Photo of Jennifer M Rent, Counselor in Maine
Jennifer M Rent
Counselor, LCPC, MaDT
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101
Waitlist for new clients
People come to me for all reasons: family discord, relationship issues, trauma history, struggles with depression, anxiety, abuse, concerns for a child/teen to name a few. I work hard at connecting with my clients and helping them on their journey of exploring self, history and patterns of behavior. I believe that through understanding our internal parts originating from the past and specific identifications and working with them it is possible to form a pathway toward self discovery, create change, heal from pain & become a happier, healthier person/family. I work with kids, teens, adults, couples & families
People come to me for all reasons: family discord, relationship issues, trauma history, struggles with depression, anxiety, abuse, concerns for a child/teen to name a few. I work hard at connecting with my clients and helping them on their journey of exploring self, history and patterns of behavior. I believe that through understanding our internal parts originating from the past and specific identifications and working with them it is possible to form a pathway toward self discovery, create change, heal from pain & become a happier, healthier person/family. I work with kids, teens, adults, couples & families
(207) 245-1977 View (207) 245-1977
Photo of Katie Dolinsky, Marriage & Family Therapist in Maine
Katie Dolinsky
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Westbrook, ME 04092
Our therapists are all attachment focused, trauma informed and have specific training working with couples and/ or trauma as well as their own specific niche/ speciality.
Friends. Partners. Parents. Children. Relationships are one of the most important and enjoyable parts of being human. My practice is focused on connecting people and guiding them toward feeling more satisfied in their relationships. Therapy is highly focused on communication, healing relational wounds, gaining awareness of relationship patterns and understanding needs so that you can feel more understood and fulfilled in all relationships in your life. We specialize in working with couples, those with attachment issues or childhood trauma and anyone wanting more authentic and healthy relationships in their lives.
Our therapists are all attachment focused, trauma informed and have specific training working with couples and/ or trauma as well as their own specific niche/ speciality.
Friends. Partners. Parents. Children. Relationships are one of the most important and enjoyable parts of being human. My practice is focused on connecting people and guiding them toward feeling more satisfied in their relationships. Therapy is highly focused on communication, healing relational wounds, gaining awareness of relationship patterns and understanding needs so that you can feel more understood and fulfilled in all relationships in your life. We specialize in working with couples, those with attachment issues or childhood trauma and anyone wanting more authentic and healthy relationships in their lives.
(207) 489-2624 View (207) 489-2624
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 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 Margaret Munsell, Counselor in Maine
Margaret Munsell
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04101  (Online Only)
I often uses a hybrid of multiple theoretical orientations, primarily drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, Trauma-focused therapy, and Person-centered therapy.
Opening up to another individual about your mental health concerns and the pain you’ve experienced throughout your life is never easy. Stepping forward and admitting that you’re struggling is such a difficult step, so kudos to you for considering counseling. I work from a person centered perspective to meet you where you are in life, while keeping your mental health goals in mind. I’m a strong believer that our wellness is rooted not only in our experiences, but in our physical, spiritual, and emotional health as well.I approach every therapeutic relationship with an open mind and tailor my therapeutic approach to each client.
I often uses a hybrid of multiple theoretical orientations, primarily drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, Trauma-focused therapy, and Person-centered therapy.
Opening up to another individual about your mental health concerns and the pain you’ve experienced throughout your life is never easy. Stepping forward and admitting that you’re struggling is such a difficult step, so kudos to you for considering counseling. I work from a person centered perspective to meet you where you are in life, while keeping your mental health goals in mind. I’m a strong believer that our wellness is rooted not only in our experiences, but in our physical, spiritual, and emotional health as well.I approach every therapeutic relationship with an open mind and tailor my therapeutic approach to each client.
(207) 481-4515 View (207) 481-4515
Photo of Betsy Kehoe Elder, Counselor in Maine
Betsy Kehoe Elder
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Brunswick, ME 04011
Focused on healing through trauma-informed, body-based care and grounded in family systems theory, I draw on a range of counseling approaches including; psychodynamic, transpersonal, existential, expressive, mindfulness, mind-body, behavioral (DBT and CBT). Together we sojourn toward self-awareness and compassion for self. Emblematic moments from the past may have become conditioned responses to the present. We focus both on here and now and historical events. TAT (Tapas Acupressure Technique), mindfulness, sensorimotor psychotherapy and EMDR-Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing help re-program stored arousal in the body.
Focused on healing through trauma-informed, body-based care and grounded in family systems theory, I draw on a range of counseling approaches including; psychodynamic, transpersonal, existential, expressive, mindfulness, mind-body, behavioral (DBT and CBT). Together we sojourn toward self-awareness and compassion for self. Emblematic moments from the past may have become conditioned responses to the present. We focus both on here and now and historical events. TAT (Tapas Acupressure Technique), mindfulness, sensorimotor psychotherapy and EMDR-Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing help re-program stored arousal in the body.
