to cross-cultural experiences and is dedicated to holding space for everyone, especially LGBTQIA+ individuals and families.
(501) 550-8809 x15 View (501) 550-8809 x15
Photo of Christy Watson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arkansas
Christy Watson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Searcy, AR 72143
I specialize in helping people like you who are struggling with Addiction, PTSD, Depression, and Anxiety. Life can be tough. When you first come to therapy, you may feel disgusted with yourself and hopeless. The constant pressure to be "good enough" weighs heavily on you, and you're your own harshest critic. I understand your pain because I've been there too. But I also know the way out. You deserve to feel at peace in your own body. You deserve to know that you're enough. If you want to feel comfortable in your own skin and live a life without suffering, I'm here to help. Schedule today at www.WatsonCounselingServices.com
I specialize in helping people like you who are struggling with Addiction, PTSD, Depression, and Anxiety. Life can be tough. When you first come to therapy, you may feel disgusted with yourself and hopeless. The constant pressure to be "good enough" weighs heavily on you, and you're your own harshest critic. I understand your pain because I've been there too. But I also know the way out. You deserve to feel at peace in your own body. You deserve to know that you're enough. If you want to feel comfortable in your own skin and live a life without suffering, I'm here to help. Schedule today at www.WatsonCounselingServices.com
(501) 790-4886 View (501) 790-4886
Photo of Maggie James, Psychologist in Arkansas
Maggie James
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Russellville, AR 72801
I am trained in Cognitive Processing Therapy, a top evidence-based treatment for PTSD.
I'm so glad you are taking a HUGE step in your quest for change! SPOILER ALERT: Once you accept and love yourself exactly as you are, then you can change. I am dedicated to empowering clients to change the narrative of how they view themselves, others, and the world in order to create a more meaningful/fulfilling life. I strive to help my clients live courageously by approaching rather than avoiding their emotions, getting to know and love their true self (flaws and all), and by valuing the journeys of their life over the destinations.
I am trained in Cognitive Processing Therapy, a top evidence-based treatment for PTSD.
I'm so glad you are taking a HUGE step in your quest for change! SPOILER ALERT: Once you accept and love yourself exactly as you are, then you can change. I am dedicated to empowering clients to change the narrative of how they view themselves, others, and the world in order to create a more meaningful/fulfilling life. I strive to help my clients live courageously by approaching rather than avoiding their emotions, getting to know and love their true self (flaws and all), and by valuing the journeys of their life over the destinations.
(479) 255-2140 View (479) 255-2140
Photo of Jessica L Fugitt, Psychologist in Arkansas
Jessica L Fugitt
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, AR 72703  (Online Only)
I am trained and experienced in trauma processing using Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), and Prolonged Exposure (PE).
Life is not always kind. It is difficult to balance all of the demands of life while also taking care of ourselves. It can be made particularly difficult when these challenges seem to require more than we have to give. I believe that we all have the courage and strength necessary to overcome these obstacles, but that we all need help sometimes recognizing our abilities and learning the skills we need. I am a licensed clinical psychologist (AR 19-02D) specializing in diagnostic assessment and evidence based interventions. I invite you to learn more about me and my work at evidencebasedlr.com
I am trained and experienced in trauma processing using Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), and Prolonged Exposure (PE).
Life is not always kind. It is difficult to balance all of the demands of life while also taking care of ourselves. It can be made particularly difficult when these challenges seem to require more than we have to give. I believe that we all have the courage and strength necessary to overcome these obstacles, but that we all need help sometimes recognizing our abilities and learning the skills we need. I am a licensed clinical psychologist (AR 19-02D) specializing in diagnostic assessment and evidence based interventions. I invite you to learn more about me and my work at evidencebasedlr.com
(833) 912-0617 View (833) 912-0617
Photo of Alisa D Mitchell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Alisa D Mitchell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, CFRC, EMDR, CSOTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springdale, AR 72762
I use EMDR to treat a variety of presenting issues related to trauma to help clients find peace in healing and ability to move forward in their lives.
