Photo of Andrea Perez, Counselor in Wauconda, IL
Andrea Perez
Counselor, MA, ATR, LCPC
Verified Verified
Wauconda, IL 60084
Raise your hand if you lie in bed at night, replaying scenarios in your head, and wishing you had handled them differently. Maybe you’re going through something that no one else understands. Maybe it feels like the walls are closing in on you. At your pace, I will help you process emotions and find clarity and meaning through self-expression. It would be awesome to increase happiness, manage emotions, reduce stress, and heal emotional pain. Create your inner peace by learning techniques that will help you be more present in your daily life.
Raise your hand if you lie in bed at night, replaying scenarios in your head, and wishing you had handled them differently. Maybe you’re going through something that no one else understands. Maybe it feels like the walls are closing in on you. At your pace, I will help you process emotions and find clarity and meaning through self-expression. It would be awesome to increase happiness, manage emotions, reduce stress, and heal emotional pain. Create your inner peace by learning techniques that will help you be more present in your daily life.
(847) 320-9139 View (847) 320-9139
Photo of Cherry Hill Counseling in Wauconda, IL
Cherry Hill Counseling
Verified Verified
Wauconda, IL 60084
Cherry Hill Counseling is one of the longest-standing counseling practices in the Northwestern suburbs of Chicago. Cherry Hill has seven locations including: Lake Zurich, Vernon Hills, McHenry, Deer Park, Chicago, Grayslake, and Wheaton. Our counseling services include: individual therapy, family therapy, counseling for children and adolescents, marital and premarital therapy, group therapy, and psychological testing.
Cherry Hill Counseling is one of the longest-standing counseling practices in the Northwestern suburbs of Chicago. Cherry Hill has seven locations including: Lake Zurich, Vernon Hills, McHenry, Deer Park, Chicago, Grayslake, and Wheaton. Our counseling services include: individual therapy, family therapy, counseling for children and adolescents, marital and premarital therapy, group therapy, and psychological testing.
(847) 386-2109 View (847) 386-2109
Photo of FJ Psychological Services, Psychologist in Wauconda, IL
FJ Psychological Services
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wauconda, IL 60084
I have been providing psychological and behavioral services in the Chicagoland and Grand Rapids, Michigan area for the last 14 years. In session I am empathetic and positive, working collaboratively with each client, in overcoming life challenges. Due to the vast amount of experience I have gained in both psychotherapy as well as behavioral modification, my therapeutic approach is diverse and can be non-directive, guiding the client at their own pace, or directive in nature. My goal is to assist each client to a happier, healthier, productive life, in a safe environment.
I have been providing psychological and behavioral services in the Chicagoland and Grand Rapids, Michigan area for the last 14 years. In session I am empathetic and positive, working collaboratively with each client, in overcoming life challenges. Due to the vast amount of experience I have gained in both psychotherapy as well as behavioral modification, my therapeutic approach is diverse and can be non-directive, guiding the client at their own pace, or directive in nature. My goal is to assist each client to a happier, healthier, productive life, in a safe environment.
(815) 401-0766 View (815) 401-0766

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of The Healing Chapter Counseling Center, LLC, Counselor in Wauconda, IL
The Healing Chapter Counseling Center, LLC
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010
I provide a non-judgmental and safe space for individuals to share their stories and work toward fulfilling their highest self. I utilize a person-centered approach in an effort to nurture self-discovery and encourage clients to cultivate the life they dream of. I provide support and listen closely to each client's individual experience and personal goals. My experience in working with those moving through trauma, anxiety, depression, family/relationship dynamics, and managing diversity issues lend themselves to providing a warm and caring atmosphere.
I provide a non-judgmental and safe space for individuals to share their stories and work toward fulfilling their highest self. I utilize a person-centered approach in an effort to nurture self-discovery and encourage clients to cultivate the life they dream of. I provide support and listen closely to each client's individual experience and personal goals. My experience in working with those moving through trauma, anxiety, depression, family/relationship dynamics, and managing diversity issues lend themselves to providing a warm and caring atmosphere.
(779) 213-0873 View (779) 213-0873
Photo of Marcia R Suelzer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wauconda, IL
Marcia R Suelzer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
Waitlist for new clients
I am a trauma-competent therapist who works with adolescents and adults to help them overcome mental health challenges that prevent them from living the life they want. My treatment approach is tailored to help the clients achieve their goals--whether those are overcoming anxiety, reducing depression, combating suicidal thinking, managing medication side effect, handling emotions, or defining the next chapter in their lives. I view my role as a guide and support to help clients get where they want to be. I have training in skills, but they are the experts in their lives.
