Photo of Alison Cannon Yawitz, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Alison Cannon Yawitz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63105
Waitlist for new clients
I provides comprehensive therapeutic services for individuals, teens and families who are faced with obstacles to healthy living. My practice is born from extensive experience with at-risk teens and families, and with individuals seeking to overcome challenges to fulfilling and healthy lives. Therapy is built upon the principle of partnership - with safety, compassion, acceptance and respect at the core. Clients rediscover their inborn strength, confidence, courage and resilience while being supported to develop new skills, shape healthy relationships, heal trauma and begin living the lives they've envisioned for themselves.
I provides comprehensive therapeutic services for individuals, teens and families who are faced with obstacles to healthy living. My practice is born from extensive experience with at-risk teens and families, and with individuals seeking to overcome challenges to fulfilling and healthy lives. Therapy is built upon the principle of partnership - with safety, compassion, acceptance and respect at the core. Clients rediscover their inborn strength, confidence, courage and resilience while being supported to develop new skills, shape healthy relationships, heal trauma and begin living the lives they've envisioned for themselves.
(314) 485-4887 View (314) 485-4887
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 Rachel Wethers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
Rachel Wethers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63111  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Trauma-focused telehealth support can often increase efficient time management, and often be easier for those who are distant from higher resource areas or transportation limited.
No current openings at this time. Providing telehealth therapy to clients in the states of Illinois, Michigan, or Missouri. Trained and focused in therapies utilizing EMDR, Parts work, ACT/Mindfulness, and Nurturing/Relational approaches with trauma and anxiety. Special interests in Geek Therapy (gaming and pop-culture related) and Neurodivergence. Best at creating safe spaces with young adults (even at heart), teens, and children as young as age 10 who are comfortable with telehealth and digital tools.
Trauma-focused telehealth support can often increase efficient time management, and often be easier for those who are distant from higher resource areas or transportation limited.
No current openings at this time. Providing telehealth therapy to clients in the states of Illinois, Michigan, or Missouri. Trained and focused in therapies utilizing EMDR, Parts work, ACT/Mindfulness, and Nurturing/Relational approaches with trauma and anxiety. Special interests in Geek Therapy (gaming and pop-culture related) and Neurodivergence. Best at creating safe spaces with young adults (even at heart), teens, and children as young as age 10 who are comfortable with telehealth and digital tools.
(314) 441-7189 View (314) 441-7189
Photo of Carly Sparks, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
Carly Sparks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63108
KINETIC counseling specializes in trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, familial stress, and parenting. With 14 years of experience in family social work, Carly provides private counseling services which focus on a comprehensive appreciation of the complexity of people's lives and choices. She utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Stress Reduction techniques, Mindfulness strategies, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy interventions. Carly works to incorporate a holistic approach embracing each person's interests, hobbies, educational background and belief system.
KINETIC counseling specializes in trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, familial stress, and parenting. With 14 years of experience in family social work, Carly provides private counseling services which focus on a comprehensive appreciation of the complexity of people's lives and choices. She utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Stress Reduction techniques, Mindfulness strategies, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy interventions. Carly works to incorporate a holistic approach embracing each person's interests, hobbies, educational background and belief system.
(314) 310-0186 View (314) 310-0186
Photo of Carington McGowan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
Carington McGowan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63112  (Online Only)
Traumatic experiences can change the way that we relate to ourselves as well as the rest of the world. We can be left feeling depressed, on edge, or not like ourselves. As a Licensed Master Social Worker, specializing in trauma, PTSD, and anxiety, my passion is helping teens and adults who have experienced trauma feel safe within themselves again.
Traumatic experiences can change the way that we relate to ourselves as well as the rest of the world. We can be left feeling depressed, on edge, or not like ourselves. As a Licensed Master Social Worker, specializing in trauma, PTSD, and anxiety, my passion is helping teens and adults who have experienced trauma feel safe within themselves again.
(314) 936-4918 View (314) 936-4918
Photo of Brandon Noel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
Brandon Noel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63139
I enjoy working with young and older adults in areas related to anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, relationships, identity (including LGBTQ+), self-esteem, and family dynamics.
Each day brings new challenges. Some involve our families or our jobs or our relationships, but all involve our minds. Healing begins with the recognition that these battles are not obstacles, but doorways, to a better life — opportunities to develop ourselves in ways we couldn’t previously imagine. You possess the capacity for greatness. You have a purpose! Awareness and the vulnerability to trust another human are keys to unlocking your potential in these ways. Therapy provides an outlet to experience yourself as such, and to work toward the harmony and inner peace you’ve longed for.
I enjoy working with young and older adults in areas related to anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, relationships, identity (including LGBTQ+), self-esteem, and family dynamics.
