Photo of Brittany LaFleur, MS, LCPC-S, RPT, Counselor
Brittany LaFleur
Counselor, MS, LCPC-S, RPT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
Brittany is a certified Child & Adolescent Trauma Therapist, Registered Play Therapist & Supervisor.
Brittany LaFleur is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Supervisor (LCPC-S) with a deep passion for aiding individuals in their journey towards becoming their best selves, hence why she started Your Best Self therapeutic services in 2018. Brittany creates a safe & confidential space to guide clients’ exploration of their inner worlds. She has a dynamic, compassionate & direct style of connecting with clients and leads a team of several other talented therapists.
Brittany is a certified Child & Adolescent Trauma Therapist, Registered Play Therapist & Supervisor.
Brittany LaFleur is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Supervisor (LCPC-S) with a deep passion for aiding individuals in their journey towards becoming their best selves, hence why she started Your Best Self therapeutic services in 2018. Brittany creates a safe & confidential space to guide clients’ exploration of their inner worlds. She has a dynamic, compassionate & direct style of connecting with clients and leads a team of several other talented therapists.
(301) 205-5422 View (301) 205-5422
Photo of Peggy Lee Kolodny, MA, ATR-BC, LCPAT, Art Therapist
Peggy Lee Kolodny
Art Therapist, MA, ATR-BC, LCPAT
Verified Verified
Owings Mills, MD 21117
Waitlist for new clients
Life is traumatic.
I have been an art psychotherapist since 1982. I currently work with adolescents and adults, using a trauma informed integrated approach for the impact of developmental trauma with its comorbidity, dissociation, and attachment issues. Art gives voice to what is stored implicitly within sensory somatic means. My client and I foster the relational benefit of the compassionate therapeutic alliance using the power of the creative process with a strength based focus. Our collaborative goal is to resolve the impact of the past; building resiliency, internal wisdom, and self compassion. I am an approved art therapy Supervisor in Maryland.
Life is traumatic.
I have been an art psychotherapist since 1982. I currently work with adolescents and adults, using a trauma informed integrated approach for the impact of developmental trauma with its comorbidity, dissociation, and attachment issues. Art gives voice to what is stored implicitly within sensory somatic means. My client and I foster the relational benefit of the compassionate therapeutic alliance using the power of the creative process with a strength based focus. Our collaborative goal is to resolve the impact of the past; building resiliency, internal wisdom, and self compassion. I am an approved art therapy Supervisor in Maryland.
(410) 469-6638 View (410) 469-6638
Photo of Wendy Berman, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Wendy Berman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Pikesville, MD 21208
I have dedicated my career to trauma survivors and the betterment of their quality of life.
Have you experienced a past or current trauma? Are you feeling isolated, loss of interest in activities you once found enjoyable, anxiety, mistrust, or depressed mood? Are you participating in self destructive behaviors? If so, these are all normal symptoms of trauma, and you are in the right place. Trauma is the experience of witnessing or being involved in an event that feels life threatening. It can be anything from physical, emotional, or sexual abuse to divorce, financial setbacks, medical diagnoses or car accidents.
I have dedicated my career to trauma survivors and the betterment of their quality of life.
Have you experienced a past or current trauma? Are you feeling isolated, loss of interest in activities you once found enjoyable, anxiety, mistrust, or depressed mood? Are you participating in self destructive behaviors? If so, these are all normal symptoms of trauma, and you are in the right place. Trauma is the experience of witnessing or being involved in an event that feels life threatening. It can be anything from physical, emotional, or sexual abuse to divorce, financial setbacks, medical diagnoses or car accidents.
(410) 216-0942 View (410) 216-0942
Photo of Nicole Osborne - NorthStar Counseling & Wellness, MSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
NorthStar Counseling & Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Severna Park, MD 21146
I utilize mindfulness, expressive techniques, Dialectic Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Trauma Informed Practices.
Life can be complex and challenging, while often making sense of experiences and searching for answers can be difficult. Finding the right path is not as easy when dealing with complicated situations in life. You’re looking for the right answers, searching to find your way, trying to help someone or feel stuck. You are not alone. Recognizing your strengths through additional support can help you achieve balance and wellness.
I utilize mindfulness, expressive techniques, Dialectic Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Trauma Informed Practices.
Life can be complex and challenging, while often making sense of experiences and searching for answers can be difficult. Finding the right path is not as easy when dealing with complicated situations in life. You’re looking for the right answers, searching to find your way, trying to help someone or feel stuck. You are not alone. Recognizing your strengths through additional support can help you achieve balance and wellness.