I am a trauma-competent therapist who works with adolescents and adults to help them overcome mental health challenges that prevent them from living the life they want. My treatment approach is tailored to help the clients achieve their goals--whether those are overcoming anxiety, reducing depression, combating suicidal thinking, managing medication side effect, handling emotions, or defining the next chapter in their lives. I view my role as a guide and support to help clients get where they want to be. I have training in skills, but they are the experts in their lives.
(708) 274-4050 View (708) 274-4050
Photo of Joanie Albrecht in Wauconda, IL
Joanie Albrecht
PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrington, IL 60010
I have extensive experience helping people resolve anxiety, PTSD and depression.
Real change for real people. You may need short-term support to learn specific tools, or you may want to dig more deeply to recognize relationship patterns or other behaviors that get in the way of peace and happiness in your life. You may find yourself feeling depressed, anxious and in conflict with the ones you love. I would like to help you manage and resolve these feelings and to help you transform what feels like vulnerability into strength. We will work together to accomplish the goals we co-create.
I have extensive experience helping people resolve anxiety, PTSD and depression.
Real change for real people. You may need short-term support to learn specific tools, or you may want to dig more deeply to recognize relationship patterns or other behaviors that get in the way of peace and happiness in your life. You may find yourself feeling depressed, anxious and in conflict with the ones you love. I would like to help you manage and resolve these feelings and to help you transform what feels like vulnerability into strength. We will work together to accomplish the goals we co-create.
(847) 268-4219 View (847) 268-4219
Photo of Nada Pavlovic, Counselor in Wauconda, IL
Nada Pavlovic
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grayslake, IL 60030
With over a decade of experience, I specialize in treating chemical dependency and process addictions, mood disorders, self-injury, suicidality, trauma, codependency and eating disorders.
Have you ever felt “stuck” in your life and not sure how to move forward to make positive changes? I strongly believe that when we cannot make changes to our situation, we need to make changes to our thinking and perception, which requires exploration and support. When we can make changes to our situation, it can be risky and scary and best done with plenty of planning and validation. I am passionate about helping people make these “shifts” in perception and situation.
With over a decade of experience, I specialize in treating chemical dependency and process addictions, mood disorders, self-injury, suicidality, trauma, codependency and eating disorders.
Have you ever felt “stuck” in your life and not sure how to move forward to make positive changes? I strongly believe that when we cannot make changes to our situation, we need to make changes to our thinking and perception, which requires exploration and support. When we can make changes to our situation, it can be risky and scary and best done with plenty of planning and validation. I am passionate about helping people make these “shifts” in perception and situation.
(224) 676-9800 x26 View (224) 676-9800 x26
Photo of LaTasha Unseld, Pre-Licensed Professional in Wauconda, IL
LaTasha Unseld
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Barrington, IL 60010
Hi, I'm LaTasha Unseld! My mission is to support and guide clients in overcoming personal struggles, help people heal from trauma, mange, and sort out their feelings, help them find a balance when things are not right in their lives, give them the skills needed to face challenges as they arise, and cope with life stressors, which can change their perspective of themselves, others, and the world they live in. I specialize in working with people of all ages, nationalities, and genders. I am an advocate for Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault, and I have years of experience helping victims work through their pain and trauma.
Hi, I'm LaTasha Unseld! My mission is to support and guide clients in overcoming personal struggles, help people heal from trauma, mange, and sort out their feelings, help them find a balance when things are not right in their lives, give them the skills needed to face challenges as they arise, and cope with life stressors, which can change their perspective of themselves, others, and the world they live in. I specialize in working with people of all ages, nationalities, and genders. I am an advocate for Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault, and I have years of experience helping victims work through their pain and trauma.
(224) 505-2053 View (224) 505-2053
Photo of Ella (Elzbieta) Wojnarowska, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Wauconda, IL
Ella (Elzbieta) Wojnarowska
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Fox Lake, IL 60020
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional.
If you have been anxious, depressed, confused, or overwhelmed, I am here to help. I am committed to provide a safe and supportive space for you to explore, heal, and thrive. I will assist you with understanding how your experiences and values inform your decision making, communication with others, and choices of coping skills. I will collaborate with you on finding healthier approaches and more effective coping strategies. I am determined to use my education and experience to help you become more resilient.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional.
If you have been anxious, depressed, confused, or overwhelmed, I am here to help. I am committed to provide a safe and supportive space for you to explore, heal, and thrive. I will assist you with understanding how your experiences and values inform your decision making, communication with others, and choices of coping skills. I will collaborate with you on finding healthier approaches and more effective coping strategies. I am determined to use my education and experience to help you become more resilient.
