Trauma and PTSD Therapists in San Diego, CA

Photo of Jessica E Arneson, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Diego, CA
Jessica E Arneson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101  (Online Only)
My additional knowledge and training in treating trauma will help you better understand your experiences, and how to best manage them through mind-body techniques.
The first thing we work on, no matter what the problem, is establishing a trusting relationship where you feel comfortable and safe. We will work together on coping skills you can use in your day-to-day to better manage any symptoms that arise. My ultimate goal in therapy is to improve your quality of life. This means when something works we'll talk about why it worked and how you can continue to do what works. And when things do not work out, we'll talk about reasons why that might have happened and what we can do differently next time.
My additional knowledge and training in treating trauma will help you better understand your experiences, and how to best manage them through mind-body techniques.
The first thing we work on, no matter what the problem, is establishing a trusting relationship where you feel comfortable and safe. We will work together on coping skills you can use in your day-to-day to better manage any symptoms that arise. My ultimate goal in therapy is to improve your quality of life. This means when something works we'll talk about why it worked and how you can continue to do what works. And when things do not work out, we'll talk about reasons why that might have happened and what we can do differently next time.
(619) 745-5837 View (619) 745-5837
Photo of Robyn Buresh, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Robyn Buresh
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92127
I also come with an extensive background in trauma work utilizing a variety of approaches including EMDR.
Looking for a sex-positive therapist? I offer an open and accepting space in which you can be, or discover, your most authentic self. If you are struggling with issues of identity, have been harmed by messages about your body or sex, or are living with the aftermath of a traumatic event, I am here to offer my training and expertise to help you move from a place of pain and hardship into a place of peace and connection, both with me and with yourself. Therapy is more than just a place for talking. This is a place to experience safety and being seen. Allow me to join you on your journey of deeper introspection and self awareness.
I also come with an extensive background in trauma work utilizing a variety of approaches including EMDR.
Looking for a sex-positive therapist? I offer an open and accepting space in which you can be, or discover, your most authentic self. If you are struggling with issues of identity, have been harmed by messages about your body or sex, or are living with the aftermath of a traumatic event, I am here to offer my training and expertise to help you move from a place of pain and hardship into a place of peace and connection, both with me and with yourself. Therapy is more than just a place for talking. This is a place to experience safety and being seen. Allow me to join you on your journey of deeper introspection and self awareness.
(760) 652-9680 View (760) 652-9680
Photo of Rita Romero, Psychologist in San Diego, CA
Rita Romero
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92121
Board Certified as a PTSD clinician, with special expertise and training with evidenced based training in treatment of trauma, and anxiety, you will know you are receiving the latest cutting edge approaches to your particular challenges.
Selected as one of the Three Best Rated Psychologists in San Diego in 2022, 2023 and 2024 and Woman of Distinction in 2023.. With 25 years of experience, I have been able to successfully empower individuals to identify and transform their personal, relational and professional challenges and reach their desired goals. I will bring compassion, respect and unique insight into our work together. My license is at the doctoral level as a psychologist, as well as having been licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist. Treatment will be uniquely tailored to your personality to effectively alleviate discomfort and maximize your goals.
Board Certified as a PTSD clinician, with special expertise and training with evidenced based training in treatment of trauma, and anxiety, you will know you are receiving the latest cutting edge approaches to your particular challenges.
Selected as one of the Three Best Rated Psychologists in San Diego in 2022, 2023 and 2024 and Woman of Distinction in 2023.. With 25 years of experience, I have been able to successfully empower individuals to identify and transform their personal, relational and professional challenges and reach their desired goals. I will bring compassion, respect and unique insight into our work together. My license is at the doctoral level as a psychologist, as well as having been licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist. Treatment will be uniquely tailored to your personality to effectively alleviate discomfort and maximize your goals.
(760) 303-4783 View (760) 303-4783
Photo of Jeffrey Tang, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Jeffrey Tang
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92123  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with trauma in all its different forms, including depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
When you look in the mirror, do you find yourself asking, “Am I enough?” Do you have this nagging suspicion that something is deeply wrong? Has it started to affect your relationships, your work, your overall sense of peace? It’s likely that you’ve had experiences that no matter what you do, you just can’t seem to forget. These experiences shape your reality, fuel your anxieties, leaving you on edge and burnt out. What would it feel to like to let go of the pain you’ve carried for so long? Imagine what life would be like if you had the emotional space and clarity to be the best you.
