Photo of Hallie Henely, Marriage & Family Therapist in Iowa
Hallie Henely
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Urbandale, IA 50322
My name is Hallie and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. I have experience working with children, teens, and adults with various emotional needs. I specialize in treating trauma and have experience working with all ages on processing and healing after trauma, however I also see adults and children for anxiety, depression, or difficulty in relationships. I tend to develop a teamwork approach with my clients. Developing a trusting, comfortable relationship is an important part of the therapy process. I enjoy using humor, games, art and music in my therapy sessions - whatever fits for you!
My name is Hallie and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. I have experience working with children, teens, and adults with various emotional needs. I specialize in treating trauma and have experience working with all ages on processing and healing after trauma, however I also see adults and children for anxiety, depression, or difficulty in relationships. I tend to develop a teamwork approach with my clients. Developing a trusting, comfortable relationship is an important part of the therapy process. I enjoy using humor, games, art and music in my therapy sessions - whatever fits for you!
(515) 373-8423 View (515) 373-8423
Photo of Carol Seehusen, Counselor in Iowa
Carol Seehusen
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, NCC, CCMHC, ACS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Cedar Rapids, IA 52402
Waitlist for new clients
Pain, illness, and trauma can create instability within our lives. Optimal health and healing is more complex than simple mental or emotional wellbeing. At OmniHealing Psychotherapy, I strive for holistic healing involving every aspect of an individual's life - mental, physical, emotional, interpersonal, and spiritual - by harnessing the brain and body's innate ability to heal itself. I believe individuals have the answers within themselves to produce desired change and healing. My job is to help facilitate discovery of those answers and aid in navigating through obstacles to promote healing.
Pain, illness, and trauma can create instability within our lives. Optimal health and healing is more complex than simple mental or emotional wellbeing. At OmniHealing Psychotherapy, I strive for holistic healing involving every aspect of an individual's life - mental, physical, emotional, interpersonal, and spiritual - by harnessing the brain and body's innate ability to heal itself. I believe individuals have the answers within themselves to produce desired change and healing. My job is to help facilitate discovery of those answers and aid in navigating through obstacles to promote healing.
(319) 271-1621 View (319) 271-1621
Photo of Lindsey Olsen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Iowa
Lindsey Olsen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Waitlist for new clients
Some common concerns are, but not limited to: anxiety, depression, self-esteem, abuse (emotional, sexual, physical), attachment, family conflict, communication issues, somatic issues (pain, seizures, loss of vision), grief and loss, addictions and compulsions, trauma and PTSD, and changes and adjustments in life.
Hi! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and I am passionate about working with individuals, couples, and families to meet their desired goals. I have an interest in working with clients who have experienced trauma and/or PTSD. I am a certified therapist in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR). EMDR is a type of therapy that enables people to heal from symptoms and/or emotional distress that can result from disturbing life experiences. I also work with clients experiencing somatic (body) issues from traumatic experiences. Please do not hesitate to ask questions about specific issues you would like to address.
Some common concerns are, but not limited to: anxiety, depression, self-esteem, abuse (emotional, sexual, physical), attachment, family conflict, communication issues, somatic issues (pain, seizures, loss of vision), grief and loss, addictions and compulsions, trauma and PTSD, and changes and adjustments in life.
Hi! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and I am passionate about working with individuals, couples, and families to meet their desired goals. I have an interest in working with clients who have experienced trauma and/or PTSD. I am a certified therapist in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR). EMDR is a type of therapy that enables people to heal from symptoms and/or emotional distress that can result from disturbing life experiences. I also work with clients experiencing somatic (body) issues from traumatic experiences. Please do not hesitate to ask questions about specific issues you would like to address.
(515) 505-1833 View (515) 505-1833
Photo of Mental Wellbeing Clinic - Tanager Place, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa
Mental Wellbeing Clinic - Tanager Place
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coralville, IA 52241
Here in our Coralville location, our providers can offer a variety of specialty services, including play therapy, CBT, ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), trauma-focused work, Theraplay(R)-informed practice, Filial Family Therapy, Trust-Based Relational Intervention(R) work, and motivational interviewing.
Our providers at Tanager offer services to children that inspire, empower, and heal. We come from a variety of backgrounds and offer a range of specialties and skill sets to achieve improved wellness. Tanager's Mental Wellbeing Clinic provides preventative services and treatment options to children, young adults, and families experiencing emotional, behavioral, or relational difficulties in their lives. Our professional team provides a full continuum of comprehensive, holistic, and integrated services for children and families.
