Photo of Catherine Grace Seaver, Counselor in Smyrna, GA
Catherine Grace Seaver
Counselor, LAPC, NCC, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Smyrna, GA 30080
I am passionate about working with clients who need support and empowerment in every aspect of their life. I want to create a safe and affirming space for my clients, and I would love to work with individuals that deeply need an accepting and supportive environment to explore and achieve their goals. I specialize in working with ADHD, anxiety, trauma, and perfectionism. I enjoy working with clients who are processing life transitions, need support through academic and professional difficulties, and desire holistic mental health support. I believe that there is immense value in building a trust and respect-based therapeutic alliance.
I am passionate about working with clients who need support and empowerment in every aspect of their life. I want to create a safe and affirming space for my clients, and I would love to work with individuals that deeply need an accepting and supportive environment to explore and achieve their goals. I specialize in working with ADHD, anxiety, trauma, and perfectionism. I enjoy working with clients who are processing life transitions, need support through academic and professional difficulties, and desire holistic mental health support. I believe that there is immense value in building a trust and respect-based therapeutic alliance.
(470) 664-4186 View (470) 664-4186
Photo of Brenda Maureen Romanchik, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Smyrna, GA
Brenda Maureen Romanchik
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, CTS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Smyrna, GA 30080
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in trauma, depression, anxiety, and childhood "disorders".
I am a licensed clinical social worker who specializes in working with children and adolescents. I also work with adults. While post-graduate training, and teaching, have increased my skills, what makes me a good therapist are the beliefs I hold dear. I believe in people and their ability to heal and thrive. I believe that the connection I have with my clients not only allows them to open up to me, but others as well. Most importantly, I believe that working with others is a tremendous responsibility and a sacred trust. It is an honor I never take lightly.
I specialize in trauma, depression, anxiety, and childhood "disorders".
I am a licensed clinical social worker who specializes in working with children and adolescents. I also work with adults. While post-graduate training, and teaching, have increased my skills, what makes me a good therapist are the beliefs I hold dear. I believe in people and their ability to heal and thrive. I believe that the connection I have with my clients not only allows them to open up to me, but others as well. Most importantly, I believe that working with others is a tremendous responsibility and a sacred trust. It is an honor I never take lightly.
(469) 203-4030 View (469) 203-4030
Photo of Jenna Bruck, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Smyrna, GA
Jenna Bruck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Smyrna, GA 30080
I use a collaborative and trauma-sensitive approach to personalize sessions to the needs of my clients.
Choosing to go to therapy can be a difficult decision, yet it can be a catalyst for positive change. I firmly believe seeing a therapist can provide people with the resources and support to manage and cope with life's struggles, increase their understanding of themselves, and gain tools to feel more empowered and heal. I work with people across the lifespan (5+) and see clients experiencing a wide array of concerns, such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, and low self-esteem.
I use a collaborative and trauma-sensitive approach to personalize sessions to the needs of my clients.
Choosing to go to therapy can be a difficult decision, yet it can be a catalyst for positive change. I firmly believe seeing a therapist can provide people with the resources and support to manage and cope with life's struggles, increase their understanding of themselves, and gain tools to feel more empowered and heal. I work with people across the lifespan (5+) and see clients experiencing a wide array of concerns, such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, and low self-esteem.
(404) 334-2697 View (404) 334-2697
Photo of Amber Spezzano, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Smyrna, GA
Amber Spezzano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Smyrna, GA 30080
My experience includes working as a therapist and clinical supervisor in a trauma and eating disorder program and have received specialized training and continued consultation in treating individuals with complex trauma and dissociative disorders.
Sometimes we come to a place where we realize the life we are living is not aligned with our personal values, purpose, or desires. There may be patterns that have served a purpose in the past, helping us manage fear when we have felt unsafe and haven't had the resources to effectively cope. While these strategies may have helped you survive, they may now be holding your body and mind hostage to the past. Together we can explore these patterns with the goal to help you develop personal insight, learn new coping strategies, and heal into a fulfilled life.
