Photo of Dr. Jeanni Aubee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gaithersburg, MD
Dr. Jeanni Aubee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
Teens (13+) and adults gain insight and skills to decrease or eliminate anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, grief, that make school, relationships, work and everyday life difficult. We'll explore the impact early life experiences, relationships have on identity, thought, behavior and mood. We'll replace or reframe thoughts and interpretations, learn positive behavioral skills, develop healthy relationships and learn mood regulation. We'll identify triggers, understand how past experiences affects and informs the present, improve ability to regulate, and uncover patterns/trauma that impact you and implement new behavior patterns.
Teens (13+) and adults gain insight and skills to decrease or eliminate anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, grief, that make school, relationships, work and everyday life difficult. We'll explore the impact early life experiences, relationships have on identity, thought, behavior and mood. We'll replace or reframe thoughts and interpretations, learn positive behavioral skills, develop healthy relationships and learn mood regulation. We'll identify triggers, understand how past experiences affects and informs the present, improve ability to regulate, and uncover patterns/trauma that impact you and implement new behavior patterns.
(301) 781-5497 View (301) 781-5497
Photo of Kaylan Cramer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gaithersburg, MD
Kaylan Cramer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20884  (Online Only)
I believe that true healing happens when a challenge is addressed holistically, and when the client is seen as a whole person. Therapy with me is a safe space to explore your connection with any uncomfortable emotions, disruptive thoughts and behavioral patterns, as well as, complicated relationships with the individuals in your life. I am especially passionate about working with those who suffer with pain and trauma from the past and who are interested in exploring how it affects their everyday life.
I believe that true healing happens when a challenge is addressed holistically, and when the client is seen as a whole person. Therapy with me is a safe space to explore your connection with any uncomfortable emotions, disruptive thoughts and behavioral patterns, as well as, complicated relationships with the individuals in your life. I am especially passionate about working with those who suffer with pain and trauma from the past and who are interested in exploring how it affects their everyday life.
(443) 232-2377 View (443) 232-2377
Photo of Amber Berkhart, Counselor in Gaithersburg, MD
Amber Berkhart
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) with a strong background working with adults and adolescents. Resistance is a completely normal part of the therapeutic process. My goal is to normalize this, and help you work toward acceptance. My experience has focused on addiction, mood disorders, trauma, gender/sexuality, sexual behaviors, and clients who have a difficult time making positive changes in their lives. Making long term, positive change in our lives is a learned skill set that many of us are not taught. It's not too late and every journey begins with one step. I'm here to be a guide on your journey.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) with a strong background working with adults and adolescents. Resistance is a completely normal part of the therapeutic process. My goal is to normalize this, and help you work toward acceptance. My experience has focused on addiction, mood disorders, trauma, gender/sexuality, sexual behaviors, and clients who have a difficult time making positive changes in their lives. Making long term, positive change in our lives is a learned skill set that many of us are not taught. It's not too late and every journey begins with one step. I'm here to be a guide on your journey.
(443) 201-7294 View (443) 201-7294
Photo of Sara Giuliani, Counselor in Gaithersburg, MD
Sara Giuliani
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
Its hard to be a teenager. Often my clients have a desire to better understand themselves and how experiences in their past inform who they are now. They may experience anxiety and depression or feel overwhelmed by stressors in their lives. Oftentimes, they struggle to cope with emotions or day to day stress and can be hard on themselves. I will work with you to process the emotions and beliefs that accompany relationship issues, identity exploration, emotional challenges, or past trauma, so you can move towards a life of fullness and connection with self and others.
Its hard to be a teenager. Often my clients have a desire to better understand themselves and how experiences in their past inform who they are now. They may experience anxiety and depression or feel overwhelmed by stressors in their lives. Oftentimes, they struggle to cope with emotions or day to day stress and can be hard on themselves. I will work with you to process the emotions and beliefs that accompany relationship issues, identity exploration, emotional challenges, or past trauma, so you can move towards a life of fullness and connection with self and others.
(301) 246-2956 View (301) 246-2956
Photo of Dyanne Dunlap, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gaithersburg, MD
Dyanne Dunlap
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
As a therapist, I have 23 years of experience in the mental health field. A graduate of the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Social Work, my mission is to help you identify goals, focus on your future, and empower you to succeed. As a trauma survivor, I naturally relate to others as I empower and encourage you to be the best version of yourself. I have worked in a variety of settings including mental health agencies, residential centers, and psychiatric hospitals. I am accepting new patients exclusively through Telehealth to help people in a safe and convenient way.