(410) 777-9113 View (410) 777-9113
Photo of Tamara Lynn Aviles - Trauma and Complicated Grief Counseling Services, LCSW-C, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Trauma and Complicated Grief Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MSW
Verified Verified
Arbutus, MD 21227
I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional.
I am dedicated to helping those who have experienced trauma, whether it be a single incident, episodic trauma or chronic trauma, and help guide them on their path to healing and recovery. As well as, being dedicated to the recovery process for those who have survived a loss or multiple losses and are experiencing complications that impact their ability to heal and move forward. There is a special place in my heart for children with special needs and helping their families and the children navigate with the multitude of issues they face through case management services.
I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional.
I am dedicated to helping those who have experienced trauma, whether it be a single incident, episodic trauma or chronic trauma, and help guide them on their path to healing and recovery. As well as, being dedicated to the recovery process for those who have survived a loss or multiple losses and are experiencing complications that impact their ability to heal and move forward. There is a special place in my heart for children with special needs and helping their families and the children navigate with the multitude of issues they face through case management services.
(410) 449-1276 View (410) 449-1276
Photo of Debbie Disney, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Debbie Disney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Towson, MD 21204
I incorporate a trauma-focused, gender awareness approach that encourages trust in the therapy process.
Individuals of all ages can benefit from therapy; my goal as a therapist is to create a supportive environment in which my client, regardless of age, feels comfortable and able to grow emotionally. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-C). I began my career as a school based clinician, transitioning to private practice in 2014. I love what I do as a therapist, and am fortunate to be able to blend my 30 years of experience and knowledge to support my clients.
I incorporate a trauma-focused, gender awareness approach that encourages trust in the therapy process.
Individuals of all ages can benefit from therapy; my goal as a therapist is to create a supportive environment in which my client, regardless of age, feels comfortable and able to grow emotionally. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-C). I began my career as a school based clinician, transitioning to private practice in 2014. I love what I do as a therapist, and am fortunate to be able to blend my 30 years of experience and knowledge to support my clients.
(410) 305-7518 View (410) 305-7518
Photo of Peter Aron, LCSWC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Peter Aron
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWC
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910
I work with children and teens and their families. I address issues including problematical attachment with parents and/or caregivers, negative self-image, trauma, depression, anxiety, anger, oppositionality, poor communication and social skills, acting out behaviors, sibling problems, and difficulties in school. As a therapist, I establish a safe "container" in which to work with children and parents together in order to strengthen a child's positive sense of self, reinforce the family system and bonds of attachment, and promote behavioral and emotional regulation. I work with teachers and school administrators to help children learn and thrive in school
I work with children and teens and their families. I address issues including problematical attachment with parents and/or caregivers, negative self-image, trauma, depression, anxiety, anger, oppositionality, poor communication and social skills, acting out behaviors, sibling problems, and difficulties in school. As a therapist, I establish a safe "container" in which to work with children and parents together in order to strengthen a child's positive sense of self, reinforce the family system and bonds of attachment, and promote behavioral and emotional regulation. I work with teachers and school administrators to help children learn and thrive in school
(301) 281-4144 View (301) 281-4144
Photo of Kim Hudson, LCPC, ATR-BC, CSAT
Kim Hudson
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, ATR-BC, CSAT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you - Maya Angelou. I specialize in working with those who struggle with compulsive sexual behaviors, pornography use, relationship and intimacy issues, codependency, enmeshment, infidelity, sexual abuse, betrayal trauma, disenfranchised or ambiguous grief, C- PTSD & PTSD.
There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you - Maya Angelou. I specialize in working with those who struggle with compulsive sexual behaviors, pornography use, relationship and intimacy issues, codependency, enmeshment, infidelity, sexual abuse, betrayal trauma, disenfranchised or ambiguous grief, C- PTSD & PTSD.
(410) 927-1366 View (410) 927-1366
Photo of Paula Howie, MA, ATR-BC, LPC, Art Therapist
Paula Howie
Art Therapist, MA, ATR-BC, LPC
Verified Verified
Takoma Park, MD 20912
I co-authored Art Therapy with Diverse Populations, Crossing Cultures and Abilities and am a certified trauma therapist (CTT).
I am both an art therapist and licensed professional counselor in private practice in Washington, DC. I teach courses to graduate students in art therapy and counseling. Although I specialize in helping both children and adults with issues of trauma, family, and relationship, people bring a wide range of concerns from personal growth to serious mental illness. Before entering private practice, I directed an activities therapy department in an army medical center where military members and their families were hospitalized for personality and mental disorders. At this facility, I also worked with children and adolescents on a medical ward.