It’s been said that if we can survive the war that we battle with ourselves, we can survive anything. I genuinely believe that everyone can benefit from therapeutic intervention as a resource for adjusting to life’s unexpected changes and personal growth. I have a passion for bringing healing to individuals who have experienced trauma or are currently facing daily struggles that seem impossible to overcome. I strive to help my clients find healthy perceptions of themselves and know that no single approach is the right one for every individual. I genuinely aspire to work intensely with clients to find what works best for them.
I use EMDR to treat a variety of presenting issues related to trauma to help clients find peace in healing and ability to move forward in their lives.
It’s been said that if we can survive the war that we battle with ourselves, we can survive anything. I genuinely believe that everyone can benefit from therapeutic intervention as a resource for adjusting to life’s unexpected changes and personal growth. I have a passion for bringing healing to individuals who have experienced trauma or are currently facing daily struggles that seem impossible to overcome. I strive to help my clients find healthy perceptions of themselves and know that no single approach is the right one for every individual. I genuinely aspire to work intensely with clients to find what works best for them.
(479) 227-2998 View (479) 227-2998
Photo of Kelsey Fink, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Kelsey Fink
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, EMDR-C, BSP
Verified Verified
Little Rock, AR 72211
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that everyone has the ability to heal from trauma, and experience the beauty of personal growth from difficult life experiences. When we experience trauma and/or chronic stress, we often become disconnected from ourselves, from others, and from the world around us. Our work together can help you reconnect to yourself, improve interpersonal relationships and learn to be present in the moment. My goal is to help you become more resilient, so that you feel comfortable enough to process your past, and confident enough to navigate difficult life events.
I believe that everyone has the ability to heal from trauma, and experience the beauty of personal growth from difficult life experiences. When we experience trauma and/or chronic stress, we often become disconnected from ourselves, from others, and from the world around us. Our work together can help you reconnect to yourself, improve interpersonal relationships and learn to be present in the moment. My goal is to help you become more resilient, so that you feel comfortable enough to process your past, and confident enough to navigate difficult life events.
(501) 200-4601 View (501) 200-4601
Photo of Secoyia Key, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Secoyia Key
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Bentonville, AR 72712  (Online Only)
Restart, renew and refresh your outlook. I'd like to assist you with regaining or finally establishing control over your life through building effective coping skills that help with addressing current and past stressors. My approach will help you to reduce troublesome mental health symptoms by developing a better self-image, exploring healthier life choices, instilling hope and using appropriate coping mechanisms to reach your goals. I can support you in regaining your life from trauma symptoms, anxiety, depression, along with building and maintaining happy, healthy relationships with others and yourself.
Restart, renew and refresh your outlook. I'd like to assist you with regaining or finally establishing control over your life through building effective coping skills that help with addressing current and past stressors. My approach will help you to reduce troublesome mental health symptoms by developing a better self-image, exploring healthier life choices, instilling hope and using appropriate coping mechanisms to reach your goals. I can support you in regaining your life from trauma symptoms, anxiety, depression, along with building and maintaining happy, healthy relationships with others and yourself.
(501) 588-8533 View (501) 588-8533
Photo of Calvin Lin Peeler, Counselor in Arkansas
Calvin Lin Peeler
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Sherwood, AR 72120
Following retirement from a twenty-six-year career in the military, I felt compelled to complete my degree in counseling as a way to give back to my community and support local military families. I work with children and adults. Specialties are Autism, Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Trauma and PTSD. I use Christian and non-Christian therapy depending on the client's requests.
Following retirement from a twenty-six-year career in the military, I felt compelled to complete my degree in counseling as a way to give back to my community and support local military families. I work with children and adults. Specialties are Autism, Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Trauma and PTSD. I use Christian and non-Christian therapy depending on the client's requests.
(501) 430-3812 View (501) 430-3812
Photo of Mindy Moore, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arkansas
Mindy Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR, CPT, Gottman, DBT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Little Rock, AR 72205
Have you experienced trauma, abuse or distressing events? Are your relationships unsatisfying? Is your relationship in trouble? Do you spend your energy and time trying to hide feelings of anxiousness, depression, anger, fear and hopelessness? If you have been feeling stuck and desire additional support, you have come to the right place. I work with individuals and couples to assist them in finding the life they aspire. I believe that change happens when people are given the guidance they need to draw on their own strengths and realize their potential to live gratifying lives.
