Photo of Loni A Fagel, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Minnesota
Loni A Fagel
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, MEd, LPCC
Verified Verified
Golden Valley, MN 55426
I specialize in working with individuals ages 15 and older experiencing grief and loss, chronic illness and medical issues including cancer, trauma and stress related issues, significant life changes, anxiety, depression, performance anxiety, relationship conflicts, and spiritual and identity concerns. My mission is to help people heal from their emotional wounds and cope with their life challenges, using creative and evidence-based approaches.
I specialize in working with individuals ages 15 and older experiencing grief and loss, chronic illness and medical issues including cancer, trauma and stress related issues, significant life changes, anxiety, depression, performance anxiety, relationship conflicts, and spiritual and identity concerns. My mission is to help people heal from their emotional wounds and cope with their life challenges, using creative and evidence-based approaches.
(651) 362-2376 View (651) 362-2376
Photo of Camille Weas, MA, LPCC, LADC, Counselor in Minnesota
Camille Weas, MA, LPCC, LADC
Counselor, MA, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
Golden Valley, MN 55426
I believe that every person has an emotional, mental, physical and spiritual life that needs to be supported and nurtured. The path to emotional healing occurs through a collaborative approach focused on enhancing personal strengths and reconnection to oneself with an increased capacity for self-acceptance and compassion. My therapeutic approach is influenced by a trauma-informed foundation utilizing the principles of NARM (Neuroaffective Relational Model), as well as skills-based therapies to improve personal effectiveness and empowerment.
I believe that every person has an emotional, mental, physical and spiritual life that needs to be supported and nurtured. The path to emotional healing occurs through a collaborative approach focused on enhancing personal strengths and reconnection to oneself with an increased capacity for self-acceptance and compassion. My therapeutic approach is influenced by a trauma-informed foundation utilizing the principles of NARM (Neuroaffective Relational Model), as well as skills-based therapies to improve personal effectiveness and empowerment.
(612) 255-5923 View (612) 255-5923
Photo of Patricia Ann Lucas, Counselor in Minnesota
Patricia Ann Lucas
Counselor, PhD, R-DMT, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55416
I focus on very early origins of trauma.
It is my experience that the fullest, most satisfying healing involves our whole person, mind, body, and spirit. By focusing on patterns of movement in the body as well as thinking, we work together to achieve your goals for therapy. A body based and energetic focus is often a new and effective way for people to resolve issues that only talking about them did not reach. I look for resistance and protective actions that no longer serve a person. I emphasize developing aliveness in the body, feeling joyful, free, and peace.
I focus on very early origins of trauma.
It is my experience that the fullest, most satisfying healing involves our whole person, mind, body, and spirit. By focusing on patterns of movement in the body as well as thinking, we work together to achieve your goals for therapy. A body based and energetic focus is often a new and effective way for people to resolve issues that only talking about them did not reach. I look for resistance and protective actions that no longer serve a person. I emphasize developing aliveness in the body, feeling joyful, free, and peace.
(612) 326-6793 View (612) 326-6793
Photo of Michelle Sveiven Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Minnesota
Michelle Sveiven Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Golden Valley, MN 55426  (Online Only)
Have you been feeling not yourself, like you’re falling short of your life goals, like your feelings are too big to manage, or unsatisfied in your relationships with others? Are you anxious, experiencing emotional pain, unsure of yourself and your abilities, struggling to cope with life changes, or all the above and more? You don’t have to continue to suffer alone. I’m here to help! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who works with teens, adults, and families facing a variety of challenges, including relational issues, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, life adjustments, and self-esteem.
Have you been feeling not yourself, like you’re falling short of your life goals, like your feelings are too big to manage, or unsatisfied in your relationships with others? Are you anxious, experiencing emotional pain, unsure of yourself and your abilities, struggling to cope with life changes, or all the above and more? You don’t have to continue to suffer alone. I’m here to help! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who works with teens, adults, and families facing a variety of challenges, including relational issues, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, life adjustments, and self-esteem.
(651) 419-4038 View (651) 419-4038
Photo of Anna Clavin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Minnesota
Anna Clavin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, IECMH-E, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Cloud, MN 56301
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Child Parent Psychotherapy (CPP), Clinical Hypnosis, Theraplay, Brainspotting, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TF-CBT) and Circle of Security-Parenting.