I co-authored Art Therapy with Diverse Populations, Crossing Cultures and Abilities and am a certified trauma therapist (CTT).
I am both an art therapist and licensed professional counselor in private practice in Washington, DC. I teach courses to graduate students in art therapy and counseling. Although I specialize in helping both children and adults with issues of trauma, family, and relationship, people bring a wide range of concerns from personal growth to serious mental illness. Before entering private practice, I directed an activities therapy department in an army medical center where military members and their families were hospitalized for personality and mental disorders. At this facility, I also worked with children and adolescents on a medical ward.
(240) 949-6779 View (240) 949-6779
Photo of Melissa Herendeen, LCSW-C, LGSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Herendeen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LGSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
I work with adolescents and adults touched by adoption. Through an attachment and trauma-informed approach clients are able to find internal safety and better understanding of themselves and their experience as an adopted person, parent, or birth parent. Many clients come with complex layers of anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, relationship challenges, and ambiguous grief. Through the therapeutic relationship clients gain tools for internal validation, strategies to best manage their challenges, and opportunities to explore complex emotions in a safe environment.
I work with adolescents and adults touched by adoption. Through an attachment and trauma-informed approach clients are able to find internal safety and better understanding of themselves and their experience as an adopted person, parent, or birth parent. Many clients come with complex layers of anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, relationship challenges, and ambiguous grief. Through the therapeutic relationship clients gain tools for internal validation, strategies to best manage their challenges, and opportunities to explore complex emotions in a safe environment.
(240) 652-2309 View (240) 652-2309
Photo of Sara Rodriguez - Creative Counseling Connections, LCSW-C, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Creative Counseling Connections
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Germantown, MD 20874
Parents- join our virtual Therapeutic Parenting group for a different approach in addressing behaviors, control battles, adoption, traumas & anxiety.
In-person openings as of 9/27/24. Emma Parks, LMSW serves adults, teens and children who've experienced painful experiences or struggle with stress, anxiety or depression. If you feel the heavy weight of stress and the resulting hopelessness, we would be a great fit! Emma has a supportive, yet direct approach and can teach you how to use your thought life to change the intensity of your stuck feelings. She also uses EMDR for trauma. Emma has adjunct specialities in developmental trauma & adoption (TBRI & TF-CBT, theraplay), also utilizes Brain Integration for natural treatment of ADHD.
Parents- join our virtual Therapeutic Parenting group for a different approach in addressing behaviors, control battles, adoption, traumas & anxiety.
In-person openings as of 9/27/24. Emma Parks, LMSW serves adults, teens and children who've experienced painful experiences or struggle with stress, anxiety or depression. If you feel the heavy weight of stress and the resulting hopelessness, we would be a great fit! Emma has a supportive, yet direct approach and can teach you how to use your thought life to change the intensity of your stuck feelings. She also uses EMDR for trauma. Emma has adjunct specialities in developmental trauma & adoption (TBRI & TF-CBT, theraplay), also utilizes Brain Integration for natural treatment of ADHD.
(301) 636-5182 View (301) 636-5182
Photo of Shira Katz, LCPC
Shira Katz
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21209
I imagine you are here because life has become too overwhelming to manage on your own. You don't have to walk this journey alone and it takes bravery to reach out for help. I am here to partner with your own knowledge and intuition to find new solutions and ways of interacting with what you are experiencing. I work with teenagers and adults with anxiety, depression, relationship problems, childhood wounds, vulnerable self-esteem, and PTSD. Ideal clients include people who are ready to dive patiently, but deeply into all aspects of their lives contributing to their current situation, and who value a holistic and expressive approach.
I imagine you are here because life has become too overwhelming to manage on your own. You don't have to walk this journey alone and it takes bravery to reach out for help. I am here to partner with your own knowledge and intuition to find new solutions and ways of interacting with what you are experiencing. I work with teenagers and adults with anxiety, depression, relationship problems, childhood wounds, vulnerable self-esteem, and PTSD. Ideal clients include people who are ready to dive patiently, but deeply into all aspects of their lives contributing to their current situation, and who value a holistic and expressive approach.
(443) 348-9535 View (443) 348-9535
Photo of Megan Sillaman, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Sillaman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Severna Park, MD 21146
For the past 8 years I have worked with clients with anxiety, depression, those with a history of trauma or actively experiencing trauma, life transitions and grief. I use a trauma-informed lens in all of my work while also using other modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and other client-centered approaches. I also have experience working with perinatal/postpartum mood disorders, first responders and those experiencing stressful life transitions.
