Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Alameda County, CA

Photo of Silver Lake Psychology--Oakland location, Psychologist in Alameda County, CA
Silver Lake Psychology--Oakland location
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94612
Relationship and sexual concerns, couples therapy, anxiety, addiction, trauma, eating disorders, stress management, insomnia, women's issues, creativity, LGBTQ- welcome.
Learn how to feel more connected to yourself, others and the world around you. Therapy provides all the elements of intimacy: honest communication, vulnerability and trust. Good therapy is challenging yet warm, providing both structure and empathy for your unique experience. We are a collective of therapists with a wide range of specialties. Our intake professionals will help connect you with the right therapist for your needs. We make appointments easy, offering evenings and weekends and flexibility for creative professionals who can't make the same time each week.
Relationship and sexual concerns, couples therapy, anxiety, addiction, trauma, eating disorders, stress management, insomnia, women's issues, creativity, LGBTQ- welcome.
Learn how to feel more connected to yourself, others and the world around you. Therapy provides all the elements of intimacy: honest communication, vulnerability and trust. Good therapy is challenging yet warm, providing both structure and empathy for your unique experience. We are a collective of therapists with a wide range of specialties. Our intake professionals will help connect you with the right therapist for your needs. We make appointments easy, offering evenings and weekends and flexibility for creative professionals who can't make the same time each week.
(415) 475-0984 View (415) 475-0984
Photo of Leticia Vaca Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alameda County, CA
Leticia Vaca Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94602  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in Trauma and Medical Psychotherapy for adults.
You don't have to struggle with day-to-day life difficulties alone. Are you facing personal growth blocks, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, grief/ loss, life transitions, family challenges, health or injury problems, work stress, or other types of emotional pains? My clients are diverse and I take the time to get to know your unique needs and goals. My approach is warm, sincere, and direct. You can expect a safe space to express yourself, relief from overwhelming thoughts and emotions, learn tools and get the right support to aid in healing. We can work together to help you regain balance in your life and feel empowered.
I specialize in Trauma and Medical Psychotherapy for adults.
You don't have to struggle with day-to-day life difficulties alone. Are you facing personal growth blocks, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, grief/ loss, life transitions, family challenges, health or injury problems, work stress, or other types of emotional pains? My clients are diverse and I take the time to get to know your unique needs and goals. My approach is warm, sincere, and direct. You can expect a safe space to express yourself, relief from overwhelming thoughts and emotions, learn tools and get the right support to aid in healing. We can work together to help you regain balance in your life and feel empowered.
(510) 564-7817 View (510) 564-7817
Photo of Natalie O'Mara, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alameda County, CA
Natalie O'Mara
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Alameda, CA 94501
My specialties include PTSD, cPTSD, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, peripartum, parenting, relationship issues and couples therapy.
The decision to begin therapy is a courageous step–one that can be life-changing. Whether you are feeling anxious, sad, stressed, angry, confused or stuck, therapy can offer a safe space for you to explore your inner world and gain new insights and skills. I have helped clients across the lifespan manage difficult emotions, heal traumas, gain self-confidence, learn new skills for navigating romantic and social relationships, find relief from long-term mental health issues, uncover creativity and life purpose, and reconnect with their partners in new ways. Therapy is a collaboration and I am here to help you on your journey.
My specialties include PTSD, cPTSD, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, peripartum, parenting, relationship issues and couples therapy.
The decision to begin therapy is a courageous step–one that can be life-changing. Whether you are feeling anxious, sad, stressed, angry, confused or stuck, therapy can offer a safe space for you to explore your inner world and gain new insights and skills. I have helped clients across the lifespan manage difficult emotions, heal traumas, gain self-confidence, learn new skills for navigating romantic and social relationships, find relief from long-term mental health issues, uncover creativity and life purpose, and reconnect with their partners in new ways. Therapy is a collaboration and I am here to help you on your journey.
(510) 999-8598 View (510) 999-8598
Photo of Armand Volkas, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alameda County, CA
Armand Volkas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFA, MFT, RDT, BCT
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Emeryville, CA 94608
I believe that a supportive therapeutic relationship can be the springboard from which many life issues can be addressed and healed. I am warm and gentle, yet firm when appropriate. I am encouraging, nurturing and have a deep capacity for empathy. I am committed to your growth and the changes you want to make in your life. Issues I treat include anxiety, depression, trauma recovery, and relationships. I treat children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I have special expertise in working with personal and collective trauma, deepening intimacy in couples, cross-cultural relationships, grief and mourning and healing friendships.