I specialize in working with trauma in all its different forms, including depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
When you look in the mirror, do you find yourself asking, “Am I enough?” Do you have this nagging suspicion that something is deeply wrong? Has it started to affect your relationships, your work, your overall sense of peace? It’s likely that you’ve had experiences that no matter what you do, you just can’t seem to forget. These experiences shape your reality, fuel your anxieties, leaving you on edge and burnt out. What would it feel to like to let go of the pain you’ve carried for so long? Imagine what life would be like if you had the emotional space and clarity to be the best you.
(619) 664-4688 View (619) 664-4688
Photo of Reina Remy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Reina Remy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92123
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in the most effective treatments for grief/trauma/PTSD including EMDR, Prolonged Exposure, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Somatic Experiencing.
I work collaboratively and creatively to help you/your child or teen identify the root causes underlying the current struggles and increase awareness of solutions in your lives. I use play/art techniques to explore thoughts and feelings, emphasize therapeutic experiments, and process traumas to help you/your child feel better and improve the quality of your lives. I have more than 20 years experience helping children, teens, adults, and parents with trauma, grief, anxiety, family conflicts, bipolar, ADHD, and depression, among other issues. I also love working with LGBTQ community, military families, twins, and parenting struggles.
I specialize in the most effective treatments for grief/trauma/PTSD including EMDR, Prolonged Exposure, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Somatic Experiencing.
I work collaboratively and creatively to help you/your child or teen identify the root causes underlying the current struggles and increase awareness of solutions in your lives. I use play/art techniques to explore thoughts and feelings, emphasize therapeutic experiments, and process traumas to help you/your child feel better and improve the quality of your lives. I have more than 20 years experience helping children, teens, adults, and parents with trauma, grief, anxiety, family conflicts, bipolar, ADHD, and depression, among other issues. I also love working with LGBTQ community, military families, twins, and parenting struggles.
(858) 215-1978 View (858) 215-1978
Photo of Dr. Kasiani Michalopoulos, Psychologist in San Diego, CA
Dr. Kasiani Michalopoulos
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108  (Online Only)
How much time do you spend consumed by your thoughts or trying to ignore your thoughts/emotions? If we have thousands of thoughts a day, why do we spend more time focused on certain thoughts? I can help you manage your thoughts and emotions in a healthier way. I treat a variety of issues ranging from everyday life stressors and relationship challenges, to chronic mood disorders (i.e. depression, anxiety, mania), obsessions and compulsions, trauma, and engrained unhealthy styles of coping. I serve a wide range of clients from transitional age youth (18+) to older adults, from many different backgrounds.
How much time do you spend consumed by your thoughts or trying to ignore your thoughts/emotions? If we have thousands of thoughts a day, why do we spend more time focused on certain thoughts? I can help you manage your thoughts and emotions in a healthier way. I treat a variety of issues ranging from everyday life stressors and relationship challenges, to chronic mood disorders (i.e. depression, anxiety, mania), obsessions and compulsions, trauma, and engrained unhealthy styles of coping. I serve a wide range of clients from transitional age youth (18+) to older adults, from many different backgrounds.
(619) 737-1825 View (619) 737-1825
Photo of Lauren Cortez, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Diego, CA
Lauren Cortez
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92109
You are not defined by the trauma you have endured. Anxiety, depression, and trauma can make it seem as if your life will forever be stuck on a constant, negative loop. The feelings of despair and hopelessness may have become so familiar that you accept them as your "normal." This pain can make it incredibly difficult to have hope and truly believe that, even for us, there is a light at the end of the tunnel. The relief you crave, the joy you see in others (but have nearly convinced yourself is impossible for you), and the peace of mind you desire IS in fact possible, but you should not expect yourself do it alone.
You are not defined by the trauma you have endured. Anxiety, depression, and trauma can make it seem as if your life will forever be stuck on a constant, negative loop. The feelings of despair and hopelessness may have become so familiar that you accept them as your "normal." This pain can make it incredibly difficult to have hope and truly believe that, even for us, there is a light at the end of the tunnel. The relief you crave, the joy you see in others (but have nearly convinced yourself is impossible for you), and the peace of mind you desire IS in fact possible, but you should not expect yourself do it alone.
(619) 457-4355 View (619) 457-4355
Photo of Laura Aparicio, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in San Diego, CA
Laura Aparicio
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92122
I specialize in DBT & CBT, among other evidence-based approaches, to best serve my clients, help them heal from trauma, and reduce and manage mental health issues.