Here in our Coralville location, our providers can offer a variety of specialty services, including play therapy, CBT, ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), trauma-focused work, Theraplay(R)-informed practice, Filial Family Therapy, Trust-Based Relational Intervention(R) work, and motivational interviewing.
Our providers at Tanager offer services to children that inspire, empower, and heal. We come from a variety of backgrounds and offer a range of specialties and skill sets to achieve improved wellness. Tanager's Mental Wellbeing Clinic provides preventative services and treatment options to children, young adults, and families experiencing emotional, behavioral, or relational difficulties in their lives. Our professional team provides a full continuum of comprehensive, holistic, and integrated services for children and families.
(319) 519-4717 View (319) 519-4717
Photo of Grace S Ashbrook, Counselor in Iowa
Grace S Ashbrook
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Dubuque, IA 52002
I work well with children, adolescents, adults and families, and I comfortably address life transition stressors, depression, anxiety, trauma, family discord/attachment, addiction and grief.
Life is full of adventures and hardships that all too often leave us feeling weak, broken, unloveable, ashamed, lost and alone. This journey can be incredibly challenging as well as isolating, especially when we struggle to find healthy support. I see my role as a counselor to be a supportive guide. Utilizing a non-judgmental and compassionate approach, I work to provide direction through safe exploration of feelings, thoughts and beliefs that interfere with healthy growth. I have a passion for assisting individuals in navigating the way to stability, self-love and wholeness.
I work well with children, adolescents, adults and families, and I comfortably address life transition stressors, depression, anxiety, trauma, family discord/attachment, addiction and grief.
Life is full of adventures and hardships that all too often leave us feeling weak, broken, unloveable, ashamed, lost and alone. This journey can be incredibly challenging as well as isolating, especially when we struggle to find healthy support. I see my role as a counselor to be a supportive guide. Utilizing a non-judgmental and compassionate approach, I work to provide direction through safe exploration of feelings, thoughts and beliefs that interfere with healthy growth. I have a passion for assisting individuals in navigating the way to stability, self-love and wholeness.
(563) 607-5844 View (563) 607-5844
Photo of Evergreen Therapy Center, Psychologist in Iowa
Evergreen Therapy Center
Psychologist, PhD, LMHC, LMFT, LISW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cedar Rapids, IA 52402
We strive to create a relaxed, empathetic and healing environment to help you cope with your personal struggles such as trauma, anxiety, depression or loss.
Are you struggling to move forward? Do you feel overwhelmed all the time? We have immediate openings with a therapist or psychologist. Let us help you find a solution to your problems. We will listen, support, and help you build the courage to face your fears. The hardest part is asking for help. If you have been struggling with these problems for months or years, you're not alone. It's easy to get stuck and feel trapped, helpless, and overwhelmed.
We strive to create a relaxed, empathetic and healing environment to help you cope with your personal struggles such as trauma, anxiety, depression or loss.
Are you struggling to move forward? Do you feel overwhelmed all the time? We have immediate openings with a therapist or psychologist. Let us help you find a solution to your problems. We will listen, support, and help you build the courage to face your fears. The hardest part is asking for help. If you have been struggling with these problems for months or years, you're not alone. It's easy to get stuck and feel trapped, helpless, and overwhelmed.
(319) 220-3971 View (319) 220-3971
Photo of Luke Katuin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa
Luke Katuin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50309
I have specialized training in treating Addiction, Anxiety, OCD, and Trauma through a variety of approaches.
Ever wondered why you feel stuck? Is life not going the way you always thought it would? Are you constantly wondering what to do next? With all that life throws at you, it makes sense that your mind is looking for an answer. Life is tough and I am on your team! I practice using a non-judgmental approach to who you are and accepting you.
I have specialized training in treating Addiction, Anxiety, OCD, and Trauma through a variety of approaches.
Ever wondered why you feel stuck? Is life not going the way you always thought it would? Are you constantly wondering what to do next? With all that life throws at you, it makes sense that your mind is looking for an answer. Life is tough and I am on your team! I practice using a non-judgmental approach to who you are and accepting you.
(515) 579-5048 View (515) 579-5048
Photo of Jill K Shirley, Counselor in Iowa
Jill K Shirley
Counselor, JD, LMHC, IADC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clive, IA 50325
In addition to decades of experience as a professional in other industries and working through my own personal challenges, I have experience and training in: addiction, betrayal trauma, couples/relationship work, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), and positive psychology.