I believe that a supportive therapeutic relationship can be the springboard from which many life issues can be addressed and healed. I am warm and gentle, yet firm when appropriate. I am encouraging, nurturing and have a deep capacity for empathy. I am committed to your growth and the changes you want to make in your life. Issues I treat include anxiety, depression, trauma recovery, and relationships. I treat children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I have special expertise in working with personal and collective trauma, deepening intimacy in couples, cross-cultural relationships, grief and mourning and healing friendships.
(510) 595-5500 x11 View (510) 595-5500 x11
Photo of Freddie Barahona, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alameda County, CA
Freddie Barahona
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94612  (Online Only)
Hello. Bienvenidos. If you find yourself in a difficult place in life and need extra support then you have come to the right place. I specialize in helping individuals seeking to heal from anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. I have training in numerous modalities of therapy and I am committed to finding the one that works for you. Yo me especializo en tratar ansiedad, depresion, trauma, y problemas de relaciones. Incorporo muchas tecnicas distintas muy efectivas para que ud. pueda volver a retomar las riendas en su vida.
Hello. Bienvenidos. If you find yourself in a difficult place in life and need extra support then you have come to the right place. I specialize in helping individuals seeking to heal from anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. I have training in numerous modalities of therapy and I am committed to finding the one that works for you. Yo me especializo en tratar ansiedad, depresion, trauma, y problemas de relaciones. Incorporo muchas tecnicas distintas muy efectivas para que ud. pueda volver a retomar las riendas en su vida.
(510) 945-3412 View (510) 945-3412
Photo of Eva Klein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alameda County, CA
Eva Klein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
In my practice, I see children, adolescents and adults who are seeking help for a variety of reasons. Common areas of need include depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and relationship difficulties. With children, these concerns may express themselves through externalizing behaviors at school and/or at home. I offer an open, non-judgmental, and safe therapeutic relationship. My approach is adapted carefully to individual needs and is inclusive in regard to gender identity, ethnicity, sexual orientation, culture, class, and religious/spiritual orientation. I work with many LGBTQ+ individuals in my practice.
In my practice, I see children, adolescents and adults who are seeking help for a variety of reasons. Common areas of need include depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and relationship difficulties. With children, these concerns may express themselves through externalizing behaviors at school and/or at home. I offer an open, non-judgmental, and safe therapeutic relationship. My approach is adapted carefully to individual needs and is inclusive in regard to gender identity, ethnicity, sexual orientation, culture, class, and religious/spiritual orientation. I work with many LGBTQ+ individuals in my practice.
(510) 640-8279 View (510) 640-8279
Photo of Rebecca Fox, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alameda County, CA
Rebecca Fox
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610
I specialize in working with adolescents, adults and families in the midst of developmental transitions and significant life events. I am passionate about working with those who have being impacted by acute or complex trauma, mood and/or anxiety symptoms, challenges in relationships and those struggling with challenging behaviors. I offer a space to develop deeper self-awareness, stay action oriented towards change and access resources in order to reconnect to your preferred values and goals. I am in training towards becoming a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner and will often incorporate somatic and mindfulness practices.
I specialize in working with adolescents, adults and families in the midst of developmental transitions and significant life events. I am passionate about working with those who have being impacted by acute or complex trauma, mood and/or anxiety symptoms, challenges in relationships and those struggling with challenging behaviors. I offer a space to develop deeper self-awareness, stay action oriented towards change and access resources in order to reconnect to your preferred values and goals. I am in training towards becoming a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner and will often incorporate somatic and mindfulness practices.
(510) 906-3038 View (510) 906-3038
Photo of Maya Sztainer, Psychologist in Alameda County, CA
Maya Sztainer
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94707
As your therapist, I will strive to ensure that you feel deeply heard and understood, while also motivating and equipping you with tools to enhance your quality of life. Life can be really hard. Being human means that we will inevitably experience pain, whether it is in the form of loss, comparisons, disappointment, anxiety, obsessive thinking, trauma, failure, loneliness, illness, sadness, etc. My hope is to help you move toward living a full and meaningful life while also making space for the pain that comes along with being alive. We will build skills to make difficult thoughts and feelings have less influence over you.
