Photo of Monica A Ellison, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Monica A Ellison
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90064
Your courage and resilience have gotten you this far and while seeking help is half the battle, I am here to guide you the rest of the journey. I work with clients to provide a safe space to address a variety of issues ranging from trauma, depression, anxiety, shame, grief, self-esteem and relationship difficulties and challenges. Together we can develop a new narrative about yourself and your potential while addressing past traumas and developing coping strategies to manage current and future challenges. I aim to assist clients overcome personal challenges, to create and maintain healthy and productive lives.
Your courage and resilience have gotten you this far and while seeking help is half the battle, I am here to guide you the rest of the journey. I work with clients to provide a safe space to address a variety of issues ranging from trauma, depression, anxiety, shame, grief, self-esteem and relationship difficulties and challenges. Together we can develop a new narrative about yourself and your potential while addressing past traumas and developing coping strategies to manage current and future challenges. I aim to assist clients overcome personal challenges, to create and maintain healthy and productive lives.
(323) 406-7442 View (323) 406-7442
Photo of Odessa Avianna C Perez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Odessa Avianna C Perez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90026
I am trauma-informed, and consider cultural influences to understand the totality of your struggles and strengths.
These days, it seems like we’re all having a hard time. Maybe your relationships are challenging. Maybe late stage capitalism and climate change is bringing you down. Maybe you’re frustrated at a cycle of behavior and experience – a pattern you can’t seem to change. Perhaps you’re overwhelmed by a recent life transition, and don’t know what to do next. Or perhaps old traumas are still haunting you. The good news is, it can get better, and somatic therapy can really help. I’m here to accompany you on your journey of deeper embodiment and to reside in a place of more ease, stability, and joy.
I am trauma-informed, and consider cultural influences to understand the totality of your struggles and strengths.
These days, it seems like we’re all having a hard time. Maybe your relationships are challenging. Maybe late stage capitalism and climate change is bringing you down. Maybe you’re frustrated at a cycle of behavior and experience – a pattern you can’t seem to change. Perhaps you’re overwhelmed by a recent life transition, and don’t know what to do next. Or perhaps old traumas are still haunting you. The good news is, it can get better, and somatic therapy can really help. I’m here to accompany you on your journey of deeper embodiment and to reside in a place of more ease, stability, and joy.
(747) 227-7698 View (747) 227-7698
Photo of Jessiline Berry, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Angeles, CA
Jessiline Berry
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90048
An experience becomes psychological trauma when it (and you) gets stuck.
I work with people from all walks of life, including LGBTQIA+ and individuals from the global majority who experience marginalization. My approach is sex and body positive, and always (and in all ways) respectful of the intersectionality of identities. I have a particular interest in working with artists and survivors of sexual trauma, single or partnered, who want to (re)connect with their sense of desire, sexual agency, and sensual vitality.
An experience becomes psychological trauma when it (and you) gets stuck.
I work with people from all walks of life, including LGBTQIA+ and individuals from the global majority who experience marginalization. My approach is sex and body positive, and always (and in all ways) respectful of the intersectionality of identities. I have a particular interest in working with artists and survivors of sexual trauma, single or partnered, who want to (re)connect with their sense of desire, sexual agency, and sensual vitality.
(424) 383-7467 View (424) 383-7467
Photo of Rebecca Elder, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Rebecca Elder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90032
Hello! I offer my clients extensive experience and specialized training to assist them in their healing journey. I am strengths-based, client-centered, trauma-focused, culturally curious and humble, and knowledgeable about how oppression operates. Having worked for many years with thousands of different people in settings such as individual, community, and hospital levels of care, my practice is grounded in evidence-based paradigms, including neuroscience, sensory-motor therapies, Mindful Self-Compassion, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Harm Reduction.
Hello! I offer my clients extensive experience and specialized training to assist them in their healing journey. I am strengths-based, client-centered, trauma-focused, culturally curious and humble, and knowledgeable about how oppression operates. Having worked for many years with thousands of different people in settings such as individual, community, and hospital levels of care, my practice is grounded in evidence-based paradigms, including neuroscience, sensory-motor therapies, Mindful Self-Compassion, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Harm Reduction.