Whether you are facing life-changing circumstances, finally facing an ongoing issue and ready to change, or simply need an objective sounding board, reaching out to a therapist is a courageous step. We will work together to explore what underlies the difficulties you face and collaborate to find solutions and mechanisms for coping. In therapy we will work together to develop a trusting relationship so that you feel safe enough to express your most authentic and vulnerable self.
In addition to decades of experience as a professional in other industries and working through my own personal challenges, I have experience and training in: addiction, betrayal trauma, couples/relationship work, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), and positive psychology.
Whether you are facing life-changing circumstances, finally facing an ongoing issue and ready to change, or simply need an objective sounding board, reaching out to a therapist is a courageous step. We will work together to explore what underlies the difficulties you face and collaborate to find solutions and mechanisms for coping. In therapy we will work together to develop a trusting relationship so that you feel safe enough to express your most authentic and vulnerable self.
(515) 310-4476 View (515) 310-4476
Photo of Madi Musson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Iowa
Madi Musson
Marriage & Family Therapist, ATR-BC, LMFT, EMDR-II, CiT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Waitlist for new clients
I have training in several effective approaches, including Emotion-Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and Trauma-Informed Expressive Arts Therapies.
FULL- waitlist for future virtual clients! As a Marriage & Family Therapist and Expressive Arts Therapist, I am passionate about supporting you & your relationships (including the LGBTQIA+, ENM, and kink communities). My background of supporting fellow helpers & caregivers (including therapists, medical providers), neurodivergent folks, and many other people across the lifespan helps inform how I can show up to help you creatively thriving.
I have training in several effective approaches, including Emotion-Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and Trauma-Informed Expressive Arts Therapies.
FULL- waitlist for future virtual clients! As a Marriage & Family Therapist and Expressive Arts Therapist, I am passionate about supporting you & your relationships (including the LGBTQIA+, ENM, and kink communities). My background of supporting fellow helpers & caregivers (including therapists, medical providers), neurodivergent folks, and many other people across the lifespan helps inform how I can show up to help you creatively thriving.
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Photo of Jill Danielle Gronewold, Counselor in Iowa
Jill Danielle Gronewold
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Cedar Falls, IA 50613
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I use a variety of modalities to treat a wide range of presenting issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and grief. My professional training includes working with children, adolescents, and adults who have experienced trauma, rape/sexual assault, domestic violence, and grief. I have experience in providing counseling from a Christian perspective, although I welcome clients from other faith and spiritual backgrounds.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I use a variety of modalities to treat a wide range of presenting issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and grief. My professional training includes working with children, adolescents, and adults who have experienced trauma, rape/sexual assault, domestic violence, and grief. I have experience in providing counseling from a Christian perspective, although I welcome clients from other faith and spiritual backgrounds.
(641) 715-9961 View (641) 715-9961
Photo of Allison Robbins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa
Allison Robbins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50312
I have over 20 years of experience working with loss/grief, trauma, relationship issues, adjustment issues, divorce, death/suicide, addictions ADHD/ADD, ODD/ conduct disorders, anxiety, depression, and those involved in the court systems.
Are you going through a major change? Do you remember being happy, but it was long ago? Does the anxiety you feel make you avoid doing the things that you used to enjoy? Change is difficult. Loss can be unbearable. These and so many other life challenges are the reasons why people come to therapy. Let's work together. I will help you unpack the load you are carrying through the use of different therapeutic techniques. Allow yourself to accept the help you deserve.
I have over 20 years of experience working with loss/grief, trauma, relationship issues, adjustment issues, divorce, death/suicide, addictions ADHD/ADD, ODD/ conduct disorders, anxiety, depression, and those involved in the court systems.
Are you going through a major change? Do you remember being happy, but it was long ago? Does the anxiety you feel make you avoid doing the things that you used to enjoy? Change is difficult. Loss can be unbearable. These and so many other life challenges are the reasons why people come to therapy. Let's work together. I will help you unpack the load you are carrying through the use of different therapeutic techniques. Allow yourself to accept the help you deserve.
(515) 717-7681 View (515) 717-7681
Photo of Tari Wilcox, Marriage & Family Therapist in Iowa
Tari Wilcox
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cedar Rapids, IA 52402
I look forward to helping you seek greater peace and conflict resolution - helping you find an increased overall life balance. I work with individuals, couples, and families to help them work through former and current conflict and stressors. I use cognitive behavioral techniques to assist in challenging distorted thoughts and patterns. I have a focus in helping those who struggle with depression and anxiety, trauma and abuse, relationship or family conflicts, life transitions, and issues surrounding grief and loss.
