Photo of Kayla Patterson, Counselor in Charlotte, NC
Kayla Patterson
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262
Waitlist for new clients
You are the adult child of a family often filled with dysfunction. You were handed responsibility at an early age due to familial circumstances, and you have built your identity on being the "strong one" in your relationships. You struggle with expressing your needs, emotions, and boundaries with others. You worry that, if left unchecked, one day you will continue to repeat the patterns of generational trauma expressed by others in your family. If you resonate with the above statements, I think it is incredibly brave of you to consider seeking help. It is never too late to rewrite the story you wish to tell with your life.
You are the adult child of a family often filled with dysfunction. You were handed responsibility at an early age due to familial circumstances, and you have built your identity on being the "strong one" in your relationships. You struggle with expressing your needs, emotions, and boundaries with others. You worry that, if left unchecked, one day you will continue to repeat the patterns of generational trauma expressed by others in your family. If you resonate with the above statements, I think it is incredibly brave of you to consider seeking help. It is never too late to rewrite the story you wish to tell with your life.
(704) 389-5748 View (704) 389-5748
Photo of Jennifer Ford, Counselor in Charlotte, NC
Jennifer Ford
Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28277
I specialize in caring for those experiencing postpartum depression and anxiety, birth trauma, challenges with body image and low self-esteem, and family conflict.
"Our greatest victory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall" --Confucius. Perhaps you feel like you've fallen, and you're struggling to get back up and try again. I'm here to help you find the courage to get back on your feet. Whatever challenges you're experiencing today, you don't have to face them alone. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor who is passionate about helping individuals reach total healing and wellness. My ultimate goal is to support and empower my clients and assist with learning the tools to make lasting changes.
I specialize in caring for those experiencing postpartum depression and anxiety, birth trauma, challenges with body image and low self-esteem, and family conflict.
"Our greatest victory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall" --Confucius. Perhaps you feel like you've fallen, and you're struggling to get back up and try again. I'm here to help you find the courage to get back on your feet. Whatever challenges you're experiencing today, you don't have to face them alone. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor who is passionate about helping individuals reach total healing and wellness. My ultimate goal is to support and empower my clients and assist with learning the tools to make lasting changes.
(704) 486-8272 View (704) 486-8272
Photo of Jennifer Davidson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charlotte, NC
Jennifer Davidson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28226
I have my certification in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT).
I am passionate about working with children and their families to collaborate together to make a strong impact to promote healing and improve family functioning. I work with children of all ages, as well as support parents, who may experience difficult situations or experiences in their lives such as adoption, ADHD, anxiety, Autism, emotional and behavioral issues, school disruption, and trauma. I specialize in using play therapy to help children learn to self-regulate, improve executive functioning, increase self-esteem, deal with trauma, increase social skills, and develop positive relationships.
I have my certification in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT).
I am passionate about working with children and their families to collaborate together to make a strong impact to promote healing and improve family functioning. I work with children of all ages, as well as support parents, who may experience difficult situations or experiences in their lives such as adoption, ADHD, anxiety, Autism, emotional and behavioral issues, school disruption, and trauma. I specialize in using play therapy to help children learn to self-regulate, improve executive functioning, increase self-esteem, deal with trauma, increase social skills, and develop positive relationships.
(704) 286-8475 x103 View (704) 286-8475 x103
Photo of Blooming Fields Christian Counseling, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Charlotte, NC
Blooming Fields Christian Counseling
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LCMHC, NCCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28273
Waitlist for new clients
No matter what life brings, YOU are worthy, YOU matter, and YOU can find healing as I commit to offer support, unconditional compassion, and a relentless desire to meet you where you are in life. I consider it an honor to work with children, tweens/teens, families, and adults seeking help and comfort during challenging situations. I aim to equip and encourage parents who are seeking tools and resources to regain confidence in parenting, healthy communication, and secure attachment with their children. Divorce, adoption, anxiety, depression, trauma, life adjustments and emotion regulation are a few of the issues that I typically see.
No matter what life brings, YOU are worthy, YOU matter, and YOU can find healing as I commit to offer support, unconditional compassion, and a relentless desire to meet you where you are in life. I consider it an honor to work with children, tweens/teens, families, and adults seeking help and comfort during challenging situations. I aim to equip and encourage parents who are seeking tools and resources to regain confidence in parenting, healthy communication, and secure attachment with their children. Divorce, adoption, anxiety, depression, trauma, life adjustments and emotion regulation are a few of the issues that I typically see.
