Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Baltimore, MD

Photo of Melissa Huang, Counselor in Baltimore, MD
Melissa Huang
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21209
Melissa Huang (she/her) is a holistic psychotherapist that specializes in individuals who are experiencing chronic treatment resistant depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Melissa is especially passionate about helping individuals who are experiencing transitions, grief, isolation, or relationship issues. Melissa guides clients in tapping into their own intuitive wisdom and experience feelings of empowerment, connection, and freedom. She is passionate about helping clients foster high self confidence, creativity, and autonomy.
Melissa Huang (she/her) is a holistic psychotherapist that specializes in individuals who are experiencing chronic treatment resistant depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Melissa is especially passionate about helping individuals who are experiencing transitions, grief, isolation, or relationship issues. Melissa guides clients in tapping into their own intuitive wisdom and experience feelings of empowerment, connection, and freedom. She is passionate about helping clients foster high self confidence, creativity, and autonomy.
(443) 565-6832 View (443) 565-6832
Photo of Patti Rabinowitz, Art Therapist in Baltimore, MD
Patti Rabinowitz
Art Therapist, MA, LCPC, LCPAT, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21211  (Online Only)
As a trauma informed therapist I also understand that stressful experiences impact people in many different ways, showing up in emotional and physical health, interpersonal relationships, and sense of safety.
I enjoy working with all ages, and specialize in issues of anxiety, communication, improving mood, identity, and increasing self-compassion and self-esteem. I know importance of establishing a trusting therapeutic relationship, and begin with individuals by building that rapport.
As a trauma informed therapist I also understand that stressful experiences impact people in many different ways, showing up in emotional and physical health, interpersonal relationships, and sense of safety.
I enjoy working with all ages, and specialize in issues of anxiety, communication, improving mood, identity, and increasing self-compassion and self-esteem. I know importance of establishing a trusting therapeutic relationship, and begin with individuals by building that rapport.
(410) 873-9869 View (410) 873-9869
Photo of Jennifer McShea, Counselor in Baltimore, MD
Jennifer McShea
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21211
With mindfulness, we will explore how relational conditioning and trauma impact your body, mind, and spirit while achieving present moment awareness and nervous system regulation to increase your resilience.
What if you could experience mental clarity, ease in your body, and make peace with all parts of yourself? Do you feel ready to explore outdated personal strategies so you can expand into your authentic self-expression? I help adults become aware of, and liberate from adaptive patterns that have outlived their usefulness. By exploring and integrating defended parts of self, I can help you to remember your inherent wholeness. My approach is collaborative and non-judgmental. I honor diversity and provide a safe space for clients to access their inner wisdom.
With mindfulness, we will explore how relational conditioning and trauma impact your body, mind, and spirit while achieving present moment awareness and nervous system regulation to increase your resilience.
What if you could experience mental clarity, ease in your body, and make peace with all parts of yourself? Do you feel ready to explore outdated personal strategies so you can expand into your authentic self-expression? I help adults become aware of, and liberate from adaptive patterns that have outlived their usefulness. By exploring and integrating defended parts of self, I can help you to remember your inherent wholeness. My approach is collaborative and non-judgmental. I honor diversity and provide a safe space for clients to access their inner wisdom.
(443) 892-7328 View (443) 892-7328
Photo of Dr. Meredith McHugh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baltimore, MD
Dr. Meredith McHugh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, PhD
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21211  (Online Only)
My background in psychology, neuroscience, and social work provides a rich perspective on the effects of trauma and stress on our brains, minds, and bodies.
Therapy with me will provide a safe, warm, nonjudgmental, identity-affirming space where you will feel fully heard and understood. Within an anti-oppressive, trauma-centered framework we will explore how past and present experiences have shaped the distress, anxiety, anger, or hopelessness you may be carrying. We will identify the ways you have adapted to these experiences and how this may be contributing to the stress/trauma held in your brain and body and carried into your relationships. I will support and challenge you to grow and heal from this.
My background in psychology, neuroscience, and social work provides a rich perspective on the effects of trauma and stress on our brains, minds, and bodies.
Therapy with me will provide a safe, warm, nonjudgmental, identity-affirming space where you will feel fully heard and understood. Within an anti-oppressive, trauma-centered framework we will explore how past and present experiences have shaped the distress, anxiety, anger, or hopelessness you may be carrying. We will identify the ways you have adapted to these experiences and how this may be contributing to the stress/trauma held in your brain and body and carried into your relationships. I will support and challenge you to grow and heal from this.