(224) 212-1026 View (224) 212-1026
Photo of Ana R Florencio, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Wauconda, IL
Ana R Florencio
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
I have pursued additional training as a Clinical Trauma Professional, including EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing); Ego State and Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, and some Somatic Experiencing Therapy— all with a neuroscience informed approach.
Some of the issues people who find benefit working with me are anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, struggles with shame, feeling frozen in life, difficulty in relationships in their personal life and/or at work, feeling disconnected from self and from others, physical symptoms that do not have a medical explanation, developmental or complex trauma, flashbacks, intrusive thoughts, being frequently and/or easily triggered, issues with spirituality, and other.
I have pursued additional training as a Clinical Trauma Professional, including EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing); Ego State and Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, and some Somatic Experiencing Therapy— all with a neuroscience informed approach.
Some of the issues people who find benefit working with me are anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, struggles with shame, feeling frozen in life, difficulty in relationships in their personal life and/or at work, feeling disconnected from self and from others, physical symptoms that do not have a medical explanation, developmental or complex trauma, flashbacks, intrusive thoughts, being frequently and/or easily triggered, issues with spirituality, and other.
(224) 479-0689 View (224) 479-0689
Photo of Elaine Zachrel, Counselor in Wauconda, IL
Elaine Zachrel
Counselor, LCPC, CHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Barrington, IL 60010
If you feel depressed, anxious, suffer from low self-esteem, or seem disconnected from your life, it can be hard just to start the day. You might struggle to find motivation in all areas of your life, have difficulty building or enjoying relationships, or have a hard time imagining a brighter future. Depression, anxiety, and trauma make it hard to connect to your strengths and cope with life. I specialize in helping my clients connect with their strengths, develop compassion for themselves, and increase their resilience. Why wait any longer to start your journey to well-being?
If you feel depressed, anxious, suffer from low self-esteem, or seem disconnected from your life, it can be hard just to start the day. You might struggle to find motivation in all areas of your life, have difficulty building or enjoying relationships, or have a hard time imagining a brighter future. Depression, anxiety, and trauma make it hard to connect to your strengths and cope with life. I specialize in helping my clients connect with their strengths, develop compassion for themselves, and increase their resilience. Why wait any longer to start your journey to well-being?
(224) 249-3094 View (224) 249-3094
Photo of Julia Berg, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wauconda, IL
Julia Berg
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010
Life can be complex and ever changing bringing us moments that impact our human experience. These human experiences can be anywhere between being joyful, beautiful, challenging, mediocre, and overwhelming. Counseling is a unique process that can help you find meaning within these experiences and give you a space where your story is heard. As a trauma-informed counselor, I work to create a safe and affirming atmosphere where clients feel understood and fully accepted for who they are. I believe that an authentic and empathic therapeutic relationship is one of the most crucial attributes to healing and growth.
Life can be complex and ever changing bringing us moments that impact our human experience. These human experiences can be anywhere between being joyful, beautiful, challenging, mediocre, and overwhelming. Counseling is a unique process that can help you find meaning within these experiences and give you a space where your story is heard. As a trauma-informed counselor, I work to create a safe and affirming atmosphere where clients feel understood and fully accepted for who they are. I believe that an authentic and empathic therapeutic relationship is one of the most crucial attributes to healing and growth.
(224) 218-5134 View (224) 218-5134
Photo of Lisa S. Block, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Wauconda, IL
Lisa S. Block
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS,, LCPC,, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Libertyville, IL 60048
I specialize in deaing with grief, loss, trauma, and sexual assault and abuse.
You have taken the courageous first step in reaching out for help!. I welcome you to join me on the path to connection and wellness, restoration and hope. Life's challenges can seem overwhelming at times. We are not meant to go it alone. I am here to partner with you, and help you find workable solutions to your problems and concerns. I believe therapy can provide a safe space for you to feel truly seen, heard and valued.
I specialize in deaing with grief, loss, trauma, and sexual assault and abuse.
You have taken the courageous first step in reaching out for help!. I welcome you to join me on the path to connection and wellness, restoration and hope. Life's challenges can seem overwhelming at times. We are not meant to go it alone. I am here to partner with you, and help you find workable solutions to your problems and concerns. I believe therapy can provide a safe space for you to feel truly seen, heard and valued.