I look forward to helping you seek greater peace and conflict resolution - helping you find an increased overall life balance. I work with individuals, couples, and families to help them work through former and current conflict and stressors. I use cognitive behavioral techniques to assist in challenging distorted thoughts and patterns. I have a focus in helping those who struggle with depression and anxiety, trauma and abuse, relationship or family conflicts, life transitions, and issues surrounding grief and loss.
(319) 774-4953 View (319) 774-4953
Photo of Elaina C Riley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa
Elaina C Riley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hello Beautiful People! I enjoy seeing all ages, adults, children, and teens. I see both non-traumatized people, who are usually dealing with anxiety and issues with mood, and people who experienced trauma, who deal with pain and many complexities of distress. I believe people get to where they want to if they just keep trying and do not give up. I would call that growing. I believe people want to feel regarded, respected, like they belong, and satisfied about something in their lives. I like to partner with people to create a map of how to untangle the knots, dislodge the stuck places, and move through obstacles to feeling better.
Hello Beautiful People! I enjoy seeing all ages, adults, children, and teens. I see both non-traumatized people, who are usually dealing with anxiety and issues with mood, and people who experienced trauma, who deal with pain and many complexities of distress. I believe people get to where they want to if they just keep trying and do not give up. I would call that growing. I believe people want to feel regarded, respected, like they belong, and satisfied about something in their lives. I like to partner with people to create a map of how to untangle the knots, dislodge the stuck places, and move through obstacles to feeling better.
(515) 417-2193 View (515) 417-2193
Photo of Dijana Dugalic, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa
Dijana Dugalic
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
I use a trauma-informed and culturally sensitive approach to help create a collaborative relationship.
Are you having a hard time navigating the stress and chaos of life? I may be able to help. I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker with 9 years of experience working with teens and adults on a variety of mental health issues and life transitions.
I use a trauma-informed and culturally sensitive approach to help create a collaborative relationship.
Are you having a hard time navigating the stress and chaos of life? I may be able to help. I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker with 9 years of experience working with teens and adults on a variety of mental health issues and life transitions.
(515) 585-8292 View (515) 585-8292
Photo of Peace of Mind Counseling Services, LLC, Counselor in Iowa
Peace of Mind Counseling Services, LLC
Counselor, MSE, LMHC, NCC, BCTP-II, EMDR
Verified Verified
Indianola, IA 50125
Waitlist for new clients
I have specialized in treating trauma for over 15 years, utilizing modern therapeutic approaches including CBT, TF-CPT, DBT, EMDR, Hypnosis, Somatic therapy interventions and IFS informed therapy.
In the face of life's challenges, I am privileged to assist you on your path toward strength and resilience, guiding you to reclaim your Peace of Mind. Whether you are grappling with Life Transitions, Divorce, Work-related concerns, LGBTQAA+ related issues, Anger, Stress, Anxiety, OCD, Depression, Relationship struggles, Trauma, or Abuse Recovery, I offer evidence-based services to assist you in processing and overcoming the impact these challenges have on your life.
I have specialized in treating trauma for over 15 years, utilizing modern therapeutic approaches including CBT, TF-CPT, DBT, EMDR, Hypnosis, Somatic therapy interventions and IFS informed therapy.
In the face of life's challenges, I am privileged to assist you on your path toward strength and resilience, guiding you to reclaim your Peace of Mind. Whether you are grappling with Life Transitions, Divorce, Work-related concerns, LGBTQAA+ related issues, Anger, Stress, Anxiety, OCD, Depression, Relationship struggles, Trauma, or Abuse Recovery, I offer evidence-based services to assist you in processing and overcoming the impact these challenges have on your life.
(515) 962-5561 View (515) 962-5561
Photo of Lisa Kee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa
Lisa Kee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, MSW
Verified Verified
Others, may involve both situational stress, divorce, grief, trauma and abuse, Mood Disorders, and chronic mental health issues.
People are unique, and I help them make changes by entering into a relationship that honors who they are. This relationship fosters a safe place to heal old wounds, explore the vast realm of possibility, and reach a more peaceful state of mind, body, and spirit. To enhance our work together, I am experienced in many ways to communicate and integrate information. This may include traditional talk therapy, EMDR, play and art therapy techniques, and EMDR as a tool to enhance insight into oneself and a person's role in relationships and their environment.
Others, may involve both situational stress, divorce, grief, trauma and abuse, Mood Disorders, and chronic mental health issues.