For the past 8 years I have worked with clients with anxiety, depression, those with a history of trauma or actively experiencing trauma, life transitions and grief. I use a trauma-informed lens in all of my work while also using other modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and other client-centered approaches. I also have experience working with perinatal/postpartum mood disorders, first responders and those experiencing stressful life transitions.
(410) 775-9668 View (410) 775-9668
Photo of Marsel Shamouelian, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marsel Shamouelian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21286
I provide individual and family therapy to a diverse population of clients with trauma.
I have learned that we live in a culture where trauma touches many lives, scarring some more than others. I feel particularly compelled to serve and advocate for vulnerable trauma survivors who have lost their voices. My personal and clinical experiences have intensified my passion to work with individuals touched by trauma. Before moving to America, I endured grave discrimination under an oppressive regime. As a young child, I was continuously victimized, as I was unable to stand up and protect myself. My traumatic experiences have given me insight and empathy into others' suffering.
I provide individual and family therapy to a diverse population of clients with trauma.
I have learned that we live in a culture where trauma touches many lives, scarring some more than others. I feel particularly compelled to serve and advocate for vulnerable trauma survivors who have lost their voices. My personal and clinical experiences have intensified my passion to work with individuals touched by trauma. Before moving to America, I endured grave discrimination under an oppressive regime. As a young child, I was continuously victimized, as I was unable to stand up and protect myself. My traumatic experiences have given me insight and empathy into others' suffering.
(443) 291-5490 View (443) 291-5490
Photo of Casey Frederick, LCPC, Art Therapist
Casey Frederick
Art Therapist, LCPC
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20877  (Online Only)
She provides art therapy and traditional therapeutic services to children and adults with a wide range of common challenges including: - ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, stress, sensory processing disorder and sensory sensitivities, potty difficulties, family dynamic work, attachment relationships, LGBTQIA, Parenting, Children with parents ex.
Casey Frederick is a Licensed Art Therapist and Licensed Professional Counselor (LCPC) in the state of Maryland. Casey has experience and training in a variety of clinical approaches working with populations including children, families, parents, wounded, ill and injured service members, as well as military dependents. Casey specializes in providing art therapy with a trauma informed approach while integrating attachment and polyvagal theory from a strength based perspective.
She provides art therapy and traditional therapeutic services to children and adults with a wide range of common challenges including: - ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, stress, sensory processing disorder and sensory sensitivities, potty difficulties, family dynamic work, attachment relationships, LGBTQIA, Parenting, Children with parents ex.
Casey Frederick is a Licensed Art Therapist and Licensed Professional Counselor (LCPC) in the state of Maryland. Casey has experience and training in a variety of clinical approaches working with populations including children, families, parents, wounded, ill and injured service members, as well as military dependents. Casey specializes in providing art therapy with a trauma informed approach while integrating attachment and polyvagal theory from a strength based perspective.
(240) 209-9649 View (240) 209-9649
Photo of Selen Saydam, MS, LCPC, NCC, CCTP, Counselor
Selen Saydam
Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20906  (Online Only)
art, play, sand tray), and somatic experiencing to foster resilience, process trauma, improve self-image, build self-respect, and reconnect with your sense of joy and wonder.
Hello, and welcome! What a big step you've taken by looking for help; I know it wasn't easy, but the hardest part is now behind you. My approach to therapy was born out of my passion for supporting and witnessing people on their journey to finding themselves. Along the way, my top priority is to hold compassionate space for all of you - all of your joy and sorrow, your fear and anger, your old wounds and new. I primarily specialize in working with neurodivergent adults and people struggling with numbness, anger, codependency, substance use, or low self-esteem due to trauma related to relationships, family, or adverse experiences.
art, play, sand tray), and somatic experiencing to foster resilience, process trauma, improve self-image, build self-respect, and reconnect with your sense of joy and wonder.
Hello, and welcome! What a big step you've taken by looking for help; I know it wasn't easy, but the hardest part is now behind you. My approach to therapy was born out of my passion for supporting and witnessing people on their journey to finding themselves. Along the way, my top priority is to hold compassionate space for all of you - all of your joy and sorrow, your fear and anger, your old wounds and new. I primarily specialize in working with neurodivergent adults and people struggling with numbness, anger, codependency, substance use, or low self-esteem due to trauma related to relationships, family, or adverse experiences.