(626) 790-0921 View (626) 790-0921
Photo of Julia Grace Vishnepolsky, Counselor in Los Angeles, CA
Julia Grace Vishnepolsky
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPCC
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90066  (Online Only)
Are you ready to wake up to your highest self and uncover the blockages that are getting in your way? In our sessions together, you will gain insight into issues going on in your life, and learn practical tools to manage emotions, relationships, and establish healthier patterns in your life. Common issues addressed are trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, addiction, body image, self esteem, stress management, life transitions, poor sleep, racing thoughts, codependency, interpersonal relationships, work/life balance, self care, and personal growth. Telehealth sessions or in person available.
Are you ready to wake up to your highest self and uncover the blockages that are getting in your way? In our sessions together, you will gain insight into issues going on in your life, and learn practical tools to manage emotions, relationships, and establish healthier patterns in your life. Common issues addressed are trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, addiction, body image, self esteem, stress management, life transitions, poor sleep, racing thoughts, codependency, interpersonal relationships, work/life balance, self care, and personal growth. Telehealth sessions or in person available.
(917) 935-4809 View (917) 935-4809
Photo of Jeremy Rhoades, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Jeremy Rhoades
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90031
Hi there, I'm Jeremy! I am a Marriage and Family Therapist and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, with special training in Harm Reduction, trauma-informed care, and nondual awareness practice. I have an MA in Transpersonal Counseling Psychology (JFK University) including courses in Dream Studies and Consciousness Studies, and intensive ongoing training in addressing and healing from trauma.
Hi there, I'm Jeremy! I am a Marriage and Family Therapist and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, with special training in Harm Reduction, trauma-informed care, and nondual awareness practice. I have an MA in Transpersonal Counseling Psychology (JFK University) including courses in Dream Studies and Consciousness Studies, and intensive ongoing training in addressing and healing from trauma.
(323) 784-1358 View (323) 784-1358
Photo of Micha Thomas, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Angeles, CA
Micha Thomas
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, ACC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90039
Trauma, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, harmful patterns & addictions, ADHD, dissociation, and first generation issues & empowerment are major themes in many clients' work.
I believe we all possess what we need for wholeness, yet through a lot of self-help in the zeitgeist right now we’re asked to move the ground of our own being and follow formulas instead of trust the process & our intuition. Through our therapeutic relationship you bring your healing aptitude forward, and we establish a safe space where wounds, old stories, traumas, and any ways life has tamed you can be tended. The process of rewilding your soul and spirit and stepping into a new state of consciousness can be challenging and present with some pain and discomfort. I meet you lovingly, with an empowering & heart-centered approach.
Trauma, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, harmful patterns & addictions, ADHD, dissociation, and first generation issues & empowerment are major themes in many clients' work.
I believe we all possess what we need for wholeness, yet through a lot of self-help in the zeitgeist right now we’re asked to move the ground of our own being and follow formulas instead of trust the process & our intuition. Through our therapeutic relationship you bring your healing aptitude forward, and we establish a safe space where wounds, old stories, traumas, and any ways life has tamed you can be tended. The process of rewilding your soul and spirit and stepping into a new state of consciousness can be challenging and present with some pain and discomfort. I meet you lovingly, with an empowering & heart-centered approach.
(213) 463-2972 View (213) 463-2972
Photo of Kathleen Keogh, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Kathleen Keogh
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90027  (Online Only)
Life is hard, even when it's going well. And then there are the times that it isn't going well, and we need to expand our network of care. Therapy is a helpful process in both times of life. I work to connect with you, follow your needs, support you in the growth and transformation you crave, and help you through the discomfort that change can bring. I believe in the closeness of dualities, such as trauma and resilience, crying and laughing, masculine and feminine, and seeking ways to get these dualities into a closer and more symbiotic relationship with one another.
Life is hard, even when it's going well. And then there are the times that it isn't going well, and we need to expand our network of care. Therapy is a helpful process in both times of life. I work to connect with you, follow your needs, support you in the growth and transformation you crave, and help you through the discomfort that change can bring. I believe in the closeness of dualities, such as trauma and resilience, crying and laughing, masculine and feminine, and seeking ways to get these dualities into a closer and more symbiotic relationship with one another.
(323) 849-2443 View (323) 849-2443
Photo of David Ibrahim, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Los Angeles, CA
David Ibrahim
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LMFT, LAADC , E500RYT, EMDR, ISTDP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90026
If you are suffering from Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Complex Trauma or phobia and anxiety and are looking for EMDR therapy approach then please contact me.
