Photo of Alex Goreham, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Glen Ellyn, IL
Alex Goreham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CRADC, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Glen Ellyn, IL 60137
I specialize in trauma, adoption, addictions, attachment, depression, anxiety, and faith/spirituality.
Hey there! My name is Alex. Life can be a tricky journey, sometimes it is full of excitement and fun, and other times it can really be tough. I don't believe we were created to walk this life alone, especially through those difficult moments. That's where therapy comes in. To be honest with you, I don't have the power to change you and that is not my goal. My job as a therapist is to come alongside you and help you rediscover yourself and your potential. With a greater understanding of who you are and where you have been, comes the opportunity for change to create a new normal.
I specialize in trauma, adoption, addictions, attachment, depression, anxiety, and faith/spirituality.
Hey there! My name is Alex. Life can be a tricky journey, sometimes it is full of excitement and fun, and other times it can really be tough. I don't believe we were created to walk this life alone, especially through those difficult moments. That's where therapy comes in. To be honest with you, I don't have the power to change you and that is not my goal. My job as a therapist is to come alongside you and help you rediscover yourself and your potential. With a greater understanding of who you are and where you have been, comes the opportunity for change to create a new normal.
(331) 204-1773 View (331) 204-1773
Photo of Authentic Growth Wellness Group in Glen Ellyn, IL
Authentic Growth Wellness Group
LCPC, PMH-C, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glen Ellyn, IL 60137
We have a perinatal mental health specialist, trauma therapists, and all our therapists possess a deep understanding and expertise related to various types of families and family dynamics.
When reaching out can feel intimidating and difficult, the therapists at Authentic Growth Wellness Group will provide you with an approachable and comfortable experience. We get how hard it can be to begin and engage in this endeavor, and, therefore, we possess a deep empathy and enriched understanding from which we can professionally, ethically, and effectively support our clients initiate and engage in a trajectory of healing from which they will courageously grow.
We have a perinatal mental health specialist, trauma therapists, and all our therapists possess a deep understanding and expertise related to various types of families and family dynamics.
When reaching out can feel intimidating and difficult, the therapists at Authentic Growth Wellness Group will provide you with an approachable and comfortable experience. We get how hard it can be to begin and engage in this endeavor, and, therefore, we possess a deep empathy and enriched understanding from which we can professionally, ethically, and effectively support our clients initiate and engage in a trajectory of healing from which they will courageously grow.
(630) 581-2758 View (630) 581-2758
Photo of Vine Counseling Center, LLC, Counselor in Glen Ellyn, IL
Vine Counseling Center, LLC
Counselor, PsyD, LCPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Glen Ellyn, IL 60137
Our team of licensed therapists offer a wide range of services. We have offices in Naperville, Downers Grove, Palatine, and Aurora, and we also provide telehealth services. We serve children, adolescents, and adults as well as families and couples. Our therapists support those working through anxiety, depression, complex trauma, grief, life transitions, relationship issues, body image, eating disorders, and other challenging mental health disorders. We also have a therapists that are experts in addressing childhood issues such as school anxiety/refusal, sensory regulation, educational/academic support, and toileting, for example.
Our team of licensed therapists offer a wide range of services. We have offices in Naperville, Downers Grove, Palatine, and Aurora, and we also provide telehealth services. We serve children, adolescents, and adults as well as families and couples. Our therapists support those working through anxiety, depression, complex trauma, grief, life transitions, relationship issues, body image, eating disorders, and other challenging mental health disorders. We also have a therapists that are experts in addressing childhood issues such as school anxiety/refusal, sensory regulation, educational/academic support, and toileting, for example.
(773) 345-7087 View (773) 345-7087
Photo of Janet Joy Hecht, Licensed Professional Counselor in Glen Ellyn, IL
Janet Joy Hecht
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, PEL
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glen Ellyn, IL 60137
Accepting new clients! Sometimes life can be filled with stormy skies, let Janet be your rainbow in the clouds. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Masters in Human Services and Counseling from DePaul University and centers on navigating life's challenges, both personally and professionally. With a focus on families, parents, and adolescents seeking guidance, she brings a unique perspective to counseling sessions. Drawing from her background as a teacher, certified school guidance counselor and mother of three, she understands the intricacies of life's challenges that individuals and families often encounter.
Accepting new clients! Sometimes life can be filled with stormy skies, let Janet be your rainbow in the clouds. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Masters in Human Services and Counseling from DePaul University and centers on navigating life's challenges, both personally and professionally. With a focus on families, parents, and adolescents seeking guidance, she brings a unique perspective to counseling sessions. Drawing from her background as a teacher, certified school guidance counselor and mother of three, she understands the intricacies of life's challenges that individuals and families often encounter.