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Photo of Yasmeen Ojwang, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charlotte, NC
Yasmeen Ojwang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262  (Online Only)
Yasmeen Ojwang is a licensed clinical social worker associate who specializes in working with adolescent girls and women who have anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and trauma related issues as well as self-esteem issues, family conflict, and life transitions. She uses a holistic, strength-based approach that is nonjudgmental and creates a transformational healing space for clients to be completely themselves. Yasmeen believes in partnering with her clients to help them address, process, and heal from childhood trauma and other traumatic experiences they have endured.
Yasmeen Ojwang is a licensed clinical social worker associate who specializes in working with adolescent girls and women who have anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and trauma related issues as well as self-esteem issues, family conflict, and life transitions. She uses a holistic, strength-based approach that is nonjudgmental and creates a transformational healing space for clients to be completely themselves. Yasmeen believes in partnering with her clients to help them address, process, and heal from childhood trauma and other traumatic experiences they have endured.
(980) 890-5502 View (980) 890-5502
Photo of Nancy Moore, Counselor in Charlotte, NC
Nancy Moore
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, CSAT
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28204
Many of us need an experienced caring professional to walk with us as we question, and confront our personal pain. The struggle may come in the form of loss, trauma, or overwhelming confusion. Although we often feel hopeless and helpless at these moments, the pain and struggle offer us unique opportunities for discovery and growth. l help my client work towards awareness, understanding, and healing. I work with grief, abuse, trauma, depression, anxiety, addiction, and relationship issues. Improved communication, boundaries, parenting, conflict resolution and forgiveness strengthen and heal relationships. Together we identify unhealthy thoughts and patterns that keep one stuck.
Many of us need an experienced caring professional to walk with us as we question, and confront our personal pain. The struggle may come in the form of loss, trauma, or overwhelming confusion. Although we often feel hopeless and helpless at these moments, the pain and struggle offer us unique opportunities for discovery and growth. l help my client work towards awareness, understanding, and healing. I work with grief, abuse, trauma, depression, anxiety, addiction, and relationship issues. Improved communication, boundaries, parenting, conflict resolution and forgiveness strengthen and heal relationships. Together we identify unhealthy thoughts and patterns that keep one stuck.
(704) 313-1921 View (704) 313-1921
Photo of Kimberly Lynn Childress, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Charlotte, NC
Kimberly Lynn Childress
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LPC, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28269  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor in North Carolina. I have worked successfully with individuals, marriage/relationship issues, trauma, depression, anxiety, transgender, and many other issues and concerns.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor in North Carolina. I have worked successfully with individuals, marriage/relationship issues, trauma, depression, anxiety, transgender, and many other issues and concerns.
(704) 610-2297 View (704) 610-2297
Photo of DayBreak Counseling, PLLC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Charlotte, NC
DayBreak Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MACC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28277
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Clinical Mental Health Counselor with expertise in working with individual adults and adolescent girls, couples, and families with a diverse range of needs. It is my life's work to collaborate with and support you as you work to achieve your desired goals. I am proficient in trauma and marital therapy as a result of extensive training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy (EFT). My strengths are in the areas of patience, compassion, warmth, depth and authenticity awakening hope for my clients as well as lasting and positive transformation.
I am a Clinical Mental Health Counselor with expertise in working with individual adults and adolescent girls, couples, and families with a diverse range of needs. It is my life's work to collaborate with and support you as you work to achieve your desired goals. I am proficient in trauma and marital therapy as a result of extensive training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy (EFT). My strengths are in the areas of patience, compassion, warmth, depth and authenticity awakening hope for my clients as well as lasting and positive transformation.
(980) 447-2581 View (980) 447-2581
Photo of Sharhonda L. Ford, EMDR & Brainspotting Therapist, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Charlotte, NC
Sharhonda L. Ford, EMDR & Brainspotting Therapist
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Are you looking for H.O.P.E. (Help Overcoming Powerful Emotions)? If you are struggling with identifying your pain points and powerful emotions, let's connect. Therapy is a way to identify, acknowledge and address trauma and triggers. Have you been plagued by shame, guilt, fear, doubt, despair, grief, abandonment, disappointment, hurt, rejection or any other negative emotion? Are you paralyzed by past experiences or decisions? Are you ready to move beyond the notion that you can't move forward? Choosing healing is a powerful choice. Allowing previous pain to prevent you from your promised purpose should NEVER be an option. Get HOPE!
