Therapists in Montgomery County, MD

Photo of Emily Lauren, Counselor in Montgomery County, MD
Emily Lauren
Counselor, LGPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20850
Emily (she/her) graduated from Northwestern University with her MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, with an adolescent and trauma concentration.
Putting yourself first can be difficult, let me help you.
Emily (she/her) graduated from Northwestern University with her MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, with an adolescent and trauma concentration.
Putting yourself first can be difficult, let me help you.
(202) 779-3916 View (202) 779-3916
Photo of Alexandra Mai, LMSW — Anxiety, Addiction, Biplolar in Montgomery County, MD
Alexandra Mai, LMSW — Anxiety, Addiction, Biplolar
LMSW
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20852
Do you or your teen struggle with anxiety, depression, or substance abuse? Do you need to heal from a recent or past trauma? Are you frequently nervous, or do you have trouble sleeping? In therapy, you can build coping skills that you can start applying right away in everyday life to feel calmer and more in control. We will work to equip you with the internal resources that you need to thrive. Our goal will be resilience and sustained healing. You can gain clarity on what matters to you most. You can open up to your feelings, thoughts, and emotions. Contact me today to learn more about therapy. I am looking forward to helping!
Do you or your teen struggle with anxiety, depression, or substance abuse? Do you need to heal from a recent or past trauma? Are you frequently nervous, or do you have trouble sleeping? In therapy, you can build coping skills that you can start applying right away in everyday life to feel calmer and more in control. We will work to equip you with the internal resources that you need to thrive. Our goal will be resilience and sustained healing. You can gain clarity on what matters to you most. You can open up to your feelings, thoughts, and emotions. Contact me today to learn more about therapy. I am looking forward to helping!
(301) 781-7972 View (301) 781-7972
Photo of Deborah L Horan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Montgomery County, MD
Deborah L Horan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
I work with clients struggling with issues including depression, difficult life transitions, past sexual abuse or trauma, self esteem, and relationship issues.
Therapy is collaborative. I work closely with you to understand and explore the relationship between thoughts, feelings, and your behaviors because small changes in one area can lead to significant changes in other areas. Together we will identify and challenge unproductive thoughts and behaviors to bring about improved mood and a greater sense of well-being. I draw from a variety of therapeutic approaches to meet your individual needs and help you achieve your goals. I provide support and practical help so you can address current life challenges and long-standing issues.
I work with clients struggling with issues including depression, difficult life transitions, past sexual abuse or trauma, self esteem, and relationship issues.
Therapy is collaborative. I work closely with you to understand and explore the relationship between thoughts, feelings, and your behaviors because small changes in one area can lead to significant changes in other areas. Together we will identify and challenge unproductive thoughts and behaviors to bring about improved mood and a greater sense of well-being. I draw from a variety of therapeutic approaches to meet your individual needs and help you achieve your goals. I provide support and practical help so you can address current life challenges and long-standing issues.
(240) 813-3517 View (240) 813-3517
Photo of Laura Goss, Counselor in Montgomery County, MD
Laura Goss
Counselor, CPC
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814  (Online Only)
My primary experience is with individuals with complex-ptsd or developmental trauma, sexual trauma, developmental disabilities (including Autism Spectrum Disorder), mood disorders personality disorders, severe and persistent mental illness, and/or comorbid disorders.
My goal as a therapist is to support clients in making meaning and finding peace. My approach may involve anything from us working together to soothe your anxiety, to sorting through unspeakable trauma. I aim to create a space that is warm and devoid of judgement. I will walk beside you and explore with you, and other than the occasional gentle nudge, I won’t push you where you aren’t ready to go.
My primary experience is with individuals with complex-ptsd or developmental trauma, sexual trauma, developmental disabilities (including Autism Spectrum Disorder), mood disorders personality disorders, severe and persistent mental illness, and/or comorbid disorders.
My goal as a therapist is to support clients in making meaning and finding peace. My approach may involve anything from us working together to soothe your anxiety, to sorting through unspeakable trauma. I aim to create a space that is warm and devoid of judgement. I will walk beside you and explore with you, and other than the occasional gentle nudge, I won’t push you where you aren’t ready to go.