Do you wonder if you’re an addict, maybe not? I provide assessments and interventions for addiction. I’ve worked with famous actors, directors, major league athletes, scholars, scientists, studio executives, engineers, Hip Hop moguls and successful individuals. I specialize in trauma and addiction. I deal with issues such as controlled drinking, sobriety, relationship, couple's or family issues, Court, incest survivor trauma, and addiction issues. I'm also a LMFT, and Yoga and Meditation Therapist and EMDR Therapist which gives me a unique ability to help my patients integrate in their bodies emotionally and mentally.
If you are suffering from Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Complex Trauma or phobia and anxiety and are looking for EMDR therapy approach then please contact me.
Do you wonder if you’re an addict, maybe not? I provide assessments and interventions for addiction. I’ve worked with famous actors, directors, major league athletes, scholars, scientists, studio executives, engineers, Hip Hop moguls and successful individuals. I specialize in trauma and addiction. I deal with issues such as controlled drinking, sobriety, relationship, couple's or family issues, Court, incest survivor trauma, and addiction issues. I'm also a LMFT, and Yoga and Meditation Therapist and EMDR Therapist which gives me a unique ability to help my patients integrate in their bodies emotionally and mentally.
(323) 531-5725 View (323) 531-5725
Photo of Christopher Schell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Christopher Schell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90007
My name is Christopher Schell, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in San Diego, California, and working with clients statewide via telehealth and in-person visits. I work with children, adolescents, and adults and specialize in treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, acute stress, and various other client issues. My passion is to create a safe and nurturing space for personal growth and healing.
My name is Christopher Schell, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in San Diego, California, and working with clients statewide via telehealth and in-person visits. I work with children, adolescents, and adults and specialize in treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, acute stress, and various other client issues. My passion is to create a safe and nurturing space for personal growth and healing.
(916) 656-0495 View (916) 656-0495
Photo of Heidi Pidcoke, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Heidi Pidcoke
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90015
Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, couples’ issues, stress, trauma, or other challenges, you deserve support and accompaniment.
Sometimes in life we experience seasons of feeling adrift and lost. Other times we have faced immensely painful circumstances which have left a lingering impact on our thoughts, mood and behavior. Working together we can illuminate pathways to resolve these challenges and reach a sense of safety, connection and purpose. As a Somatic Psychotherapist, I specialize in restoring a mind/body connection along with focusing on overcoming the distress caused by a sudden transition, loss, violence, burnout and betrayal.
Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, couples’ issues, stress, trauma, or other challenges, you deserve support and accompaniment.
Sometimes in life we experience seasons of feeling adrift and lost. Other times we have faced immensely painful circumstances which have left a lingering impact on our thoughts, mood and behavior. Working together we can illuminate pathways to resolve these challenges and reach a sense of safety, connection and purpose. As a Somatic Psychotherapist, I specialize in restoring a mind/body connection along with focusing on overcoming the distress caused by a sudden transition, loss, violence, burnout and betrayal.
(626) 314-5517 View (626) 314-5517
Photo of Susan P Diamond, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Susan P Diamond
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90026
I also have extensive experience and training in improved parent-child relationships, family dynamics, attachment styles, stress, the impact of substance use on mental health, and healing from the pain of trauma.
I work with adults (individually and as couples) and with teens (individually or in family sessions with parents). I am LGBTQIA+ affirming and offer bilingual services to Spanish speaking clientele. With over ten years of experience, I have worked with clients of all ages, and am confident in the power of therapy to foster insight and emotional healing. My goal is to honor each person's unique story while respecting the range of cultural experiences that shape us. I I would be honored to join you in moving toward positive change.
I also have extensive experience and training in improved parent-child relationships, family dynamics, attachment styles, stress, the impact of substance use on mental health, and healing from the pain of trauma.
I work with adults (individually and as couples) and with teens (individually or in family sessions with parents). I am LGBTQIA+ affirming and offer bilingual services to Spanish speaking clientele. With over ten years of experience, I have worked with clients of all ages, and am confident in the power of therapy to foster insight and emotional healing. My goal is to honor each person's unique story while respecting the range of cultural experiences that shape us. I I would be honored to join you in moving toward positive change.
