Photo of Joan Brackmann, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Joan Brackmann
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, SEP
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63116
I am a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner assisting clients in processing unresolved trauma.
I believe that through being respected, listened to, feeling validated and cared about, the healing process is well under way. Whether experiencing depression, anxiety, fear or shame, unresolved pain from the past, or difficulties currently, we will explore your problems together and they will all make sense. I have helped clients with: eating disorders; alcohol and drug addictions; unresolved childhood trauma; depression; anxiety; grief; post-traumatic stress; LGBTQIA related issues; and relationship problems. My approach is eclectic and collaborative. I will help you find a way to heal and change that works for you.
I am a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner assisting clients in processing unresolved trauma.
I believe that through being respected, listened to, feeling validated and cared about, the healing process is well under way. Whether experiencing depression, anxiety, fear or shame, unresolved pain from the past, or difficulties currently, we will explore your problems together and they will all make sense. I have helped clients with: eating disorders; alcohol and drug addictions; unresolved childhood trauma; depression; anxiety; grief; post-traumatic stress; LGBTQIA related issues; and relationship problems. My approach is eclectic and collaborative. I will help you find a way to heal and change that works for you.
(314) 227-9950 View (314) 227-9950
Photo of Emily Hartman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Emily Hartman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63119
I serve clients struggling with unhealthy relationships or family dynamics, life transitions, eating disorders, mood disorders, or trauma, among others.
I treat individuals, couples and families with a variety of struggles. Whether you are in need of help navigating present relationships, life transitions, or are struggling with lifelong issues, my education and experience can help you achieve your goals. I use a variety of approaches throughout the therapeutic process to meet the needs of the clients I see as they progress and work towards leading a happier, healthier life. My experience and training can help you grow and create the change for which you are looking.
I serve clients struggling with unhealthy relationships or family dynamics, life transitions, eating disorders, mood disorders, or trauma, among others.
I treat individuals, couples and families with a variety of struggles. Whether you are in need of help navigating present relationships, life transitions, or are struggling with lifelong issues, my education and experience can help you achieve your goals. I use a variety of approaches throughout the therapeutic process to meet the needs of the clients I see as they progress and work towards leading a happier, healthier life. My experience and training can help you grow and create the change for which you are looking.
(314) 403-1866 View (314) 403-1866
Photo of Phoebe Thompson, Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Phoebe Thompson
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63131
This work also included focusing on a wholistic approach, working with clients on their anxiety, depression, trauma, personality disorders, LGBTQIA+ struggles, etc.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. My work often uses a person-centered approach, focusing on my client’s presenting issues and exploring to find the core struggles that lead to what is really going on. I believe in meeting the client where they are and including humor whenever possible.
This work also included focusing on a wholistic approach, working with clients on their anxiety, depression, trauma, personality disorders, LGBTQIA+ struggles, etc.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. My work often uses a person-centered approach, focusing on my client’s presenting issues and exploring to find the core struggles that lead to what is really going on. I believe in meeting the client where they are and including humor whenever possible.
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Photo of Quantum Consulting Group LLC in Saint Louis, MO
Quantum Consulting Group LLC
EdD
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63101
2023 is your game changer year! In this world, Black and Brown people experience trauma and oppression daily. This constant stress impacts the way you feel and causes anxiety or depression. You need support from someone who understands your cultural experiences. Now, you can have support from someone who appreciates your pain and suffering because they have had their own struggles to overcome. Well, you do not have to look any further. We would love to provide you the mental health support you need. Remember, we are providing services in Missouri, Illinois, Tennessee, and Texas. You belong here!
2023 is your game changer year! In this world, Black and Brown people experience trauma and oppression daily. This constant stress impacts the way you feel and causes anxiety or depression. You need support from someone who understands your cultural experiences. Now, you can have support from someone who appreciates your pain and suffering because they have had their own struggles to overcome. Well, you do not have to look any further. We would love to provide you the mental health support you need. Remember, we are providing services in Missouri, Illinois, Tennessee, and Texas. You belong here!
(314) 208-2320 View (314) 208-2320
Photo of Katie L Arnold, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Katie L Arnold
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63139
I have a diverse background in the evidence-based treatment of persons with trauma, eating disorders, co-occurring disorders, anxiety, mood disorders, LGBTQIA+ challenges and gender dysphoria. For clients with PTSD and other trauma, common goals include symptom reduction, coping, exploration and healing. With eating disorders, my practice is most appropriate for clients who have attended a higher level of care (e.g. Intensive Outpatient, Residential, PHP) and are looking to confront issues underlying the eating disorder. Clients seeking gender affirming care will find support with expression, transition, relationships and more.