(207) 504-6600 View (207) 504-6600
Photo of Joni H Altshuler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
Joni H Altshuler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101
My approach is Present-oriented, Trauma informed and Experiential.
Tired of having the same arguments over and over? Wondering why you seem to be stuck in cycles with your partner, friends, colleagues or yourself? How often do you find yourself wondering, "what happened to that sweet loving person I fell in love with? How did Godzilla end up in my bed? Or worse yet, is that Medusa staring back at me in the mirror"? OK then.....welcome. I'm Joni Altshuler and after 30yrs in practice, I continue to be inspired and often awe struck by the people who walk thru my door.
My approach is Present-oriented, Trauma informed and Experiential.
Tired of having the same arguments over and over? Wondering why you seem to be stuck in cycles with your partner, friends, colleagues or yourself? How often do you find yourself wondering, "what happened to that sweet loving person I fell in love with? How did Godzilla end up in my bed? Or worse yet, is that Medusa staring back at me in the mirror"? OK then.....welcome. I'm Joni Altshuler and after 30yrs in practice, I continue to be inspired and often awe struck by the people who walk thru my door.
(207) 482-0540 View (207) 482-0540
Photo of Leslie Mulligan, Counselor in Maine
Leslie Mulligan
Counselor, MS, EdS, LCPC, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Machias, ME 04654  (Online Only)
I specialize in recovering from trauma - military, and civilian.
I am a creative humanist. As an experiential psychotherapist, I join with you in your life-in-process to support your self-awareness, healing, and growth. I engage with your whole person - body, mind, being - your unique "me". Life change, moods, relationships, work, health, recovery are my focus. Rather than lean into pathology, I value your intelligence, ways of expression, learning and strategies. Using facts, metaphor, lived experience, humor, honesty you'll see your own best way through. I tailor my tools to your person/couple/family's needs. You gain objective and compassionate insights, and new tools for thriving.
I specialize in recovering from trauma - military, and civilian.
I am a creative humanist. As an experiential psychotherapist, I join with you in your life-in-process to support your self-awareness, healing, and growth. I engage with your whole person - body, mind, being - your unique "me". Life change, moods, relationships, work, health, recovery are my focus. Rather than lean into pathology, I value your intelligence, ways of expression, learning and strategies. Using facts, metaphor, lived experience, humor, honesty you'll see your own best way through. I tailor my tools to your person/couple/family's needs. You gain objective and compassionate insights, and new tools for thriving.
(207) 843-9672 View (207) 843-9672
Photo of N. Janet Spors, Marriage & Family Therapist in Maine
N. Janet Spors
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bangor, ME 04401
Therapy dog Noelle and therapist Janet team up to help children (ages 3+), youth and young adult clients, who suffer from trauma, overcome their obstacles for a more healthy and enjoyable life experience. Nationally certified in Trauma Focused - Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Therapy dog Noelle and therapist Janet team up to help children (ages 3+), youth and young adult clients, who suffer from trauma, overcome their obstacles for a more healthy and enjoyable life experience. Nationally certified in Trauma Focused - Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
(207) 503-2404 View (207) 503-2404
Photo of Carol Despres, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
Carol Despres
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR II
Verified Verified
Freeport, ME 04032
Specializing in PTSD/Anxiety/Depression, I work to facilitate your body's innate healing response through possible EMDR, CBT & Eclectic applications.
Welcome! In this very moment you're choosing to be on your journey. My therapeutic philosophy is to facilitate and support your body's innate healing response through the applications of EMDR, (EMDRIA.ORG) and heart-centered therapies. EMDR in particular works to liberate clients from past trauma memories whether that be small "t" trauma or big 'T" trauma and to transform a person's subconscious beliefs thus "turning down the volume" on negative memories/negative beliefs and transforming those subconscious beliefs back into positive core beliefs so that you may become your highest aspect of yourself.
Specializing in PTSD/Anxiety/Depression, I work to facilitate your body's innate healing response through possible EMDR, CBT & Eclectic applications.
Welcome! In this very moment you're choosing to be on your journey. My therapeutic philosophy is to facilitate and support your body's innate healing response through the applications of EMDR, (EMDRIA.ORG) and heart-centered therapies. EMDR in particular works to liberate clients from past trauma memories whether that be small "t" trauma or big 'T" trauma and to transform a person's subconscious beliefs thus "turning down the volume" on negative memories/negative beliefs and transforming those subconscious beliefs back into positive core beliefs so that you may become your highest aspect of yourself.
(207) 426-4205 View (207) 426-4205
Photo of Shelby Briggs, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Maine
Shelby Briggs
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADC, CCS
Verified Verified
Westbrook, ME 04092  (Online Only)
I specialize in trauma-aware individual, family, & group counseling for those who struggle with addiction & for their loved ones.
