Photo of Emily Rhodes, Pre-Licensed Professional in Maine
Emily Rhodes
Pre-Licensed Professional, LCPC-C
Verified Verified
Augusta, ME 04330  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience working with and am open to working with adults, 18 years of age and older, addressing a variety of presenting problems such as surviving trauma, surviving sexual trauma, grief/loss, anxiety, depression, women’s issues, surviving domestic violence, self-esteem issues, and life transitions.
I firmly believe in providing a safe place for all. I am a believer that you are the expert in all things you! Therefore, I aim to meet you where you are. To do this, I utilize an eclectic approach drawing on multiple counseling theories, such as Person-Centered and strengths-based approaches to help identify current issues you wish to address in therapy and the strengths you possess to overcome and work through life’s problems. Additionally, I have been formally trained in and utilize Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Mindfulness, Narrative Therapy, and Trauma-informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (Tf-CBT).
I have experience working with and am open to working with adults, 18 years of age and older, addressing a variety of presenting problems such as surviving trauma, surviving sexual trauma, grief/loss, anxiety, depression, women’s issues, surviving domestic violence, self-esteem issues, and life transitions.
I firmly believe in providing a safe place for all. I am a believer that you are the expert in all things you! Therefore, I aim to meet you where you are. To do this, I utilize an eclectic approach drawing on multiple counseling theories, such as Person-Centered and strengths-based approaches to help identify current issues you wish to address in therapy and the strengths you possess to overcome and work through life’s problems. Additionally, I have been formally trained in and utilize Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Mindfulness, Narrative Therapy, and Trauma-informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (Tf-CBT).
(207) 962-2737 View (207) 962-2737
Photo of Susan Cook, Psychologist in Maine
Susan Cook
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
Brunswick, ME 04011
Anxiety, stress reduction, mindfulness, ADHD concern, school, divorce, parent-child conflict, loss, EMDR and Trauma interventions, for children, adolescents and adults are specialties.
In my calm, safe, confidential office, I am currently offering HIPAA secure Online video sessions using a HIPPA-compliant secure platform or phone consultations. We integrate CDC guidelines for COVID-19 for any inperson sessions. My 25 years of clinical experience have taught me about the courage those facing complex life difficulties bring to psychotherapy. Adults, children and adolescents are given help finding solutions. Mindfulness techniques which I have discovered the value of through a 25+ year meditation practice are also of benefit to clients who are looking to make life changes.
Anxiety, stress reduction, mindfulness, ADHD concern, school, divorce, parent-child conflict, loss, EMDR and Trauma interventions, for children, adolescents and adults are specialties.
In my calm, safe, confidential office, I am currently offering HIPAA secure Online video sessions using a HIPPA-compliant secure platform or phone consultations. We integrate CDC guidelines for COVID-19 for any inperson sessions. My 25 years of clinical experience have taught me about the courage those facing complex life difficulties bring to psychotherapy. Adults, children and adolescents are given help finding solutions. Mindfulness techniques which I have discovered the value of through a 25+ year meditation practice are also of benefit to clients who are looking to make life changes.
(207) 747-3831 View (207) 747-3831
Photo of Elizabeth Doyle @ Compass Counseling, Counselor in Maine
Elizabeth Doyle @ Compass Counseling
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Gardiner, ME 04345
My speciality is trauma.
There are many things that keep us from being true to ourselves and/or brings conflict into our lives making it easy to feel lost or off-track. My work involves allowing you to find your compass by resolving traumas from the past and finding simple and workable solutions for the present. It is my priority to help people come back to their strengths and rediscover their inner compass. My job is to create an environment for you that is free of judgement and debris; together we can find your bearings and put the wind back in your sails.
My speciality is trauma.
There are many things that keep us from being true to ourselves and/or brings conflict into our lives making it easy to feel lost or off-track. My work involves allowing you to find your compass by resolving traumas from the past and finding simple and workable solutions for the present. It is my priority to help people come back to their strengths and rediscover their inner compass. My job is to create an environment for you that is free of judgement and debris; together we can find your bearings and put the wind back in your sails.
(207) 204-8332 View (207) 204-8332
Photo of Maine Psychological Services, Psychologist in Maine
Maine Psychological Services
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Ellsworth, ME 04605
Vagt specializes in providing treatment for anxiety and trauma related disorders, including history of physical, sexual, or verbal abuse as well as combat related trauma.