If this is an emergency please call 911 or 988 Suicide Helpline. I am dedicated to working with individuals, couples, and families by supporting hope and growth through a family systems perspective and trauma informed care. My passion is attachment, relationships, and development and their impact on functioning throughout one’s life. I find encouragement in my work through helping others find hope, strength, and healing within their environment and relationships.
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Child Parent Psychotherapy (CPP), Clinical Hypnosis, Theraplay, Brainspotting, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TF-CBT) and Circle of Security-Parenting.
If this is an emergency please call 911 or 988 Suicide Helpline. I am dedicated to working with individuals, couples, and families by supporting hope and growth through a family systems perspective and trauma informed care. My passion is attachment, relationships, and development and their impact on functioning throughout one’s life. I find encouragement in my work through helping others find hope, strength, and healing within their environment and relationships.
(320) 313-1644 View (320) 313-1644
Photo of Kate Goodman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Minnesota
Kate Goodman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55401
Waitlist for new clients
College and Emerging Adult transitions, Athletes/Performers, Neurodivergence, LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC affirming, Life Transitions, Self-harm, Self-esteem, Cultural-identity, Gender-identity, Attachment, Trauma (personal, generational, historical, religious), Loss & Grief, Adoption, Divorce, Addictions and/or Substance Use.
As a therapist, I am committed to being a source of unconditional positive regard, asking hard and important questions, offering observations to identify connections in experiences, exploring and challenging negative self-beliefs, offering tools and skills in the capacity desired, and celebrating the ups and the downs of the process. I believe human growth, change, and healing is most easily found when we allow ourselves the chance to be uncomfortable. I am a Certified Accelerated Resolution Therapy Practitioner and have found it to be an incredible tool for increasing healing with life’s big and small difficulties.
College and Emerging Adult transitions, Athletes/Performers, Neurodivergence, LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC affirming, Life Transitions, Self-harm, Self-esteem, Cultural-identity, Gender-identity, Attachment, Trauma (personal, generational, historical, religious), Loss & Grief, Adoption, Divorce, Addictions and/or Substance Use.
As a therapist, I am committed to being a source of unconditional positive regard, asking hard and important questions, offering observations to identify connections in experiences, exploring and challenging negative self-beliefs, offering tools and skills in the capacity desired, and celebrating the ups and the downs of the process. I believe human growth, change, and healing is most easily found when we allow ourselves the chance to be uncomfortable. I am a Certified Accelerated Resolution Therapy Practitioner and have found it to be an incredible tool for increasing healing with life’s big and small difficulties.
(763) 292-3259 View (763) 292-3259
Photo of Jennifer Hahn, Counselor in Minnesota
Jennifer Hahn
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55439
Waitlist for new clients
Each stage of our lives brings its own challenges. And if our lives so far haven’t been particularly rosy… experiences from our pasts can make our emotions overwhelming and unpredictable, and we can feel out of control. They can keep us from forming close and healthy relationships, leaving us isolated and alone. I provide individual therapy for adolescents and adults who have experienced adversity in their lives. I provide treatment for traumas and stressors that we sometimes experience growing up including household dysfunction, emotional and physical neglect, abuse, and generational trauma.
Each stage of our lives brings its own challenges. And if our lives so far haven’t been particularly rosy… experiences from our pasts can make our emotions overwhelming and unpredictable, and we can feel out of control. They can keep us from forming close and healthy relationships, leaving us isolated and alone. I provide individual therapy for adolescents and adults who have experienced adversity in their lives. I provide treatment for traumas and stressors that we sometimes experience growing up including household dysfunction, emotional and physical neglect, abuse, and generational trauma.
(612) 688-5305 View (612) 688-5305
Photo of Ruth Grambush, Marriage & Family Therapist in Minnesota
Ruth Grambush
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55439
We hold trauma, grief, loss, and painful memories in our minds and bodies. If these issues aren't healed, they come out in painful and often destructive ways: Depression, anxiety, relationship issues, anger, struggles with parenting, substance abuse, isolation, fear, etc. People often feel "stuck" in these issues and are caught in cycles that are difficult to break free. These destructive and painful cycles can be broken and you can thrive personally and in your relationships. I create a welcoming environment where all feel safe to experience healing and transformational change. Each session is unique to you.
We hold trauma, grief, loss, and painful memories in our minds and bodies. If these issues aren't healed, they come out in painful and often destructive ways: Depression, anxiety, relationship issues, anger, struggles with parenting, substance abuse, isolation, fear, etc. People often feel "stuck" in these issues and are caught in cycles that are difficult to break free. These destructive and painful cycles can be broken and you can thrive personally and in your relationships. I create a welcoming environment where all feel safe to experience healing and transformational change. Each session is unique to you.