I have a diverse background in the evidence-based treatment of persons with trauma, eating disorders, co-occurring disorders, anxiety, mood disorders, LGBTQIA+ challenges and gender dysphoria. For clients with PTSD and other trauma, common goals include symptom reduction, coping, exploration and healing. With eating disorders, my practice is most appropriate for clients who have attended a higher level of care (e.g. Intensive Outpatient, Residential, PHP) and are looking to confront issues underlying the eating disorder. Clients seeking gender affirming care will find support with expression, transition, relationships and more.
(314) 375-4887 View (314) 375-4887
Photo of Laura Peroutka, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Laura Peroutka
Licensed Professional Counselor, ATR-BC, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63105
Through a focus on insight and empowerment, I help clients heal wounds incurred against their bodies, minds and/or spirit allowing them to feel stronger, more accepting, more whole, more clear, and more motivated for change. I have a special interest in issues such as trauma/PTSD, self-esteem, identity, perfectionism, loss, anger, depression and life transitions. My style is empathic and supportive, but also truthful and authentic. When appropriate I will utilize my sense of humor, celebrate small steps, and seek out the simple joys that can guide us through dark times.
Through a focus on insight and empowerment, I help clients heal wounds incurred against their bodies, minds and/or spirit allowing them to feel stronger, more accepting, more whole, more clear, and more motivated for change. I have a special interest in issues such as trauma/PTSD, self-esteem, identity, perfectionism, loss, anger, depression and life transitions. My style is empathic and supportive, but also truthful and authentic. When appropriate I will utilize my sense of humor, celebrate small steps, and seek out the simple joys that can guide us through dark times.
(314) 736-3649 View (314) 736-3649
Photo of Halston Hutchison, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
Halston Hutchison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63119
Waitlist for new clients
I use a strength-based person-centered approach to help you work through concerns related to Anxiety, Depression, Grief/Loss, Stress and Crisis Management, Relationships, Religion or Spirituality & Trauma/PTSD.
First, I would like to say welcome and congratulate you on taking the necessary steps to getting the care, attention and support you deserve! I personally know from previous experience that these first steps can sometimes feel the most difficult; but with encouragement, determination and perseverance, you will be revealed as the conqueror you already are!
I use a strength-based person-centered approach to help you work through concerns related to Anxiety, Depression, Grief/Loss, Stress and Crisis Management, Relationships, Religion or Spirituality & Trauma/PTSD.
First, I would like to say welcome and congratulate you on taking the necessary steps to getting the care, attention and support you deserve! I personally know from previous experience that these first steps can sometimes feel the most difficult; but with encouragement, determination and perseverance, you will be revealed as the conqueror you already are!
(314) 274-6438 x6 View (314) 274-6438 x6
Photo of Debbie Pullin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Debbie Pullin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63141  (Online Only)
Have you experienced trauma? Do you feel anxious, depressed or out of control? Do you want to make changes but are uncertain about how to go about making those changes? Start feeling better TODAY by starting your healing journey! I specialize in abuse, trauma and those who are actively recovering from addiction. I am passionate about helping you transform your life. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, unwanted thoughts, abuse, an addiction, or going through a sad transition; please know that there is always hope to turn things around. Whatever issues you are facing, I would be honored to work with you!
Have you experienced trauma? Do you feel anxious, depressed or out of control? Do you want to make changes but are uncertain about how to go about making those changes? Start feeling better TODAY by starting your healing journey! I specialize in abuse, trauma and those who are actively recovering from addiction. I am passionate about helping you transform your life. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, unwanted thoughts, abuse, an addiction, or going through a sad transition; please know that there is always hope to turn things around. Whatever issues you are facing, I would be honored to work with you!
(314) 287-5466 View (314) 287-5466
Photo of First Choice Counseling Professional Corporation, Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
First Choice Counseling Professional Corporation
Counselor, PhD CES, ThD PSY, MAC, MA, LPCCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63102
Eye movement desensitization reprocessing (EMDR), is used to address complex trauma, and triggers.