(443) 552-5179 View (443) 552-5179
Photo of Moshe L. Miller, Psychologist in Baltimore, MD
Moshe L. Miller
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21209
As a licensed clinical psychologist I specialize in the treatment of Anxiety and Trauma related disorders including Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Generalized Anxiety, Social Anxiety, Specific Phobias, and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). I am passionate about flexibly applying evidence-based treatments to help you live a vital and rich life. If you are looking to get unstuck and back to a meaningful life, I am excited to help you take that journey.
As a licensed clinical psychologist I specialize in the treatment of Anxiety and Trauma related disorders including Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Generalized Anxiety, Social Anxiety, Specific Phobias, and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). I am passionate about flexibly applying evidence-based treatments to help you live a vital and rich life. If you are looking to get unstuck and back to a meaningful life, I am excited to help you take that journey.
(667) 222-5581 View (667) 222-5581
Photo of Noson Berman, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Baltimore, MD
Noson Berman
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MFT, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21208
Utilizing a strength based approach, advanced trauma training, somatic awareness, and advanced relationship training I have helped my clients take back their lives, find their identity, and connect with their loved ones.
Are you having trouble communicating with your spouse, your parents, or your children? Do you want to connect in a meaningful way with your family, friends and, dare I say, yourself? Are you having trouble in school, at work, or just figuring out who you are and where you want to be? I have been involved in the mental health field in various capacities for 20 years helping people organize their lives, find a self identity, and communicate and connect with their spouses and families.
Utilizing a strength based approach, advanced trauma training, somatic awareness, and advanced relationship training I have helped my clients take back their lives, find their identity, and connect with their loved ones.
Are you having trouble communicating with your spouse, your parents, or your children? Do you want to connect in a meaningful way with your family, friends and, dare I say, yourself? Are you having trouble in school, at work, or just figuring out who you are and where you want to be? I have been involved in the mental health field in various capacities for 20 years helping people organize their lives, find a self identity, and communicate and connect with their spouses and families.
(443) 380-4392 View (443) 380-4392
Photo of Susan Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baltimore, MD
Susan Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21211
I've worked with adults, children and families for over 30 years. I believe therapy is a shared journey, where we build on your strengths. We'll develop a safe place for you, as you re-discover lost aspects of yourself. Life is tough and having non judgemental support of an understanding therapist, can help with sensitive areas. I work with trauma issues, helping people move through traumatic experiences so they have fulfilling relationships and joy in life. I'm accepting new clients, depending on your availabilty.
I've worked with adults, children and families for over 30 years. I believe therapy is a shared journey, where we build on your strengths. We'll develop a safe place for you, as you re-discover lost aspects of yourself. Life is tough and having non judgemental support of an understanding therapist, can help with sensitive areas. I work with trauma issues, helping people move through traumatic experiences so they have fulfilling relationships and joy in life. I'm accepting new clients, depending on your availabilty.
(443) 918-5218 View (443) 918-5218
Photo of Andy Santanello, Psychologist in Baltimore, MD
Andy Santanello
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21239
I have been very fortunate to have received extensive training in many of the best, evidence-based psychological treatments for anxiety, depression, trauma, and many of the other common struggles.
The Evening Gatha, one of my favorite Zen chants, has a line that goes "Time passes swiftly by and opportunity is lost." Ain't it the truth? I'm glad you are looking for a therapist to help you through the things that are holding you back. I work with independent ADULTS (sorry, work with children, teens, or couples is outside of my areas of expertise) who are ready to take an honest look at the trajectory of their lives. What better time than right now to make a course-correction? It's not going to be easy, but nothing worth doing ever is. A vital lifestyle is available to you. You just need to take the first step.
I have been very fortunate to have received extensive training in many of the best, evidence-based psychological treatments for anxiety, depression, trauma, and many of the other common struggles.
The Evening Gatha, one of my favorite Zen chants, has a line that goes "Time passes swiftly by and opportunity is lost." Ain't it the truth? I'm glad you are looking for a therapist to help you through the things that are holding you back. I work with independent ADULTS (sorry, work with children, teens, or couples is outside of my areas of expertise) who are ready to take an honest look at the trajectory of their lives. What better time than right now to make a course-correction? It's not going to be easy, but nothing worth doing ever is. A vital lifestyle is available to you. You just need to take the first step.
(443) 856-6004 View (443) 856-6004
Photo of Gabriella Janet King, Counselor in Baltimore, MD
Gabriella Janet King
Counselor, MS, LGPC
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21211
I welcome clients who have experienced blatant trauma such as childhood physical or sexual abuse, as well as clients who have had subtler traumatic experiences, including harsh criticism, over-protection, diagnosis or misdiagnosis with a mental disorder, emotional abandonment, and many other events that shatter self-esteem.