My experience includes working as a therapist and clinical supervisor in a trauma and eating disorder program and have received specialized training and continued consultation in treating individuals with complex trauma and dissociative disorders.
Sometimes we come to a place where we realize the life we are living is not aligned with our personal values, purpose, or desires. There may be patterns that have served a purpose in the past, helping us manage fear when we have felt unsafe and haven't had the resources to effectively cope. While these strategies may have helped you survive, they may now be holding your body and mind hostage to the past. Together we can explore these patterns with the goal to help you develop personal insight, learn new coping strategies, and heal into a fulfilled life.
(404) 620-5017 View (404) 620-5017
Photo of Janae Thompson, Pre-Licensed Professional in Smyrna, GA
Janae Thompson
Pre-Licensed Professional, LAPC
Verified Verified
Smyrna, GA 30080
Janae Thompson is an Associate Professional Counselor with experience as a mental health provider in various clinical settings. She has worked with children, adolescents, young adults, and families. Janae specializes in working with depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, identity development, relationship issues, and life transitions. Her experiences as a 1st-generation Jamaican-American woman influence her to prioritize a multicultural counseling approach. Janae’s warm demeanor creates a safe space for her clients to feel comfortable.
Janae Thompson is an Associate Professional Counselor with experience as a mental health provider in various clinical settings. She has worked with children, adolescents, young adults, and families. Janae specializes in working with depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, identity development, relationship issues, and life transitions. Her experiences as a 1st-generation Jamaican-American woman influence her to prioritize a multicultural counseling approach. Janae’s warm demeanor creates a safe space for her clients to feel comfortable.
(678) 968-2537 View (678) 968-2537
Photo of Matthew L Swofford, LPC, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Smyrna, GA
Matthew L Swofford, LPC, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Smyrna, GA 30080
I take a dual and trauma informed approach to the helping relationship where all aspects of the human experience are taken into account.
Has your life lost meaning? Have you been feeling trapped, stuck, directionless, and utterly confused? I bet you've said to yourself, " I'm tired. I'm angry and I don't want to do this anymore!" Does this sound familiar? If so, I can help provide relief from the pain. You don't have to suffer alone anymore. I've been in the mental health and addiction field for ten years. I use my experience as a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Clinically Certified Trauma Professional to provide help and support for individuals who reach out for help. Check out my website: https://www.matthewlswofford.com/
I take a dual and trauma informed approach to the helping relationship where all aspects of the human experience are taken into account.
Has your life lost meaning? Have you been feeling trapped, stuck, directionless, and utterly confused? I bet you've said to yourself, " I'm tired. I'm angry and I don't want to do this anymore!" Does this sound familiar? If so, I can help provide relief from the pain. You don't have to suffer alone anymore. I've been in the mental health and addiction field for ten years. I use my experience as a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Clinically Certified Trauma Professional to provide help and support for individuals who reach out for help. Check out my website: https://www.matthewlswofford.com/
(229) 232-8297 View (229) 232-8297
Photo of Deanna Lababidi, Counselor in Smyrna, GA
Deanna Lababidi
Counselor, LAPC
Verified Verified
Smyrna, GA 30080
Deanna Lababidi is a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor (LAPC) with over 2 years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about helping people with trauma find their strengths in their story. She enjoys helping people with intense emotions learn skills to tolerate distress, regulate their emotions, communicate more effectively, and become more mindful of joy in their lives. Deanna specializes in borderline personality disorder, depression, autism, and trauma.
Deanna Lababidi is a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor (LAPC) with over 2 years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about helping people with trauma find their strengths in their story. She enjoys helping people with intense emotions learn skills to tolerate distress, regulate their emotions, communicate more effectively, and become more mindful of joy in their lives. Deanna specializes in borderline personality disorder, depression, autism, and trauma.