Have you experienced trauma, abuse or distressing events? Are your relationships unsatisfying? Is your relationship in trouble? Do you spend your energy and time trying to hide feelings of anxiousness, depression, anger, fear and hopelessness? If you have been feeling stuck and desire additional support, you have come to the right place. I work with individuals and couples to assist them in finding the life they aspire. I believe that change happens when people are given the guidance they need to draw on their own strengths and realize their potential to live gratifying lives.
(501) 474-6293 View (501) 474-6293
Photo of Elsbeth Fast, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arkansas
Elsbeth Fast
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fayetteville, AR 72701
I have specialty training in CBT for Insomnia as well as delivering evidence based therapy for PTSD in a "massed" format where instead of seeing me once a week for 3 to 4 months, I would see you multiple times a week for a shorter duration.
I primarily help people who are suffering with either (or both!) Insomnia Disorder and PTSD. However I have many years of experience as a therapist and am able to treat depression, anxiety, chronic pain, along with co-occuring substance use disorder and other mental health disorders. I believe in delivering evidence based therapy when clinically indicated. In my experience, clients feel better sooner when they receive the most effective treatment for their diagnosis. I also use a lot of measurement based care to routinely assess progress we are making. My ideal client is someone who is ready to enact change in their life.
I have specialty training in CBT for Insomnia as well as delivering evidence based therapy for PTSD in a "massed" format where instead of seeing me once a week for 3 to 4 months, I would see you multiple times a week for a shorter duration.
I primarily help people who are suffering with either (or both!) Insomnia Disorder and PTSD. However I have many years of experience as a therapist and am able to treat depression, anxiety, chronic pain, along with co-occuring substance use disorder and other mental health disorders. I believe in delivering evidence based therapy when clinically indicated. In my experience, clients feel better sooner when they receive the most effective treatment for their diagnosis. I also use a lot of measurement based care to routinely assess progress we are making. My ideal client is someone who is ready to enact change in their life.
(479) 269-1708 View (479) 269-1708
Photo of Emily Pearson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arkansas
Emily Pearson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jonesboro, AR 72401
I am also a certified Yoga Instructor and plan to complete further training to become a certified Trauma-Informed Yoga Instructor, which I will utilize within my practice for those who could benefit from this approach.
As a therapist, I am passionate about helping others learn to care for themselves and curate the future they desire, no matter their beginnings. My goal is to provide a comfortable and safe space where clients can process their thoughts and emotions while working towards positive changes that they set out to achieve. I utilize treatment modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused and Trauma Informed interventions, Person-Centered Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy. Currently, I am working towards certification in Cognitive Processing Therapy.
I am also a certified Yoga Instructor and plan to complete further training to become a certified Trauma-Informed Yoga Instructor, which I will utilize within my practice for those who could benefit from this approach.
As a therapist, I am passionate about helping others learn to care for themselves and curate the future they desire, no matter their beginnings. My goal is to provide a comfortable and safe space where clients can process their thoughts and emotions while working towards positive changes that they set out to achieve. I utilize treatment modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused and Trauma Informed interventions, Person-Centered Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy. Currently, I am working towards certification in Cognitive Processing Therapy.
(870) 860-8611 View (870) 860-8611
Photo of Daniel Hunt, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Daniel Hunt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMFT, LPC, CSAT, CMAT, BSP
Verified Verified
Little Rock, AR 72207
I'm a Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist (CSAT), Certified Multiple Addictions Therapist (CMAT), Certified Partner Trauma Therapist (CPTT), Certified Couples Betrayal Recovery Therapist (CCBRT) Candidate, & Brainspotting & EMDR trained.