(240) 792-8382 x1 View (240) 792-8382 x1
Photo of Safiyya Abdul Bari, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Montgomery County, MD
Safiyya Abdul Bari
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
Relationship challenges, cultural and identity stressors, transitions, career stress, overwhelm, low self worth or often seek validation, concentration and procrastination, and trauma are my areas of expertise. We'll identify triggers; manage or resolve reactions related to PTSD, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, depression and more. We'll identify the psychological impact of past and current experiences and relationships on mood, behavior and thought patterns.I affirm BIPOC, AAPI, Latinx, LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent clients.
Relationship challenges, cultural and identity stressors, transitions, career stress, overwhelm, low self worth or often seek validation, concentration and procrastination, and trauma are my areas of expertise. We'll identify triggers; manage or resolve reactions related to PTSD, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, depression and more. We'll identify the psychological impact of past and current experiences and relationships on mood, behavior and thought patterns.I affirm BIPOC, AAPI, Latinx, LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent clients.
(410) 673-4873 View (410) 673-4873
Photo of Amber Berkhart, Counselor in Montgomery County, 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 Bailli L Coles, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Montgomery County, MD
Bailli L Coles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20914  (Online Only)
I specialize in the treatment of various mental health diagnoses, including but not limited to, ADHD, PTSD, complex PTSD, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and depression.
My goal as a therapist is to provide high quality therapeutic services that are accessible to everyone. I received my Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Howard University in Washington, DC and my Master of Social Work from University of Maryland School of Social Work in Baltimore, MD.
I specialize in the treatment of various mental health diagnoses, including but not limited to, ADHD, PTSD, complex PTSD, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and depression.
My goal as a therapist is to provide high quality therapeutic services that are accessible to everyone. I received my Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Howard University in Washington, DC and my Master of Social Work from University of Maryland School of Social Work in Baltimore, MD.
(301) 678-1278 View (301) 678-1278
Photo of Insightful Minds Clinical Services, LLC. , Psychologist in Montgomery County, MD
Insightful Minds Clinical Services, LLC.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Germantown, MD 20876  (Online Only)
Many people wonder if there is someone who can work through trauma, anxiety, women's issues, quality of life issues, sexuality, questioning spirituality, dissatisfaction with life, stress, grief, unsatisfactory relationship, family issues, and emotional difficulties.
Welcome! I am Dr. Katrina Williams! Often life can seem overwhelming and lead to feelings of frustration and low hope for positive change. It takes courage to face challenges in relationships, career development, and knowing what you want in life. I incorporate evidenced-based approaches while promoting learning, exploring, self-empathy, growth, empowerment, and balance. Through the process I also offer steps toward building your own personalized therapy book to be used in daily life in becoming the person you want to be! The ultimate goal being to take steps on the path that leads you to explore the life you desire to live.
Many people wonder if there is someone who can work through trauma, anxiety, women's issues, quality of life issues, sexuality, questioning spirituality, dissatisfaction with life, stress, grief, unsatisfactory relationship, family issues, and emotional difficulties.
Welcome! I am Dr. Katrina Williams! Often life can seem overwhelming and lead to feelings of frustration and low hope for positive change. It takes courage to face challenges in relationships, career development, and knowing what you want in life. I incorporate evidenced-based approaches while promoting learning, exploring, self-empathy, growth, empowerment, and balance. Through the process I also offer steps toward building your own personalized therapy book to be used in daily life in becoming the person you want to be! The ultimate goal being to take steps on the path that leads you to explore the life you desire to live.
(571) 339-5229 View (571) 339-5229
Photo of Maryland Therapy Collective, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Montgomery County, MD
Maryland Therapy Collective
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, CCTP, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Olney, MD 20832  (Online Only)
Our mission at Maryland Therapy Collective is to provide trauma-informed, evidence-based, inclusive, and client-centered treatment to help our clients live healthier and more fulfilling lives. We incorporate this approach by tailoring treatment to each client’s individual needs. We believe that our clients have the power to make the changes they want in their lives, and we are here to help guide and support them through that process.
Our mission at Maryland Therapy Collective is to provide trauma-informed, evidence-based, inclusive, and client-centered treatment to help our clients live healthier and more fulfilling lives. We incorporate this approach by tailoring treatment to each client’s individual needs. We believe that our clients have the power to make the changes they want in their lives, and we are here to help guide and support them through that process.