Accepting new patients for work with clinical intern, Ms. Mailena Alicea. Dr. Denise Vagt is a licensed clinical psychologist (Maine License PS1998). She has a broad range of experience treating anxiety and depressive disorders and specializes in the treatment of anxiety, trauma, and stress related disorders. Dr. Vagt completed her Doctorate in Psychology at Florida Institute of Technology and spent the beginning of her career serving as an Active Duty Air Force Psychologist. She now works in the private sector as the owner of Maine Psychological Services.
Vagt specializes in providing treatment for anxiety and trauma related disorders, including history of physical, sexual, or verbal abuse as well as combat related trauma.
Accepting new patients for work with clinical intern, Ms. Mailena Alicea. Dr. Denise Vagt is a licensed clinical psychologist (Maine License PS1998). She has a broad range of experience treating anxiety and depressive disorders and specializes in the treatment of anxiety, trauma, and stress related disorders. Dr. Vagt completed her Doctorate in Psychology at Florida Institute of Technology and spent the beginning of her career serving as an Active Duty Air Force Psychologist. She now works in the private sector as the owner of Maine Psychological Services.
(207) 412-5942 View (207) 412-5942
Photo of UCP of Maine, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
UCP of Maine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Not Verified Not Verified
Bangor, ME 04401  (Online Only)
Our team has expertise in working with a broad range of mental health issues and life stressors including trauma, grief and loss, parent-child relationship problems, attachment, relationship issues, challenges at home and employment, LGBTQ issues, substance use, domestic violence, intellectual disabilities, and physical disabilities to name a few.
In person and telehealth counseling is available to adults, teens and children seeking individual or family therapy in a respectful, safe, and supportive environment. We want to work with you to understand your goals and help you develop plans and skills to achieve your goals that utilize your strengths. Our clinicians provide a broad spectrum of quality, evidence-based care . We help you resolve life stressors such as relationship issues, grief and loss, the effects of trauma, problems at home, school or work, behavioral problems, anxiety, depression, attachment, anger issues, and other mental health challenges.
Our team has expertise in working with a broad range of mental health issues and life stressors including trauma, grief and loss, parent-child relationship problems, attachment, relationship issues, challenges at home and employment, LGBTQ issues, substance use, domestic violence, intellectual disabilities, and physical disabilities to name a few.
In person and telehealth counseling is available to adults, teens and children seeking individual or family therapy in a respectful, safe, and supportive environment. We want to work with you to understand your goals and help you develop plans and skills to achieve your goals that utilize your strengths. Our clinicians provide a broad spectrum of quality, evidence-based care . We help you resolve life stressors such as relationship issues, grief and loss, the effects of trauma, problems at home, school or work, behavioral problems, anxiety, depression, attachment, anger issues, and other mental health challenges.
(207) 656-1962 x333 View (207) 656-1962 x333
Photo of Cheri Haire, Counselor in Maine
Cheri Haire
Counselor, LCPC-C
Verified Verified
Biddeford, ME 04005  (Online Only)
I am an Expressive Arts Therapist, trained in Trauma-Informed care and Anti-Oppression practices.
I am non-binary, polyamorous, and pansexual and love providing support to people in the LGBTQ+ community. I love working with children and teenagers, but have no specific age restrictions on my practice. I'm seeking clients who need to explore their emotions, experiences, and behaviors in an expressive way. Talking only gets us so far, whereas in my experience, use of the Expressive Arts (dance, drama, music, art, and writing) has an ability to get at the deeper stuff.
I am an Expressive Arts Therapist, trained in Trauma-Informed care and Anti-Oppression practices.
I am non-binary, polyamorous, and pansexual and love providing support to people in the LGBTQ+ community. I love working with children and teenagers, but have no specific age restrictions on my practice. I'm seeking clients who need to explore their emotions, experiences, and behaviors in an expressive way. Talking only gets us so far, whereas in my experience, use of the Expressive Arts (dance, drama, music, art, and writing) has an ability to get at the deeper stuff.
View
Photo of Sharie Ann Peacock, Counselor in Maine
Sharie Ann Peacock
Counselor, RN, MEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbia Falls, ME 04623  (Online Only)
I have successfully used Traumatic Incident Reduction with my clients for 23 years. TIR is an Evidence-Based Practice. It is a rapid (compared to traditional therapy) method of effectively reducing traumatic stress from emotionally or physically painful past events resulting in permanent elimination of PTSD symptomatology, enabling you to move on with a greatly improved quality of life. I use Life Stress Reduction which makes use of an array of techniques designed to relieve issues such as depression, anxiety, anger problems, relationship difficulties, job/career concerns, financial problems, health concerns, grief/loss and more.