(626) 507-3902 View (626) 507-3902
Photo of Mental Health and Social Justice Clinic, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Mental Health and Social Justice Clinic
Psychologist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90013
We are experts on trauma.
Our Mental Health and Social Justice Clinic provides comprehensive psychological evaluations and therapy to kids, teenagers, adults, and seniors. We provide trauma informed individual, couples, group, and family sessions including yoga, mindfulness sessions, and art therapy. We are specialists in trauma informed therapy and our practice provides individual and group therapy services to survivors of human trafficking, domestic violence, and violent crimes. Our licensed and skilled team of therapists is devoted to providing quality services and our social justice team is committed to seeing you thrive in the community.
We are experts on trauma.
Our Mental Health and Social Justice Clinic provides comprehensive psychological evaluations and therapy to kids, teenagers, adults, and seniors. We provide trauma informed individual, couples, group, and family sessions including yoga, mindfulness sessions, and art therapy. We are specialists in trauma informed therapy and our practice provides individual and group therapy services to survivors of human trafficking, domestic violence, and violent crimes. Our licensed and skilled team of therapists is devoted to providing quality services and our social justice team is committed to seeing you thrive in the community.
(213) 996-0522 View (213) 996-0522
Photo of Sara R. van Koningsveld, Counselor in Los Angeles, CA
Sara R. van Koningsveld
Counselor, MA, LPCC, BC-DMT, GL-CMA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90036  (Online Only)
If you or someone you love is experiencing increased stress, anxiety, sadness, or depression due to a life change/transition, difficulty finding purpose, grief/loss, or trauma, I am available to be a support.
Life gets difficult. -Our distress may make us uncomfortable, overwhelmed, anxious, angry, sad and/or depressed. -Maybe we experienced a job loss, have to move, had a significant relationship end, or experienced a major shift, change, or transition in our life. -Really, we want to feel "better" and "happier", but how do we get there? Short-term counseling or coaching can help and sometimes we needed to address deeper issues and patterns through psychotherapy. Each of us is different, but maybe you found your way here because you are ready to let go, ready to grow, and ready for something new, different, and better for your life.
If you or someone you love is experiencing increased stress, anxiety, sadness, or depression due to a life change/transition, difficulty finding purpose, grief/loss, or trauma, I am available to be a support.
Life gets difficult. -Our distress may make us uncomfortable, overwhelmed, anxious, angry, sad and/or depressed. -Maybe we experienced a job loss, have to move, had a significant relationship end, or experienced a major shift, change, or transition in our life. -Really, we want to feel "better" and "happier", but how do we get there? Short-term counseling or coaching can help and sometimes we needed to address deeper issues and patterns through psychotherapy. Each of us is different, but maybe you found your way here because you are ready to let go, ready to grow, and ready for something new, different, and better for your life.
(323) 210-4786 View (323) 210-4786
Photo of Atalie Abramovici, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Angeles, CA
Atalie Abramovici
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90066
I specialize in anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relationship struggles, trauma, grief, and life transitions.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a deep understanding of mindfulness, the significance of culture and language, and the intricacies of intrapersonal and interpersonal relationships, I aspire to help you explore yourself, maximize your wellbeing, and cultivate tools and practices that propel you to lead a life you love living.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relationship struggles, trauma, grief, and life transitions.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a deep understanding of mindfulness, the significance of culture and language, and the intricacies of intrapersonal and interpersonal relationships, I aspire to help you explore yourself, maximize your wellbeing, and cultivate tools and practices that propel you to lead a life you love living.
(424) 226-5684 View (424) 226-5684
Photo of Melissa Briggs, Pre-Licensed Professional in Los Angeles, CA
Melissa Briggs
Pre-Licensed Professional, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90010
Hi im Melissa! I have worked with adolescents and individuals with special needs in partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient programs, in the areas of trauma, anxiety, depression, and eating disorders, most of which included dual diagnoses. I have also worked in residential care and treatment for those 18+ who sought relief and recovery from mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, trauma, complicated grief, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, psychosis, and co-occurring disorders of substance misuse, disordered eating, gaming, and social media addictions.
Hi im Melissa! I have worked with adolescents and individuals with special needs in partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient programs, in the areas of trauma, anxiety, depression, and eating disorders, most of which included dual diagnoses. I have also worked in residential care and treatment for those 18+ who sought relief and recovery from mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, trauma, complicated grief, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, psychosis, and co-occurring disorders of substance misuse, disordered eating, gaming, and social media addictions.