As your provider, I will be honest, empathetic, and thoughtful in feedback. I will actively collaborate with you to help you take steps toward your goals. My purpose as your counselor is to provide you with the support you need.
I specialize in DBT & CBT, among other evidence-based approaches, to best serve my clients, help them heal from trauma, and reduce and manage mental health issues.
As your provider, I will be honest, empathetic, and thoughtful in feedback. I will actively collaborate with you to help you take steps toward your goals. My purpose as your counselor is to provide you with the support you need.
(858) 667-7790 View (858) 667-7790
Photo of Kaitlyn Saulman, Psychologist in San Diego, CA
Kaitlyn Saulman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92103  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I practice with the intention of providing culturally sensitive and trauma informed services to support clients' mental well-being. My clients' common concerns include trauma, sexual well-being, depression, anxiety, adjustment to college, academic performance, relationships, and identity exploration. Many are interested in understanding the history of their presenting concern(s), how past experiences impact them currently, and what changes they can make to alleviate their concerns. During sessions, clients and I process their experiences and utilize their feedback to adjust interventions to ensure treatment aligns with their goals.
I practice with the intention of providing culturally sensitive and trauma informed services to support clients' mental well-being. My clients' common concerns include trauma, sexual well-being, depression, anxiety, adjustment to college, academic performance, relationships, and identity exploration. Many are interested in understanding the history of their presenting concern(s), how past experiences impact them currently, and what changes they can make to alleviate their concerns. During sessions, clients and I process their experiences and utilize their feedback to adjust interventions to ensure treatment aligns with their goals.
(619) 949-2393 View (619) 949-2393
Photo of Crystal Rea, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Crystal Rea
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108  (Online Only)
I also have extensive training working with clients who have experienced trauma and have traumatic stress in their lives.
Are you, your partner, or your child experiencing feelings of anxiety or sadness? Are you having a hard time coping with a recent transition or loss? If so, I am here to help you on your journey towards growth and healing. I believe that when someone is going through a difficult time, it may also impact important relationships around them. For that reason, my practice not only sees individual clients, but also includes seeing families and couples. I provide a combination of strength-based, experiential, and cognitive behavioral therapies that I adapt to meet the individual needs of you and your family.
I also have extensive training working with clients who have experienced trauma and have traumatic stress in their lives.
Are you, your partner, or your child experiencing feelings of anxiety or sadness? Are you having a hard time coping with a recent transition or loss? If so, I am here to help you on your journey towards growth and healing. I believe that when someone is going through a difficult time, it may also impact important relationships around them. For that reason, my practice not only sees individual clients, but also includes seeing families and couples. I provide a combination of strength-based, experiential, and cognitive behavioral therapies that I adapt to meet the individual needs of you and your family.
(619) 350-4417 View (619) 350-4417
Photo of Dawn Rose Galbo, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Dawn Rose Galbo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92130
My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, relationship issues, birth trauma, post traumatic stress disorder and assisted reproduction.
Get back to the life you love! I believe that working with a therapist can provide support and hope that things can get better. You have the power to strengthen your coping skills and improve your relationships in the process. I am here to support you and provide cutting edge tools to help you heal past traumas and manage current stressors. I can help you as you work toward reaching your goals while adding more joy to your life.
My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, relationship issues, birth trauma, post traumatic stress disorder and assisted reproduction.
Get back to the life you love! I believe that working with a therapist can provide support and hope that things can get better. You have the power to strengthen your coping skills and improve your relationships in the process. I am here to support you and provide cutting edge tools to help you heal past traumas and manage current stressors. I can help you as you work toward reaching your goals while adding more joy to your life.
(858) 375-1434 View (858) 375-1434
Photo of Natalie Nibler Escobedo, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in San Diego, CA
Natalie Nibler Escobedo
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92122
I have additional and specialized training in crisis intervention, dual-diagnosis, first responders and trauma intervention (EMDR).
Sometimes life brings more onto our plates than we feel like we can handle. It can leave us feeling depressed, anxious, and negatively impact our relationships. My approach to psychotherapy is to aid my clients in using tools they already have while building additional resources. We will work together to find solutions to support the areas of challenge as well as improve your day-to-day life. Treatment duration will be unique to your needs as we will work together to set goals. My ideal client is someone who is wanting to make a change in their life.
I have additional and specialized training in crisis intervention, dual-diagnosis, first responders and trauma intervention (EMDR).