I hold two doctorates one in psychology and a master's degree in clinical mental health care, and professional counseling making me a highly qualified professional counselor, clinician, and therapist. Additionally, I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR). My expertise lies in providing talk therapy to individuals of all ages, including adolescents, adults, seniors, families, and groups. To ensure the best outcomes for my clients, I utilize cognitive-behavioral therapy as an initial approach. This allows me to effectively address their specific situations and circumstances.
Eye movement desensitization reprocessing (EMDR), is used to address complex trauma, and triggers.
I hold two doctorates one in psychology and a master's degree in clinical mental health care, and professional counseling making me a highly qualified professional counselor, clinician, and therapist. Additionally, I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR). My expertise lies in providing talk therapy to individuals of all ages, including adolescents, adults, seniors, families, and groups. To ensure the best outcomes for my clients, I utilize cognitive-behavioral therapy as an initial approach. This allows me to effectively address their specific situations and circumstances.
(314) 947-3660 View (314) 947-3660
Photo of Empowered Movement, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Empowered Movement
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63131  (Online Only)
Life is beautiful but often/sometimes challenging. Some days we feel confident and happy while other days we may feel alone or overwhelmed. The clients I work with are seeking new tools, skills, techniques and interventions to help them feel better, more in control and empowered on a daily basis. I work with adolescents, young adults, adults and elders experiencing life transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, low self-esteem and more. Everyone deserves to have a safe space, with unconditional support that allows them to be authentically themselves, always.
Life is beautiful but often/sometimes challenging. Some days we feel confident and happy while other days we may feel alone or overwhelmed. The clients I work with are seeking new tools, skills, techniques and interventions to help them feel better, more in control and empowered on a daily basis. I work with adolescents, young adults, adults and elders experiencing life transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, low self-esteem and more. Everyone deserves to have a safe space, with unconditional support that allows them to be authentically themselves, always.
(314) 701-8184 View (314) 701-8184
Photo of First Choice Counseling Professional Corporation, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
First Choice Counseling Professional Corporation
Licensed Professional Counselor, ThD Psy, PhD CES, LPCCS, MAC, NCC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63102
We specialize in complex trauma using EMDR and Cognitive behavioral therapy CBT, to address client/participant challenges, concerning behavioral health and wellness.
Our patients are individuals, couples or groups who have been struggling with depression, anxiety, mood disorder and other behavioral challenges that have made ordinary day to day functioning impossible or extremely difficult. Through evidence-based clinical mental health therapy that includes EMDR, CBT, DBT, and SFBT, we assess, and diagnose individuals, couples and groups providing evidenced-based treatment plans.
We specialize in complex trauma using EMDR and Cognitive behavioral therapy CBT, to address client/participant challenges, concerning behavioral health and wellness.
Our patients are individuals, couples or groups who have been struggling with depression, anxiety, mood disorder and other behavioral challenges that have made ordinary day to day functioning impossible or extremely difficult. Through evidence-based clinical mental health therapy that includes EMDR, CBT, DBT, and SFBT, we assess, and diagnose individuals, couples and groups providing evidenced-based treatment plans.
(314) 784-5915 View (314) 784-5915
Photo of Mary Jo Schneller, Pastoral Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Mary Jo Schneller
Pastoral Counselor, PhD, CPsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63124
At times, we all experience challenges in our lives that make us feel out of control, out of balance, and disconnected. Despite these challenges, I believe that you can grow and heal. I believe in helping people through Faith based and practical counseling approach that responds to the needs of the whole person. I have a strong commitiment to the strengthening of individuals, marriages and families by promoting excellence in counseling. I specialize in the treatment of PTSD disorders, addictions, and sexual abuse.
At times, we all experience challenges in our lives that make us feel out of control, out of balance, and disconnected. Despite these challenges, I believe that you can grow and heal. I believe in helping people through Faith based and practical counseling approach that responds to the needs of the whole person. I have a strong commitiment to the strengthening of individuals, marriages and families by promoting excellence in counseling. I specialize in the treatment of PTSD disorders, addictions, and sexual abuse.
(314) 315-4236 View (314) 315-4236
Photo of Jamie Bodily, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Jamie Bodily
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63133
If you have experienced pregnancy or birth trauma, I utilize EMDR and IFS therapies to help process the trauma and build self-compassion.
I understand the rollercoaster of emotions that come with infertility, pregnancy, and early parenthood. Whether you are struggling to conceive, anxious about pregnancy changes, or feeling overwhelmed as a new parent, I can help. With over 20 years of experience working with expectant and new families, I provide the support, tools and information you need to navigate this journey. My goal is to help you feel empowered, connected and equipped with realistic parenting strategies.