(470) 347-9700 View (470) 347-9700
Photo of Jamie Fernandez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Smyrna, GA
Jamie Fernandez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Smyrna, GA 30080
Through a trauma-informed lens, I focus on the impact of attachment, earlier life experiences and the variety of somatic responses throughout those experiences.
I wholeheartedly believe that because the majority of our wounds occur inside relationship, healing will come through relationship as well. In our work, I can offer you warmth and empathy as we gently explore the ‘why’ behind what you do while uncovering your strength and resilience. My work with clients focuses on grief and loss, trauma, relational discord, anxiety, depression, body image, life-transitions, adoption-related issues, parenthood and the intersection of faith and spirituality with day to day living.
Through a trauma-informed lens, I focus on the impact of attachment, earlier life experiences and the variety of somatic responses throughout those experiences.
I wholeheartedly believe that because the majority of our wounds occur inside relationship, healing will come through relationship as well. In our work, I can offer you warmth and empathy as we gently explore the ‘why’ behind what you do while uncovering your strength and resilience. My work with clients focuses on grief and loss, trauma, relational discord, anxiety, depression, body image, life-transitions, adoption-related issues, parenthood and the intersection of faith and spirituality with day to day living.
(404) 924-4456 View (404) 924-4456
Photo of Cumberland Counseling Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Smyrna, GA
Cumberland Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LPC, LAMFT, NBCC, CCATP
Verified Verified
Smyrna, GA 30080
Our focus areas include: Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Trauma, Sexual Abuse, Marriage Counseling, Grief/Loss, Infertility, Self-Esteem, Difficulties with Adult/Young Adult Life Transitions, Sexuality, Pre-engagement & Premarital Counseling, Spiritual Growth and Renewal, Healthy Relationships, Codependency, Self-worth and Identity issues.
It’s truly incredible when a person sees that there’s something inside them that they want to work on, and then they go after that. It’s incredible that you’re here, that you’re searching. The people who want to be the best version of themselves, who want to break “generational traumas” and work on their mental health so that they can pass down health, wholeness, peace, and light to the next generation - those are the superheroes. Our mental health is our foundation for how we relate to ourselves and world around us after all - Our God, ourselves, and others.
Our focus areas include: Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Trauma, Sexual Abuse, Marriage Counseling, Grief/Loss, Infertility, Self-Esteem, Difficulties with Adult/Young Adult Life Transitions, Sexuality, Pre-engagement & Premarital Counseling, Spiritual Growth and Renewal, Healthy Relationships, Codependency, Self-worth and Identity issues.
It’s truly incredible when a person sees that there’s something inside them that they want to work on, and then they go after that. It’s incredible that you’re here, that you’re searching. The people who want to be the best version of themselves, who want to break “generational traumas” and work on their mental health so that they can pass down health, wholeness, peace, and light to the next generation - those are the superheroes. Our mental health is our foundation for how we relate to ourselves and world around us after all - Our God, ourselves, and others.
(678) 498-6477 View (678) 498-6477
Photo of Nina Quiñones, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Smyrna, GA
Nina Quiñones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Smyrna, GA 30080
I approach my work in therapy with a trauma-informed, person-focused, eclectic perspective.
Navigating life's challenges can feel impossible at times, even if we find ourselves seemingly surrounded by support. Are you in the middle of a life transition, unsure of the next steps to take to help you move forward? Are you open to exploring past and present experiences in a judgment-free space, in the hopes of bringing you closer to emotional freedom? In my work with adult individuals and couples, I integrate mindfulness practices and various evidence-based techniques to help you (& your partner) develop healthy coping mechanisms, build self-compassion, and create a more fulfilling life.
I approach my work in therapy with a trauma-informed, person-focused, eclectic perspective.