Are you looking for H.O.P.E. (Help Overcoming Powerful Emotions)? If you are struggling with identifying your pain points and powerful emotions, let's connect. Therapy is a way to identify, acknowledge and address trauma and triggers. Have you been plagued by shame, guilt, fear, doubt, despair, grief, abandonment, disappointment, hurt, rejection or any other negative emotion? Are you paralyzed by past experiences or decisions? Are you ready to move beyond the notion that you can't move forward? Choosing healing is a powerful choice. Allowing previous pain to prevent you from your promised purpose should NEVER be an option. Get HOPE!
(704) 396-4442 View (704) 396-4442
Photo of Bonita Hutchinson and Associates, PLLC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Charlotte, NC
Bonita Hutchinson and Associates, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LPC, LCMHC-S, LCAS, SAP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210  (Online Only)
We understand physical and emotional pain and the sense of hopelessness associated with depression, anxiety, chronic illness and trauma.
Experiencing family, work or relationship issues that are overwhelming, you’re not alone. Counseling can support you in Managing Stress & Anxiety. All services are online Due to the PANDEMIC... connect thru telehealth on your Electronic Device to our secure platform for A Safe Place to share, Learn and for support of your mental and emotional health. We are Open Mornings, Evenings and Saturdays - Serving NC and NJ.
We understand physical and emotional pain and the sense of hopelessness associated with depression, anxiety, chronic illness and trauma.
Experiencing family, work or relationship issues that are overwhelming, you’re not alone. Counseling can support you in Managing Stress & Anxiety. All services are online Due to the PANDEMIC... connect thru telehealth on your Electronic Device to our secure platform for A Safe Place to share, Learn and for support of your mental and emotional health. We are Open Mornings, Evenings and Saturdays - Serving NC and NJ.
(980) 338-4035 View (980) 338-4035
Photo of Marinela Eriksson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Charlotte, NC
Marinela Eriksson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, NC LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28226
Waitlist for new clients
Marinela specializes in working with trauma, marital distress, infidelity, and anxiety.
Marinela’s mission is to guide her clients in the direction of health and balance. Whether you’re facing marital distress, personal struggles, seeking to heal from trauma, or entering into a new phase of life, Marinela will walk alongside to help you navigate and understand your experiences.
Marinela specializes in working with trauma, marital distress, infidelity, and anxiety.
Marinela’s mission is to guide her clients in the direction of health and balance. Whether you’re facing marital distress, personal struggles, seeking to heal from trauma, or entering into a new phase of life, Marinela will walk alongside to help you navigate and understand your experiences.
(704) 368-4371 View (704) 368-4371
Photo of Agape Christian Counseling Center, Counselor in Charlotte, NC
Agape Christian Counseling Center
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28227
Our counselors are Christians who are trained in counseling with children and adolescents, premarital, marriage and family counseling, individual counseling for adults with depression, anxiety, trauma, phobias, and addictions.
We are a group of counselors who are dedicated to the well-being of our clients as we practice professional counseling from a Christian perspective. Whether it's anxiety, depression, trauma, losing a loved one, challenges at work, having hard time parenting your children or dissatisfaction in your marriage - we provide a safe place for you to come individually, as a family, or as a couple to explore the issues you might be experiencing, gain new perspective, and work on overcoming your difficulties. While taking an integrative approach to therapy, we welcome all people who seek counseling, regardless of religious background.
Our counselors are Christians who are trained in counseling with children and adolescents, premarital, marriage and family counseling, individual counseling for adults with depression, anxiety, trauma, phobias, and addictions.
We are a group of counselors who are dedicated to the well-being of our clients as we practice professional counseling from a Christian perspective. Whether it's anxiety, depression, trauma, losing a loved one, challenges at work, having hard time parenting your children or dissatisfaction in your marriage - we provide a safe place for you to come individually, as a family, or as a couple to explore the issues you might be experiencing, gain new perspective, and work on overcoming your difficulties. While taking an integrative approach to therapy, we welcome all people who seek counseling, regardless of religious background.
(704) 448-0762 View (704) 448-0762
Photo of Wilsons Counseling and Consulting Services, PLLC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Charlotte, NC
Wilsons Counseling and Consulting Services, PLLC
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MSW, LCASA, CEO
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28217
I have the education and training to address a wide range of treatment issues however I specialize in treating trauma(s), addictions, and challenging relationships.