(301) 381-3491 View (301) 381-3491
Photo of Greta Carlson, PsyD, ABPP, Psychologist
Greta Carlson
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chevy Chase, MD 20815
Welcome! I'm a clinical psychologist with nearly a decade of clinical experience working with children, adolescents, and adults of all ages. I see children, adolescents, and young adults aged 5 and up with depression, chronic PTSD and dissociation, anxiety, OCD, and ADHD. My clients present with a range of concerns, including anxiety, ruminative thoughts, shame feelings, and perfectionism. Having had extensive experience in both psychodynamic psychotherapy and Trauma Focused-CBT, I take an integrative approach when working with clients-I collaborate with you and your child to tailor your goals and address needs for treatment.
Welcome! I'm a clinical psychologist with nearly a decade of clinical experience working with children, adolescents, and adults of all ages. I see children, adolescents, and young adults aged 5 and up with depression, chronic PTSD and dissociation, anxiety, OCD, and ADHD. My clients present with a range of concerns, including anxiety, ruminative thoughts, shame feelings, and perfectionism. Having had extensive experience in both psychodynamic psychotherapy and Trauma Focused-CBT, I take an integrative approach when working with clients-I collaborate with you and your child to tailor your goals and address needs for treatment.
(301) 368-6469 View (301) 368-6469
Photo of Dante Brown, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dante Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and a National Board Certified Counselor (NBCC) with in-depth experience in crisis management, individual, family, and group therapy. I am trained in Trauma- Focused CBT and EMDR both evidenced based practices that have been shown to be highly effective in treating trauma. With intensive training in Dialectal Behavior Therapy (DBT) and mindfulness based interventions, I effectively treat mood instability, behavioral issues, trauma, anxiety, and managing difficult life transitions.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and a National Board Certified Counselor (NBCC) with in-depth experience in crisis management, individual, family, and group therapy. I am trained in Trauma- Focused CBT and EMDR both evidenced based practices that have been shown to be highly effective in treating trauma. With intensive training in Dialectal Behavior Therapy (DBT) and mindfulness based interventions, I effectively treat mood instability, behavioral issues, trauma, anxiety, and managing difficult life transitions.
(240) 292-6024 View (240) 292-6024
Photo of Penny Zimmerman, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Penny Zimmerman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20904  (Online Only)
My specialties include life transitions, attachment, trauma, loss, and grief.
Effective 9/22/24, I have immediate availability for new clients... My clients are smart, successful people who want to create change in their lives. Does your life look good on paper, but you don't feel happy or fulfilled? Experiencing mild to moderate anxiety or depression? Maybe, like many, you suffered trauma, now interfering with your quality of life. You want insight and action, process and results, to feel and perform better. Maybe you are the concerned parent of a child, seeking help for emotional or behavior problems.
My specialties include life transitions, attachment, trauma, loss, and grief.
Effective 9/22/24, I have immediate availability for new clients... My clients are smart, successful people who want to create change in their lives. Does your life look good on paper, but you don't feel happy or fulfilled? Experiencing mild to moderate anxiety or depression? Maybe, like many, you suffered trauma, now interfering with your quality of life. You want insight and action, process and results, to feel and perform better. Maybe you are the concerned parent of a child, seeking help for emotional or behavior problems.
(301) 888-5343 View (301) 888-5343
Photo of Shana Frenkel - Healing Harmony Health & Wellness with Shana LLC, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Healing Harmony Health & Wellness with Shana LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20902  (Online Only)
We integrate a holistic model in treating and working to reduce successfully trauma related symptoms including PTSD, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, work performance.
Trauma shatters your world and the world around you, including your personal and professional relationships. Finding your wellness requires having a therapist who understands your needs. We specialize in working with trauma and its related disorders. We bring creativity and above all else sincere caring for our clients. With children, we use play therapy and emotional regulation tools to facilitate and increase the child's wellness. For adolescents and adults, we create a warm self-honoring environment that increases in their ability to develop positive tools to navigate through their traumas, relationships, anxieties, and fears.
We integrate a holistic model in treating and working to reduce successfully trauma related symptoms including PTSD, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, work performance.
Trauma shatters your world and the world around you, including your personal and professional relationships. Finding your wellness requires having a therapist who understands your needs. We specialize in working with trauma and its related disorders. We bring creativity and above all else sincere caring for our clients. With children, we use play therapy and emotional regulation tools to facilitate and increase the child's wellness. For adolescents and adults, we create a warm self-honoring environment that increases in their ability to develop positive tools to navigate through their traumas, relationships, anxieties, and fears.
(240) 453-4828 View (240) 453-4828
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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.