Sometimes life brings more onto our plates than we feel like we can handle. It can leave us feeling depressed, anxious, and negatively impact our relationships. My approach to psychotherapy is to aid my clients in using tools they already have while building additional resources. We will work together to find solutions to support the areas of challenge as well as improve your day-to-day life. Treatment duration will be unique to your needs as we will work together to set goals. My ideal client is someone who is wanting to make a change in their life.
(858) 683-1709 View (858) 683-1709
Photo of Karina Vesco, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Karina Vesco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92116
My areas of expertise are Trauma and PTSD, Anxiety and Panic, Grief, Self-esteem, Stress Management, Life Transitions & Personal Growth.
Therapy is a great first step if you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging time or you're ready to move in a new direction in your life. I am a Certified EMDR therapist and use it regularly in my practice. EMDR (Eye Movement and Desensitization and Reprocessing) helps clients alleviate the distress associated with painful and traumatic life events and also helps clients transform long-held beliefs about themselves that are no longer useful and keep them stuck in unhealthy patterns and relationships. I also integrate CBT, ACT, IFS parts work and mindfulness to help clients reach their personal goals.
My areas of expertise are Trauma and PTSD, Anxiety and Panic, Grief, Self-esteem, Stress Management, Life Transitions & Personal Growth.
Therapy is a great first step if you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging time or you're ready to move in a new direction in your life. I am a Certified EMDR therapist and use it regularly in my practice. EMDR (Eye Movement and Desensitization and Reprocessing) helps clients alleviate the distress associated with painful and traumatic life events and also helps clients transform long-held beliefs about themselves that are no longer useful and keep them stuck in unhealthy patterns and relationships. I also integrate CBT, ACT, IFS parts work and mindfulness to help clients reach their personal goals.
(858) 371-7108 View (858) 371-7108
Photo of Anthony Weeks, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Anthony Weeks
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92117
Hi there, my name is Anthony Weeks and I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Oceanside, California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in complex trauma, especially complex trauma in the LGBTQ+ community. I have found that my style and approach is a good fit for young adults and adults who have experienced complex trauma especially individuals within the LGBTQ+ community. This often takes the form of anxiety, depression, stress, low self worth emotional overwhelm, loss of a sense of the future, and substance use.
Hi there, my name is Anthony Weeks and I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Oceanside, California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in complex trauma, especially complex trauma in the LGBTQ+ community. I have found that my style and approach is a good fit for young adults and adults who have experienced complex trauma especially individuals within the LGBTQ+ community. This often takes the form of anxiety, depression, stress, low self worth emotional overwhelm, loss of a sense of the future, and substance use.
(619) 777-5921 View (619) 777-5921
Photo of Nancy Phung-Smith, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Nancy Phung-Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92120
I am a body-centered therapist who specializes in working with trauma and emotion instability/intensity—this includes interpersonal relationships, depression, anger & anxiety. With this approach, we can get to a deeper understanding of diagnosis like Bipolar, Borderline Personality Disorder, and adult ADHD. Therapy is a two-pong approach: the skills & tools to get you through the day-to-day; and psychodynamic work of getting to the root of the issues (trauma-informed lens). I combine DBT/CBT skills and tools, with EMDR and tenants of IFS to stabilize symptoms, make way for healing, and a deeper understanding & connection to self.
I am a body-centered therapist who specializes in working with trauma and emotion instability/intensity—this includes interpersonal relationships, depression, anger & anxiety. With this approach, we can get to a deeper understanding of diagnosis like Bipolar, Borderline Personality Disorder, and adult ADHD. Therapy is a two-pong approach: the skills & tools to get you through the day-to-day; and psychodynamic work of getting to the root of the issues (trauma-informed lens). I combine DBT/CBT skills and tools, with EMDR and tenants of IFS to stabilize symptoms, make way for healing, and a deeper understanding & connection to self.
(619) 413-9507 View (619) 413-9507
Photo of Marie Secrist, Psychologist in San Diego, CA
Marie Secrist
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92128  (Online Only)
I value building on your resiliency to facilitate growth towards your personal goals. I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist who provides evidence-based treatment for children, adolescents, and adults. Specifically, I focus on treating trauma and am a certified Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TF-CBT) therapist. I strive to help individuals who struggle with trauma symptoms by providing trauma informed care. Also, as a clinician who values working with children with behavioral difficulties, I provide quality Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) to restore the parent-child relationship for children 2-7 years old.