Video on website! When you come to therapy, you want something substantially different. You don’t want to pay for a sounding board; you want a therapist with the experience & training to dive deep into your story & bring you change. That is what I do. I use an experiential style of therapy that works well with people struggling with issues including addiction, affair recovery, trauma, abuse recovery, anxiety, attachment, spiritual growth, relational problems, and teens & their parents. I work hard to help people heal from painful wounds & problematic behaviors.
I'm a Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist (CSAT), Certified Multiple Addictions Therapist (CMAT), Certified Partner Trauma Therapist (CPTT), Certified Couples Betrayal Recovery Therapist (CCBRT) Candidate, & Brainspotting & EMDR trained.
Video on website! When you come to therapy, you want something substantially different. You don’t want to pay for a sounding board; you want a therapist with the experience & training to dive deep into your story & bring you change. That is what I do. I use an experiential style of therapy that works well with people struggling with issues including addiction, affair recovery, trauma, abuse recovery, anxiety, attachment, spiritual growth, relational problems, and teens & their parents. I work hard to help people heal from painful wounds & problematic behaviors.
(501) 214-5350 View (501) 214-5350
Photo of Kelsey Sandefur, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Kelsey Sandefur
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Conway, AR 72034
I am trained in both Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) to process through and treat trauma.
Preteens, adolescents, and young adult women are the best fit for my experience and expertise. I understand that teenagers do not always want to pursue counseling services, and I am understanding of that in a way that assists in my approach to working alongside them.
I am trained in both Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) to process through and treat trauma.
Preteens, adolescents, and young adult women are the best fit for my experience and expertise. I understand that teenagers do not always want to pursue counseling services, and I am understanding of that in a way that assists in my approach to working alongside them.
(501) 550-8936 View (501) 550-8936
Photo of Natural Path Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Natural Path Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, AADC, MEd
Verified Verified
Russellville, AR 72802
My therapeutic approach includes Adlerian, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused CBT, Person-Centered, Psychodynamic, Motivational Interviewing, and Complementary & Alternative Medicine (CAM.
Change. It must be something you are considering as you read through counselor profiles. Change is powerful, healing, and necessary as we maneuver through life. Boundaries. This word is life changing. Healthy boundaries allow others to love us and appreciate us fully for who we are. Balance. Peace. Joy. These are achieved with hard work and implementing therapeutic tools we are often not taught. Therapy is a good place to explore, reprocess, learn, practice, and implement the skills needed to make the changes you are seeking.
My therapeutic approach includes Adlerian, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused CBT, Person-Centered, Psychodynamic, Motivational Interviewing, and Complementary & Alternative Medicine (CAM.
Change. It must be something you are considering as you read through counselor profiles. Change is powerful, healing, and necessary as we maneuver through life. Boundaries. This word is life changing. Healthy boundaries allow others to love us and appreciate us fully for who we are. Balance. Peace. Joy. These are achieved with hard work and implementing therapeutic tools we are often not taught. Therapy is a good place to explore, reprocess, learn, practice, and implement the skills needed to make the changes you are seeking.
(479) 370-4075 View (479) 370-4075
Photo of Heather R Morrow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arkansas
Heather R Morrow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bryant, AR 72022
My specialization includes an emphasis on treating folks who have a history of traumatic experience(s), such as childhood trauma, sexual abuse or assault, domestic violence, accidents, and natural disasters.
Hello, I am a Licensed Certified Social Worker in the state of Arkansas. I'm a bilingual counselor fluent in English and Spanish with over a decade of experience. I have worked in a variety of clinical and educational settings. I've had the privilege of serving people of all ages with a wide variety of issues (including veterans and their families). He trabajado con familias hispanas durante más de una década. Hablo el idioma con fluidez. Si desea un defensor que trabaje duro para comprenderlo y ayudarlo a superar sus problemas, ¡llámeme!
My specialization includes an emphasis on treating folks who have a history of traumatic experience(s), such as childhood trauma, sexual abuse or assault, domestic violence, accidents, and natural disasters.