As a therapist, I have 23 years of experience in the mental health field. A graduate of the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Social Work, my mission is to help you identify goals, focus on your future, and empower you to succeed. As a trauma survivor, I naturally relate to others as I empower and encourage you to be the best version of yourself. I have worked in a variety of settings including mental health agencies, residential centers, and psychiatric hospitals. I am accepting new patients exclusively through Telehealth to help people in a safe and convenient way.
(301) 835-2570 View (301) 835-2570
Photo of Rachel Sayer, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Gaithersburg, MD
Rachel Sayer
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, LPC, PCIT-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
I'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, certified PCIT therapist, and certified within agency trainer for PCIT, with experience in both short and longer-term therapeutic models of psychotherapy. This includes working to treat anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, trauma, relational difficulties, parent-child attachment challenges, challenges with self-esteem, and supporting individual identity exploration. I believe therapy is a collaborative process to work on each individuals unique needs and goals. I am here to provide guidance and a space to explore your strengths and navigate your therapeutic needs.
I'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, certified PCIT therapist, and certified within agency trainer for PCIT, with experience in both short and longer-term therapeutic models of psychotherapy. This includes working to treat anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, trauma, relational difficulties, parent-child attachment challenges, challenges with self-esteem, and supporting individual identity exploration. I believe therapy is a collaborative process to work on each individuals unique needs and goals. I am here to provide guidance and a space to explore your strengths and navigate your therapeutic needs.
(240) 213-9239 View (240) 213-9239
Photo of Shamonique Diona Driskell, Counselor in Gaithersburg, MD
Shamonique Diona Driskell
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
With over 10 years of experience, I have training and experience in anxiety, personality disorders, depression, complex trauma, attachment theory, family systems, and intimate partner violence.
I believe that everyone has the ability to change. Sometimes it can be difficult being in the driver seat alone, so why not allow me to be there for you as the passenger? From my perspective, the client plays an integral role as the expert of their life. In sharing their journey with me, I hope to help them work towards sustainable growth and healing. My ideal client is someone who may be experiencing difficulty navigating their day-to-day responsibilities due to past trauma, current life stressors, and relationship issues.
With over 10 years of experience, I have training and experience in anxiety, personality disorders, depression, complex trauma, attachment theory, family systems, and intimate partner violence.
I believe that everyone has the ability to change. Sometimes it can be difficult being in the driver seat alone, so why not allow me to be there for you as the passenger? From my perspective, the client plays an integral role as the expert of their life. In sharing their journey with me, I hope to help them work towards sustainable growth and healing. My ideal client is someone who may be experiencing difficulty navigating their day-to-day responsibilities due to past trauma, current life stressors, and relationship issues.
(301) 753-8030 View (301) 753-8030
Photo of Deb Dunman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gaithersburg, MD
Deb Dunman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with clients in a variety of clinical settings, and I believe Telehealth is an important tool to meet clients where they are, in safe place, and without judgement. I utilize multiple therapeutic approaches in my practice including frameworks from DBT, CBT, ACT, Motivational Interviewing, mindfulness, mind-body connection, holistic, systems focused, trauma informed, and person-centered modalities. During the initial session, we will review your therapeutic history and any experiences, symptoms, and environments that present conflict or challenge. From there we will forge a path forward.
I have extensive experience working with clients in a variety of clinical settings, and I believe Telehealth is an important tool to meet clients where they are, in safe place, and without judgement. I utilize multiple therapeutic approaches in my practice including frameworks from DBT, CBT, ACT, Motivational Interviewing, mindfulness, mind-body connection, holistic, systems focused, trauma informed, and person-centered modalities. During the initial session, we will review your therapeutic history and any experiences, symptoms, and environments that present conflict or challenge. From there we will forge a path forward.
(301) 691-2863 View (301) 691-2863
Photo of Atar Stav, Counselor in Gaithersburg, MD
Atar Stav
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
Using my expertise in trauma, somatic, cognitive and narrative therapy, I will help you understand how the stories of your life have shaped your experience and worldview of your role in relationships.