(240) 376-5886 View (240) 376-5886
Photo of Sophia Pressley, Counselor in Montgomery County, MD
Sophia Pressley
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20850  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Life has a way of creating experiences that cause both physical and mental pain, loss, trauma, emotional distress, and challenges. Without notice, we find ourselves mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually stuck with little insight of how to move forward or past the experience. I would like to help you navigate through the conscious and unconscious processes that may have contributed in your struggle to heal. I will work with you to manage or resolve the things that are preventing you from enjoying fully your human journey.
Life has a way of creating experiences that cause both physical and mental pain, loss, trauma, emotional distress, and challenges. Without notice, we find ourselves mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually stuck with little insight of how to move forward or past the experience. I would like to help you navigate through the conscious and unconscious processes that may have contributed in your struggle to heal. I will work with you to manage or resolve the things that are preventing you from enjoying fully your human journey.
(301) 250-1134 View (301) 250-1134
Photo of Kristina Stannard, Psychologist in Montgomery County, MD
Kristina Stannard
Psychologist, PsyD, CSAT-CA
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20852  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with people who struggle with compulsive sexual behaviors, love addiction, pornography use, narcissistic abuse, betrayal trauma, infidelity, trauma bonds, trauma, PTSD, Complex-PTSD, Cluster B personality disorders, enmeshment, and codependency.
Can practice in Psypact states. It takes an incredible amount of strength and courage to realize that you are struggling and need support. It’s even more tiring doing the same thing over and over again while having the same outcome. Are you struggling with love or sex addiction, porn addiction, or trauma bonds? Have you been deeply betrayed by the person you love who is not healthy for you? I believe we all have an innate ability to heal within a safe environment that allows us to be vulnerable and feel validated. My goal is to provide you that environment to explore your struggles and empower yourself to work towards your goals.
I specialize in working with people who struggle with compulsive sexual behaviors, love addiction, pornography use, narcissistic abuse, betrayal trauma, infidelity, trauma bonds, trauma, PTSD, Complex-PTSD, Cluster B personality disorders, enmeshment, and codependency.
Can practice in Psypact states. It takes an incredible amount of strength and courage to realize that you are struggling and need support. It’s even more tiring doing the same thing over and over again while having the same outcome. Are you struggling with love or sex addiction, porn addiction, or trauma bonds? Have you been deeply betrayed by the person you love who is not healthy for you? I believe we all have an innate ability to heal within a safe environment that allows us to be vulnerable and feel validated. My goal is to provide you that environment to explore your struggles and empower yourself to work towards your goals.
(240) 540-5070 View (240) 540-5070
Photo of Adrienne Gardner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Montgomery County, MD
Adrienne Gardner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW -C
Verified Verified
Germantown, MD 20876  (Online Only)
Hello all! I’m a mental health professional with over 15 years of experience. I’m from Washington, DC area and graduated from Howard University and The University of Maryland School of Social Work. I gained my experience working in Mental/Behavioral Health with positions with the State of Maryland, the Department of Veterans Affairs, Recovery Centers of America, and the Department of Defense/Department of the Army to name the most impactful. My specialties include treating individuals plagued with issues related to trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety, and related disorders.
Hello all! I’m a mental health professional with over 15 years of experience. I’m from Washington, DC area and graduated from Howard University and The University of Maryland School of Social Work. I gained my experience working in Mental/Behavioral Health with positions with the State of Maryland, the Department of Veterans Affairs, Recovery Centers of America, and the Department of Defense/Department of the Army to name the most impactful. My specialties include treating individuals plagued with issues related to trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety, and related disorders.
(240) 820-3863 View (240) 820-3863
Photo of Brooke Bralove Psychotherapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Montgomery County, MD
Brooke Bralove Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
Through psychotherapy, every person has the capacity to grow and change and live the life they’ve always imagined. I can help you recognize and alter patterns in your life, develop new skills to enhance your relationships with family, friends, and partners, and move toward greater joy and personal fulfillment. I specialize in treating individuals and couples with anxiety & depression, low self-esteem, postpartum depression, parenting issues, sexual & physical abuse, domestic violence, trauma, and work-related stress. I also specialize in working with women who struggle to show up authentically in their lives.