If you've made it this far and you're reading this, you must be a Warrior. Really. Having Substance Use Disorder (SUD), or loving someone who has SUD, is not for the weak at heart. I liken it's reach to a tornado, an EF5 tornado actually. But here's the thing; You and I working together - we are to SUD what FEMA is to a tornado. Together, we can pick up the wreckage, organize it, decide what parts you want to keep, which ones you want to fix, and where to start fresh. You are not alone. In fact, 1 in 3 American families are struggling with SUD in the home. 22 Million Americans are in long-term recovery. All of them needed help too.
I specialize in trauma-aware individual, family, & group counseling for those who struggle with addiction & for their loved ones.
If you've made it this far and you're reading this, you must be a Warrior. Really. Having Substance Use Disorder (SUD), or loving someone who has SUD, is not for the weak at heart. I liken it's reach to a tornado, an EF5 tornado actually. But here's the thing; You and I working together - we are to SUD what FEMA is to a tornado. Together, we can pick up the wreckage, organize it, decide what parts you want to keep, which ones you want to fix, and where to start fresh. You are not alone. In fact, 1 in 3 American families are struggling with SUD in the home. 22 Million Americans are in long-term recovery. All of them needed help too.
(207) 230-6957 View (207) 230-6957
Photo of Karen R MacDonald, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
Karen R MacDonald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gorham, ME 04038
My background includes working in a residential setting with teens and young adults who have experienced trauma.
I am passionate about providing a safe space for those seeking a non judgmental environment to heal and grow. My practice is strengths based and I use a variety of evidence based modalities to help people help themselves. What’s most important in therapy in my opinion, is that the client is the expert of themselves.
My background includes working in a residential setting with teens and young adults who have experienced trauma.
I am passionate about providing a safe space for those seeking a non judgmental environment to heal and grow. My practice is strengths based and I use a variety of evidence based modalities to help people help themselves. What’s most important in therapy in my opinion, is that the client is the expert of themselves.
(207) 656-1311 View (207) 656-1311
Photo of Psychology Specialists of Maine, Psychologist in Maine
Psychology Specialists of Maine
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brunswick, ME 04011
We have October openings in person and tele-health! Our intake specialists will help match you with one of our experienced and caring Maine psychologist with whom you can begin your journey toward meaningful change. We are a local, women-owned therapy center offering specialized therapy for anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, OCD, bipolar, grief, eating disorders, personality disorders, health concerns, chronic pain and illness, sleep problems, relationship concerns, and couples counseling. Please visit our website to learn more about our services.
We have October openings in person and tele-health! Our intake specialists will help match you with one of our experienced and caring Maine psychologist with whom you can begin your journey toward meaningful change. We are a local, women-owned therapy center offering specialized therapy for anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, OCD, bipolar, grief, eating disorders, personality disorders, health concerns, chronic pain and illness, sleep problems, relationship concerns, and couples counseling. Please visit our website to learn more about our services.
(207) 747-3311 View (207) 747-3311
Photo of Lacey Marie Graffam, Counselor in Maine
Lacey Marie Graffam
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Auburn, ME 04211  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I use interventions from various modalities when appropriate, such as: trauma informed CBT, DBT, psycho-education, narrative therapy, ACT, and solution focused therapy.
Have you experienced difficulty in your past that you feel impacts you presently? Would you benefit from having someone in your corner while you navigate this stage of your life? I would love to explore whether I might be a good fit to help you move forward towards positive change. The therapeutic space I provide for my clients is non-judgmental, confidential, and built upon empathic understanding. We collaborate as a team to understand your struggles, process potential roots, and apply appropriate coping strategies suited for you individually.
I use interventions from various modalities when appropriate, such as: trauma informed CBT, DBT, psycho-education, narrative therapy, ACT, and solution focused therapy.
Have you experienced difficulty in your past that you feel impacts you presently? Would you benefit from having someone in your corner while you navigate this stage of your life? I would love to explore whether I might be a good fit to help you move forward towards positive change. The therapeutic space I provide for my clients is non-judgmental, confidential, and built upon empathic understanding. We collaborate as a team to understand your struggles, process potential roots, and apply appropriate coping strategies suited for you individually.
(207) 218-0509 View (207) 218-0509
Photo of Laura Minch Mclain, Psychologist in Maine
Laura Minch Mclain
Psychologist, PsyD, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Bangor, ME 04402  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with individuals with eating disorders, addiction issues, and trauma.
Hello and welcome! My goal as a therapist is to help individuals achieve overall health and wellness. I serve clients with eating disorders, addictions, trauma, depression, anxiety, and identity and relationship issues. I believe change is possible, but I also know it can be very difficult and discouraging. I will help you identify and use your strengths to make lasting changes in your life. I believe that understanding and awareness of oneself is the first step in the change process. My goal is to help clients understand why they have not sustained changes in the past and what they can do differently in the future.
