Photo of Jane Blankenship, Counselor in Colorado
Jane Blankenship
Counselor, MA, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
Castle Rock, CO 80104
Do you feel like you’re never going to be free? Like you can’t shake the voices and insecurities that you live in? Do you want to let go of the patterns and beliefs that you have lived in for years? I would love to help you experience freedom in your life and to truly love who you are. I provide a safe place where you can share about your hurts and pains and talk through any dynamics in your life. I specialize in eating disorders, trauma, relationship issues and attachment wounding.
Do you feel like you’re never going to be free? Like you can’t shake the voices and insecurities that you live in? Do you want to let go of the patterns and beliefs that you have lived in for years? I would love to help you experience freedom in your life and to truly love who you are. I provide a safe place where you can share about your hurts and pains and talk through any dynamics in your life. I specialize in eating disorders, trauma, relationship issues and attachment wounding.
(720) 730-9345 View (720) 730-9345
Photo of Tonia Lowe, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado
Tonia Lowe
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Broomfield, CO 80020
Waitlist for new clients
My studies have included specific emphasis in the area of crisis and trauma counseling; I have also completed and regularly attend a variety of professional development and continuing education courses related to emergency first responder cultural competence.
Every one of us experiences seasons in life when we feel completely overwhelmed by our circumstances and are unable to just "shake it off." This might be especially true in the aftermath of a crisis, a stressful event or traumatic experience (such as loss of a job, the death of a loved one, a broken relationship, an accident). It's also true for those who work in "helping" professions, such as Emergency First Responders. Are you looking for someone to understand your feelings of grief, anger, sadness, or confusion? Someone to help you get back to "normal?"
My studies have included specific emphasis in the area of crisis and trauma counseling; I have also completed and regularly attend a variety of professional development and continuing education courses related to emergency first responder cultural competence.
Every one of us experiences seasons in life when we feel completely overwhelmed by our circumstances and are unable to just "shake it off." This might be especially true in the aftermath of a crisis, a stressful event or traumatic experience (such as loss of a job, the death of a loved one, a broken relationship, an accident). It's also true for those who work in "helping" professions, such as Emergency First Responders. Are you looking for someone to understand your feelings of grief, anger, sadness, or confusion? Someone to help you get back to "normal?"
(720) 575-2893 View (720) 575-2893
Photo of Carrie Lei Slavens, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado
Carrie Lei Slavens
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CCTP, CCSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80904  (Online Only)
I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and a Certified Vibrational Sound Therapy Practitioner (VSTCP).
My clients describe me as "no-nonsense and intuitive." I named my business Connect Professional Counseling to honor the power of connection to self and to others in achieving the most satisfying life. I offer integrative treatment comprised of both traditional evidence-based and more holistic complementary experiential modalities based upon your needs. I draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT & SFBT), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), Thought Field Therapy (TFT), Gestalt,
I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and a Certified Vibrational Sound Therapy Practitioner (VSTCP).
My clients describe me as "no-nonsense and intuitive." I named my business Connect Professional Counseling to honor the power of connection to self and to others in achieving the most satisfying life. I offer integrative treatment comprised of both traditional evidence-based and more holistic complementary experiential modalities based upon your needs. I draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT & SFBT), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), Thought Field Therapy (TFT), Gestalt,
(719) 882-1187 View (719) 882-1187
Photo of Tracy S Stuart, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado
Tracy S Stuart
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Littleton, CO 80120
My ideal client is struggling with trauma, depression and/or anxiety. They may have been struggling for months, years, or decades and are ready to explore their issues. Creating a safe space for you to tell your story and then learn and begin to apply coping skills are the first steps toward releasing and healing your pain. My ideal client is also ready to explore how they can unwind ineffective thought processes in order to find a new and healthy mindset that allows for the possibility of peace and happiness.
My ideal client is struggling with trauma, depression and/or anxiety. They may have been struggling for months, years, or decades and are ready to explore their issues. Creating a safe space for you to tell your story and then learn and begin to apply coping skills are the first steps toward releasing and healing your pain. My ideal client is also ready to explore how they can unwind ineffective thought processes in order to find a new and healthy mindset that allows for the possibility of peace and happiness.
(303) 952-4510 View (303) 952-4510
Photo of Brooke Marie Bloker, Counselor in Colorado
Brooke Marie Bloker
Counselor, tLMHC, LPCC, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greeley, CO 80634
I utilize a combination of approaches to assist individuals struggling with complex and relational trauma, emotional intensity, BPD, anxiety, depression, self esteem concerns, and relationship issues.