Each day brings new challenges. Some involve our families or our jobs or our relationships, but all involve our minds. Healing begins with the recognition that these battles are not obstacles, but doorways, to a better life — opportunities to develop ourselves in ways we couldn’t previously imagine. You possess the capacity for greatness. You have a purpose! Awareness and the vulnerability to trust another human are keys to unlocking your potential in these ways. Therapy provides an outlet to experience yourself as such, and to work toward the harmony and inner peace you’ve longed for.
(314) 582-3574 View (314) 582-3574
Photo of Rynn Wyrick, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Rynn Wyrick
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63101  (Online Only)
I specialize in offering trauma-informed therapy to LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent adults residing in Missouri. As a queer and trans individual myself, my focus is on co-creating a safe and affirming environment for folks to thrive. I hold space for clients to explore and process their experiences of grief, complex trauma, and challenges stemming from the impacts of living in a traumatic and oppressive society. I particularly enjoy working with queer and neurodiverse individuals who are interested in taking a more deliberate approach to their personal growth and who wish to develop a deeper connection with themselves and their bodies.
I specialize in offering trauma-informed therapy to LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent adults residing in Missouri. As a queer and trans individual myself, my focus is on co-creating a safe and affirming environment for folks to thrive. I hold space for clients to explore and process their experiences of grief, complex trauma, and challenges stemming from the impacts of living in a traumatic and oppressive society. I particularly enjoy working with queer and neurodiverse individuals who are interested in taking a more deliberate approach to their personal growth and who wish to develop a deeper connection with themselves and their bodies.
(314) 970-3579 View (314) 970-3579
Photo of Cristina Marie Smugala, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Cristina Marie Smugala
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63127  (Online Only)
My specializations consist of treating trauma, anxiety, eating disorders, depression, grief, panic, and addictions.
My passion is to empathetically guide and support transformation of traumatic experience. I will empower you to face your fears, unburden toxic shame, heal traumatic wounds and help you reclaim the courage that you know is inside of you. The ability to have love, compassion and acceptance for yourself are powerful healing forces that I strive to ignite, recover and unlock in my clients. Through EMDR and Somatic Experiencing I focus on restoring a sense of calm, centered connectedness within the brain and body. I work to inspire courage, promote healing so you can embody radical acceptance, release fear and embrace authenticity.
My specializations consist of treating trauma, anxiety, eating disorders, depression, grief, panic, and addictions.
My passion is to empathetically guide and support transformation of traumatic experience. I will empower you to face your fears, unburden toxic shame, heal traumatic wounds and help you reclaim the courage that you know is inside of you. The ability to have love, compassion and acceptance for yourself are powerful healing forces that I strive to ignite, recover and unlock in my clients. Through EMDR and Somatic Experiencing I focus on restoring a sense of calm, centered connectedness within the brain and body. I work to inspire courage, promote healing so you can embody radical acceptance, release fear and embrace authenticity.
(314) 888-5212 x3 View (314) 888-5212 x3
Photo of Jim Gerber, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Jim Gerber
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63117
I have years of experience helping many to heal from past trauma as well as resolving intimacy difficulties being trained in Masters and Johnson model of sex therapy.
Many people experience injuries in life that do not subside with the passage of time. The residue of these injuries can result in depression, intrusive thoughts and desperate ways of coping. We can fall into patterns of being that feel too hard to change. All of this then interferes with connection to others and intimacy. One does not have to live this way. It can be different.
I have years of experience helping many to heal from past trauma as well as resolving intimacy difficulties being trained in Masters and Johnson model of sex therapy.
Many people experience injuries in life that do not subside with the passage of time. The residue of these injuries can result in depression, intrusive thoughts and desperate ways of coping. We can fall into patterns of being that feel too hard to change. All of this then interferes with connection to others and intimacy. One does not have to live this way. It can be different.
(636) 303-1492 View (636) 303-1492
Photo of Joanna Struttman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Joanna Struttman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63108  (Online Only)
As a therapist, I am here to support and help you work through your struggles with OCD, anxiety & worry, and trauma.
Welcome and congratulations on starting your counseling journey! If you’re tired of feeling like you can’t understand why you don’t have energy, are confused about your life decisions, or continuing to cancel plans due to anxiety, I can help. I specialize in treating OCD, anxiety, trauma, life changes, and negative thoughts about yourself. I also offer online EMDR therapy.
As a therapist, I am here to support and help you work through your struggles with OCD, anxiety & worry, and trauma.