I specialize in working with individuals with eating disorders, addiction issues, and trauma.
Hello and welcome! My goal as a therapist is to help individuals achieve overall health and wellness. I serve clients with eating disorders, addictions, trauma, depression, anxiety, and identity and relationship issues. I believe change is possible, but I also know it can be very difficult and discouraging. I will help you identify and use your strengths to make lasting changes in your life. I believe that understanding and awareness of oneself is the first step in the change process. My goal is to help clients understand why they have not sustained changes in the past and what they can do differently in the future.
(470) 252-4239 View (470) 252-4239
Photo of A Time To Rise - Counseling & Wellness LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
A Time To Rise - Counseling & Wellness LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LADC, CCS
Verified Verified
Brewer, ME 04412
A Time To Rise offers individual mental health counseling specializing in healing from trauma through a variety of approaches.
Our agency specializes in the treatment of substance use disorder, mental health, and co-occurring disorders. We offer counseling and groups facilitated by licensed Clinicians. We are made up of 3 female LCSW and LADC Clinicians, ready to meet you where you are at, with compassion and empathy, and without judgement, to help you achieve your personal treatment goals.
A Time To Rise offers individual mental health counseling specializing in healing from trauma through a variety of approaches.
Our agency specializes in the treatment of substance use disorder, mental health, and co-occurring disorders. We offer counseling and groups facilitated by licensed Clinicians. We are made up of 3 female LCSW and LADC Clinicians, ready to meet you where you are at, with compassion and empathy, and without judgement, to help you achieve your personal treatment goals.
(207) 672-1198 View (207) 672-1198
Photo of Waters Edge Therapy, Inc., Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
Waters Edge Therapy, Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, CCS
Verified Verified
Waterville, ME 04901
Waitlist for new clients
It is my belief that each of us can heal from emotional, physical and sexual trauma. In the presence of compassion, kindness and non-judgment, I listen to, and witness the suffering and profound pain shared during therapy. In therapy, the healing power of compassion; sense of being understood by and cared for by another human being is offered. Each of us has the same needs when we are suffering; to feel validated, safe and understood for the duration of our journey. In our work together, I will offer support, encouragement, and honesty, tempered with compassion.
It is my belief that each of us can heal from emotional, physical and sexual trauma. In the presence of compassion, kindness and non-judgment, I listen to, and witness the suffering and profound pain shared during therapy. In therapy, the healing power of compassion; sense of being understood by and cared for by another human being is offered. Each of us has the same needs when we are suffering; to feel validated, safe and understood for the duration of our journey. In our work together, I will offer support, encouragement, and honesty, tempered with compassion.
(207) 405-0610 View (207) 405-0610
Photo of Barbara Meichner Doughty, Counselor in Maine
Barbara Meichner Doughty
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Brunswick, ME 04011
My approach to counseling recognizes the uniqueness of each individual. I have experience working with folks 18-80 dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, relationships, health concerns, grief,and other major life transitions. My practice focuses on deep inner work that encourages self-awareness and a feeling relationship with the body. This work is facilitated by a strong and trusting client/counselor relationship based on warmth and non-judgment. You will gain insight into feelings, learn to understand behavior and reduce emotional suffering so that your changes are positive and lasting. One opening available now, waiting list
My approach to counseling recognizes the uniqueness of each individual. I have experience working with folks 18-80 dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, relationships, health concerns, grief,and other major life transitions. My practice focuses on deep inner work that encourages self-awareness and a feeling relationship with the body. This work is facilitated by a strong and trusting client/counselor relationship based on warmth and non-judgment. You will gain insight into feelings, learn to understand behavior and reduce emotional suffering so that your changes are positive and lasting. One opening available now, waiting list
(207) 517-4973 View (207) 517-4973
Photo of Tracy Morin, Counselor in Maine
Tracy Morin
Counselor, LCPC, LADC, CCS
Verified Verified
Hallowell, ME 04347
Waitlist for new clients
An integrated trauma informed approach and belief in holistic treatment methods is performed in my practice.
I welcome variety types of clients and appreciate each person as they are. My aim is to develop a mutually respecting and trusting relationship with my clients as I guide them through life's ups and downs. I will work with you on your journey in understanding and managing any of your life difficulties that you may be experiencing. I will help guide you to explore your needs while utilizing a strength based approach.
An integrated trauma informed approach and belief in holistic treatment methods is performed in my practice.
I welcome variety types of clients and appreciate each person as they are. My aim is to develop a mutually respecting and trusting relationship with my clients as I guide them through life's ups and downs. I will work with you on your journey in understanding and managing any of your life difficulties that you may be experiencing. I will help guide you to explore your needs while utilizing a strength based approach.
(207) 305-9253 View (207) 305-9253
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.