Through psychotherapy, every person has the capacity to grow and change and live the life they’ve always imagined. I can help you recognize and alter patterns in your life, develop new skills to enhance your relationships with family, friends, and partners, and move toward greater joy and personal fulfillment. I specialize in treating individuals and couples with anxiety & depression, low self-esteem, postpartum depression, parenting issues, sexual & physical abuse, domestic violence, trauma, and work-related stress. I also specialize in working with women who struggle to show up authentically in their lives.
(301) 478-8752 View (301) 478-8752
Photo of Life Support Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Montgomery County, MD
Life Support Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
Specialties include: Addiction Services, Individual and Group Therapy for Alcohol and Substance Abuse Issues; Depression; Anxiety; Military/Veteran issues and specializing in PTSD, Military Sexual Trauma, and Sleep Disorders; Life Transitions, Marital Problems, Grief & Loss, and much more.
As a result of COVID-19, all therapeutic services will be provided using Telehealth, by video conference. Telehealth makes mental health care more accessible. It brings mental health care options to those with limited mobility, those who lack transportation, and those with limited mental health care options in their community. It also allows those who would ordinarily be reluctant to seek treatment because of the perceived stigma associated with receiving mental health care' to get the help they need. Flexible scheduling, evenings and weekends available, all from the comfort of your home, car, wherever you are.
Specialties include: Addiction Services, Individual and Group Therapy for Alcohol and Substance Abuse Issues; Depression; Anxiety; Military/Veteran issues and specializing in PTSD, Military Sexual Trauma, and Sleep Disorders; Life Transitions, Marital Problems, Grief & Loss, and much more.
As a result of COVID-19, all therapeutic services will be provided using Telehealth, by video conference. Telehealth makes mental health care more accessible. It brings mental health care options to those with limited mobility, those who lack transportation, and those with limited mental health care options in their community. It also allows those who would ordinarily be reluctant to seek treatment because of the perceived stigma associated with receiving mental health care' to get the help they need. Flexible scheduling, evenings and weekends available, all from the comfort of your home, car, wherever you are.
(410) 376-5614 View (410) 376-5614
Photo of Lily Kaufmann, Psychologist in Montgomery County, MD
Lily Kaufmann
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814  (Online Only)
You might be anxious a lot of the time: feeling overwhelmed and panicky, caught in a spiral of "what ifs", and unable to stay present or think about other things. It's affecting your sleep, your relationships, and your ability to enjoy your life. Maybe you've experienced trauma, are going through life changes, or just noticed that you're not really feeling like yourself lately. You're here because it's time to talk to someone.
You might be anxious a lot of the time: feeling overwhelmed and panicky, caught in a spiral of "what ifs", and unable to stay present or think about other things. It's affecting your sleep, your relationships, and your ability to enjoy your life. Maybe you've experienced trauma, are going through life changes, or just noticed that you're not really feeling like yourself lately. You're here because it's time to talk to someone.
(301) 701-5532 View (301) 701-5532
Photo of Jacinta Casey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Montgomery County, MD
Jacinta Casey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20877
I have experience working with clients who have a history of trauma, who are of low socioeconomic status, and who are the first generation to be open to therapy.
I work with those struggling with confidence/self-esteem/self-compassion, those interested in working on emotion identification and regulation, and those struggling with inattentiveness/focus difficulties. I help those who want to build up their coping skills toolkit. I am interested in working with those striving to identify and live aligned with their values and eager to engage in therapy. I am comfortable with people who might be the first generation willing to engage and trust the therapeutic relationship. I want to work with someone who wants to find balance and acceptance in a life of suffering and joy.
I have experience working with clients who have a history of trauma, who are of low socioeconomic status, and who are the first generation to be open to therapy.
I work with those struggling with confidence/self-esteem/self-compassion, those interested in working on emotion identification and regulation, and those struggling with inattentiveness/focus difficulties. I help those who want to build up their coping skills toolkit. I am interested in working with those striving to identify and live aligned with their values and eager to engage in therapy. I am comfortable with people who might be the first generation willing to engage and trust the therapeutic relationship. I want to work with someone who wants to find balance and acceptance in a life of suffering and joy.
(240) 363-3874 View (240) 363-3874
Photo of Tracy Tsao, Counselor in Montgomery County, MD
Tracy Tsao
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
Hi! I am a culturally competent, trauma-informed therapist. My potential clients are looking for someone compassionate who can help them navigate the complexities of their lives. I am dedicated to providing a safe space for my clients to process and reflect on family systems, intergenerational and cultural-related issues and trauma, enmeshment, unhealthy attachment and boundaries, work-life balance and productivity, and/or other relationship conflicts. Self-esteem and self-worth issues, women's issues, avoidant behaviors, and unhealthy thinking patterns are just some of things we may work on in our sessions together.