(952) 295-4836 View (952) 295-4836
Photo of Ashley Tokuda, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Minnesota
Ashley Tokuda
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Oakdale, MN 55128
I specialize in working with the LGBT+ community, people who identify as neurodivergent, those with trauma and relationship issues (queer, ENM, Kink etc. I don't work with CIS, straight couples). I have a passion for supporting trans identifying clients as they advocate for their needs within the medical system, supporting clients navigating open relationships, and supporting parents who are navigating the needs of their neurodivergent children. I practice from a sex positive, health at every size, harm reduction lens. I ask my clients to show up as their authentic self and my clients can expect the same from me.
I specialize in working with the LGBT+ community, people who identify as neurodivergent, those with trauma and relationship issues (queer, ENM, Kink etc. I don't work with CIS, straight couples). I have a passion for supporting trans identifying clients as they advocate for their needs within the medical system, supporting clients navigating open relationships, and supporting parents who are navigating the needs of their neurodivergent children. I practice from a sex positive, health at every size, harm reduction lens. I ask my clients to show up as their authentic self and my clients can expect the same from me.
(651) 565-6138 View (651) 565-6138
Photo of Andrea Ellen Mousel, Marriage & Family Therapist in Minnesota
Andrea Ellen Mousel
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Duluth, MN 55812
Andrea has worked with clients experiencing a wide range of mental health concerns including severe and persistent mental illness, chemical dependency, and trauma related disorders.
Andrea Mousel has a Master’s degree in psychotherapy and counseling from Adler Graduate School. She is licensed as a mental health professional in the state of Minnesota as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (license number 2013). She completed over 90 hours of clinical hypnosis through the Minnesota Society of Clinical Hypnosis and is trained in EMDR I and II. She is also certified in the State of Minnesota as a gambling treatment provider. Andrea Mousel has been in private practice since 2010 and has over 13 years' experience.
Andrea has worked with clients experiencing a wide range of mental health concerns including severe and persistent mental illness, chemical dependency, and trauma related disorders.
Andrea Mousel has a Master’s degree in psychotherapy and counseling from Adler Graduate School. She is licensed as a mental health professional in the state of Minnesota as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (license number 2013). She completed over 90 hours of clinical hypnosis through the Minnesota Society of Clinical Hypnosis and is trained in EMDR I and II. She is also certified in the State of Minnesota as a gambling treatment provider. Andrea Mousel has been in private practice since 2010 and has over 13 years' experience.
(218) 366-9833 x101 View (218) 366-9833 x101
Photo of Dr. Sally I Beck, Marriage & Family Therapist in Minnesota
Dr. Sally I Beck
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minnetonka, MN 55305
Hello, I'm Dr. Sally Beck, a faith-based therapist offering hope to Couples who are suffering loss of connection to those they love. Couples can again regain trust and regain trust and intimacy through renewed connection. FaithWorks specializes in trauma and abuse; trained in EMDR, a helpful tool in lessening anxiety due to PTSD. Play therapy and EMDR are effecive techniques addressing anxiety in children suffering from divorce, sexual abuse, or attachment. In fact, play therapy is such a valuable tool in assisting children in their healing that we have four rooms dedicated to play therapy in Anchor Counseling Clinic in Jordan, MN.
Hello, I'm Dr. Sally Beck, a faith-based therapist offering hope to Couples who are suffering loss of connection to those they love. Couples can again regain trust and regain trust and intimacy through renewed connection. FaithWorks specializes in trauma and abuse; trained in EMDR, a helpful tool in lessening anxiety due to PTSD. Play therapy and EMDR are effecive techniques addressing anxiety in children suffering from divorce, sexual abuse, or attachment. In fact, play therapy is such a valuable tool in assisting children in their healing that we have four rooms dedicated to play therapy in Anchor Counseling Clinic in Jordan, MN.
(952) 373-6695 View (952) 373-6695
Photo of Sara Bowd, Marriage & Family Therapist in Minnesota
Sara Bowd
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakdale, MN 55128
My experience includes treating trauma, depression, anxiety, autism as well as grief and loss.
As a mental health professional, I strive to create a safe and secure space that is free of judgement in order to facilitate exploration and inner healing. I believe establishing a therapeutic relationship based on trust, care and acceptance is so important. From my own journey with mental health, I understand how exhausting and frustrating it can be to get the help you need within the traditional mental health system. I want you to know that you are not alone.