Navigating life's challenges can feel impossible at times, even if we find ourselves seemingly surrounded by support. Are you in the middle of a life transition, unsure of the next steps to take to help you move forward? Are you open to exploring past and present experiences in a judgment-free space, in the hopes of bringing you closer to emotional freedom? In my work with adult individuals and couples, I integrate mindfulness practices and various evidence-based techniques to help you (& your partner) develop healthy coping mechanisms, build self-compassion, and create a more fulfilling life.
(470) 333-7430 View (470) 333-7430
Photo of Emily Cortes-Rendini, Licensed Professional Counselor in Smyrna, GA
Emily Cortes-Rendini
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Smyrna, GA 30080
I help clients resolve trauma and PTSD, anxiety, life transitions, and stress through bringing the body and mind together in the therapy room with EMDR processing, parts work, somatic practices, and talk therapy to help you heal your inner child and feel whole again.
Do you feel like something is wrong but you can't quite figure out what it is? Like everyone else seems to have it together but you don't know how they do it? Does your to-do list never seem to end, and suddenly there's no time left for the things that bring you joy, let alone self-care? Maybe you're constantly fighting a feeling that you're not enough. Or certain patterns from the past keep inexplicably repeating themselves in the present. Maybe your inner child is yelling for help but you're not sure how to help them. These things can leave you feeling even more overwhelmed, frazzled, stressed, burned out, or uncertain.
I help clients resolve trauma and PTSD, anxiety, life transitions, and stress through bringing the body and mind together in the therapy room with EMDR processing, parts work, somatic practices, and talk therapy to help you heal your inner child and feel whole again.
Do you feel like something is wrong but you can't quite figure out what it is? Like everyone else seems to have it together but you don't know how they do it? Does your to-do list never seem to end, and suddenly there's no time left for the things that bring you joy, let alone self-care? Maybe you're constantly fighting a feeling that you're not enough. Or certain patterns from the past keep inexplicably repeating themselves in the present. Maybe your inner child is yelling for help but you're not sure how to help them. These things can leave you feeling even more overwhelmed, frazzled, stressed, burned out, or uncertain.
(770) 762-2854 View (770) 762-2854
Photo of Alison Leon, Marriage & Family Therapist in Smyrna, GA
Alison Leon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Smyrna, GA 30080  (Online Only)
Alison León is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 6 years of experience in the mental health field and 11 years of experience in education. She is passionate about helping teenagers and their families learn how to effectively communicate with one another. She also has a passion for helping couples overcome the various obstacles they may be facing. Alison specializes in anxiety, depression, coping skills, life skills, various relationship types, parenting, prenatal care, and grief. Alison also has a certification for child and adolescent trauma.
Alison León is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 6 years of experience in the mental health field and 11 years of experience in education. She is passionate about helping teenagers and their families learn how to effectively communicate with one another. She also has a passion for helping couples overcome the various obstacles they may be facing. Alison specializes in anxiety, depression, coping skills, life skills, various relationship types, parenting, prenatal care, and grief. Alison also has a certification for child and adolescent trauma.
(678) 671-5387 View (678) 671-5387
Photo of Emma Shearer Carter, Licensed Professional Counselor in Smyrna, GA
Emma Shearer Carter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Smyrna, GA 30080
Waitlist for new clients
My goal is to guide clients on this path, taking extra care in places that they hold trauma and pain.
As humans, our natural inclination is to move away from pain. But at a certain point, we may find that the strategies that once protected us are causing us even more pain. Together we can find ways to break old cycles that are keeping you stuck in order for you to move into the wholeness you desire. Many times when healing feels impossible, it is only an indication that what we have tried so far will not suffice. Often this requires slowing down and trusting parts of ourselves that we have long ignored.
My goal is to guide clients on this path, taking extra care in places that they hold trauma and pain.
As humans, our natural inclination is to move away from pain. But at a certain point, we may find that the strategies that once protected us are causing us even more pain. Together we can find ways to break old cycles that are keeping you stuck in order for you to move into the wholeness you desire. Many times when healing feels impossible, it is only an indication that what we have tried so far will not suffice. Often this requires slowing down and trusting parts of ourselves that we have long ignored.