I am Nate Wilson, Jr., MSW, LCAS. I am a Licensed Clinical Addiction Psychotherapist, Specialist. I’ve been in the field of mental health for over 25 years. I’ve worked with various people from various backgrounds as it relates to cultural diversity such as race, gender, religion, ethnicity, and other distinct groups, each of which has different values and lifestyles. I earned my Master of Clinical Social Work from Fordham University, NYC, NY. I have been practicing in a licensed capacity since 2016. As a therapist, I use eclectic therapy approaches that cover many theories.
I have the education and training to address a wide range of treatment issues however I specialize in treating trauma(s), addictions, and challenging relationships.
I am Nate Wilson, Jr., MSW, LCAS. I am a Licensed Clinical Addiction Psychotherapist, Specialist. I’ve been in the field of mental health for over 25 years. I’ve worked with various people from various backgrounds as it relates to cultural diversity such as race, gender, religion, ethnicity, and other distinct groups, each of which has different values and lifestyles. I earned my Master of Clinical Social Work from Fordham University, NYC, NY. I have been practicing in a licensed capacity since 2016. As a therapist, I use eclectic therapy approaches that cover many theories.
(336) 502-8218 View (336) 502-8218
Photo of Latasha G. Gary, Counselor in Charlotte, NC
Latasha G. Gary
Counselor, LCMHC, MACC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28226
I specialize in treating those who have experienced trauma & emotional wounds that have not resolved despite their best efforts.
Trauma doesn’t often show it's effects immediately or plainly. It is often hidden in patterns of sleepless nights, negative thinking, anxious worry, and feelings of despair and emptiness. It casts a long shadow that begins to de-color every aspect of life. Activities that were previously enjoyed are scheduled less often. You've noticed not only effects but that it has changed who you are. You’ve noticed that the way you feel about the world & others is very different. The thoughts you have about yourself are no better. And every part of life is categorized by whether it happened “before”. “Before the accident, before the bullying".
I specialize in treating those who have experienced trauma & emotional wounds that have not resolved despite their best efforts.
Trauma doesn’t often show it's effects immediately or plainly. It is often hidden in patterns of sleepless nights, negative thinking, anxious worry, and feelings of despair and emptiness. It casts a long shadow that begins to de-color every aspect of life. Activities that were previously enjoyed are scheduled less often. You've noticed not only effects but that it has changed who you are. You’ve noticed that the way you feel about the world & others is very different. The thoughts you have about yourself are no better. And every part of life is categorized by whether it happened “before”. “Before the accident, before the bullying".
(704) 741-8592 View (704) 741-8592
Photo of Kimberly Reese, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charlotte, NC
Kimberly Reese
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
I'm Kimberly and I'm a Black Trauma Therapist, Black Enneagram CliniCoach, and Speaker. As a clinician, I specialize in treating trauma in Black people. I help us understand, heal from, and move through traumatic experiences. As a coach, I teach high-achieving Black women how to navigate their Blackness and their purpose with confidence in white spaces.
I'm Kimberly and I'm a Black Trauma Therapist, Black Enneagram CliniCoach, and Speaker. As a clinician, I specialize in treating trauma in Black people. I help us understand, heal from, and move through traumatic experiences. As a coach, I teach high-achieving Black women how to navigate their Blackness and their purpose with confidence in white spaces.
(919) 759-5485 View (919) 759-5485
Photo of Robert McGuire, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Charlotte, NC
Robert McGuire
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, CSAT, CPTT, EMDR Tr
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210  (Online Only)
Overcoming trauma, personal crises, marital crises, addictions such as online porn, media, and gaming, and anxiety, impulse control and emotional regulation are areas of interest to me.
Trying to face life’s challenges on your own can easily become confusing, overwhelming and discouraging. I want to offer you a place where you can feel understood, supported, and encouraged. I offer you hope and an opportunity for freedom. My desire is to walk alongside you with genuineness and acceptance, as you navigate and overcome life’s challenges.
Overcoming trauma, personal crises, marital crises, addictions such as online porn, media, and gaming, and anxiety, impulse control and emotional regulation are areas of interest to me.
Trying to face life’s challenges on your own can easily become confusing, overwhelming and discouraging. I want to offer you a place where you can feel understood, supported, and encouraged. I offer you hope and an opportunity for freedom. My desire is to walk alongside you with genuineness and acceptance, as you navigate and overcome life’s challenges.