We all have a story and some chapters tend to be more difficult to remember and understand than others. I assist others in processing through, coping with, and resolving the ways in which our life experiences are impacting our current state of functioning and well-being. Often times, finding our way feels impossible but my approach is to be a guiding light on your healing journey. Landing onto this page is your first step in a very brave, yet perhaps scary new beginning. My approach is practical and often direct, however driven with compassion and non-judgement. I often tailor my sessions with a bit of humor if appropriate. :)
I utilize a combination of approaches to assist individuals struggling with complex and relational trauma, emotional intensity, BPD, anxiety, depression, self esteem concerns, and relationship issues.
We all have a story and some chapters tend to be more difficult to remember and understand than others. I assist others in processing through, coping with, and resolving the ways in which our life experiences are impacting our current state of functioning and well-being. Often times, finding our way feels impossible but my approach is to be a guiding light on your healing journey. Landing onto this page is your first step in a very brave, yet perhaps scary new beginning. My approach is practical and often direct, however driven with compassion and non-judgement. I often tailor my sessions with a bit of humor if appropriate. :)
(319) 614-6079 View (319) 614-6079
Photo of Judith Gainer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado
Judith Gainer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80919  (Online Only)
Is your life feeling out of control? Is anxiety or depression keeping you from living the life you want? Are you having trouble sleeping or concentrating? Are you troubled by thoughts of the past or fears for the future? Do you have a child who has anxiety or depression? I have specialties in trauma informed care, anxiety and panic disorders, depression; domestic violence victim therapy, and grief. I treat adults, teens and children. I love being a therapist and seeing clients develop change into a life worth living. I am currently offering telehealth therapy. (No disability claims)
Is your life feeling out of control? Is anxiety or depression keeping you from living the life you want? Are you having trouble sleeping or concentrating? Are you troubled by thoughts of the past or fears for the future? Do you have a child who has anxiety or depression? I have specialties in trauma informed care, anxiety and panic disorders, depression; domestic violence victim therapy, and grief. I treat adults, teens and children. I love being a therapist and seeing clients develop change into a life worth living. I am currently offering telehealth therapy. (No disability claims)
(719) 309-4327 View (719) 309-4327
Photo of Narelle "Nellie" Taylor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Colorado
Narelle "Nellie" Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CAS, ASC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80235
By using evidenced based practices such as motivational interviewing, trauma informed interventions, EMDR, and your inner strength, together we will learn to thrive, not just survive.
Change is hard, but you don’t have to do it alone. Whether you are trying to find healthier ways to cope with stress, anxiety and/or depression, set boundaries with your loved ones, or quit misusing drug and alcohol, you are already headed in the right direction. Thank you for making your emotional health a priority and WELCOME. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Certified Addictions Specialist, and EMDR trained therapist who has a special interest in working with other professionals needing support.
By using evidenced based practices such as motivational interviewing, trauma informed interventions, EMDR, and your inner strength, together we will learn to thrive, not just survive.
Change is hard, but you don’t have to do it alone. Whether you are trying to find healthier ways to cope with stress, anxiety and/or depression, set boundaries with your loved ones, or quit misusing drug and alcohol, you are already headed in the right direction. Thank you for making your emotional health a priority and WELCOME. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Certified Addictions Specialist, and EMDR trained therapist who has a special interest in working with other professionals needing support.
(720) 677-8649 View (720) 677-8649
Photo of Lindy Steece, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado
Lindy Steece
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
Arvada, CO 80003
Trauma, Victim Issues, Domestic Violence, & Abuse (all sorts & there are many) are my primary focus.
Set your sites on the stars and be prepared for lift off! Are you ready to feel better than you have in years? Experience an atmosphere of acceptance, safety, and honesty that supports emotional healing. I work to identify strengths; and, cultivate courage to overcome personal challenges. YOU DESERVE it. The time is NOW. We only have ONE life as we know it, so...It's YOUR CHOICE - Take back YOUR POWER. LIVE your BEST LIFE!
Trauma, Victim Issues, Domestic Violence, & Abuse (all sorts & there are many) are my primary focus.
Set your sites on the stars and be prepared for lift off! Are you ready to feel better than you have in years? Experience an atmosphere of acceptance, safety, and honesty that supports emotional healing. I work to identify strengths; and, cultivate courage to overcome personal challenges. YOU DESERVE it. The time is NOW. We only have ONE life as we know it, so...It's YOUR CHOICE - Take back YOUR POWER. LIVE your BEST LIFE!