My experience includes treating trauma, depression, anxiety, autism as well as grief and loss.
As a mental health professional, I strive to create a safe and secure space that is free of judgement in order to facilitate exploration and inner healing. I believe establishing a therapeutic relationship based on trust, care and acceptance is so important. From my own journey with mental health, I understand how exhausting and frustrating it can be to get the help you need within the traditional mental health system. I want you to know that you are not alone.
(651) 800-7512 View (651) 800-7512
Photo of Kind Mind Counseling Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Minnesota
Kind Mind Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Hibbing, MN 55746
Trauma focused.
Kind Mind reserves the right to be exceptionally kind ​regardless of gender, age, race, religion, ethnicity, past actions, political outlook, sexual orientation, social status, class, appearance, language, or occupation. Kind Mind Center believes in the innate ability of all people to reach their fullest potential as a creative, compassionate, and conscious being. Kind Mind Center provides dedicated and professional integrative health, mental health & substance abuse therapeutic services with a person-centered professional approach, serving all people, from all walks of life, with compassion, dignity & respect.
Trauma focused.
Kind Mind reserves the right to be exceptionally kind ​regardless of gender, age, race, religion, ethnicity, past actions, political outlook, sexual orientation, social status, class, appearance, language, or occupation. Kind Mind Center believes in the innate ability of all people to reach their fullest potential as a creative, compassionate, and conscious being. Kind Mind Center provides dedicated and professional integrative health, mental health & substance abuse therapeutic services with a person-centered professional approach, serving all people, from all walks of life, with compassion, dignity & respect.
(218) 748-8750 View (218) 748-8750
Photo of Michaela Farley, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Minnesota
Michaela Farley
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LAMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mankato, MN 56001
I enjoy working with people across the lifespan, but I particularly enjoy working with adolescents, young adults, and families. I have experience in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, attachment-related concerns, and anger. I work with individuals, families, and couples with these issues that are seeking out growth, healing, and reconnection with themselves and their relationships. I will take a collaborative and systemic approach with you, in which I recognize the complex system that each individual comes from and am willing to collaborate with not just you, but the system involved with your mental health journey.
I enjoy working with people across the lifespan, but I particularly enjoy working with adolescents, young adults, and families. I have experience in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, attachment-related concerns, and anger. I work with individuals, families, and couples with these issues that are seeking out growth, healing, and reconnection with themselves and their relationships. I will take a collaborative and systemic approach with you, in which I recognize the complex system that each individual comes from and am willing to collaborate with not just you, but the system involved with your mental health journey.
(507) 436-4446 View (507) 436-4446
Photo of Carissa Montgomery, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Minnesota
Carissa Montgomery
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Maple Grove, MN 55369  (Online Only)
In a warm and nurturing environment, I'm here to support you as we can navigate past or ongoing trauma, difficult feelings and circumstances, among other adversities you may be facing.
Hello! I'm Carissa, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Minnesota. First of all, welcome! And props to you for you for taking steps towards finding peace, whatever that may look like. Are you overwhelmed? Feeling hopeless? Tired of worrying that you’re not good enough? Shame and self-criticism can hinder us from living our best lives. I know how hard it is to find the right help, and how important it is to feel understood.
In a warm and nurturing environment, I'm here to support you as we can navigate past or ongoing trauma, difficult feelings and circumstances, among other adversities you may be facing.
Hello! I'm Carissa, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Minnesota. First of all, welcome! And props to you for you for taking steps towards finding peace, whatever that may look like. Are you overwhelmed? Feeling hopeless? Tired of worrying that you’re not good enough? Shame and self-criticism can hinder us from living our best lives. I know how hard it is to find the right help, and how important it is to feel understood.
(763) 296-3382 View (763) 296-3382
Photo of Cynthia Gill, Marriage & Family Therapist in Minnesota
Cynthia Gill
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Excelsior, MN 55331
A client who comes to me with honesty, is willing to work towards their goals is an ideal client. Anxiety, trauma, depression and family problems are problems that I treat with skill and sensitivity. Parents who need help parenting, children who suffer from a trauma, teens who are depressed and stressed out, couples who can't figure out why they are fighting so much when they really love each other, wives who struggle with low self esteem, people of any age who are very lonely, all need someone to help them sort out their challenges. "We are all just trying to do life!" That often that means asking for help.