Each of us has the right to a safe, warm, environment in which we feel respected, listened to and truly understood. As a therapist, I work hard to provide that environment and to be that person who deeply gets you. When we suffer, whether as children or adults, we often are left with a sense of loss of self. A key purpose of therapy, in my view, is to find, reclaim, or strengthen your authentic self and to let that authentic self take the lead in your life.
I welcome clients who have experienced blatant trauma such as childhood physical or sexual abuse, as well as clients who have had subtler traumatic experiences, including harsh criticism, over-protection, diagnosis or misdiagnosis with a mental disorder, emotional abandonment, and many other events that shatter self-esteem.
Each of us has the right to a safe, warm, environment in which we feel respected, listened to and truly understood. As a therapist, I work hard to provide that environment and to be that person who deeply gets you. When we suffer, whether as children or adults, we often are left with a sense of loss of self. A key purpose of therapy, in my view, is to find, reclaim, or strengthen your authentic self and to let that authentic self take the lead in your life.
(443) 870-4493 View (443) 870-4493
Photo of Dr. Rebecca Silver, Psychologist in Baltimore, MD
Dr. Rebecca Silver
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21211
Have you been feeling stressed, sad, stuck, lost and/or anxious? In therapy, we can create healing and inner peace by increasing self awareness and enhancing skills to soothe intense emotions/symptoms that accompany complex life stressors. I specialize in the areas of anxiety, infertility, parenting challenges, relationship/marital conflict, and childhood/adult trauma. I'm a compassionate listener who will challenge problematic ways of thinking/being with intention, humor, and warmth. Together, we'll explore past experiences, process ongoing struggles, and work collaboratively to maximize your emotional wellness and personal growth.
Have you been feeling stressed, sad, stuck, lost and/or anxious? In therapy, we can create healing and inner peace by increasing self awareness and enhancing skills to soothe intense emotions/symptoms that accompany complex life stressors. I specialize in the areas of anxiety, infertility, parenting challenges, relationship/marital conflict, and childhood/adult trauma. I'm a compassionate listener who will challenge problematic ways of thinking/being with intention, humor, and warmth. Together, we'll explore past experiences, process ongoing struggles, and work collaboratively to maximize your emotional wellness and personal growth.
(443) 231-3220 View (443) 231-3220
Photo of Lynn Panepinto, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baltimore, MD
Lynn Panepinto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21218  (Online Only)
At this time, I specialize in supporting children, adolescents, and young adults who are healing from trauma, managing anxiety, or undergoing life changes.
Hello! Thanks for visiting my profile. I’m originally from Philadelphia and now based in Baltimore. I am licensed in both Maryland and Texas (where I previously lived and went to graduate school). I have worked in the social services field for over 15 years and have been a licensed social worker and practicing therapist for 5 years. Most of my experience has consisted of working with survivors of violence (family, intimate partner, and/or sexual violence) as well as with Spanish-speaking immigrants. I enjoy working with caregivers and their children and with mixed status immigrant families.
At this time, I specialize in supporting children, adolescents, and young adults who are healing from trauma, managing anxiety, or undergoing life changes.
Hello! Thanks for visiting my profile. I’m originally from Philadelphia and now based in Baltimore. I am licensed in both Maryland and Texas (where I previously lived and went to graduate school). I have worked in the social services field for over 15 years and have been a licensed social worker and practicing therapist for 5 years. Most of my experience has consisted of working with survivors of violence (family, intimate partner, and/or sexual violence) as well as with Spanish-speaking immigrants. I enjoy working with caregivers and their children and with mixed status immigrant families.
(410) 514-3406 View (410) 514-3406
Photo of Dr Brian J Hall, PhD Therapy Associates , Psychologist in Baltimore, MD
Dr Brian J Hall, PhD Therapy Associates 
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21202  (Online Only)
As a therapist specializing in depression, anxiety, work stress, and trauma, I offer empathetic support tailored to individual needs. Through evidence-based techniques and a nonjudgmental approach, I empower clients to navigate challenges, gain insight, and develop coping strategies. With convenient online sessions, I aim to break down barriers to mental health care, providing accessible and effective support for a more fulfilling life.
As a therapist specializing in depression, anxiety, work stress, and trauma, I offer empathetic support tailored to individual needs. Through evidence-based techniques and a nonjudgmental approach, I empower clients to navigate challenges, gain insight, and develop coping strategies. With convenient online sessions, I aim to break down barriers to mental health care, providing accessible and effective support for a more fulfilling life.
