Photo of Lisa Layman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wilmington, NC
Lisa Layman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS, CSAT, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28401
I also work with spouses and partners for recovery from betrayal trauma and overcoming relationship issues.
I specialize in Sex & Porn addiction believe that everyone is entitled to have his or her own unique experience in therapy and that a strong individualized therapeutic relationship is central to the healing process. It is my goal to provide a safe and open space where clients feel comfortable freely expressing their thoughts and feelings, without judgment. I utilize EMDR to reduce the thoughts that motivate unhealthy behaviors and decrease distressing symptoms.
I also work with spouses and partners for recovery from betrayal trauma and overcoming relationship issues.
I specialize in Sex & Porn addiction believe that everyone is entitled to have his or her own unique experience in therapy and that a strong individualized therapeutic relationship is central to the healing process. It is my goal to provide a safe and open space where clients feel comfortable freely expressing their thoughts and feelings, without judgment. I utilize EMDR to reduce the thoughts that motivate unhealthy behaviors and decrease distressing symptoms.
(910) 202-4353 View (910) 202-4353
Photo of Lindsey Michelle Bradley, Counselor in Wilmington, NC
Lindsey Michelle Bradley
Counselor, MS, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28405
Evidence-based treatment approaches utilized include Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-focused therapy, and trauma-informed therapy.
Are you a human? Great! You can benefit from therapy. Only semi-joking. On a real note, if you are anxious, depressed, stressed, unable to sleep at night, scared, mentally absent, have low self-esteem, experience flashbacks, nightmares/terrors, misuse substances or have a loved one that missuses substances, have difficulty focusing and staying on task and/or have a child that has ADHD, experience anger outbursts and/or abrupt mood changes, carry around childhood wounds from which you have never healed, have difficulty adjusting from a life-changing event, or are riding out the waves of grief, then you are a good fit for therapy.
Evidence-based treatment approaches utilized include Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-focused therapy, and trauma-informed therapy.
Are you a human? Great! You can benefit from therapy. Only semi-joking. On a real note, if you are anxious, depressed, stressed, unable to sleep at night, scared, mentally absent, have low self-esteem, experience flashbacks, nightmares/terrors, misuse substances or have a loved one that missuses substances, have difficulty focusing and staying on task and/or have a child that has ADHD, experience anger outbursts and/or abrupt mood changes, carry around childhood wounds from which you have never healed, have difficulty adjusting from a life-changing event, or are riding out the waves of grief, then you are a good fit for therapy.
(910) 408-0012 View (910) 408-0012
Photo of Evolution Wellness, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilmington, NC
Evolution Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
Are you anxious, depressed, or struggling in your relationships? Do you feel overwhelmed? Are you ready to make positive changes in your life? We have many therapists who specialize in many areas such as anxiety/depression, trauma, relationships, and more. Scheduling is easy and we have a care coordinator who will walk you through every step of the way. We also offer Clinical Supervision for qualifying LCSWAs!
Are you anxious, depressed, or struggling in your relationships? Do you feel overwhelmed? Are you ready to make positive changes in your life? We have many therapists who specialize in many areas such as anxiety/depression, trauma, relationships, and more. Scheduling is easy and we have a care coordinator who will walk you through every step of the way. We also offer Clinical Supervision for qualifying LCSWAs!
(910) 434-5222 View (910) 434-5222
Photo of Carol Horwath, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilmington, NC
Carol Horwath
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28401
I have spent over 15 years developing my clinical skills with a focus on mood disorders, anxiety, and trauma.
I look forward to meeting clients who seek a calm, home-like environment in which to safely explore the various ways their lives may be improved. I can help anyone who is inspired to engage in self-exploration and insight-building in order to release what is old and not working and develop new habits that increase function and improve quality of life. My goal is to meet you where you are and help you to get where you would like to go.
I have spent over 15 years developing my clinical skills with a focus on mood disorders, anxiety, and trauma.
I look forward to meeting clients who seek a calm, home-like environment in which to safely explore the various ways their lives may be improved. I can help anyone who is inspired to engage in self-exploration and insight-building in order to release what is old and not working and develop new habits that increase function and improve quality of life. My goal is to meet you where you are and help you to get where you would like to go.