If you have experienced pregnancy or birth trauma, I utilize EMDR and IFS therapies to help process the trauma and build self-compassion.
I understand the rollercoaster of emotions that come with infertility, pregnancy, and early parenthood. Whether you are struggling to conceive, anxious about pregnancy changes, or feeling overwhelmed as a new parent, I can help. With over 20 years of experience working with expectant and new families, I provide the support, tools and information you need to navigate this journey. My goal is to help you feel empowered, connected and equipped with realistic parenting strategies.
(636) 782-3339 View (636) 782-3339
Photo of Laila Merz, Psychologist in Saint Louis, MO
Laila Merz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63124
Some of my specialty areas are Attachment- Based Issues, Anxiety and Depressive/ Mood Disorders, Addictions/Substance Abuse, Post Traumatic Disorders, Trauma, Obsessive Compulsive Disorders, Couples Therapy, Divorce, Women's Health Issues, Chronic Pain, Yoga, Somatic based Therapies, and Spirituality.
I went into the field of psychology because I love helping people transform to the best version of themselves. We all need a safe place to understand ourselves and how we relate to others/self. I often say "We need to be Mindful of our Total-Well Being and that our minds and our bodies are an inter-connected systems. Where the mind goes, so does the man or woman in their actions and body states. We go to the physician for our physical health, so how much healthier would we be if we went to our psychologist for our mental health?" At heart, I am a holistic practitioner and love seeing my clients Thrive.
Some of my specialty areas are Attachment- Based Issues, Anxiety and Depressive/ Mood Disorders, Addictions/Substance Abuse, Post Traumatic Disorders, Trauma, Obsessive Compulsive Disorders, Couples Therapy, Divorce, Women's Health Issues, Chronic Pain, Yoga, Somatic based Therapies, and Spirituality.
I went into the field of psychology because I love helping people transform to the best version of themselves. We all need a safe place to understand ourselves and how we relate to others/self. I often say "We need to be Mindful of our Total-Well Being and that our minds and our bodies are an inter-connected systems. Where the mind goes, so does the man or woman in their actions and body states. We go to the physician for our physical health, so how much healthier would we be if we went to our psychologist for our mental health?" At heart, I am a holistic practitioner and love seeing my clients Thrive.
(314) 485-4853 View (314) 485-4853
Photo of Sara Loftis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
Sara Loftis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63129
I have 15 years of experience working with families, couples and adolescents/teenagers who have endured trauma. Many I have helped struggled with self-harm, suicidal thoughts/attempts, anxiety, being bullied, peer pressure and peer conflicts, self-esteem, school performance, and/or school behaviors. I have also worked with many women over the years. Woman I have helped came to me due to weight management issues, grief, divorce, relationship issues/infidelity, finding purpose, the life-change cycle and stress/anxiety related to work/career challenges/changes. I enjoy helping clients find their inner self-confidence and strength.
I have 15 years of experience working with families, couples and adolescents/teenagers who have endured trauma. Many I have helped struggled with self-harm, suicidal thoughts/attempts, anxiety, being bullied, peer pressure and peer conflicts, self-esteem, school performance, and/or school behaviors. I have also worked with many women over the years. Woman I have helped came to me due to weight management issues, grief, divorce, relationship issues/infidelity, finding purpose, the life-change cycle and stress/anxiety related to work/career challenges/changes. I enjoy helping clients find their inner self-confidence and strength.
(314) 620-8291 View (314) 620-8291
Photo of Damaris Karanja, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Damaris Karanja
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MEd, LPC, RDN
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63146
I'm a trauma therapist trained in EMDR and Brainspotting, the most effective treatments for complex trauma, resistant depression, anxiety, and disturbing memories.
Are you struggling with depression, fear, anxiety, overwhelmed by all the life’s demands or simply feel stuck? Are you haunted by wounds of past abuse or trauma, asking yourself how you can make this pain stop? Are you struggling in relationships and no longer experiencing joy? Are you using food or other unhelpful habits as coping mechanisms? You can recover. I have helped numerous people work through their pain and find relief from similar challenges when they take the first step to seek professional help. You will bring joy back into your life through inner child work, mindfulness and EMDR therapy including EMDR Intensives.
I'm a trauma therapist trained in EMDR and Brainspotting, the most effective treatments for complex trauma, resistant depression, anxiety, and disturbing memories.