I have successfully used Traumatic Incident Reduction with my clients for 23 years. TIR is an Evidence-Based Practice. It is a rapid (compared to traditional therapy) method of effectively reducing traumatic stress from emotionally or physically painful past events resulting in permanent elimination of PTSD symptomatology, enabling you to move on with a greatly improved quality of life. I use Life Stress Reduction which makes use of an array of techniques designed to relieve issues such as depression, anxiety, anger problems, relationship difficulties, job/career concerns, financial problems, health concerns, grief/loss and more.
(207) 420-2117 View (207) 420-2117
Photo of Patricia Anne Proulx-Lough, Marriage & Family Therapist in Maine
Patricia Anne Proulx-Lough
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, AAMFT, TIRA, FST
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04102  (Online Only)
I have extensive training and experience treating families who encounter transitional issues, behavioral issues, parenting concerns, couples conflict, and adolescents who are in trouble with the law or who have problem sexual behavior. I also work with individuals who experience anxiety and depressive disorders, disruptive behavioral disorders, trauma and post traumatic stress disorder, grief and loss, and reactive attachment disorder.
I have extensive training and experience treating families who encounter transitional issues, behavioral issues, parenting concerns, couples conflict, and adolescents who are in trouble with the law or who have problem sexual behavior. I also work with individuals who experience anxiety and depressive disorders, disruptive behavioral disorders, trauma and post traumatic stress disorder, grief and loss, and reactive attachment disorder.
(207) 482-0784 View (207) 482-0784
Photo of Bridget LaRoche, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
Bridget LaRoche
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LADC
Verified Verified
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in trauma-related needs, substance use disorders, people experiencing symptoms of psychosis and "mood disorders," (the feelings/emotions messiness).
Do you want a counselor that you relate to as a human as well as a professional? Maybe one that is on the same wave length as you? I'm an authentic counselor that can help you navigate the messy stuff in your life that you might want to figure out or change. Do you just need to talk something out to figure out what's next? Are you already at that spot in life where you are ready to change something? Let's go there.
I specialize in trauma-related needs, substance use disorders, people experiencing symptoms of psychosis and "mood disorders," (the feelings/emotions messiness).
Do you want a counselor that you relate to as a human as well as a professional? Maybe one that is on the same wave length as you? I'm an authentic counselor that can help you navigate the messy stuff in your life that you might want to figure out or change. Do you just need to talk something out to figure out what's next? Are you already at that spot in life where you are ready to change something? Let's go there.
(207) 200-7701 View (207) 200-7701
Photo of Justin Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
Justin Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LADC, CCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gorham, ME 04038
I specialize in working with people who experience substance use disorders and developmental trauma.
Please note that I am currently at capacity and unable to accept new patients at this time. There is wisdom in the ways we adapt to our environments, but they do not always serve us in the present moment. My aim is to help people identify their adaptive patterns and view them with compassion, while also learning what to hold and what to let go. As a neurobiological informed therapist, I aim to help people move from judgement, shame and isolation to curiosity, acceptance and connection.
I specialize in working with people who experience substance use disorders and developmental trauma.
Please note that I am currently at capacity and unable to accept new patients at this time. There is wisdom in the ways we adapt to our environments, but they do not always serve us in the present moment. My aim is to help people identify their adaptive patterns and view them with compassion, while also learning what to hold and what to let go. As a neurobiological informed therapist, I aim to help people move from judgement, shame and isolation to curiosity, acceptance and connection.
(207) 218-0296 View (207) 218-0296
Photo of Amber Russell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
Amber Russell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cape Elizabeth, ME 04107  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am an individual and family therapist with over a decade of experience working with adolescents, adults, and parents of children with difficult behaviors. I specialize in helping families and individuals cope with life changes and manage symptoms related to Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, Autism, and grief.
I am an individual and family therapist with over a decade of experience working with adolescents, adults, and parents of children with difficult behaviors. I specialize in helping families and individuals cope with life changes and manage symptoms related to Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, Autism, and grief.
(207) 218-0522 View (207) 218-0522
Photo of Jeff Morrill, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
Jeff Morrill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Freeport, ME 04032
I Am Accepting New Patients: I am a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist who works with people to enhance their natural strengths and overcome obstacles to success. I am Nationally Certified as a Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist. I work with children, youth, adults, and families with mental health concerns, using solution-focused, evidence-based approaches. Specializing in Focus and Performance, Trauma, Anxiety, Depression Attention and Mood Regulation. I help empower people to enhance their strengths, supports, and skills toward living healthy, productive lives.