(720) 707-0180 View (720) 707-0180
Photo of Catherine Lawson, Counselor in Colorado
Catherine Lawson
Counselor, LPC, CGP
Verified Verified
I hold a specialty certification as a Certified Grief Informed Professional (CGP) and have completed several grief and trauma focused trainings, including EMDR, a highly effective trauma treatment. I have experience supporting clients with a wide range of presenting concerns, including (but not limited to) depression, anxiety, relational conflict, as well as varying forms and degrees of trauma.
I hold a specialty certification as a Certified Grief Informed Professional (CGP) and have completed several grief and trauma focused trainings, including EMDR, a highly effective trauma treatment. I have experience supporting clients with a wide range of presenting concerns, including (but not limited to) depression, anxiety, relational conflict, as well as varying forms and degrees of trauma.
(719) 417-5312 View (719) 417-5312
Photo of Danielle Dickson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado
Danielle Dickson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CACI
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Berthoud, CO 80513  (Online Only)
As a licensed & certified therapist, I love to help individuals manage their anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD & bipolar diagnosis by providing a variety of cognitive behavioral (CBT) & dialectical behavioral (DBT) techniques.
Buddha once wrote, “What you are is what you have been. What you’ll be is what you do now.” So what will you do now? Change can be intimidating, yet it is one thing that we can have power over. When we have our moments of struggle, we find ourselves drowning in our emotions that can overwhelm us. The simple stressors of life can become too much. Then there are other times when fear, unexpected loss, relationship difficulties, and traumatic events trap us. You are already strong. I’m just here to help you realize it. Together, let’s work to break free from emotional pain and find that path that leads you to a productive future.
As a licensed & certified therapist, I love to help individuals manage their anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD & bipolar diagnosis by providing a variety of cognitive behavioral (CBT) & dialectical behavioral (DBT) techniques.
Buddha once wrote, “What you are is what you have been. What you’ll be is what you do now.” So what will you do now? Change can be intimidating, yet it is one thing that we can have power over. When we have our moments of struggle, we find ourselves drowning in our emotions that can overwhelm us. The simple stressors of life can become too much. Then there are other times when fear, unexpected loss, relationship difficulties, and traumatic events trap us. You are already strong. I’m just here to help you realize it. Together, let’s work to break free from emotional pain and find that path that leads you to a productive future.
(970) 514-8287 View (970) 514-8287
Photo of Heidi R Smith @ Tunnel Light Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in Colorado
Heidi R Smith @ Tunnel Light Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MBA, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Castle Rock, CO 80104
In our fast-paced and oftentimes impersonal world, we crave connection, validation, solutions, and support. Therapy should do that. At Tunnel Light Therapy, it does. Therapy should provide a safe, judgement-free space for clients to process their deep thoughts and big emotions. At Tunnel Light Therapy, it does. Offering in-person and virtual/online therapy to clients in all life stages (teenage through adult) and specializing in anxiety, depression, trauma, EMDR, grief and relationship issues, I can serve as a safe and compassionate partner to you (or your child) on this journey toward greater, more sustainable mental health.
In our fast-paced and oftentimes impersonal world, we crave connection, validation, solutions, and support. Therapy should do that. At Tunnel Light Therapy, it does. Therapy should provide a safe, judgement-free space for clients to process their deep thoughts and big emotions. At Tunnel Light Therapy, it does. Offering in-person and virtual/online therapy to clients in all life stages (teenage through adult) and specializing in anxiety, depression, trauma, EMDR, grief and relationship issues, I can serve as a safe and compassionate partner to you (or your child) on this journey toward greater, more sustainable mental health.
(720) 902-9993 View (720) 902-9993
Photo of Pamala Vaughn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Colorado
Pamala Vaughn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80222  (Online Only)
I came to understand how I have this ‘authentic approach’ and ‘realness’ that cultivates relationships with individuals. With over 15 years of experience working with individuals and families affected by trauma, depression, anxiety, and coping with life’s struggles, my goal to build trust where you feel safe and supported. Whether you're seeking support for the first time or you have a history, just know you deserve to be heard and your needs be respected.
I came to understand how I have this ‘authentic approach’ and ‘realness’ that cultivates relationships with individuals. With over 15 years of experience working with individuals and families affected by trauma, depression, anxiety, and coping with life’s struggles, my goal to build trust where you feel safe and supported. Whether you're seeking support for the first time or you have a history, just know you deserve to be heard and your needs be respected.