(910) 519-8671 View (910) 519-8671
Photo of Insights-Center for Mindfulness and Psychotherapy, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Wilmington, NC
Insights-Center for Mindfulness and Psychotherapy
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28411
Hello, my name is Stacey Gobins and I am a licensed mental health counselor and addiction and trauma specialist. I offer my clients a sacred space to share feelings about their worries, setbacks, relationship struggles and traumatic experiences that are difficult to talk about. I will support you as we identify the problem, collaborate on choosing your goals "what is your treasure", and work through specific barriers to change and healing during the process of therapy.
Hello, my name is Stacey Gobins and I am a licensed mental health counselor and addiction and trauma specialist. I offer my clients a sacred space to share feelings about their worries, setbacks, relationship struggles and traumatic experiences that are difficult to talk about. I will support you as we identify the problem, collaborate on choosing your goals "what is your treasure", and work through specific barriers to change and healing during the process of therapy.
(910) 725-5840 View (910) 725-5840
Photo of capefearcounseling&psychotherapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilmington, NC
capefearcounseling&psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
I am a licensed clinical social worker and I have been in practice for over 30 years. I work exclusively with adults presenting with a wide range of diagnosis including:adjustment disorders, depression, anxiety, relationship issues,coping with stress,grief and loss, current and past trauma, military related trauma,life transitions, compulsive disorders and addictions,anger management, phobias,mood disorders I utilize various treatment modalities, depending on the presenting issues, including EMDR{Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing}.
I am a licensed clinical social worker and I have been in practice for over 30 years. I work exclusively with adults presenting with a wide range of diagnosis including:adjustment disorders, depression, anxiety, relationship issues,coping with stress,grief and loss, current and past trauma, military related trauma,life transitions, compulsive disorders and addictions,anger management, phobias,mood disorders I utilize various treatment modalities, depending on the presenting issues, including EMDR{Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing}.
(910) 526-0123 View (910) 526-0123
Photo of Kelly Rose, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Wilmington, NC
Kelly Rose
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403  (Online Only)
I specialize in trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, women's issues, and LGBTQIA issues.
Are you finding yourself stuck in the same cyclical patterns of unhealed wounds and behaviors that are affecting your overall mental health and wellbeing? Do you find yourself repeating the same actions that have caused unnecessary pain and suffering in your life? Do you often feel alone and struggle with intrusive thoughts or overwhelming emotions? At times, we may feel lost in our own individual journeys, however, therapy can be a tremendous segue into personal healing. I believe in treating the root of the symptom while supporting my clients through their emotional processes geared toward resolution & transformation.
I specialize in trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, women's issues, and LGBTQIA issues.
Are you finding yourself stuck in the same cyclical patterns of unhealed wounds and behaviors that are affecting your overall mental health and wellbeing? Do you find yourself repeating the same actions that have caused unnecessary pain and suffering in your life? Do you often feel alone and struggle with intrusive thoughts or overwhelming emotions? At times, we may feel lost in our own individual journeys, however, therapy can be a tremendous segue into personal healing. I believe in treating the root of the symptom while supporting my clients through their emotional processes geared toward resolution & transformation.
(910) 460-3445 View (910) 460-3445
Photo of Dana Peterson Dorsett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilmington, NC
Dana Peterson Dorsett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
Specialties: Anxiety, stress, depression, relationship, infertility, body-mind & health issues, trauma, grief & transitions.
Hi.My goal is to help you grow, to find more peace, more joy, & create more ease in your relationships; with you, others & your world. Clients come to me due to anxiety, fears, discomfort, uncertainty about the past, present & future. Some feel stuck, others hard to accept or simply a need for change, movement, healing, evolution. I understand that it's super difficult to figure out the HOW when we are caught up in life's challenges. I will hold up a mirror to you and life. Together we will cultivate Trust and Clarity. You will learn tools. As you practice, your life will gently unfold and you will create the life you desire.