People are unique, and I help them make changes by entering into a relationship that honors who they are. This relationship fosters a safe place to heal old wounds, explore the vast realm of possibility, and reach a more peaceful state of mind, body, and spirit. To enhance our work together, I am experienced in many ways to communicate and integrate information. This may include traditional talk therapy, EMDR, play and art therapy techniques, and EMDR as a tool to enhance insight into oneself and a person's role in relationships and their environment.
(712) 274-3572 View (712) 274-3572
Photo of Krystyna Thompson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Iowa
Krystyna Thompson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50021
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoy helping individuals struggling with PTSD, trauma, or abuse issues.
My name is Krystyna Thompson and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, as well as a clinician trained in EMDR. I work with couples, individuals, and families on a variety of emotional and relational issues. As a therapist, it is important to me that I partner with my clients to create an individualized plan that fits best to encourage recovery. Each person is different and I hope to help you overcome the obstacles that have stopped you from feeling happy, fulfilled, and joyous in your life. You have taken the first step in achieving these goals, so congratulations!
I enjoy helping individuals struggling with PTSD, trauma, or abuse issues.
My name is Krystyna Thompson and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, as well as a clinician trained in EMDR. I work with couples, individuals, and families on a variety of emotional and relational issues. As a therapist, it is important to me that I partner with my clients to create an individualized plan that fits best to encourage recovery. Each person is different and I hope to help you overcome the obstacles that have stopped you from feeling happy, fulfilled, and joyous in your life. You have taken the first step in achieving these goals, so congratulations!
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Photo of Michael Anthony Cox, Counselor in Iowa
Michael Anthony Cox
Counselor, LMHC , LCPC
Verified Verified
Davenport, IA 52807
I have been helping others realize their mental health goals for over 22 years. I utilize a client-centered approach because I believe therapy should focus on each individual client's wants and needs, which vary from person to person. I often use humor in therapy, because I believe laughter is one of the greatest things you can share in this life. I have excellent experience with young children, teens, adults, couples, and families. I have helped people with anger, depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, substance abuse, relationship and life changes, impulse control, and many other topics.
I have been helping others realize their mental health goals for over 22 years. I utilize a client-centered approach because I believe therapy should focus on each individual client's wants and needs, which vary from person to person. I often use humor in therapy, because I believe laughter is one of the greatest things you can share in this life. I have excellent experience with young children, teens, adults, couples, and families. I have helped people with anger, depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, substance abuse, relationship and life changes, impulse control, and many other topics.
(563) 235-2891 View (563) 235-2891
Photo of Melissa Schuldt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa
Melissa Schuldt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Sioux City, IA 51101
I earned my Masters degree in Social Work from the University of Iowa and my Bachelors degree in Psychology and Social Work from the University of South Dakota. I have over 15 years of experience working in the mental health field. I have experience treating all age groups from diverse backgrounds and for a variety of concerns. Including, mental illness, addiction, abuse/neglect, domestic violence, adjustment issues, anxiety and panic disorders, depression, life transitions, mood disorders, relationship problems and self-esteem issues. I am a trained EMDR therapist and specialize in treating trauma survivors.
I earned my Masters degree in Social Work from the University of Iowa and my Bachelors degree in Psychology and Social Work from the University of South Dakota. I have over 15 years of experience working in the mental health field. I have experience treating all age groups from diverse backgrounds and for a variety of concerns. Including, mental illness, addiction, abuse/neglect, domestic violence, adjustment issues, anxiety and panic disorders, depression, life transitions, mood disorders, relationship problems and self-esteem issues. I am a trained EMDR therapist and specialize in treating trauma survivors.
(720) 726-1468 View (720) 726-1468
Photo of Full Heart Family Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Iowa
Full Heart Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, CSAT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50023
We work with sexual addiction and betrayal trauma for family members, and have one of the only CSAT teams in the metro.
At Full Heart Family Therapy, we work with individuals, couples, and families on a variety of mental, emotional, and relational issues. Your therapist will strive to understand your story and your vision for your future, so we can help you overcome obstacles and create the life that you hope for. Our goal is to help you create a full life and a full heart!
We work with sexual addiction and betrayal trauma for family members, and have one of the only CSAT teams in the metro.
At Full Heart Family Therapy, we work with individuals, couples, and families on a variety of mental, emotional, and relational issues. Your therapist will strive to understand your story and your vision for your future, so we can help you overcome obstacles and create the life that you hope for. Our goal is to help you create a full life and a full heart!
(515) 414-7966 x1 View (515) 414-7966 x1
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.