As your therapist, I will strive to ensure that you feel deeply heard and understood, while also motivating and equipping you with tools to enhance your quality of life. Life can be really hard. Being human means that we will inevitably experience pain, whether it is in the form of loss, comparisons, disappointment, anxiety, obsessive thinking, trauma, failure, loneliness, illness, sadness, etc. My hope is to help you move toward living a full and meaningful life while also making space for the pain that comes along with being alive. We will build skills to make difficult thoughts and feelings have less influence over you.
(510) 877-0215 View (510) 877-0215
Photo of Judy Noddin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alameda County, CA
Judy Noddin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611
I work with people who are experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship stressors, and life transitions, as well as those who want to heal from childhood trauma and emotional neglect. I specialize in trauma focused therapy using Internal Family Systems (IFS), Somatic Attachment Therapy, and Expressive Arts Therapy. During individual sessions we will work together to identify and change the thought, behavior patterns, and beliefs that are keeping you stuck and suffering; help you gain greater access to your innate healing capacities and resilience; and grow your capacity for self-compassion, joy, creativity and connection.
I work with people who are experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship stressors, and life transitions, as well as those who want to heal from childhood trauma and emotional neglect. I specialize in trauma focused therapy using Internal Family Systems (IFS), Somatic Attachment Therapy, and Expressive Arts Therapy. During individual sessions we will work together to identify and change the thought, behavior patterns, and beliefs that are keeping you stuck and suffering; help you gain greater access to your innate healing capacities and resilience; and grow your capacity for self-compassion, joy, creativity and connection.
(510) 254-3198 View (510) 254-3198
Photo of Gregory D. Burns, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alameda County, CA
Gregory D. Burns
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Livermore, CA 94551
I am passionate about: Couples Counseling (Emotionally Focused Therapy), Healing Shame (self-esteem, confidence, anger), Old Trauma (co-dependency, PTSD), Alcoholism Recovery (12 Steps, emotional sobriety), Grief/Loss, Christian and/or Spiritual Counseling, Aging and special needs children. My deepest conviction is the dignity of the human person and my best tools are compassion, mercy, forgiveness and grace.
I am passionate about: Couples Counseling (Emotionally Focused Therapy), Healing Shame (self-esteem, confidence, anger), Old Trauma (co-dependency, PTSD), Alcoholism Recovery (12 Steps, emotional sobriety), Grief/Loss, Christian and/or Spiritual Counseling, Aging and special needs children. My deepest conviction is the dignity of the human person and my best tools are compassion, mercy, forgiveness and grace.
(925) 968-4753 View (925) 968-4753
Photo of Ada Karlstrand, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alameda County, CA
Ada Karlstrand
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Leandro, CA 94577  (Online Only)
My name is Ada Karlstrand, and I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, trauma and food and body image issues.
Do you feel overwhelmed? Are the things you used to enjoy just not doing it for you anymore? Do you feel stuck and disconnected? It may feel like you are constantly anxious, stressed and worried. You find yourself turning towards unhealthy behaviors to cope. You want to feel comfortable in your own skin. You want to be able to move through life with ease, looking forward to the days ahead. You don’t have to hold it all together alone!
My name is Ada Karlstrand, and I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, trauma and food and body image issues.
Do you feel overwhelmed? Are the things you used to enjoy just not doing it for you anymore? Do you feel stuck and disconnected? It may feel like you are constantly anxious, stressed and worried. You find yourself turning towards unhealthy behaviors to cope. You want to feel comfortable in your own skin. You want to be able to move through life with ease, looking forward to the days ahead. You don’t have to hold it all together alone!
(341) 888-7510 View (341) 888-7510
Photo of Alex Tipton, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Alameda County, CA
Alex Tipton
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
I work with adults and teenagers who are looking to manage symptoms of Anxiety, Depression, and Trauma. I will be with you on the journey of healing to discovery, recovery, and connection to your true self. I also specialize in working with individuals experiencing life transition issues such as career/academic concerns and relationship stress. I approach therapy with a person-centered mindset to create as comfortable and welcoming an environment as I can. I believe the trust built between you and a therapist is one of the more powerful tools we as clinicians can offer, and I hope to garner that trust in my own practice.
I work with adults and teenagers who are looking to manage symptoms of Anxiety, Depression, and Trauma. I will be with you on the journey of healing to discovery, recovery, and connection to your true self. I also specialize in working with individuals experiencing life transition issues such as career/academic concerns and relationship stress. I approach therapy with a person-centered mindset to create as comfortable and welcoming an environment as I can. I believe the trust built between you and a therapist is one of the more powerful tools we as clinicians can offer, and I hope to garner that trust in my own practice.