(443) 339-9417 View (443) 339-9417
Photo of Nicholas A. L. Etheridge, Counselor in Baltimore, MD
Nicholas A. L. Etheridge
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21214
Waitlist for new clients
I do therapy backwards. I help people first find acceptance of what's challenging them, and focus on making that feeling of discomfort feel safe. I believe that allowing the experience of the full range of human emotions is key to reclaiming and strengthening our emotional resiliency. We can accept the presence of discomfort and feel joy, while identifying and making changes based on who we want to be or know we are. My therapy practice is based in an understanding of the nervous system, mindfulness, and the ways we all experience and react to trauma and distress.
I do therapy backwards. I help people first find acceptance of what's challenging them, and focus on making that feeling of discomfort feel safe. I believe that allowing the experience of the full range of human emotions is key to reclaiming and strengthening our emotional resiliency. We can accept the presence of discomfort and feel joy, while identifying and making changes based on who we want to be or know we are. My therapy practice is based in an understanding of the nervous system, mindfulness, and the ways we all experience and react to trauma and distress.
(443) 665-0577 View (443) 665-0577
Photo of Sky Koch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baltimore, MD
Sky Koch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21210
I specialize in working with college age adults, mothers of young children, and families who are struggling with anxiety, trauma, and life stress, utilizing holistic, evidence-based approaches to meet your needs. As a therapist, I am passionate about helping individuals improve their emotional well-being and find a sense of peace and fulfillment in their lives. Therapy provides an opportunity to make growth in all areas from the inside out.
I specialize in working with college age adults, mothers of young children, and families who are struggling with anxiety, trauma, and life stress, utilizing holistic, evidence-based approaches to meet your needs. As a therapist, I am passionate about helping individuals improve their emotional well-being and find a sense of peace and fulfillment in their lives. Therapy provides an opportunity to make growth in all areas from the inside out.
(443) 232-0654 View (443) 232-0654
Photo of Sara Nett, Psychologist in Baltimore, MD
Sara Nett
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21209
For additional information about what it's like to work with me, the philosophy behind evidence-based practice, and information about my practice specialties (anxiety, phobias, trauma recovery, & perinatal mental health, including postpartum adjustment), please visit my website: www.
“I've been anxious for a long time. I used to be able to manage, but I feel like I've lost control. I worry that I'm going crazy, or that something inside of me is broken. I just want all of this to stop. I want to feel calmer and more confident. I want to look to the future with interest and optimism, rather than with fear and hopelessness. I've tried everything, including medicine, but nothing has worked in a lasting way. I fear I’m running out of options, and that scares me."
For additional information about what it's like to work with me, the philosophy behind evidence-based practice, and information about my practice specialties (anxiety, phobias, trauma recovery, & perinatal mental health, including postpartum adjustment), please visit my website: www.
“I've been anxious for a long time. I used to be able to manage, but I feel like I've lost control. I worry that I'm going crazy, or that something inside of me is broken. I just want all of this to stop. I want to feel calmer and more confident. I want to look to the future with interest and optimism, rather than with fear and hopelessness. I've tried everything, including medicine, but nothing has worked in a lasting way. I fear I’m running out of options, and that scares me."
(443) 470-3124 View (443) 470-3124
Photo of Eliana Walter, Counselor in Baltimore, MD
Eliana Walter
Counselor, MS, LGPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21211  (Online Only)
Making the decision to go to therapy can be scary, daunting and overwhelming. I know that it takes a tremendous amount of courage to pursue therapy and I appreciate your effort in reaching out. My main interests are in working with children and effective ways to help children navigate their emotions, although I see clients across the lifespan. My primary areas of clinical concentration are; child abuse, ADHD, PTSD, and anxiety. I can offer a safe place to explore whatever challenges you are facing and provide guidance to aid you through your own process.
Making the decision to go to therapy can be scary, daunting and overwhelming. I know that it takes a tremendous amount of courage to pursue therapy and I appreciate your effort in reaching out. My main interests are in working with children and effective ways to help children navigate their emotions, although I see clients across the lifespan. My primary areas of clinical concentration are; child abuse, ADHD, PTSD, and anxiety. I can offer a safe place to explore whatever challenges you are facing and provide guidance to aid you through your own process.
(443) 241-5517 View (443) 241-5517
Photo of Bethany Henderson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baltimore, MD
Bethany Henderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, CAPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21211
Waitlist for new clients
I have extensive training in somatic, mindfulness-based, and internal family systems work as tools to help explore and engage in processing experiences of trauma.