Welcome and congratulations on starting your counseling journey! If you’re tired of feeling like you can’t understand why you don’t have energy, are confused about your life decisions, or continuing to cancel plans due to anxiety, I can help. I specialize in treating OCD, anxiety, trauma, life changes, and negative thoughts about yourself. I also offer online EMDR therapy.
(314) 648-3745 View (314) 648-3745
Photo of Michelle Vollmar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
Michelle Vollmar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63132
I am an individual therapist with 20 years of experience working with survivors of childhood abuse, trauma, and intimate partner violence. More recently, my practice has expanded to focus on anxiety disorders, depression, and perfectionism. I am a trained teacher of Kristen Neff's Mindful Self-Compassion, a former DBT skills group facilitator, and have trained in RO-DBT. Over the past twenty years I have served as a teacher and trainer in settings ranging from elementary to graduate level classrooms and post-graduate continuing education workshops.
I am an individual therapist with 20 years of experience working with survivors of childhood abuse, trauma, and intimate partner violence. More recently, my practice has expanded to focus on anxiety disorders, depression, and perfectionism. I am a trained teacher of Kristen Neff's Mindful Self-Compassion, a former DBT skills group facilitator, and have trained in RO-DBT. Over the past twenty years I have served as a teacher and trainer in settings ranging from elementary to graduate level classrooms and post-graduate continuing education workshops.
(314) 551-9490 View (314) 551-9490
Photo of C Katke Counseling Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
C Katke Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63146
Waitlist for new clients
I work with clients who struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, abuse, grief, relationship issues and more.
Dealing with depression or anxiety? Struggling to understand the challenges in your life? Feeling stuck, confused, or overwhelmed? Ready to move forward? Begin your journey in a safe, comforting environment where you will find respect, acceptance, and understanding to begin to heal from your pain and find solutions to move forward. Therapy that does not tell you how to live your life, but offers you guidance, suggestions, perspective, and support to help you choose the direction you want to go.
I work with clients who struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, abuse, grief, relationship issues and more.
Dealing with depression or anxiety? Struggling to understand the challenges in your life? Feeling stuck, confused, or overwhelmed? Ready to move forward? Begin your journey in a safe, comforting environment where you will find respect, acceptance, and understanding to begin to heal from your pain and find solutions to move forward. Therapy that does not tell you how to live your life, but offers you guidance, suggestions, perspective, and support to help you choose the direction you want to go.
(314) 254-9161 View (314) 254-9161
Photo of Kimberly Vest, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Kimberly Vest
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CFRC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63139
As a therapist, my main focus is to care for the concerns of the client's heart. I believe that we are made for connection and attachment. When relationships have been harmed or trauma has occurred, there is a fracture, wound or scar. This can run deep and needs to be treated with tenderness and understanding. Those who have experienced trauma may not understand the toll it has done to the brain, body, heart, soul or voice. I have the privilege of educating and finding therapeutic ways in which the client can heal. It is a true honor to walk alongside someone while they find their way towards healing and wholeness.
As a therapist, my main focus is to care for the concerns of the client's heart. I believe that we are made for connection and attachment. When relationships have been harmed or trauma has occurred, there is a fracture, wound or scar. This can run deep and needs to be treated with tenderness and understanding. Those who have experienced trauma may not understand the toll it has done to the brain, body, heart, soul or voice. I have the privilege of educating and finding therapeutic ways in which the client can heal. It is a true honor to walk alongside someone while they find their way towards healing and wholeness.
(636) 685-2053 View (636) 685-2053
Photo of Afshan Malik, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Afshan Malik
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, EMDR, Coach, MP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63119  (Online Only)
Life transitions are the new beginning; unfortunately, past experiences, insecurities, trauma, and grief can influence the present behavior & actions. Making life transitions emotionally exhausting while getting the same results exacerbating feelings of stuck-ness in the rut. If you are tired of starting over and want to learn Why, When, & How you self-sabotage your success & relationships, If you want to gain mastery over your emotions, have clarity, focus, and commitment to your life goals. Grow personally/professionally, feel more in control, and less stressed than I am the therapeutic coach you need. Online and self-pay only.
Life transitions are the new beginning; unfortunately, past experiences, insecurities, trauma, and grief can influence the present behavior & actions. Making life transitions emotionally exhausting while getting the same results exacerbating feelings of stuck-ness in the rut. If you are tired of starting over and want to learn Why, When, & How you self-sabotage your success & relationships, If you want to gain mastery over your emotions, have clarity, focus, and commitment to your life goals. Grow personally/professionally, feel more in control, and less stressed than I am the therapeutic coach you need. Online and self-pay only.