(415) 322-5279 View (415) 322-5279
Photo of Sheela Vashishtha, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alameda County, CA
Sheela Vashishtha
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609  (Online Only)
I utilize trauma specific modalities such as somatic therapy and evidenced based modalities such as CBT, DBT, and mindfulness and tailor my sessions to fit the unique needs of each of my clients.
Hello and welcome. I am a licensed clinical social worker with 10+ years of experience supporting adults and adolescents with their healing journey. I specialize in supporting my client’s with childhood trauma, anxiety, relationship issues, and racial/cultural experiences Additionally, I work with first and second generation clients who are navigating bicultural and multicultural identities and experiences. I also work closely with south asian clients. I have a holistic approach that is trauma informed and social justice oriented.
I utilize trauma specific modalities such as somatic therapy and evidenced based modalities such as CBT, DBT, and mindfulness and tailor my sessions to fit the unique needs of each of my clients.
Hello and welcome. I am a licensed clinical social worker with 10+ years of experience supporting adults and adolescents with their healing journey. I specialize in supporting my client’s with childhood trauma, anxiety, relationship issues, and racial/cultural experiences Additionally, I work with first and second generation clients who are navigating bicultural and multicultural identities and experiences. I also work closely with south asian clients. I have a holistic approach that is trauma informed and social justice oriented.
(510) 984-9639 View (510) 984-9639
Photo of Kaytlin Sirounian, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alameda County, CA
Kaytlin Sirounian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94612  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with adults who have experienced trauma, chronic stress, depression, or anxiety. I am passionate about working with transgender and nonbinary adults seeking a space for emotional healing and coping where they feel safe, celebrated, and supported. In therapy, we can work together to explore your identity and gender expression. We will also identify your strengths and values. By doing this, you can develop healthy and fulfilling relationships, process your experiences, heal from trauma, and build resilience.
I specialize in working with adults who have experienced trauma, chronic stress, depression, or anxiety. I am passionate about working with transgender and nonbinary adults seeking a space for emotional healing and coping where they feel safe, celebrated, and supported. In therapy, we can work together to explore your identity and gender expression. We will also identify your strengths and values. By doing this, you can develop healthy and fulfilling relationships, process your experiences, heal from trauma, and build resilience.
(510) 738-2864 View (510) 738-2864
Photo of Megan Gredesky, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alameda County, CA
Megan Gredesky
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RDT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610
I have In person and online openings! I stay up to date on the most cutting edge therapies to achieve RAPID and long lasting effects. As a Certified Brainspotting Therapist, I focus on neuroscience - YOUR brain can HEAL from trauma, grief, and anxiety. Release the shame and inner critic that is no longer serving you. I help empaths and highly sensitive people who are struggling with overwhelm. Performers and artists have benefited from Expansion Brainspotting to overcome creative blocks! I’m trained in play therapy and drama therapy and work well with children and adolescents. Email me to be directed to online scheduling!
I have In person and online openings! I stay up to date on the most cutting edge therapies to achieve RAPID and long lasting effects. As a Certified Brainspotting Therapist, I focus on neuroscience - YOUR brain can HEAL from trauma, grief, and anxiety. Release the shame and inner critic that is no longer serving you. I help empaths and highly sensitive people who are struggling with overwhelm. Performers and artists have benefited from Expansion Brainspotting to overcome creative blocks! I’m trained in play therapy and drama therapy and work well with children and adolescents. Email me to be directed to online scheduling!
(510) 694-0644 View (510) 694-0644
Photo of Jamie Kellenberger, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alameda County, CA
Jamie Kellenberger
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610
I have specialized training in trauma and shame as well as somatic therapy, which considers the full body, not only the mind, in healing.
We live in a culture that doesn’t give much space for our emotional lives, and we are expected to do all the things. It can be exhausting and lonely. Therapy is a place and process to slow down and be in touch with yourself. My work centers on the idea that emotional well-being and behavior are rooted in past experiences and the need to survive some type of oppressive conditions. Therapy involves helping you learn how to listen to yourself more deeply to change deep-seated patterns and take charge of your life.
I have specialized training in trauma and shame as well as somatic therapy, which considers the full body, not only the mind, in healing.
We live in a culture that doesn’t give much space for our emotional lives, and we are expected to do all the things. It can be exhausting and lonely. Therapy is a place and process to slow down and be in touch with yourself. My work centers on the idea that emotional well-being and behavior are rooted in past experiences and the need to survive some type of oppressive conditions. Therapy involves helping you learn how to listen to yourself more deeply to change deep-seated patterns and take charge of your life.