I am a queer identified clinical social worker who is dedicated to supporting queer, trans and gender-diverse youth, adolescents, adults and families. I have extensive experience in working with individuals who are navigating their sexuality and/or gender identity, as well as providing family support. I approach therapy from a liberation-focused framework, focusing on your strengths and identifying and confronting oppression-based and/or structural barriers. I provide gender affirming surgical evaluations and letters free of charge.
I have extensive training in somatic, mindfulness-based, and internal family systems work as tools to help explore and engage in processing experiences of trauma.
I am a queer identified clinical social worker who is dedicated to supporting queer, trans and gender-diverse youth, adolescents, adults and families. I have extensive experience in working with individuals who are navigating their sexuality and/or gender identity, as well as providing family support. I approach therapy from a liberation-focused framework, focusing on your strengths and identifying and confronting oppression-based and/or structural barriers. I provide gender affirming surgical evaluations and letters free of charge.
(667) 213-5623 View (667) 213-5623
Photo of Kenya Dickens, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baltimore, MD
Kenya Dickens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21210  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with people who are experiencing Intergenerational Trauma, Sexual Trauma, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders, Grief/loss, Intimate Partner Violence, Stress Management, and Life Changes.
Welcome to this space - I see you! I see that you are ready and open to truly take care of yourself and prioritize your wellbeing. You may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, sad, or frustrated. You may experience difficulty at work, in your relationships, or in creating the next steps for your life. Together, we can help you identify what is holding you back, develop a plan to enhance your self esteem, skills, or mood, and work together on creating more ease, stability, and happiness for you. Therapy is the only relationship in your life that is all about you. So, let's focus on what you want and need.
I enjoy working with people who are experiencing Intergenerational Trauma, Sexual Trauma, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders, Grief/loss, Intimate Partner Violence, Stress Management, and Life Changes.
Welcome to this space - I see you! I see that you are ready and open to truly take care of yourself and prioritize your wellbeing. You may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, sad, or frustrated. You may experience difficulty at work, in your relationships, or in creating the next steps for your life. Together, we can help you identify what is holding you back, develop a plan to enhance your self esteem, skills, or mood, and work together on creating more ease, stability, and happiness for you. Therapy is the only relationship in your life that is all about you. So, let's focus on what you want and need.
(410) 824-5172 View (410) 824-5172
Photo of Matt Ewen, Counselor in Baltimore, MD
Matt Ewen
Counselor, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21209  (Online Only)
I specialize in treatment for anxiety, depression, & trauma as well as struggles with substance use and always adapt my therapeutic techniques to the individual needs of my clients.
With all of the challenges that life can throw at us, it is easy to feel overwhelmed or helpless. Life satisfaction and happiness might seem like distant goals with no clear path forward to reach them. You may find that you are spending more and more time stuck in your own head, perseverating on your struggles and acting as your own harshest critic. To me, therapy rooted in compassion and empathy can be a fantastic tool for navigating these challenges and discovering meaning and self-empowerment.
I specialize in treatment for anxiety, depression, & trauma as well as struggles with substance use and always adapt my therapeutic techniques to the individual needs of my clients.
With all of the challenges that life can throw at us, it is easy to feel overwhelmed or helpless. Life satisfaction and happiness might seem like distant goals with no clear path forward to reach them. You may find that you are spending more and more time stuck in your own head, perseverating on your struggles and acting as your own harshest critic. To me, therapy rooted in compassion and empathy can be a fantastic tool for navigating these challenges and discovering meaning and self-empowerment.
(443) 672-4737 View (443) 672-4737
Photo of Donald Dolan, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Baltimore, MD
Donald Dolan
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, CGCS, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21211  (Online Only)
Each person faces issues unique to their life and while my training and education are integrative and rooted in specific evidence-based practices I understand that each client is unique and requires a tailored approach. I have my Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Johns Hopkins University and am a nationally certified counselor. I have experience and knowledge in issues ranging from trauma, anxiety disorders, depression, and grief. I help clients develop strategies to encourage emotional well-being, explore attachment, and break old patterns of behavior that cause impairment in their daily functioning.
Each person faces issues unique to their life and while my training and education are integrative and rooted in specific evidence-based practices I understand that each client is unique and requires a tailored approach. I have my Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Johns Hopkins University and am a nationally certified counselor. I have experience and knowledge in issues ranging from trauma, anxiety disorders, depression, and grief. I help clients develop strategies to encourage emotional well-being, explore attachment, and break old patterns of behavior that cause impairment in their daily functioning.
(410) 657-5884 View (410) 657-5884

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.