(678) 647-9701 View (678) 647-9701
Photo of Isom Eugene White, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Smyrna, GA
Isom Eugene White
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Smyrna, GA 30080
A person cannot be truly understood without a consideration of various aspects of their social, familial, temporal, spiritual, economic, and physical environment. It is through this compassionate lens that my work begins. If you are someone who has suffered through trauma, or is struggling with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, anger, or going through a big life change, I would love to help. I specialize in working with men's issues, with professionals & athletes who struggle with performance pressures, & with those with attachment trauma. I use EMDR to target traumatic memories and help you process then in a safe way.
A person cannot be truly understood without a consideration of various aspects of their social, familial, temporal, spiritual, economic, and physical environment. It is through this compassionate lens that my work begins. If you are someone who has suffered through trauma, or is struggling with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, anger, or going through a big life change, I would love to help. I specialize in working with men's issues, with professionals & athletes who struggle with performance pressures, & with those with attachment trauma. I use EMDR to target traumatic memories and help you process then in a safe way.
(706) 425-8900 x719 View (706) 425-8900 x719
Photo of Kelley Delchamps, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Smyrna, GA
Kelley Delchamps
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Smyrna, GA 30080
I'm EMDR trained, which is powerful for clients processing trauma.
Are you looking for a place to work through trauma's impact, heal amidst anxiety, and find peace as your authentic self? I would be honored to cultivate space for you to share your story and be met with compassion. Seeking out therapy is courageous and rewarding. I believe everyone can benefit from therapy, as we all face challenges in this life. My vision is to journey with clients as we lean into the truths that our stories and experiences are valid, and finding compassion for our imperfections is often where we find our greatest strength.
I'm EMDR trained, which is powerful for clients processing trauma.
Are you looking for a place to work through trauma's impact, heal amidst anxiety, and find peace as your authentic self? I would be honored to cultivate space for you to share your story and be met with compassion. Seeking out therapy is courageous and rewarding. I believe everyone can benefit from therapy, as we all face challenges in this life. My vision is to journey with clients as we lean into the truths that our stories and experiences are valid, and finding compassion for our imperfections is often where we find our greatest strength.
(404) 974-3676 View (404) 974-3676
Photo of Ashley Johnson, Counselor in Smyrna, GA
Ashley Johnson
Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Smyrna, GA 30080
I take into account the impact of trauma and how the systems we are in influence our emotional experiences.
You are on the search for something...Whether it is clarity, peace, happiness, support, or the freedom to finally explore who YOU truly are. We often may feel the pressure to appear we have it all together when deep inside we are fighting a battle within. This journey that you are on, no longer has to be walked alone. I commend you for acknowledging your pain and seeking out ways to help yourself. I provide individual therapy to young adults and adults experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, low self-esteem, life transitions, and struggles within interpersonal relationships. I also provide expressive arts grief groups see below:
I take into account the impact of trauma and how the systems we are in influence our emotional experiences.
You are on the search for something...Whether it is clarity, peace, happiness, support, or the freedom to finally explore who YOU truly are. We often may feel the pressure to appear we have it all together when deep inside we are fighting a battle within. This journey that you are on, no longer has to be walked alone. I commend you for acknowledging your pain and seeking out ways to help yourself. I provide individual therapy to young adults and adults experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, low self-esteem, life transitions, and struggles within interpersonal relationships. I also provide expressive arts grief groups see below:
(678) 325-5435 View (678) 325-5435
Photo of East Cobb Counseling and The Anada Group, Licensed Professional Counselor in Smyrna, GA
East Cobb Counseling and The Anada Group
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, CPCS, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Smyrna, GA 30081
Everyone has the capacity to be blissfully happy with themselves and others. With the proper tools and guidance I will support a journey towards finding your true self and maximizing your full potential. I have 12 years experience helping people overcome and/or cope with relationship difficulties, ADHD, anxiety, anger, trauma and mood disorders. I like to use a variety of tools such as play, art and sandplay therapy.