(314) 310-7916 View (314) 310-7916
Photo of Kristin Hall in Saint Louis, MO
Kristin Hall
MA, LPC, CCPT, CCHT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63105
My specialties include narcissistic abuse recovery, relationship counseling, trauma and PTSD, sexuality and intimacy issues, eating disorders, professional growth coaching, and EMDR and hypnotherapy for phobias, life changes and athletic performance.
Negative events, unhealthy relationship patterns, self-destructive behaviors and an overall sense of feeling "stuck" can hold you back. Through customized and collaborative therapy, we will explore current issues of concern and relevant past experiences to help put the missing pieces of the puzzle back together for a happier, healthier you. The overall plan is to work together towards your goals with honesty, vulnerability and commitment.
My specialties include narcissistic abuse recovery, relationship counseling, trauma and PTSD, sexuality and intimacy issues, eating disorders, professional growth coaching, and EMDR and hypnotherapy for phobias, life changes and athletic performance.
Negative events, unhealthy relationship patterns, self-destructive behaviors and an overall sense of feeling "stuck" can hold you back. Through customized and collaborative therapy, we will explore current issues of concern and relevant past experiences to help put the missing pieces of the puzzle back together for a happier, healthier you. The overall plan is to work together towards your goals with honesty, vulnerability and commitment.
(314) 818-0916 View (314) 818-0916
Photo of Sharnita White, Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Sharnita White
Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63146
Clinically I specialize in trauma (sexual, PTSD, abandonment, human trafficking), anxiety, depression & spectrum disorders.
Are you unhappy with yourself? When alone your mind race, you question who you are & nothing makes you happy, ready to be healed from trauma. If you’re ready to find happiness within yourself, learn about how self care is connected & affects your self love, self esteem, self acceptance and self awareness, then you are in the right place.
Clinically I specialize in trauma (sexual, PTSD, abandonment, human trafficking), anxiety, depression & spectrum disorders.
Are you unhappy with yourself? When alone your mind race, you question who you are & nothing makes you happy, ready to be healed from trauma. If you’re ready to find happiness within yourself, learn about how self care is connected & affects your self love, self esteem, self acceptance and self awareness, then you are in the right place.
(314) 798-7989 View (314) 798-7989
Photo of Emily Horning, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
Emily Horning
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63139
I enjoy working with clients surrounding substance use, trauma, LGBTQ+-identity exploration and specific issues, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and more.
Part of being human is the inevitability of encountering difficulty. Most of us accept this quite easily, but it is harder for us to accept *ourselves* while we face that difficulty! So many of our experiences in our families and our culture train us to ignore or get rid of our emotions, so space or compassion for ourselves seem next to impossible. Together and with mutual vulnerability and creativity, my heartfelt wish is to effectively nurture and challenge you, and to help you discover resources within and without to meet your experiences with strength, clarity, and hope.
I enjoy working with clients surrounding substance use, trauma, LGBTQ+-identity exploration and specific issues, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and more.
Part of being human is the inevitability of encountering difficulty. Most of us accept this quite easily, but it is harder for us to accept *ourselves* while we face that difficulty! So many of our experiences in our families and our culture train us to ignore or get rid of our emotions, so space or compassion for ourselves seem next to impossible. Together and with mutual vulnerability and creativity, my heartfelt wish is to effectively nurture and challenge you, and to help you discover resources within and without to meet your experiences with strength, clarity, and hope.
(314) 208-2920 View (314) 208-2920
Photo of Lauren Kamm, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Lauren Kamm
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63132
Whether it be life transitions, identity, overwhelming anxiety, perfectionism, people-pleasing or breaking generational trauma.
Stuck? People-Pleasing? Burnt out by life? Almost like no matter what you try to change or improve, those wheels just keep spinning, and you are exhausted. My ideal client is someone who is just ready to feel better. You may not exactly know what is going on or why these feelings are coming up all of a sudden. That's okay! You deserve someone who will collaborate with you no matter what you are dealing with. I believe connection and authenticity is the most vital part of the therapy process. Therapy is not just for fears and tears, but laughter and smiles too :) Let's tackle this together! (I hope you enjoy analogies!)
Whether it be life transitions, identity, overwhelming anxiety, perfectionism, people-pleasing or breaking generational trauma.
Stuck? People-Pleasing? Burnt out by life? Almost like no matter what you try to change or improve, those wheels just keep spinning, and you are exhausted. My ideal client is someone who is just ready to feel better. You may not exactly know what is going on or why these feelings are coming up all of a sudden. That's okay! You deserve someone who will collaborate with you no matter what you are dealing with. I believe connection and authenticity is the most vital part of the therapy process. Therapy is not just for fears and tears, but laughter and smiles too :) Let's tackle this together! (I hope you enjoy analogies!)
(314) 937-6408 View (314) 937-6408
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 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

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.