(310) 742-9338 View (310) 742-9338
Photo of Mindful Health Solutions, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Mindful Health Solutions
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90036
I practice general psychology and works with clients who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, prenatal and postpartum issues, anger, parenting challenges, and couples issues. I also have a concentrated interest in the family of origin trauma.
I practice general psychology and works with clients who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, prenatal and postpartum issues, anger, parenting challenges, and couples issues. I also have a concentrated interest in the family of origin trauma.
(323) 529-0824 View (323) 529-0824
Photo of Christhmus (Christopher Chu) Presence, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Angeles, CA
Christhmus (Christopher Chu) Presence
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90012  (Online Only)
Guiding pillars include Liberation-, Narrative-, Somatic-Psychologies, Trauma Therapy, Ancestral-Spiritual Practices, Expressive Arts, & more.
Offering CA-based Telehealth ideal for BIPOC: Black, Indigenous, &/or People of Color, including white-passing & mixed-race BIPOC. Also welcoming Families & Partnerships with 1 or more BIPOC in regular attendance. I offer Xychotherapy: psychotherapy that recognizes therapeutic experiences existed long before psychotherapy was invented, and incorporates psychotherapy into global therapeutic wisdoms and practices.
Guiding pillars include Liberation-, Narrative-, Somatic-Psychologies, Trauma Therapy, Ancestral-Spiritual Practices, Expressive Arts, & more.
Offering CA-based Telehealth ideal for BIPOC: Black, Indigenous, &/or People of Color, including white-passing & mixed-race BIPOC. Also welcoming Families & Partnerships with 1 or more BIPOC in regular attendance. I offer Xychotherapy: psychotherapy that recognizes therapeutic experiences existed long before psychotherapy was invented, and incorporates psychotherapy into global therapeutic wisdoms and practices.
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Photo of Amy VanBecelaere, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Los Angeles, CA
Amy VanBecelaere
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, R-DMT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90071  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with individuals who struggle with disordered eating, trauma, depression and anxiety.
Finding your soul's purpose is not always easy. With all of the pressures of modern day society, we can often get lost and are left feeling depleted. Are you searching for a feeling of wholeness and meaning in your life? Do you want to move past old reactive coping strategies and step into the fullness life has to offer? Do you find yourself obsessing on food, weight or body image and want to break free? If you find yourself at a crossroad, and are ready to let go of what no longer serves you, I can help you take first step. Combining evidence based practices with creative interventions, I support clients in healing holistically.
I specialize in working with individuals who struggle with disordered eating, trauma, depression and anxiety.
Finding your soul's purpose is not always easy. With all of the pressures of modern day society, we can often get lost and are left feeling depleted. Are you searching for a feeling of wholeness and meaning in your life? Do you want to move past old reactive coping strategies and step into the fullness life has to offer? Do you find yourself obsessing on food, weight or body image and want to break free? If you find yourself at a crossroad, and are ready to let go of what no longer serves you, I can help you take first step. Combining evidence based practices with creative interventions, I support clients in healing holistically.
(949) 577-6328 View (949) 577-6328
Photo of Ahide Saenz, Counselor in Los Angeles, CA
Ahide Saenz
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90024
The conditions I typically work with include Spirituality, Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Trauma, etc.
My name is Carolina Saenz, and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. My therapy approach is Cognitive Theory in the areas of Behavioral Issues, Trauma and PTSD, Spirituality, self-esteem, Depression, Coping Skills, etc. Mi nombre es Carolina Saenz. Mi enfoque terapeutico es Terapia Cognitiva en las areas de Comportamiento, Trauma, Espiritualidad, Auto Estima, Depresion, habilidades, etc.
The conditions I typically work with include Spirituality, Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Trauma, etc.
My name is Carolina Saenz, and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. My therapy approach is Cognitive Theory in the areas of Behavioral Issues, Trauma and PTSD, Spirituality, self-esteem, Depression, Coping Skills, etc. Mi nombre es Carolina Saenz. Mi enfoque terapeutico es Terapia Cognitiva en las areas de Comportamiento, Trauma, Espiritualidad, Auto Estima, Depresion, habilidades, etc.
(909) 414-3279 View (909) 414-3279

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.