Are you struggling with depression, fear, anxiety, overwhelmed by all the life’s demands or simply feel stuck? Are you haunted by wounds of past abuse or trauma, asking yourself how you can make this pain stop? Are you struggling in relationships and no longer experiencing joy? Are you using food or other unhelpful habits as coping mechanisms? You can recover. I have helped numerous people work through their pain and find relief from similar challenges when they take the first step to seek professional help. You will bring joy back into your life through inner child work, mindfulness and EMDR therapy including EMDR Intensives.
(314) 736-3575 View (314) 736-3575
Photo of Bill Clark, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Bill Clark
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63126  (Online Only)
We all go through difficult times at different parts of our life. It can help to have someone to talk to. I have particular experience with adults in midlife crisis, couples counseling, and adolescents experiencing, school problems, behavior problems, parent/child conflict, and trauma. I have experience with individual therapy, parent/child conflict, divorce, alternative relationships and LGBTQIA issues. I specialize in trauma treatment for all age groups. CURRENTLY OFFERING TELEMEDICINE SESSIONS VIA ZOOM OR SKYPE.
We all go through difficult times at different parts of our life. It can help to have someone to talk to. I have particular experience with adults in midlife crisis, couples counseling, and adolescents experiencing, school problems, behavior problems, parent/child conflict, and trauma. I have experience with individual therapy, parent/child conflict, divorce, alternative relationships and LGBTQIA issues. I specialize in trauma treatment for all age groups. CURRENTLY OFFERING TELEMEDICINE SESSIONS VIA ZOOM OR SKYPE.
(573) 312-2953 View (573) 312-2953
Photo of Alicia Seidler, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Alicia Seidler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63129
I also use EMDR to assist in processing trauma.
I seek to do whatever possible to help you feel safe in counseling. The relationship between you and I needs to be one that feels warm, inviting, non-judgmental, and encouraging. From the safety of this relationship, you can then feel supported enough to grieve what has been lost and push to fight for the things that have been taken from your life.
I also use EMDR to assist in processing trauma.
I seek to do whatever possible to help you feel safe in counseling. The relationship between you and I needs to be one that feels warm, inviting, non-judgmental, and encouraging. From the safety of this relationship, you can then feel supported enough to grieve what has been lost and push to fight for the things that have been taken from your life.
(314) 696-6125 View (314) 696-6125
Photo of Shannon Clark, Psychologist in Saint Louis, MO
Shannon Clark
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63117
What's not working with your health and life goals? Do you suffer from pain and can't get a clear answer why? Do you find the motivation to stay healthy an impossible task with your busy schedule? Do difficult relationships or trauma make it hard to manage stress? It's time to do the deeper work.
What's not working with your health and life goals? Do you suffer from pain and can't get a clear answer why? Do you find the motivation to stay healthy an impossible task with your busy schedule? Do difficult relationships or trauma make it hard to manage stress? It's time to do the deeper work.
(314) 866-3957 View (314) 866-3957
Photo of Sarah F Coffman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
Sarah F Coffman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63143
Specializations: Women, female youth, anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship conflict, family conflict, trauma, sexual identity, postpartum depression, birth trauma, pregnancy & infant loss, emotional eating, health issues and self-injury.
Focused on women and female youth, Sarah's practice offers therapy for individuals, families and groups, within a safe and nurturing environment. This strong therapeutic alliance affords clients the comfort in which to develop greater self-awareness, heal from past traumas, and learn to cope with present difficulties. Along with her full-time private practice, Sarah is an Adjunct Professor at Washington University Brown School, where she received her graduate degree, and maintains an active presence in the community as a private doula and as the Missouri Co-Coordinator for Postpartum Support International.
Specializations: Women, female youth, anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship conflict, family conflict, trauma, sexual identity, postpartum depression, birth trauma, pregnancy & infant loss, emotional eating, health issues and self-injury.
Focused on women and female youth, Sarah's practice offers therapy for individuals, families and groups, within a safe and nurturing environment. This strong therapeutic alliance affords clients the comfort in which to develop greater self-awareness, heal from past traumas, and learn to cope with present difficulties. Along with her full-time private practice, Sarah is an Adjunct Professor at Washington University Brown School, where she received her graduate degree, and maintains an active presence in the community as a private doula and as the Missouri Co-Coordinator for Postpartum Support International.
(314) 527-3084 View (314) 527-3084

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.