(630) 580-1741 View (630) 580-1741
Photo of Mihaela Bernard, Counselor in Glen Ellyn, IL
Mihaela Bernard
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Glen Ellyn, IL 60137
Are you looking for a competent, accepting and genuine therapist for yourself or your child? Do you or your family need support in your relationships? Is your kid struggling at school or at home? My name is Mihaela Bernard but most clients call me Misha. I specialize in counseling children and adolescents who struggle with behavioral and emotional issues. In my practice, we work together to help you and/or your family modify the way in which you relate to each other, and to improve the quality of your relationships.
Are you looking for a competent, accepting and genuine therapist for yourself or your child? Do you or your family need support in your relationships? Is your kid struggling at school or at home? My name is Mihaela Bernard but most clients call me Misha. I specialize in counseling children and adolescents who struggle with behavioral and emotional issues. In my practice, we work together to help you and/or your family modify the way in which you relate to each other, and to improve the quality of your relationships.
(773) 309-4605 View (773) 309-4605
Photo of Dawn Boettger, Counselor in Glen Ellyn, IL
Dawn Boettger
Counselor, MS, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Glen Ellyn, IL 60137
My goal is to help you find relief and make lasting change in your overall quality of life. Live well, time is our most valuable asset! Whether it seems like a small bump in the road or a mountain standing before you, I can help! Deeply passionate about my work, I have extensive training and experience to help you find relief, healing, and personal growth. Real and lasting change comes from the experience of awareness, then acceptance and action. By gaining clarity and self-awareness; you signficantly improve your skills to tackle lifes difficult and perplexing challenges.
My goal is to help you find relief and make lasting change in your overall quality of life. Live well, time is our most valuable asset! Whether it seems like a small bump in the road or a mountain standing before you, I can help! Deeply passionate about my work, I have extensive training and experience to help you find relief, healing, and personal growth. Real and lasting change comes from the experience of awareness, then acceptance and action. By gaining clarity and self-awareness; you signficantly improve your skills to tackle lifes difficult and perplexing challenges.
(630) 748-8261 View (630) 748-8261
Photo of Janet Mullen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Glen Ellyn, IL
Janet Mullen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Glen Ellyn, IL 60137  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Every person considering therapy is unique - you might be a parent looking for ways to manage your child's behavior, or a child with low self-esteem, someone trying to put a difficult past to rest, or struggling with anxiety and depression. What's important is that you feel a warm, safe and accepting atmosphere to begin sorting out your life, finding balance and a way forward. It's my goal to provide that place of safety and acceptance, then offer you choices of therapy models. There are many paths to change; we'll find the right fit for you.
Every person considering therapy is unique - you might be a parent looking for ways to manage your child's behavior, or a child with low self-esteem, someone trying to put a difficult past to rest, or struggling with anxiety and depression. What's important is that you feel a warm, safe and accepting atmosphere to begin sorting out your life, finding balance and a way forward. It's my goal to provide that place of safety and acceptance, then offer you choices of therapy models. There are many paths to change; we'll find the right fit for you.
(630) 517-9505 View (630) 517-9505

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Margot Gay Mahan, Psychologist in Glen Ellyn, IL
Margot Gay Mahan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wheaton, IL 60187
I believe our primary desire is to form satisfying, balanced relationships. I work from a Developmental, Attachment, Relational perspective and frequently incorporate Trauma & Family Systems Models into my work. I have extensive experience with infants, young children, teens, families & adults. When working with children I strive to work collaboratively with all relevant members in the child's life to understand & treat that child.
I believe our primary desire is to form satisfying, balanced relationships. I work from a Developmental, Attachment, Relational perspective and frequently incorporate Trauma & Family Systems Models into my work. I have extensive experience with infants, young children, teens, families & adults. When working with children I strive to work collaboratively with all relevant members in the child's life to understand & treat that child.
(773) 417-5418 View (773) 417-5418
Photo of Carla Marquez Ripley, Counselor in Glen Ellyn, IL
Carla Marquez Ripley
Counselor, MA, LCPC, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lisle, IL 60532
I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families across the lifespan and have extensive experience working with children, teenagers, and adults struggling with ADHD, behavioral difficulties, anxiety, depression, self-harm, life transitions, relationship difficulties, survivors of trauma, adoption and foster care.
I strongly believe in the importance of providing a safe, authentic, and accepting space for my clients to be able to take the brave steps necessary to obtain the growth and healing they desire. My personal and professional experiences have shaped my desire to support those who have been feeling stuck in a certain area of life, are struggling with life transitions and desiring skills to actively alter their current chapter. I commit to walk alongside my clients amidst their renewed strength, understanding, resilience, and hope.