Hello, I am a Licensed Certified Social Worker in the state of Arkansas. I'm a bilingual counselor fluent in English and Spanish with over a decade of experience. I have worked in a variety of clinical and educational settings. I've had the privilege of serving people of all ages with a wide variety of issues (including veterans and their families). He trabajado con familias hispanas durante más de una década. Hablo el idioma con fluidez. Si desea un defensor que trabaje duro para comprenderlo y ayudarlo a superar sus problemas, ¡llámeme!
(501) 361-3565 View (501) 361-3565
Photo of Ashley Madden, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arkansas
Ashley Madden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jonesboro, AR 72401
My goal as a therapist is to help clients attain their personal goals that lead to improvement in their quality of life. I provide a warm, safe, and confident environment to foster positive change. I utilize a variety of treatment modalities that include Cognitive Behavioral, Cognitive Processing, Trauma-Focused, Person-Centered, Solution Focused, Attachment Theory, Theraplay Principles, and Brainspotting. I am a Licensed Certified Social Worker in the state of Arkansas. I have served various positions in the mental health field since 2009 and have been a licensed therapist since 2013.
My goal as a therapist is to help clients attain their personal goals that lead to improvement in their quality of life. I provide a warm, safe, and confident environment to foster positive change. I utilize a variety of treatment modalities that include Cognitive Behavioral, Cognitive Processing, Trauma-Focused, Person-Centered, Solution Focused, Attachment Theory, Theraplay Principles, and Brainspotting. I am a Licensed Certified Social Worker in the state of Arkansas. I have served various positions in the mental health field since 2009 and have been a licensed therapist since 2013.
(870) 259-4726 View (870) 259-4726
Photo of Wendy Rogers Rasch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arkansas
Wendy Rogers Rasch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
I work with individuals seeking relief from the troubling effects of trauma, the negative impacts of unhealthy communication styles, and the harmful consequences of substance use as well as other behavioral addictions. My clients include teens, adults, couples, and families. The foundation of my practice is rooted in warmth, authenticity, compassion, and humor, backed by evidenced-based therapeutic methods.
I work with individuals seeking relief from the troubling effects of trauma, the negative impacts of unhealthy communication styles, and the harmful consequences of substance use as well as other behavioral addictions. My clients include teens, adults, couples, and families. The foundation of my practice is rooted in warmth, authenticity, compassion, and humor, backed by evidenced-based therapeutic methods.
(501) 475-2776 x501912 View (501) 475-2776 x501912
Photo of Samantha Golden, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arkansas
Samantha Golden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LADAC
Verified Verified
Little Rock, AR 72211
She specializes in trauma therapy including EMDR and Cognitive Processing Therapy along with Dialectical behavioral therapy.
Samantha Golden is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Alcohol Drug Abuse Counselor at Alleviant Health Centers of Little Rock. She believes in meeting the person where they are currently at and helping them work towards their desired goals while reducing symptoms to reduce challenges and increase healing.
She specializes in trauma therapy including EMDR and Cognitive Processing Therapy along with Dialectical behavioral therapy.
Samantha Golden is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Alcohol Drug Abuse Counselor at Alleviant Health Centers of Little Rock. She believes in meeting the person where they are currently at and helping them work towards their desired goals while reducing symptoms to reduce challenges and increase healing.
(501) 426-6434 View (501) 426-6434
Photo of Finola Buckley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Finola Buckley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Benton, AR 72015
I have experiences in the areas of anxiety, depression, trauma, loss and family problems.
Counseling is beneficial for anybody, even if you just need someone to talk to about stressors. To be honest, life be "life-ing!" Fear is an intense emotion that paralyzes and influences inactivity and sometimes we just get STUCK! We are continuing to become who we are everyday and at times we just are not okay. I'm ready to listen when your ready to share
I have experiences in the areas of anxiety, depression, trauma, loss and family problems.
Counseling is beneficial for anybody, even if you just need someone to talk to about stressors. To be honest, life be "life-ing!" Fear is an intense emotion that paralyzes and influences inactivity and sometimes we just get STUCK! We are continuing to become who we are everyday and at times we just are not okay. I'm ready to listen when your ready to share
(501) 602-7760 View (501) 602-7760
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.