Everyone has the capacity to be blissfully happy with themselves and others. With the proper tools and guidance I will support a journey towards finding your true self and maximizing your full potential. I have 12 years experience helping people overcome and/or cope with relationship difficulties, ADHD, anxiety, anger, trauma and mood disorders. I like to use a variety of tools such as play, art and sandplay therapy.
(404) 693-1559 View (404) 693-1559
Photo of Tania Rochelle-Catoe, Licensed Professional Counselor in Smyrna, GA
Tania Rochelle-Catoe
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Smyrna, GA 30082  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
If your issues stem from unprocessed trauma, I welcome the opportunity to help you process that, whether through EMDR or through art or writing.
I enjoy working with ages 18 to 99 in all areas of personal growth. I treat many issues, including depression, anxiety, stress, grief, work or school issues, trauma, and substance abuse. I am trained in EMDR for processing trauma. As a writer myself, I try to help clients discover and nurture their own creative gifts as we seek imaginative solutions to challenges.
If your issues stem from unprocessed trauma, I welcome the opportunity to help you process that, whether through EMDR or through art or writing.
I enjoy working with ages 18 to 99 in all areas of personal growth. I treat many issues, including depression, anxiety, stress, grief, work or school issues, trauma, and substance abuse. I am trained in EMDR for processing trauma. As a writer myself, I try to help clients discover and nurture their own creative gifts as we seek imaginative solutions to challenges.
(404) 793-0834 View (404) 793-0834
Photo of Maryana Harrelson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Smyrna, GA
Maryana Harrelson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Smyrna, GA 30080
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in treating trauma.
Throughout therapy process I assist my clients in overcoming their difficulties in life, reaching their full potential, learning to accept themselves, and become authentic. My therapeutic style is a warm, unconditionally accepting, and supportive engagement with each individual on the thrilling journey to better understand who he/she really is, processing and letting go of the burdens carried from the past, identifying one's strengths, bolstering personal growth and change.
I specialize in treating trauma.
Throughout therapy process I assist my clients in overcoming their difficulties in life, reaching their full potential, learning to accept themselves, and become authentic. My therapeutic style is a warm, unconditionally accepting, and supportive engagement with each individual on the thrilling journey to better understand who he/she really is, processing and letting go of the burdens carried from the past, identifying one's strengths, bolstering personal growth and change.
(770) 285-5825 View (770) 285-5825
Photo of Elaine A Thomas, Psychologist in Smyrna, GA
Elaine A Thomas
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Smyrna, GA 30080
Anxiety,trauma and mental health issues in children can have pervasive effects if not addressed.
It takes tremendous courage to acknowledge emotional and behavioral difficulties in yourself or a loved one. I provide a nurturing context that will help you to recognize strengths and resilience as well as obtain relief from your current stress, worries, past trauma, couples conflict, family-related issues or parenting problems. I am a seasoned clinician with experience working in community mental health, private practice, medical and educational settings. Your treatment will be tailored to your needs using my knowledge of effective treatment, cultural awareness and your preferences. Please call me to discuss how I may be helpful to you.
Anxiety,trauma and mental health issues in children can have pervasive effects if not addressed.
It takes tremendous courage to acknowledge emotional and behavioral difficulties in yourself or a loved one. I provide a nurturing context that will help you to recognize strengths and resilience as well as obtain relief from your current stress, worries, past trauma, couples conflict, family-related issues or parenting problems. I am a seasoned clinician with experience working in community mental health, private practice, medical and educational settings. Your treatment will be tailored to your needs using my knowledge of effective treatment, cultural awareness and your preferences. Please call me to discuss how I may be helpful to you.
(770) 790-0773 View (770) 790-0773
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.