(224) 204-2480 View (224) 204-2480
Photo of Innovative Counseling Partners PLLC, Counselor in Wauconda, IL
Innovative Counseling Partners PLLC
Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Libertyville, IL 60048
We have been trained to work with a variety of issues-Depression, Anger, Anxiety (group and individual formats), Bipolar disorder, Trauma, Child and Adolescent work (males and females), Sexual Abuse, Play Therapy, Family therapy, Cultural issues (adapting to the western culture), and Gay/Lesbian family issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
We have been trained to work with a variety of issues-Depression, Anger, Anxiety (group and individual formats), Bipolar disorder, Trauma, Child and Adolescent work (males and females), Sexual Abuse, Play Therapy, Family therapy, Cultural issues (adapting to the western culture), and Gay/Lesbian family issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
(773) 312-3612 View (773) 312-3612
Photo of Holly McDaniel, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wauconda, IL
Holly McDaniel
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CTP
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
When we experience trauma or severe life stressors, it is not uncommon for our lives to unravel. My skills, training, experience, and compassion can help bring healing to people who have been through adverse experiences. Whether it be unhelpful thoughts and behaviors, life stressors, or trauma, I’m committed to sitting alongside you in your journey. I have experience working across the lifespan and am LGBTQIA affirming. I guide individuals in creating healthy perceptions of themselves. I facilitate the strengthening of relationships, allowing people to experience themselves fully and safely in the world and in community with others.
When we experience trauma or severe life stressors, it is not uncommon for our lives to unravel. My skills, training, experience, and compassion can help bring healing to people who have been through adverse experiences. Whether it be unhelpful thoughts and behaviors, life stressors, or trauma, I’m committed to sitting alongside you in your journey. I have experience working across the lifespan and am LGBTQIA affirming. I guide individuals in creating healthy perceptions of themselves. I facilitate the strengthening of relationships, allowing people to experience themselves fully and safely in the world and in community with others.
(847) 713-1910 View (847) 713-1910
Photo of Liana Gerdov Psy.d., Psychologist in Wauconda, IL
Liana Gerdov Psy.d.
Psychologist, Anxiety, Trauma, CHT, Hypno, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Palatine, IL 60067
We blend evidence-based & trauma informed psychotherapy, internal family system (parts), Brainspotting, clinical & spiritual hypnotherapy, reiki & chakra energy, yoga, shamanic journeying & soul retrieval, past life regression, career & life purpose, equine therapy, creative art, somatic, chiropractic, massage, empowered birth services, events, & ceremonies.
Healing is a circular and cyclical journey with many paths, choices, & discoveries. We meet you where you are today, acknowledge that you are ever-changing, ever evolving. We know how hard it is to ask for help…to embrace, hold, and make space for change…we know how challenging it is to have a dissolution of self, or a version of yourself that no longer fits. Together, we can uncover & compost outdated & stifling beliefs, unrealistic expectations or goals, let go of worries & fears, discover self-sabotage, burrow through behaviors & deeply hidden feelings & emotions that keep us stuck, fearful, unable to step into empowered selves.
We blend evidence-based & trauma informed psychotherapy, internal family system (parts), Brainspotting, clinical & spiritual hypnotherapy, reiki & chakra energy, yoga, shamanic journeying & soul retrieval, past life regression, career & life purpose, equine therapy, creative art, somatic, chiropractic, massage, empowered birth services, events, & ceremonies.
Healing is a circular and cyclical journey with many paths, choices, & discoveries. We meet you where you are today, acknowledge that you are ever-changing, ever evolving. We know how hard it is to ask for help…to embrace, hold, and make space for change…we know how challenging it is to have a dissolution of self, or a version of yourself that no longer fits. Together, we can uncover & compost outdated & stifling beliefs, unrealistic expectations or goals, let go of worries & fears, discover self-sabotage, burrow through behaviors & deeply hidden feelings & emotions that keep us stuck, fearful, unable to step into empowered selves.
(872) 401-6044 View (872) 401-6044
Photo of Lori Ralston, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wauconda, IL
Lori Ralston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
My special areas of interest include depressive and anxiety disorders, trauma, grief and loss, adjustment to illness and life transitions.
Reaching out for help takes courage. It means you’re able to admit that you don’t have all the answers and have the strength to acknowledge you’re struggling. It’s ok if you don’t know where to begin. We can start with where you are and together work toward where you want to be. I view therapy as an integrative and collaborative process that is grounded in the human capacity for change. The goal of our therapeutic alliance is to develop insight and transformative growth to allow for healing, resulting in a more enriched and abundant life. I believe it is during our most vulnerable moments that we are most open to insight and change
My special areas of interest include depressive and anxiety disorders, trauma, grief and loss, adjustment to illness and life transitions.