Hi! I am a culturally competent, trauma-informed therapist. My potential clients are looking for someone compassionate who can help them navigate the complexities of their lives. I am dedicated to providing a safe space for my clients to process and reflect on family systems, intergenerational and cultural-related issues and trauma, enmeshment, unhealthy attachment and boundaries, work-life balance and productivity, and/or other relationship conflicts. Self-esteem and self-worth issues, women's issues, avoidant behaviors, and unhealthy thinking patterns are just some of things we may work on in our sessions together.
(301) 478-8419 View (301) 478-8419
Photo of Jennifer Chen, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Montgomery County, MD
Jennifer Chen
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, MA, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have over 12 years of experience working with diverse populations suffering from anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, PTSD, trauma, grief and loss, and behavioral and stress related issues.
Life certainly brings us many challenges along the way and my goal is to help you rediscover your joy and learn to choose yourself in navigating life’s demands and obstacles. Through a supportive, compassionate, and trusting relationship and environment, I hope to help you feel empowered to reclaim control and make positive changes in your life. You will learn to express, explore, understand, and accept underlying emotions, thoughts, and behaviors without judgment and with renewed compassion for yourself and others.
I have over 12 years of experience working with diverse populations suffering from anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, PTSD, trauma, grief and loss, and behavioral and stress related issues.
Life certainly brings us many challenges along the way and my goal is to help you rediscover your joy and learn to choose yourself in navigating life’s demands and obstacles. Through a supportive, compassionate, and trusting relationship and environment, I hope to help you feel empowered to reclaim control and make positive changes in your life. You will learn to express, explore, understand, and accept underlying emotions, thoughts, and behaviors without judgment and with renewed compassion for yourself and others.
(443) 241-6193 View (443) 241-6193
Photo of Nancy Brutsché in Montgomery County, MD
Nancy Brutsché
MSN, RN, PMHCNS, BC
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
MINDFULNESS-BASED SOMATIC PSYCHOTHERAPY & INTERNAL FAMILY SYSTEMS: "What lies behind us and what lies ahead of us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us." [Ralph Waldo Emerson]. All that you seek already lies within you. It is my great pleasure to assist you in opening up to your wholeness. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship issues, chronic illness, pain, feeling stuck, existential/spiritual issues or simply seeking what you have been missing or what calls you, I am here to help you find the freedom, peace, love and joy you desire. I DO NOT PRESCRIBE NOR MANAGE MEDICATIONS.
MINDFULNESS-BASED SOMATIC PSYCHOTHERAPY & INTERNAL FAMILY SYSTEMS: "What lies behind us and what lies ahead of us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us." [Ralph Waldo Emerson]. All that you seek already lies within you. It is my great pleasure to assist you in opening up to your wholeness. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship issues, chronic illness, pain, feeling stuck, existential/spiritual issues or simply seeking what you have been missing or what calls you, I am here to help you find the freedom, peace, love and joy you desire. I DO NOT PRESCRIBE NOR MANAGE MEDICATIONS.
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Photo of Anna Moochoon, Counselor in Montgomery County, MD
Anna Moochoon
Counselor, LGPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20852
I am particularly passionate about helping veterans with trauma and relationship distress.
Do you struggle with unwanted thoughts, anxiety, panic, and depression? Do you find yourself in an unfulfilling relationship, feeling disconnected, isolated, and misunderstood? Do you have difficulties with communication, emotional and sexual intimacy? I help people change how they relate to themselves and the people around them to live more fulfilling and satisfying lives.
I am particularly passionate about helping veterans with trauma and relationship distress.
Do you struggle with unwanted thoughts, anxiety, panic, and depression? Do you find yourself in an unfulfilling relationship, feeling disconnected, isolated, and misunderstood? Do you have difficulties with communication, emotional and sexual intimacy? I help people change how they relate to themselves and the people around them to live more fulfilling and satisfying lives.
(301) 786-5734 x104 View (301) 786-5734 x104

See more therapy options for Montgomery County

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.