(980) 270-1396 View (980) 270-1396
Photo of Gigi Ritchey in Charlotte, NC
Gigi Ritchey
MA, LCMHC, TFCBT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210  (Online Only)
I specialize in assisting women with depression, anxiety, trauma /PTSD, and multi-generational family issues.
"I am not here to judge. My purpose is to inspire and assist in empowering others to believe in themselves from the inside out. I am available to provide guidance and support. Thank you for taking the first step. ” All sessions are virtual/teletherapy at this time. Please note, I make every effort to return your call or email within 24 hours. -Gigi
I specialize in assisting women with depression, anxiety, trauma /PTSD, and multi-generational family issues.
"I am not here to judge. My purpose is to inspire and assist in empowering others to believe in themselves from the inside out. I am available to provide guidance and support. Thank you for taking the first step. ” All sessions are virtual/teletherapy at this time. Please note, I make every effort to return your call or email within 24 hours. -Gigi
(910) 387-4212 View (910) 387-4212
Photo of Erin Sweitzer, Marriage & Family Therapist in Charlotte, NC
Erin Sweitzer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28226
Wednesday and Thursday Sessions Available! Are you in a place where life seems frustrating, lonely and difficult? Is there a situation just out of reach and seems hard to obtain your goals? Are you dealing with a past experience, trauma or difficulty which seems impossible to move forward without facing? Do you feel overwhelmed, hurt or defeated? These are all specialty areas I can help you with through my supportive and compassionate approach to therapy. My respect for you as the client means I work with you to achieve your goals and strengthen your own self-awareness and way of handling situations in your own life.
Wednesday and Thursday Sessions Available! Are you in a place where life seems frustrating, lonely and difficult? Is there a situation just out of reach and seems hard to obtain your goals? Are you dealing with a past experience, trauma or difficulty which seems impossible to move forward without facing? Do you feel overwhelmed, hurt or defeated? These are all specialty areas I can help you with through my supportive and compassionate approach to therapy. My respect for you as the client means I work with you to achieve your goals and strengthen your own self-awareness and way of handling situations in your own life.
(704) 396-8727 View (704) 396-8727
Photo of Blake Clemmons, Licensed Professional Counselor in Charlotte, NC
Blake Clemmons
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28227  (Online Only)
Are you feeling burnt out or frustrated with ongoing addictions, anxiety, OCD, depression, trauma, stress, marriage communication and stress? Have you ever felt like it's difficult to find a trusted person that is safe and willing to truly listen to your concerns? I believe CHANGE can only occur when we feel valued, encouraged, understood and SAFE to work through the difficulties of life. If you are looking for professional, clinical therapy from a Christian perspective then please feel free to reach out. I believe that God is our ultimate healer and invite Him into therapy with you!
Are you feeling burnt out or frustrated with ongoing addictions, anxiety, OCD, depression, trauma, stress, marriage communication and stress? Have you ever felt like it's difficult to find a trusted person that is safe and willing to truly listen to your concerns? I believe CHANGE can only occur when we feel valued, encouraged, understood and SAFE to work through the difficulties of life. If you are looking for professional, clinical therapy from a Christian perspective then please feel free to reach out. I believe that God is our ultimate healer and invite Him into therapy with you!
(704) 769-2751 View (704) 769-2751
Photo of Courtney Krajenka, Psychologist in Charlotte, NC
Courtney Krajenka
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28211
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in trauma-informed treatment, which helps clients cope with difficult past experiences and move toward healthier futures.
I find it a privilege and honor to walk with children and adolescents through challenging seasons by applying evidence-based interventions in an empathic, safe and playful environment. I am Dr. Courtney Krajenka, and I have over six years of experience working with children and adolescents in a variety of settings. I love connecting with children and helping them grow from challenging experiences and circumstances.
I specialize in trauma-informed treatment, which helps clients cope with difficult past experiences and move toward healthier futures.
I find it a privilege and honor to walk with children and adolescents through challenging seasons by applying evidence-based interventions in an empathic, safe and playful environment. I am Dr. Courtney Krajenka, and I have over six years of experience working with children and adolescents in a variety of settings. I love connecting with children and helping them grow from challenging experiences and circumstances.
(704) 703-2882 View (704) 703-2882

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.