A client who comes to me with honesty, is willing to work towards their goals is an ideal client. Anxiety, trauma, depression and family problems are problems that I treat with skill and sensitivity. Parents who need help parenting, children who suffer from a trauma, teens who are depressed and stressed out, couples who can't figure out why they are fighting so much when they really love each other, wives who struggle with low self esteem, people of any age who are very lonely, all need someone to help them sort out their challenges. "We are all just trying to do life!" That often that means asking for help.
(952) 213-4482 View (952) 213-4482
Photo of Innovative Psychological Consultants, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Minnesota
Innovative Psychological Consultants
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Maple Grove, MN 55369
I have expertise in geriatric populations and working with trauma and PTSD.
Personal success is achieved by defining the goals you want and working together to build on your current strengths and enhance your skills, coping tools, and confidence. I work with client to alleviate stress and mental health issues so they can get back to being themselves and effectively tackle what life brings. An investment in yourself will produce great results.
I have expertise in geriatric populations and working with trauma and PTSD.
Personal success is achieved by defining the goals you want and working together to build on your current strengths and enhance your skills, coping tools, and confidence. I work with client to alleviate stress and mental health issues so they can get back to being themselves and effectively tackle what life brings. An investment in yourself will produce great results.
(763) 347-2382 View (763) 347-2382
Photo of Emerald Yeshidagne, Pre-Licensed Professional in Minnesota
Emerald Yeshidagne
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Eagan, MN 55122
I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) that has been very effective with childhood trauma, adult-onset trauma, anxiety, depression, panic, attachment concerns, and more.
I have found a passion working with people 17+ on an individual basis and developing a therapeutic relationship to support change and growth. I enjoy helping to identify and create goals you would like to achieve, as well as provide you with the skills, knowledge, and hope needed to cope with emotions and challenging situations. I feel allowing an open space to process past experiences, beliefs, and barriers, that may interfere with long-term success, is an important aspect of therapy. I use skills from a variety of therapeutic techniques to fit your sessions to your needs, plus a bit of humor.
I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) that has been very effective with childhood trauma, adult-onset trauma, anxiety, depression, panic, attachment concerns, and more.
I have found a passion working with people 17+ on an individual basis and developing a therapeutic relationship to support change and growth. I enjoy helping to identify and create goals you would like to achieve, as well as provide you with the skills, knowledge, and hope needed to cope with emotions and challenging situations. I feel allowing an open space to process past experiences, beliefs, and barriers, that may interfere with long-term success, is an important aspect of therapy. I use skills from a variety of therapeutic techniques to fit your sessions to your needs, plus a bit of humor.
(952) 243-2133 View (952) 243-2133
Photo of Rana Nelson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Minnesota
Rana Nelson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Lake Crystal, MN 56055
I also offer Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), an eye movement trauma therapy.
Do you ever shy away from seeking help? Maybe thinking "I shouldn't complain, my life isn't that bad compared to others." When we stop comparing and focus solely on ourselves we can move toward real change. We can't compare life situations, traumas, or problems. We all have struggles, but that doesn't make yours any less real. What you feel is real. Your situation is real. Your feelings are valid and real. Life is complex and taking the first step toward feeling better takes courage. I believe in creating a safe space for healing. I aspire to empower you and hold your pain with grace as you move toward optimal well-being.
I also offer Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), an eye movement trauma therapy.
Do you ever shy away from seeking help? Maybe thinking "I shouldn't complain, my life isn't that bad compared to others." When we stop comparing and focus solely on ourselves we can move toward real change. We can't compare life situations, traumas, or problems. We all have struggles, but that doesn't make yours any less real. What you feel is real. Your situation is real. Your feelings are valid and real. Life is complex and taking the first step toward feeling better takes courage. I believe in creating a safe space for healing. I aspire to empower you and hold your pain with grace as you move toward optimal well-being.
(507) 669-7846 View (507) 669-7846
Photo of Terry M Post, Licensed Professional Counselor in Minnesota
Terry M Post
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55102
I help people overcome life’s challenges so that they can grow and find the happiness they desire. I have a long history of working with those struggling with addiction as well as concerns related to sex and intimacy. From a mental health perspective, I work with clients who have anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship problems and some personality disorders.
I help people overcome life’s challenges so that they can grow and find the happiness they desire. I have a long history of working with those struggling with addiction as well as concerns related to sex and intimacy. From a mental health perspective, I work with clients who have anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship problems and some personality disorders.
(952) 213-6554 View (952) 213-6554
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.