I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families across the lifespan and have extensive experience working with children, teenagers, and adults struggling with ADHD, behavioral difficulties, anxiety, depression, self-harm, life transitions, relationship difficulties, survivors of trauma, adoption and foster care.
I strongly believe in the importance of providing a safe, authentic, and accepting space for my clients to be able to take the brave steps necessary to obtain the growth and healing they desire. My personal and professional experiences have shaped my desire to support those who have been feeling stuck in a certain area of life, are struggling with life transitions and desiring skills to actively alter their current chapter. I commit to walk alongside my clients amidst their renewed strength, understanding, resilience, and hope.
(331) 245-3667 x706 View (331) 245-3667 x706
Photo of Renewing Minds Therapy, PC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Glen Ellyn, IL
Renewing Minds Therapy, PC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
Do you have a history of trauma or abuse, anxiety or depression? Are you struggling to live out life in your family that you know that God has for you? We strongly believe that God has a "good, pleasing, and perfect will" (Romans 12:2) for your life. We believe that God has called us to "be continually renewed in the spirit of your mind" (Ephesians 4:23), and at Renewing Minds Therapy, we would be honored to walk with you on your journey of freedom, healing, and wholeness from a Christian counseling worldview.
Do you have a history of trauma or abuse, anxiety or depression? Are you struggling to live out life in your family that you know that God has for you? We strongly believe that God has a "good, pleasing, and perfect will" (Romans 12:2) for your life. We believe that God has called us to "be continually renewed in the spirit of your mind" (Ephesians 4:23), and at Renewing Minds Therapy, we would be honored to walk with you on your journey of freedom, healing, and wholeness from a Christian counseling worldview.
(618) 591-1135 View (618) 591-1135
Photo of Julia Friesen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Glen Ellyn, IL
Julia Friesen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Winfield, IL 60190
I specialize in an attachment and trauma-informed approach with adoptive families and individuals and families and others with early life disruptions.
Are you looking to increase your sense of effectiveness with family, work, and friends? I assist individuals and families in sorting out what current and past factors may be contributing to their situation, in order to resolve issues and create space for healing. I am a psychotherapist experienced in working with adults, children and families with a variety of concerns. With adults and teens, my approaches include insight-oriented and cognitive-behavioral therapy. When working with children, I often use play therapy and parent coaching.
I specialize in an attachment and trauma-informed approach with adoptive families and individuals and families and others with early life disruptions.
Are you looking to increase your sense of effectiveness with family, work, and friends? I assist individuals and families in sorting out what current and past factors may be contributing to their situation, in order to resolve issues and create space for healing. I am a psychotherapist experienced in working with adults, children and families with a variety of concerns. With adults and teens, my approaches include insight-oriented and cognitive-behavioral therapy. When working with children, I often use play therapy and parent coaching.
(773) 599-2961 View (773) 599-2961
Photo of Kristi M Finn, Counselor in Glen Ellyn, IL
Kristi M Finn
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60540
I am Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and founding partner of Compass Behavioral Health and Wellness, LLC, who is passionate about empowering individuals and families to achieve personal growth, improve emotional regulation and foster positive relationships. I enjoy utilizing my training on attachment and brain development to assist in coping with the effects of trauma, loss, divorce, disrupted attachments, adoption, depression and anxiety. Using a collaborative and relational approach, I strive to help individuals and couples establish and maintain healthy relationships, as well as strengthen their ability to cope with stressful life events
I am Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and founding partner of Compass Behavioral Health and Wellness, LLC, who is passionate about empowering individuals and families to achieve personal growth, improve emotional regulation and foster positive relationships. I enjoy utilizing my training on attachment and brain development to assist in coping with the effects of trauma, loss, divorce, disrupted attachments, adoption, depression and anxiety. Using a collaborative and relational approach, I strive to help individuals and couples establish and maintain healthy relationships, as well as strengthen their ability to cope with stressful life events
(331) 701-2930 x2 View (331) 701-2930 x2
Photo of Amanda M Beedy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Glen Ellyn, IL
Amanda M Beedy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Downers Grove, IL 60515
I am a licensed clinical social worker and psychotherapist specializing in work with children, parents and women's issues. In a safe and empathic environment, I provide trauma-information, relationship-based psychotherapy and play therapy. I completed my training in family systems practice and hold additional certifications in domestic violence and sexual assault. My approach is informed by training in normative child development and the neuropsychological effects of complex stress and I have extensive experience working with a variety of emotional and behavioral concerns.