I Am Accepting New Patients: I am a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist who works with people to enhance their natural strengths and overcome obstacles to success. I am Nationally Certified as a Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist. I work with children, youth, adults, and families with mental health concerns, using solution-focused, evidence-based approaches. Specializing in Focus and Performance, Trauma, Anxiety, Depression Attention and Mood Regulation. I help empower people to enhance their strengths, supports, and skills toward living healthy, productive lives.
(207) 358-3485 View (207) 358-3485
Photo of Jill FitzGerald, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
Jill FitzGerald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04104
I have experience and expertise in working with survivors of trauma, PTSD, Family Issues/Conflicts, Anxiety, Depression, Adjustment Disorders, and Mood Disorders.
I utilize a solution focused and empirically based approach to treatment that incorporates cognitive behavioral, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness practices within a collaborative and non-judgmental space.
I have experience and expertise in working with survivors of trauma, PTSD, Family Issues/Conflicts, Anxiety, Depression, Adjustment Disorders, and Mood Disorders.
I utilize a solution focused and empirically based approach to treatment that incorporates cognitive behavioral, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness practices within a collaborative and non-judgmental space.
(978) 757-4773 View (978) 757-4773
Photo of Akamin, Healthy Minds Counseling Inc , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
Akamin, Healthy Minds Counseling Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Skowhegan, ME 04976  (Online Only)
I'm Dr. Akamin Nkengaka, a License Clinical Social Worker and a License Advanced Alcohol & Drugs Counselor with 15 years of evidence based clinical experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma informed care, suicidal ideation, abuse, self-esteem, and relationships. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you to overcome negative challenges in your life.
I'm Dr. Akamin Nkengaka, a License Clinical Social Worker and a License Advanced Alcohol & Drugs Counselor with 15 years of evidence based clinical experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma informed care, suicidal ideation, abuse, self-esteem, and relationships. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you to overcome negative challenges in your life.
(207) 496-1911 View (207) 496-1911
Photo of MK-Healthy Minds Counseling, Inc. , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
MK-Healthy Minds Counseling, Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ellsworth, ME 04605  (Online Only)
I am trained in Comprehensive DBT, trauma-focused CBT, Somatic Experiencing therapy, Narrative therapy, and Complex Trauma Systems therapy.
My therapeutic partnership history is with folks who have not seen themselves reflected or heard in traditional wellness or therapy spaces. Some focus areas are complex trauma, substance misuse, and severe mental illness, highly sensitive/empathic folks, ASD and neurodivergent folks, strengthening self-compassion and building shame resilience, navigating liberation and justice, trauma-informed work, body liberation + supporting those recovering from diet culture and body stigma, furthering gender, racial liberation, and those impacted by the criminal and family court systems.
I am trained in Comprehensive DBT, trauma-focused CBT, Somatic Experiencing therapy, Narrative therapy, and Complex Trauma Systems therapy.
My therapeutic partnership history is with folks who have not seen themselves reflected or heard in traditional wellness or therapy spaces. Some focus areas are complex trauma, substance misuse, and severe mental illness, highly sensitive/empathic folks, ASD and neurodivergent folks, strengthening self-compassion and building shame resilience, navigating liberation and justice, trauma-informed work, body liberation + supporting those recovering from diet culture and body stigma, furthering gender, racial liberation, and those impacted by the criminal and family court systems.
(207) 204-3791 View (207) 204-3791
Photo of Counseling and Trauma Therapy Associates, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
Counseling and Trauma Therapy Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04103
Our practice specializes in: Family Therapy, Children's Emotional and Behavioral Issues, Adolescent Emotional Dysregulation Disorders, Couples Therapy, Autism, and all Mental Disorders, including: Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, and Addiction.
Please Note: Due to extended wait times, we have unfortunately had to close our waitlist for children under 15, couples and family counseling at this time. We are a mental health agency proudly serving MaineCare clients. Our therapists help individuals and families to lead lives they feel good about. Couples, families, adults, and children have all benefited from the work we do. We look forward to working with all MaineCare clients. We have offices in Portland and Biddeford (catt-associates.com/locations) to serve the local community, and offer Telehealth sessions as well.
Our practice specializes in: Family Therapy, Children's Emotional and Behavioral Issues, Adolescent Emotional Dysregulation Disorders, Couples Therapy, Autism, and all Mental Disorders, including: Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, and Addiction.
Please Note: Due to extended wait times, we have unfortunately had to close our waitlist for children under 15, couples and family counseling at this time. We are a mental health agency proudly serving MaineCare clients. Our therapists help individuals and families to lead lives they feel good about. Couples, families, adults, and children have all benefited from the work we do. We look forward to working with all MaineCare clients. We have offices in Portland and Biddeford (catt-associates.com/locations) to serve the local community, and offer Telehealth sessions as well.