I value building on your resiliency to facilitate growth towards your personal goals. I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist who provides evidence-based treatment for children, adolescents, and adults. Specifically, I focus on treating trauma and am a certified Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TF-CBT) therapist. I strive to help individuals who struggle with trauma symptoms by providing trauma informed care. Also, as a clinician who values working with children with behavioral difficulties, I provide quality Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) to restore the parent-child relationship for children 2-7 years old.
(858) 704-2346 View (858) 704-2346
Photo of Edon Berkenstadt, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Edon Berkenstadt
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92106
EMDR is recognized as an effective form of treatment for trauma and other disturbing experiences by the American Psychiatric Association, the World Health Organization and the Department of Defense.
We all have the capacity to grow, learn, and make positive changes no matter what life throws our way. Psychotherapy is a way of understanding personal conflicts and creating meaning through self-discovery. It is one of the first steps towards achieving change. My style of treatment aims at exploring and understanding ways of thinking, behaving and relating to others that are outside of the one's personal awareness. This lack of awareness can often result in repetitive patterns of behavior that leads to dissatisfaction and emotional anguish in a person's life.
EMDR is recognized as an effective form of treatment for trauma and other disturbing experiences by the American Psychiatric Association, the World Health Organization and the Department of Defense.
We all have the capacity to grow, learn, and make positive changes no matter what life throws our way. Psychotherapy is a way of understanding personal conflicts and creating meaning through self-discovery. It is one of the first steps towards achieving change. My style of treatment aims at exploring and understanding ways of thinking, behaving and relating to others that are outside of the one's personal awareness. This lack of awareness can often result in repetitive patterns of behavior that leads to dissatisfaction and emotional anguish in a person's life.
(619) 831-6289 View (619) 831-6289
Photo of Justin LaPilusa, Psychologist in San Diego, CA
Justin LaPilusa
Psychologist, PsyD, QME
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92128
Life is hard and, at times, it can be scary, lonely, and stressful. People are searching for happiness, fulfilling relationships, meaning and personal growth. For the past 15 years, I have specialized in trauma, depression, and anxiety. I believe in the importance of empowerment through self-confidence and self-compassion. Together, we will work to create the life you deserve, a life with joy, purpose and connection.
Life is hard and, at times, it can be scary, lonely, and stressful. People are searching for happiness, fulfilling relationships, meaning and personal growth. For the past 15 years, I have specialized in trauma, depression, and anxiety. I believe in the importance of empowerment through self-confidence and self-compassion. Together, we will work to create the life you deserve, a life with joy, purpose and connection.
(858) 295-3555 View (858) 295-3555
Photo of Rachel Tarantino, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Rachel Tarantino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92121
I am trained in cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, multiple trauma modalities, and exposure response prevention.
Navigating life's challenges can feel overwhelming, and it's okay to seek support along the way! Whether you're struggling with managing stress, coping with difficult emotions, or facing obstacles in relationships, let me help you navigate the barriers that have prevented you from living the life you imagined. I collaborate with my clients because it is important to blend my therapeutic knowledge with your personal motivations. I believe working together to help you achieve your goals allows for the most growth and lasting success.
I am trained in cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, multiple trauma modalities, and exposure response prevention.
Navigating life's challenges can feel overwhelming, and it's okay to seek support along the way! Whether you're struggling with managing stress, coping with difficult emotions, or facing obstacles in relationships, let me help you navigate the barriers that have prevented you from living the life you imagined. I collaborate with my clients because it is important to blend my therapeutic knowledge with your personal motivations. I believe working together to help you achieve your goals allows for the most growth and lasting success.
(858) 428-2072 View (858) 428-2072
Photo of Ebb and Flow Psychotherapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Ebb and Flow Psychotherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
At Ebb and Flow Psychotherapy we have had the privilege of learning from many of our clients a very valuable lesson: what might appear to be an insurmountable obstacle, is actually an opportunity to be resilient and overcome adversity. Our team is full of Clinicians with a committed passion for assisting individuals with a variety of concerns including; adjustment disorders, ADHD, complex trauma, anxiety, grief and loss, and depression.
At Ebb and Flow Psychotherapy we have had the privilege of learning from many of our clients a very valuable lesson: what might appear to be an insurmountable obstacle, is actually an opportunity to be resilient and overcome adversity. Our team is full of Clinicians with a committed passion for assisting individuals with a variety of concerns including; adjustment disorders, ADHD, complex trauma, anxiety, grief and loss, and depression.
(619) 350-2361 View (619) 350-2361
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.