I am a licensed clinical social worker and psychotherapist specializing in work with children, parents and women's issues. In a safe and empathic environment, I provide trauma-information, relationship-based psychotherapy and play therapy. I completed my training in family systems practice and hold additional certifications in domestic violence and sexual assault. My approach is informed by training in normative child development and the neuropsychological effects of complex stress and I have extensive experience working with a variety of emotional and behavioral concerns.
(773) 877-3143 View (773) 877-3143
Photo of Begin Within Therapy Services, Inc, Counselor in Glen Ellyn, IL
Begin Within Therapy Services, Inc
Counselor, LCPC, MA, CCTP
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60522
Begin Within Therapy was established in 2015. We believe within every person lies a meaningful story. We are a group of therapists who are all attachment-focused and trauma-informed and ready to understand your story. We offer a variety of therapy options to help you meet your goals, that include options outside of traditional talk therapy, as well as more traditional therapy modalities. Please give us a call to speak with our director and determine which therapist would be the best fit for you.
Begin Within Therapy was established in 2015. We believe within every person lies a meaningful story. We are a group of therapists who are all attachment-focused and trauma-informed and ready to understand your story. We offer a variety of therapy options to help you meet your goals, that include options outside of traditional talk therapy, as well as more traditional therapy modalities. Please give us a call to speak with our director and determine which therapist would be the best fit for you.
(708) 340-6719 View (708) 340-6719
Photo of Dr. Christine McGrath, Psychologist in Glen Ellyn, IL
Dr. Christine McGrath
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
She feels especially rewarded in working with those recovering from chronic childhood trauma issues.
Dr. McGrath is an experienced clinician with over a decade of successfully working with children, adolescents, and adults with a variety of concerns. Her clinical experience is expansive. She has led social skills groups for pre-adolescent and adolescent boys and girls; conducted ADHD assessments and psychological evaluations; administered intelligence screenings for gifted children, and has led grief and bereavement groups for adolescents in private and public schools. In addition, she has taught undergraduate courses at Wheaton College.
She feels especially rewarded in working with those recovering from chronic childhood trauma issues.
Dr. McGrath is an experienced clinician with over a decade of successfully working with children, adolescents, and adults with a variety of concerns. Her clinical experience is expansive. She has led social skills groups for pre-adolescent and adolescent boys and girls; conducted ADHD assessments and psychological evaluations; administered intelligence screenings for gifted children, and has led grief and bereavement groups for adolescents in private and public schools. In addition, she has taught undergraduate courses at Wheaton College.
(630) 230-1975 View (630) 230-1975
Photo of Rose Mary Spizzirri, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Glen Ellyn, IL
Rose Mary Spizzirri
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elmhurst, IL 60126
We have advanced training helping people with PTSD, anxiety, depression, bi-polar disorder, adoption and difficult behaviors with children or adolescents.
Everyone goes through times of struggle and needs someone to listen, reflect and help them move forward. We specialize in working with persons who have experienced trauma, abuse or neglect. Trauma can lead to many life issues & symptoms that we can help you manage & alleviate. Using trauma-informed attachment focused psychotherapy we provide parents with therapeutic skills to help their children heal. I have worked with families, kids, & adults for 25 of years who have various mental illnesses and emotional challenges. Everyone deserves happiness & we can help you through the healing process to restore your mind, body & spirit.
We have advanced training helping people with PTSD, anxiety, depression, bi-polar disorder, adoption and difficult behaviors with children or adolescents.
Everyone goes through times of struggle and needs someone to listen, reflect and help them move forward. We specialize in working with persons who have experienced trauma, abuse or neglect. Trauma can lead to many life issues & symptoms that we can help you manage & alleviate. Using trauma-informed attachment focused psychotherapy we provide parents with therapeutic skills to help their children heal. I have worked with families, kids, & adults for 25 of years who have various mental illnesses and emotional challenges. Everyone deserves happiness & we can help you through the healing process to restore your mind, body & spirit.
(708) 697-8009 View (708) 697-8009
Photo of Veronica Cecil, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Glen Ellyn, IL
Veronica Cecil
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
I have training in grief counseling for children and adults, as well as trauma-informed modalities for children and adults, including: EMDR, TF-CBT, DBT, sand tray therapy, and trauma-informed play therapy.
This has been such a hard season for many individuals and families navigating challenging issues with grief and loss. Most of my work has been providing support to children, adolescents, and adults during stressful experiences and transitions. My job allows me the privilege to witness the resilience and strength of individuals as they move through unexpected challenges. I believe it is important for all people to have a safe, non-judgmental, authentic space to feel validated and to help bring balance and healing to their life. I also work with therapists and medical providers who experience trauma and loss at work.