(207) 370-5389 View (207) 370-5389
Photo of Toni Bennett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
Toni Bennett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Kittery, ME 03904
I have two offices which are professional yet homelike settings. They each have 3-5 stairs. I practice with an eclectic style but do utilize EMDR, CBT and DBT. I draw on clients strengths and empower the client to utilize their present skills. I specialize in trauma and substance abuse and also depression and anxiety etc. I am a co-occurring therapist. The goal is to improve self esteem and self worth and focus on the goals and objectives of the client. The initial visit is a time for the client to share their hopes and aspirations and create a plan that is challenging but attainable. The client will always feel supported.
I have two offices which are professional yet homelike settings. They each have 3-5 stairs. I practice with an eclectic style but do utilize EMDR, CBT and DBT. I draw on clients strengths and empower the client to utilize their present skills. I specialize in trauma and substance abuse and also depression and anxiety etc. I am a co-occurring therapist. The goal is to improve self esteem and self worth and focus on the goals and objectives of the client. The initial visit is a time for the client to share their hopes and aspirations and create a plan that is challenging but attainable. The client will always feel supported.
(207) 560-0905 View (207) 560-0905
Photo of Christine E Stevens, Counselor in Maine
Christine E Stevens
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101
Waitlist for new clients
Morning/midday availability. Can best reply to emaiI. I integrate a variety of approaches in my work, with a value on relationship and finding creative ways to make treatment individual. I practiced at Bowdoin College for students struggling with identity exploration, anxiety, depression and relationships. I spent 3 years working in residential/day treatment with adolescents (and their families) who have endured complex trauma, anxiety and mood disorders, and developmental disabilities. Much of my experience is with children, adolescents and young adults, though I am open to working with all ages and cater treatment to each client.
Morning/midday availability. Can best reply to emaiI. I integrate a variety of approaches in my work, with a value on relationship and finding creative ways to make treatment individual. I practiced at Bowdoin College for students struggling with identity exploration, anxiety, depression and relationships. I spent 3 years working in residential/day treatment with adolescents (and their families) who have endured complex trauma, anxiety and mood disorders, and developmental disabilities. Much of my experience is with children, adolescents and young adults, though I am open to working with all ages and cater treatment to each client.
(901) 676-7267 View (901) 676-7267
Photo of Chelsea, Healthy Minds Counseling Inc, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
Chelsea, Healthy Minds Counseling Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Portland, ME 04106  (Online Only)
My practice is built on strengths-based, client-centered, and trauma-informed care.
Many warm welcomes to you! I believe that life can be heavy at times, and my purpose is to help lighten the load and be a source of light during dark times. Laughter, a good conversation, a warm hug, or a walk in nature can do wonders for the human spirit. Unfortunately, our society isn't always conducive to our well-being, which is why it's essential to unlearn some things and search within ourselves to find inner peace. It's an honor to accompany you on that journey. Throughout my career, I've worked with clients from different cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds and age groups.
My practice is built on strengths-based, client-centered, and trauma-informed care.
Many warm welcomes to you! I believe that life can be heavy at times, and my purpose is to help lighten the load and be a source of light during dark times. Laughter, a good conversation, a warm hug, or a walk in nature can do wonders for the human spirit. Unfortunately, our society isn't always conducive to our well-being, which is why it's essential to unlearn some things and search within ourselves to find inner peace. It's an honor to accompany you on that journey. Throughout my career, I've worked with clients from different cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds and age groups.
(207) 820-2001 View (207) 820-2001
Photo of Alex Feinberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
Alex Feinberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Falmouth, ME 04105
I enjoy working with teenagers, young adults, adults, and families. I have experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings. working with people who have anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, grief, family conflict, or who are navigating difficult life transitions. I also enjoy working with people who are trying to figure out and achieve both short and long-term goals or are looking to improve their general stress levels and health. I often work with people who have problems in school, friend groups, family issues, trauma, or chronic mental health concerns.
I enjoy working with teenagers, young adults, adults, and families. I have experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings. working with people who have anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, grief, family conflict, or who are navigating difficult life transitions. I also enjoy working with people who are trying to figure out and achieve both short and long-term goals or are looking to improve their general stress levels and health. I often work with people who have problems in school, friend groups, family issues, trauma, or chronic mental health concerns.
(207) 464-8487 View (207) 464-8487

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.