(303) 951-6251 View (303) 951-6251
Photo of Krystoffer L Bowman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado
Krystoffer L Bowman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC/ACS, BC-TMH, EMDR, EAGALA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Many clients are couples and families associated with trauma-saturated professions such as first responders, military service, ministry, non-profit organizations, and community/government leaders.
Is life what you thought it would be like, how it was “supposed to” be? Are you doing what you know you are supposed to, what you have been told is expected of you, yet your world is not improving? You still have choices, and you can make change happen. Often, our behaviors that interfere with achieving the life you deserve have protected your well-being or your relationship for many years. Whether it is trauma saturation, professional boundaries, intimacy avoidance, or unwanted addictive behaviors, you no longer have to react alone but can now respond with someone beside you.
Many clients are couples and families associated with trauma-saturated professions such as first responders, military service, ministry, non-profit organizations, and community/government leaders.
Is life what you thought it would be like, how it was “supposed to” be? Are you doing what you know you are supposed to, what you have been told is expected of you, yet your world is not improving? You still have choices, and you can make change happen. Often, our behaviors that interfere with achieving the life you deserve have protected your well-being or your relationship for many years. Whether it is trauma saturation, professional boundaries, intimacy avoidance, or unwanted addictive behaviors, you no longer have to react alone but can now respond with someone beside you.
(719) 249-7101 View (719) 249-7101
Photo of enCourage Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado
enCourage Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CATP, ACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Castle Rock, CO 80104
Trauma can make you feel as if it isn’t possible to thrive in relationships or daily living. Whether you have experienced a specific traumatic event or carry the weight of complex trauma from your past, you CAN find healing through powerful therapy. I offer a trauma-informed experience so that you can feel safe and comfortable from the first moments of our work together. I offer in-office and online EMDR and in-office Microcurrent Neurofeedback to support your healing in effective and caring ways. Therapy is a powerful way to connect with yourself and discover ways to find hope, peace and empowerment. You are not alone.
Trauma can make you feel as if it isn’t possible to thrive in relationships or daily living. Whether you have experienced a specific traumatic event or carry the weight of complex trauma from your past, you CAN find healing through powerful therapy. I offer a trauma-informed experience so that you can feel safe and comfortable from the first moments of our work together. I offer in-office and online EMDR and in-office Microcurrent Neurofeedback to support your healing in effective and caring ways. Therapy is a powerful way to connect with yourself and discover ways to find hope, peace and empowerment. You are not alone.
(720) 893-9166 View (720) 893-9166
Photo of Alicia Hopkins, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado
Alicia Hopkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80212
Counseling can be the first step for many to start making a positive change for the rest of their lives. I currently perform individual and family counseling to children, adolescents and young adults. I specialize in working with children and adolescents struggling with anxiety and/or depression. I am passionate about working with adolescents and young adults struggling with racial identity and experiencing systemic discrimination. My treatment addresses challenges with depression, anxiety, self-esteem struggles, multicultural issues, family concerns, anger and behavioral management, and trauma for individuals 10 years and older.
Counseling can be the first step for many to start making a positive change for the rest of their lives. I currently perform individual and family counseling to children, adolescents and young adults. I specialize in working with children and adolescents struggling with anxiety and/or depression. I am passionate about working with adolescents and young adults struggling with racial identity and experiencing systemic discrimination. My treatment addresses challenges with depression, anxiety, self-esteem struggles, multicultural issues, family concerns, anger and behavioral management, and trauma for individuals 10 years and older.
(720) 310-3941 View (720) 310-3941
Photo of James C (Jay) Martin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Colorado
James C (Jay) Martin
Marriage & Family Therapist, DMin, LMFT, CT, CFS, AAMFT-S
Verified Verified
For over thirty-five years, I have worked with persons dealing with trauma, divorce, remarriage, co-parenting issues, and partner and family issues. I work with adults, couples, & families. I enjoy working with persons from diverse cultural, ethnic, racial, national, religious, socioeconomic backgrounds, as well as sexual orientations.
For over thirty-five years, I have worked with persons dealing with trauma, divorce, remarriage, co-parenting issues, and partner and family issues. I work with adults, couples, & families. I enjoy working with persons from diverse cultural, ethnic, racial, national, religious, socioeconomic backgrounds, as well as sexual orientations.
(719) 482-6978 View (719) 482-6978
Photo of Sean Doyle, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado
Sean Doyle
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80228
I can help with trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, and other life issues.
Trusting a therapist with thoughts and emotions we aren't comfortable facing ourselves can seem embarrassing and perhaps even terrifying. Therapy is a difficult process and I work to face those challenges with my clients head on. My mission is to help empower my clients to create positive life changes. I have been called blunt and no nonsense by my clients. Clients also say I have a calm demeanor that provides a balance to this approach. One client described my therapy style as putting puzzle pieces together to gain a clear picture of their thoughts and emotions.