I have training in grief counseling for children and adults, as well as trauma-informed modalities for children and adults, including: EMDR, TF-CBT, DBT, sand tray therapy, and trauma-informed play therapy.
This has been such a hard season for many individuals and families navigating challenging issues with grief and loss. Most of my work has been providing support to children, adolescents, and adults during stressful experiences and transitions. My job allows me the privilege to witness the resilience and strength of individuals as they move through unexpected challenges. I believe it is important for all people to have a safe, non-judgmental, authentic space to feel validated and to help bring balance and healing to their life. I also work with therapists and medical providers who experience trauma and loss at work.
(331) 244-7379 View (331) 244-7379
Photo of Dr. Andrea Michelle Graves, Psychologist in Glen Ellyn, IL
Dr. Andrea Michelle Graves
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Clarendon Hills, IL 60514
If you are feeling stuck in life and overwhelmed by life's daily stressors, we can work together to restore greater balance, purpose, hope and a pathway forward. Change can be difficult, but I will strive to help you overcome obstacles such as anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, chronic illness, and women's health issues. I enjoy treating work and school stress, parenting/family concerns, and relationship issues. I also conduct a wide variety of neuropsychological evaluations through the lifespan, including Autism Spectrum Disorder, AD/HD, sensory processing, learning disabilities, mood disorders, disability, and memory concerns.
If you are feeling stuck in life and overwhelmed by life's daily stressors, we can work together to restore greater balance, purpose, hope and a pathway forward. Change can be difficult, but I will strive to help you overcome obstacles such as anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, chronic illness, and women's health issues. I enjoy treating work and school stress, parenting/family concerns, and relationship issues. I also conduct a wide variety of neuropsychological evaluations through the lifespan, including Autism Spectrum Disorder, AD/HD, sensory processing, learning disabilities, mood disorders, disability, and memory concerns.
(630) 949-3509 View (630) 949-3509
Photo of Nancy Robin Krtek, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Glen Ellyn, IL
Nancy Robin Krtek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ND, LCSW, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Carol Stream, IL 60188
Therapeutic interventions include integrative approaches along with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Schema Therapy, Psycho-Education, as well as Eastern philosophical tenets, and EMDR. If you deal with Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Addiction issues, a Trauma history, Dissociative Disorders or Personality Disorders, you will receive competent, compassionate and empathic care. Treatment needs can be met through individual therapy, family therapy, couples therapy and/or group therapy. Other issues that I can help you with are Eating Disorders, Weight management, Pain management/somatic issues. as well as Grief/Loss issues. Check out my Facebook page "Nancy Krtek Mind/Body Practitioner."
Therapeutic interventions include integrative approaches along with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Schema Therapy, Psycho-Education, as well as Eastern philosophical tenets, and EMDR. If you deal with Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Addiction issues, a Trauma history, Dissociative Disorders or Personality Disorders, you will receive competent, compassionate and empathic care. Treatment needs can be met through individual therapy, family therapy, couples therapy and/or group therapy. Other issues that I can help you with are Eating Disorders, Weight management, Pain management/somatic issues. as well as Grief/Loss issues. Check out my Facebook page "Nancy Krtek Mind/Body Practitioner."
(630) 282-6959 View (630) 282-6959
Photo of Dr. Valerie Maty, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Glen Ellyn, IL
Dr. Valerie Maty
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, RPT, ATR-BC, SEP, CADC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563  (Online Only)
If you are a Child, Adolescent, Adult or Parent experiencing a current life challenge, or a chronic medical illness or trauma- HOPE is possible!.
Are you an adult who is trying to manage a traumatic experience, process grief or anxiety/depression at this time in your life? Are you a parent that is looking for an experienced clinician to support you and your child to navigate overwhelming emotions both at home and in school? I am here for you! I am passionate about journeying alongside you with compassion, creating a safe place where you can discover your creative self, and focused upon supporting you as you work towards your unique treatment goals.
If you are a Child, Adolescent, Adult or Parent experiencing a current life challenge, or a chronic medical illness or trauma- HOPE is possible!.
Are you an adult who is trying to manage a traumatic experience, process grief or anxiety/depression at this time in your life? Are you a parent that is looking for an experienced clinician to support you and your child to navigate overwhelming emotions both at home and in school? I am here for you! I am passionate about journeying alongside you with compassion, creating a safe place where you can discover your creative self, and focused upon supporting you as you work towards your unique treatment goals.
(331) 244-4868 x4 View (331) 244-4868 x4
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.