Has your partner become a roommate instead of a romantic partner? Do one or both of you lack physical desire for each other? Are you struggling with how to reconnect sexually and regain the intimacy you once shared? Or perhaps you want to work individually, feel empowered, and have more joy and pleasure in your life? Working from a strengths based & holistic perspective, I am skilled at creating a warm, open space to help individuals and couples increase intimacy, enhance understanding, navigate changing roles, set boundaries, resolve conflicts, heal trauma, and create satisfying relationships.
Using my expertise in trauma, somatic, cognitive and narrative therapy, I will help you understand how the stories of your life have shaped your experience and worldview of your role in relationships.
Has your partner become a roommate instead of a romantic partner? Do one or both of you lack physical desire for each other? Are you struggling with how to reconnect sexually and regain the intimacy you once shared? Or perhaps you want to work individually, feel empowered, and have more joy and pleasure in your life? Working from a strengths based & holistic perspective, I am skilled at creating a warm, open space to help individuals and couples increase intimacy, enhance understanding, navigate changing roles, set boundaries, resolve conflicts, heal trauma, and create satisfying relationships.
(240) 202-2410 View (240) 202-2410
Photo of Amelia Hutchins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gaithersburg, MD
Amelia Hutchins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
Amelia Hutchins, LCSW-C, is a licensed clinical social worker who has expertise working with adults, adolescents, and children from different backgrounds in terms of race, ethnicity, culture, religion/spirituality, gender identity, and sexual orientation. Amelia is also specialized in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/loss, relational difficulties, and difficult life transitions. Amelia's ultimate passion is to help you fulfill your mental wellness goals and needs.
Amelia Hutchins, LCSW-C, is a licensed clinical social worker who has expertise working with adults, adolescents, and children from different backgrounds in terms of race, ethnicity, culture, religion/spirituality, gender identity, and sexual orientation. Amelia is also specialized in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/loss, relational difficulties, and difficult life transitions. Amelia's ultimate passion is to help you fulfill your mental wellness goals and needs.
(240) 201-2039 View (240) 201-2039
Photo of DBT Maryland LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gaithersburg, MD
DBT Maryland LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
At DBT Maryland, we believe that in order to grow and make changes in their lives, people need validation, support and practical skills. We strive to provide empathic, accepting and productive therapeutic relationships so you can feel safe while moving toward your goals. Each person's situation is unique and our therapy approach will be designed to meet your individual needs. Many of our clients suffer from problems of emotional dysregulation (borderline personality, PTSD, depression, anxiety & bipolar) most effectively addressed by a comprehensive Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) program.
At DBT Maryland, we believe that in order to grow and make changes in their lives, people need validation, support and practical skills. We strive to provide empathic, accepting and productive therapeutic relationships so you can feel safe while moving toward your goals. Each person's situation is unique and our therapy approach will be designed to meet your individual needs. Many of our clients suffer from problems of emotional dysregulation (borderline personality, PTSD, depression, anxiety & bipolar) most effectively addressed by a comprehensive Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) program.
(240) 301-1474 View (240) 301-1474
Photo of Michael Patrick Donovan, Counselor in Gaithersburg, MD
Michael Patrick Donovan
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
* NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS FOR THERAPY AND NEUROFEEDBACK TRAINING * I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) who helps adults, couples, and teenagers address a variety of mental health concerns, including: anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, and difficulties related to life's everyday challenges. I am also board-certified with the Biofeedback Certification International Alliance (BCIA), and can combine neurofeedback training with psychotherapy sessions to help clients conceptualize and address their treatment goals from an emotional, behavioral, and neurological science-based perspective.
* NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS FOR THERAPY AND NEUROFEEDBACK TRAINING * I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) who helps adults, couples, and teenagers address a variety of mental health concerns, including: anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, and difficulties related to life's everyday challenges. I am also board-certified with the Biofeedback Certification International Alliance (BCIA), and can combine neurofeedback training with psychotherapy sessions to help clients conceptualize and address their treatment goals from an emotional, behavioral, and neurological science-based perspective.
(410) 927-6237 View (410) 927-6237
Photo of Rose Wellness, Counselor in Gaithersburg, MD
Rose Wellness
Counselor, MS, ACRPS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20879  (Online Only)
At Rose Wellness, our clinicians have a variety of specialties which include depression & anxiety, relationships, substance use, LGBTQIA+ and gender affirming care, and who are trauma-informed, trained in EMDR, and treat children, adolescents, teenagers, and adults. We currently have 17 amazing therapists, and most are in network with Carefirst, United, Aetna, Cigna, and Medicaid.