I can help with trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, and other life issues.
Trusting a therapist with thoughts and emotions we aren't comfortable facing ourselves can seem embarrassing and perhaps even terrifying. Therapy is a difficult process and I work to face those challenges with my clients head on. My mission is to help empower my clients to create positive life changes. I have been called blunt and no nonsense by my clients. Clients also say I have a calm demeanor that provides a balance to this approach. One client described my therapy style as putting puzzle pieces together to gain a clear picture of their thoughts and emotions.
(720) 605-4762 View (720) 605-4762
Photo of Heather Reynolds Denver Rapid Resolution Therapy, Counselor in Colorado
Heather Reynolds Denver Rapid Resolution Therapy
Counselor, MA, LPC, CHT, CRRTS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80211
You won't have to do homework, relive a trauma, or even know why you have been stuck.
You DON'T have to feel worse BEFORE feeling better! Most clients see me two to five times, and leave our first session saying, "Wow! I feel better already." You aren't choosing to think, act or feel in the way that's brought you here, so how could you possibly choose NOT to? Psychological problems are caused and maintained by forces that, until we expose them, have been beyond your control. It's normal to feel angry, anxious, traumatized. But if these feelings are keeping you back, then you are ready! I want your mind to work optimally! "Optimally" means free of preoccupations that have been keeping you down.
You won't have to do homework, relive a trauma, or even know why you have been stuck.
You DON'T have to feel worse BEFORE feeling better! Most clients see me two to five times, and leave our first session saying, "Wow! I feel better already." You aren't choosing to think, act or feel in the way that's brought you here, so how could you possibly choose NOT to? Psychological problems are caused and maintained by forces that, until we expose them, have been beyond your control. It's normal to feel angry, anxious, traumatized. But if these feelings are keeping you back, then you are ready! I want your mind to work optimally! "Optimally" means free of preoccupations that have been keeping you down.
(303) 835-9515 View (303) 835-9515
Photo of Laura Amelia Gutierrez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado
Laura Amelia Gutierrez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80228
Hi, my name is Laura Amelia, I am a Bilingual Licensed Professional Counselor and the owner of The Road Less Travelled Counseling Services. I have a wide variety of experiences working with different types of mental health issues but focus the most helping people with depression, anxiety, attachment issues and unresolved trauma. My hope is to provide a safe space for you to process your emotions, develop a deeper understanding of your needs and who you are, and help you make progress in your healing journey. I want to help you reach your fullest potential.
Hi, my name is Laura Amelia, I am a Bilingual Licensed Professional Counselor and the owner of The Road Less Travelled Counseling Services. I have a wide variety of experiences working with different types of mental health issues but focus the most helping people with depression, anxiety, attachment issues and unresolved trauma. My hope is to provide a safe space for you to process your emotions, develop a deeper understanding of your needs and who you are, and help you make progress in your healing journey. I want to help you reach your fullest potential.
(303) 493-9824 View (303) 493-9824
Photo of Ashley Hansen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Colorado
Ashley Hansen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80209
I'm a Holistic Trauma Therapy Specialist providing both Individual & Group Therapy Sessions for Adults who may be struggling with Depression, Anxiety, Mood Swings, Poor Sleep, Dissociation, Anger Issues, Behavioral Issues, Attachment Issues, Psychosis, Ongoing or History of Trauma, Relationship Issues, as well as Grief & Loss Issues. I am trained in various treatment methods including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT), Trauma-Focused (TF) Therapy, Humanistic Therapy, Holistic Therapy, Jungian Therapy, Somatic Therapy, Schema Therapy, Psychedelic Integration Therapy, and Psychodynamic Therapy.
I'm a Holistic Trauma Therapy Specialist providing both Individual & Group Therapy Sessions for Adults who may be struggling with Depression, Anxiety, Mood Swings, Poor Sleep, Dissociation, Anger Issues, Behavioral Issues, Attachment Issues, Psychosis, Ongoing or History of Trauma, Relationship Issues, as well as Grief & Loss Issues. I am trained in various treatment methods including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT), Trauma-Focused (TF) Therapy, Humanistic Therapy, Holistic Therapy, Jungian Therapy, Somatic Therapy, Schema Therapy, Psychedelic Integration Therapy, and Psychodynamic Therapy.
(720) 703-9686 View (720) 703-9686
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.