Reaching out for help takes courage. It means you’re able to admit that you don’t have all the answers and have the strength to acknowledge you’re struggling. It’s ok if you don’t know where to begin. We can start with where you are and together work toward where you want to be. I view therapy as an integrative and collaborative process that is grounded in the human capacity for change. The goal of our therapeutic alliance is to develop insight and transformative growth to allow for healing, resulting in a more enriched and abundant life. I believe it is during our most vulnerable moments that we are most open to insight and change
(847) 719-6168 View (847) 719-6168
Photo of Shira Behal, Counselor in Wauconda, IL
Shira Behal
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Palatine, IL 60074  (Online Only)
Shira is an expert in trauma resolution, identifying and modifying the thought patterns that were once used to protect you but now hold you back, building healthy relationships whether they be traditional or LGBTQ, poly/kink.
Shira Behal is a therapist with experience, who knows how to weave different approaches together to find the right one for you. Shira is someone who listens, and also educates and guides. Someone to help you reach your goals and grow into a life that matches your values. Someone ready to do the deep work, and stay with you through the long work. Shira is a therapist who knows that healing takes a balance between the intellect, the emotional mind, and the body.
Shira is an expert in trauma resolution, identifying and modifying the thought patterns that were once used to protect you but now hold you back, building healthy relationships whether they be traditional or LGBTQ, poly/kink.
Shira Behal is a therapist with experience, who knows how to weave different approaches together to find the right one for you. Shira is someone who listens, and also educates and guides. Someone to help you reach your goals and grow into a life that matches your values. Someone ready to do the deep work, and stay with you through the long work. Shira is a therapist who knows that healing takes a balance between the intellect, the emotional mind, and the body.
(224) 263-0959 View (224) 263-0959
Photo of Judith A Marquardt, Counselor in Wauconda, IL
Judith A Marquardt
Counselor, LCPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
McHenry, IL 60050
Often it is very difficult to talk about a life changing trauma------the pain is incredible for the client---------Art Therapy and Sandplay offer alternative additions to talk therapy- a client can paint an expression of pain- fear--------etc; and then we can talk about how the expression feels-.
My ideal client is one who is seeking help with the desire to heal. My mission is walking with them through their traumas, fears and pain - to help them find their path to inner peace and wellness. I utilize the therapy approach that is safe and comfortable for the client- whether it is Cognitive, Art Therapy or Sand Play Therapy. I address each client as an individual with their special needs. Many of my clients have faced the ramifications of divorce, domestic violence, sexual abuse and other change of life events.
Often it is very difficult to talk about a life changing trauma------the pain is incredible for the client---------Art Therapy and Sandplay offer alternative additions to talk therapy- a client can paint an expression of pain- fear--------etc; and then we can talk about how the expression feels-.
My ideal client is one who is seeking help with the desire to heal. My mission is walking with them through their traumas, fears and pain - to help them find their path to inner peace and wellness. I utilize the therapy approach that is safe and comfortable for the client- whether it is Cognitive, Art Therapy or Sand Play Therapy. I address each client as an individual with their special needs. Many of my clients have faced the ramifications of divorce, domestic violence, sexual abuse and other change of life events.
(815) 661-2448 View (815) 661-2448
Photo of Joseph Shoshana, Psychologist in Wauconda, IL
Joseph Shoshana
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Palatine, IL 60074
I worked extensively in the area of PTSD and incorporate Neurofeedback in treating a variety of conditions such as ADHD, anxiety and depression.
I have been in private practice for over 20 years and have treated thousands of clients including individuals, families, children and adults. People often come in seeking relief from a range of struggles including depression, anxiety, ADHD, and family conflicts. Through my work with many families I began to also address issues of parenting and family dynamics as well as children and adolescents facing a variety of disorders, self-esteem issues, and acting out behaviors. Over the span of my career I have also treated substance abuse, bipolar, psychotic and personality disorders.
I worked extensively in the area of PTSD and incorporate Neurofeedback in treating a variety of conditions such as ADHD, anxiety and depression.
I have been in private practice for over 20 years and have treated thousands of clients including individuals, families, children and adults. People often come in seeking relief from a range of struggles including depression, anxiety, ADHD, and family conflicts. Through my work with many families I began to also address issues of parenting and family dynamics as well as children and adolescents facing a variety of disorders, self-esteem issues, and acting out behaviors. Over the span of my career I have also treated substance abuse, bipolar, psychotic and personality disorders.
(847) 457-4046 View (847) 457-4046

See more therapy options for Wauconda


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.