At Rose Wellness, our clinicians have a variety of specialties which include depression & anxiety, relationships, substance use, LGBTQIA+ and gender affirming care, and who are trauma-informed, trained in EMDR, and treat children, adolescents, teenagers, and adults. We currently have 17 amazing therapists, and most are in network with Carefirst, United, Aetna, Cigna, and Medicaid.
(443) 323-2059 View (443) 323-2059
Photo of Julia Rasnake, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gaithersburg, MD
Julia Rasnake
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
Painful experiences impact us throughout our lives, harming our sense of self and changing our life paths. You may be dealing with scary thoughts, gut-wrenching emotions, intrusive memories, and perhaps panic, guilt or shame. The loss, trauma, and abuse that can occur in our relationships, families and experiences impacts our bodies and our minds. You deserve to heal, and step into a future where you feel resilient, empowered, peaceful and accepted as you are.
Painful experiences impact us throughout our lives, harming our sense of self and changing our life paths. You may be dealing with scary thoughts, gut-wrenching emotions, intrusive memories, and perhaps panic, guilt or shame. The loss, trauma, and abuse that can occur in our relationships, families and experiences impacts our bodies and our minds. You deserve to heal, and step into a future where you feel resilient, empowered, peaceful and accepted as you are.
(443) 888-2533 View (443) 888-2533
Photo of Christina Chacko, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gaithersburg, MD
Christina Chacko
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20877
With a trauma informed, person centered approach I aim to create a space where acceptance, understanding, respect, and autonomy are top priorities.
Life happens to all of us; stressors are inevitable, unresolved feelings may arise and it can all be just a little bit overwhelming. Despite our best efforts we may find ourselves overly stressed, alone, anxious, or just tired. Whether it’s dealing with a transition, a loss, a tragedy, a relationship, or just the daily highs and lows, we all deserve a place to decompress and process what life throws at us. Maybe this is a tough season for you, or maybe you just need support as you work on your goals. Therapy should act as both a safe space filled with warmth and compassion, and a brave space that challenges and empowers.
With a trauma informed, person centered approach I aim to create a space where acceptance, understanding, respect, and autonomy are top priorities.
Life happens to all of us; stressors are inevitable, unresolved feelings may arise and it can all be just a little bit overwhelming. Despite our best efforts we may find ourselves overly stressed, alone, anxious, or just tired. Whether it’s dealing with a transition, a loss, a tragedy, a relationship, or just the daily highs and lows, we all deserve a place to decompress and process what life throws at us. Maybe this is a tough season for you, or maybe you just need support as you work on your goals. Therapy should act as both a safe space filled with warmth and compassion, and a brave space that challenges and empowers.
(301) 804-2436 View (301) 804-2436
Photo of Cat Graves, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gaithersburg, MD
Cat Graves
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
Waitlist for new clients
I treat depression, anxiety, and trauma.
Choosing to engage in therapy is a courageous choice (even when it doesn’t feel that way). In working with children, teens, and adults, I have appreciated and valued the concept of healing the whole person on all levels - body, mind, and spirit. I feel it also important to acknowledge systems that have impacted your life, am socially conscious in my work with clients— all identities, cultures, and types of relationships are welcome.
I treat depression, anxiety, and trauma.
Choosing to engage in therapy is a courageous choice (even when it doesn’t feel that way). In working with children, teens, and adults, I have appreciated and valued the concept of healing the whole person on all levels - body, mind, and spirit. I feel it also important to acknowledge systems that have impacted your life, am socially conscious in my work with clients— all identities, cultures, and types of relationships are welcome.
(443) 971-3478 View (443) 971-3478
Photo of Joan Moore, Psychological Associate in Gaithersburg, MD
Joan Moore
Psychological Associate, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
Dr. Joan Moore (she/her) has a passion for helping people navigate the complexities of life and strives to assist them with reaching their personal goals. Joan uses a cognitive behavioral, trauma-informed, and integrative approach to help individuals and couples explore their thoughts, emotions, and life experiences. Joan is particularly interested in working with survivors of trauma, adults, couples, adolescents and their families, and individuals from marginalized communities. She takes a strengths-based, trauma-informed approach, recognizing the impact systemic oppression and stigma can have on a person's wellbeing.