(510) 945-3513 View (510) 945-3513
Photo of Julie Kasten, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alameda County, CA
Julie Kasten
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Alameda, CA 94501
My name is Julie Kasten, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, License 126900, in the state of California. I will work with you collaboratively to help you notice which beliefs you may have adopted that are no longer serving you so that you can move forward in the world from a place of vitality and peace. I offer treatment to adults for anxiety, trauma, and eating disorder-related symptoms.
My name is Julie Kasten, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, License 126900, in the state of California. I will work with you collaboratively to help you notice which beliefs you may have adopted that are no longer serving you so that you can move forward in the world from a place of vitality and peace. I offer treatment to adults for anxiety, trauma, and eating disorder-related symptoms.
(510) 880-1767 View (510) 880-1767
Photo of Natalie Lorraine Ortega, Associate Clinical Social Worker in Alameda County, CA
Natalie Lorraine Ortega
Associate Clinical Social Worker, MSW, ASW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94619  (Online Only)
As a politicized somatic practitioner, I offer politicized somatics, an embodied path towards healing and transformation from individual and collective trauma. Politicized somatics allows you to align your values with your actions through increasing somatic awareness. This allows you to perceive your moods, sensations and emotions in order to get more present with what is and to make choiceful decisions about what follows. This, in itself, is a practice. Practice is an antidote that supports embodiment, healing and transformation.
As a politicized somatic practitioner, I offer politicized somatics, an embodied path towards healing and transformation from individual and collective trauma. Politicized somatics allows you to align your values with your actions through increasing somatic awareness. This allows you to perceive your moods, sensations and emotions in order to get more present with what is and to make choiceful decisions about what follows. This, in itself, is a practice. Practice is an antidote that supports embodiment, healing and transformation.
(510) 851-8997 View (510) 851-8997
Photo of Chantal Rohlfing, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alameda County, CA
Chantal Rohlfing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Albany, CA 94706  (Online Only)
I have a depth of experience in various modalities, including trauma resolution and Internal Family Systems Therapy.
Do you want to heal from your past and find greater peace and joy in your life? I applaud you for taking the first step in seeking therapy. I'll help you to move through your self-blame and embrace your magnificence. I provide a free 20-minute initial consultation to see if we are a good fit. If you are struggling with work, relationship or parenting stress, childhood abuse, life transitions or loss I will teach you how to shift old patterns, heal, and make positive changes. You can feel better and thrive!
I have a depth of experience in various modalities, including trauma resolution and Internal Family Systems Therapy.
Do you want to heal from your past and find greater peace and joy in your life? I applaud you for taking the first step in seeking therapy. I'll help you to move through your self-blame and embrace your magnificence. I provide a free 20-minute initial consultation to see if we are a good fit. If you are struggling with work, relationship or parenting stress, childhood abuse, life transitions or loss I will teach you how to shift old patterns, heal, and make positive changes. You can feel better and thrive!
(510) 900-5561 View (510) 900-5561
Photo of Allie Herrington, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Alameda County, CA
Allie Herrington
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Livermore, CA 94551  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in ImTT and Brainspotting and take a dynamic approach, one that is client centered, body based, and trauma informed.
It may feel like parts of you are broken or you hurt so deeply and nothing seems to heal the wounds. But you know you want more for yourself, for your relationships, and you want to take that next step towards healing. You may find you are struggling with anxiety, depression, you feel “stuck”, your relationships are challenged, your body feels tense and stressed, or you can’t quite understand why things feel out of sorts. You want to heal, but you don't know where to begin. I want you to know you are not alone, you are not too broken to heal, and you are worthy of living in a body and environment that is calm and enjoyable.
I am trained in ImTT and Brainspotting and take a dynamic approach, one that is client centered, body based, and trauma informed.
It may feel like parts of you are broken or you hurt so deeply and nothing seems to heal the wounds. But you know you want more for yourself, for your relationships, and you want to take that next step towards healing. You may find you are struggling with anxiety, depression, you feel “stuck”, your relationships are challenged, your body feels tense and stressed, or you can’t quite understand why things feel out of sorts. You want to heal, but you don't know where to begin. I want you to know you are not alone, you are not too broken to heal, and you are worthy of living in a body and environment that is calm and enjoyable.
(925) 966-2049 View (925) 966-2049

See more therapy options for Alameda County

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.