Dr. Joan Moore (she/her) has a passion for helping people navigate the complexities of life and strives to assist them with reaching their personal goals. Joan uses a cognitive behavioral, trauma-informed, and integrative approach to help individuals and couples explore their thoughts, emotions, and life experiences. Joan is particularly interested in working with survivors of trauma, adults, couples, adolescents and their families, and individuals from marginalized communities. She takes a strengths-based, trauma-informed approach, recognizing the impact systemic oppression and stigma can have on a person's wellbeing.
(301) 381-2194 View (301) 381-2194
Photo of Shayne Couch-Murray, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gaithersburg, MD
Shayne Couch-Murray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20877  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have expertise in assisting individuals with: navigating coming out and achieving self-acceptance, exploring gender identity and transitioning, addressing QTB2SLGBTQ+ relationship and family dynamics, overcoming specific trauma and discrimination, managing anxiety, depression, and substance use within the Queer community, understanding intersectionality.
Peace, I’m Shayne. I am a passionate and empathetic therapist dedicated to providing inclusive and affirming mental health support for individuals within the QTBIPOC community. As a Black TransMasc person, I understand the unique challenges and experiences that QTBIPOC individuals may face, and I strive to create a safe and accepting space for all clients. I have extensive experience working with clients across various identities within the 2SLGBTQ+ folx in addition to couples.
I have expertise in assisting individuals with: navigating coming out and achieving self-acceptance, exploring gender identity and transitioning, addressing QTB2SLGBTQ+ relationship and family dynamics, overcoming specific trauma and discrimination, managing anxiety, depression, and substance use within the Queer community, understanding intersectionality.
Peace, I’m Shayne. I am a passionate and empathetic therapist dedicated to providing inclusive and affirming mental health support for individuals within the QTBIPOC community. As a Black TransMasc person, I understand the unique challenges and experiences that QTBIPOC individuals may face, and I strive to create a safe and accepting space for all clients. I have extensive experience working with clients across various identities within the 2SLGBTQ+ folx in addition to couples.
(410) 888-0683 View (410) 888-0683
Photo of Alem Asefa, Counselor in Gaithersburg, MD
Alem Asefa
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
Individuals looking to manage or eliminate depression, trauma, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, low self-esteem, health challenges, career stress, relationship issues, grief and loss, identity/immigrant experiences and transitions work with me to identify and implement strategies to manage or eliminate stress and distress. Through identifying, understanding and evaluating emotional states, thinking and behavior patterns we eliminate and replace unproductive habits with more adaptive patterns toward an increased sense of well-being and ability to thrive and function satisfactorily.
Individuals looking to manage or eliminate depression, trauma, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, low self-esteem, health challenges, career stress, relationship issues, grief and loss, identity/immigrant experiences and transitions work with me to identify and implement strategies to manage or eliminate stress and distress. Through identifying, understanding and evaluating emotional states, thinking and behavior patterns we eliminate and replace unproductive habits with more adaptive patterns toward an increased sense of well-being and ability to thrive and function satisfactorily.
(240) 221-5216 View (240) 221-5216
Photo of Sarah Cardenas, Pre-Licensed Professional in Gaithersburg, MD
Sarah Cardenas
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
I work with adult to improve self worth, address the impact of immigrant/expat experiences and identity, manage anxiety, depression, ADHD and PTSD, address negative experiences due to LGBTQ+ or BIPOC identity, regulate mood, address stress in relationships, manage transitions, resolve shame, process and resolve trauma. I also offer psychotherapy to manage anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, sexual difficulties, OCD and more. I provide 50-minute therapy sessions to allow clients to gain insight into the psychological impact of past and ongoing relationships, patterns and experiences and learn new skills.
I work with adult to improve self worth, address the impact of immigrant/expat experiences and identity, manage anxiety, depression, ADHD and PTSD, address negative experiences due to LGBTQ+ or BIPOC identity, regulate mood, address stress in relationships, manage transitions, resolve shame, process and resolve trauma. I also offer psychotherapy to manage anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, sexual difficulties, OCD and more. I provide 50-minute therapy sessions to allow clients to gain insight into the psychological impact of past and ongoing relationships, patterns and experiences and learn new skills.
(301) 701-2882 View (301) 701-2882

See more therapy options for Gaithersburg

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.