Specialties: Anxiety, stress, depression, relationship, infertility, body-mind & health issues, trauma, grief & transitions.
Hi.My goal is to help you grow, to find more peace, more joy, & create more ease in your relationships; with you, others & your world. Clients come to me due to anxiety, fears, discomfort, uncertainty about the past, present & future. Some feel stuck, others hard to accept or simply a need for change, movement, healing, evolution. I understand that it's super difficult to figure out the HOW when we are caught up in life's challenges. I will hold up a mirror to you and life. Together we will cultivate Trust and Clarity. You will learn tools. As you practice, your life will gently unfold and you will create the life you desire.
(910) 537-3574 View (910) 537-3574
Photo of Janice Mann, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Wilmington, NC
Janice Mann
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
Waitlist for new clients
Talking about trauma makes it real.
It is hard to focus on the current moment. It is a challenge to stay attached and connected to your body. There are so many things going on, and all you can experience are images, smells, and feelings of times when you were forced to survive. You may think, "How do I let go" "How do I find connection" There may be times that you lose hours or days, and come to ask yourself, "How did I get here" and "How do I talk about what's going on without feeling like a burden?" There may be times when you feel you cannot connect to others as your life experiences feel too big. You may feel shame in your experiences, and others may not relate to
Talking about trauma makes it real.
It is hard to focus on the current moment. It is a challenge to stay attached and connected to your body. There are so many things going on, and all you can experience are images, smells, and feelings of times when you were forced to survive. You may think, "How do I let go" "How do I find connection" There may be times that you lose hours or days, and come to ask yourself, "How did I get here" and "How do I talk about what's going on without feeling like a burden?" There may be times when you feel you cannot connect to others as your life experiences feel too big. You may feel shame in your experiences, and others may not relate to
(910) 210-6160 View (910) 210-6160
Photo of Lorraine Forris, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilmington, NC
Lorraine Forris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28405  (Online Only)
She utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, psychoanalytic therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Re-processing for trauma, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness and other approaches tailored for each individual client.
For the past 25 years my interest and passion is working with adults and children, families and couples to reach their goals and make positive change in their lives. Whether you are experiencing an adjustment to a new and difficult situation or have been dealing with a more complex condition for which you need help, Ms. Forris helps define the issues and develop solutions. Ms. Forris has a wide breadth of knowledge and experience over a wide spectrum of mental health problems. She has trained, mentored and supervised many therapists in community mental health, home health and public health settings.
She utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, psychoanalytic therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Re-processing for trauma, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness and other approaches tailored for each individual client.
For the past 25 years my interest and passion is working with adults and children, families and couples to reach their goals and make positive change in their lives. Whether you are experiencing an adjustment to a new and difficult situation or have been dealing with a more complex condition for which you need help, Ms. Forris helps define the issues and develop solutions. Ms. Forris has a wide breadth of knowledge and experience over a wide spectrum of mental health problems. She has trained, mentored and supervised many therapists in community mental health, home health and public health settings.
(910) 716-4577 View (910) 716-4577
Photo of Nadia Josephine Crossno-Rodriguez, Counselor in Wilmington, NC
Nadia Josephine Crossno-Rodriguez
Counselor, MEd, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28412
I use these mostly to address anxiety, depression, self-esteem/self-image concerns, relationship concerns, ADHD, and trauma.
Accepting new clients! Are you having trouble facing life's daily struggles at times? Do you feel stuck and/or that you would benefit from some external support? Life can be very difficult to navigate, but it is important to understand that you are not alone. I provide a safe, validating environment for all populations to address each individual's needs and goals. By teaming up with my clients, we identify techniques and tools that work for their unique needs, while also engaging in self-reflection that leads to self-growth in all aspects on one's life.
I use these mostly to address anxiety, depression, self-esteem/self-image concerns, relationship concerns, ADHD, and trauma.
Accepting new clients! Are you having trouble facing life's daily struggles at times? Do you feel stuck and/or that you would benefit from some external support? Life can be very difficult to navigate, but it is important to understand that you are not alone. I provide a safe, validating environment for all populations to address each individual's needs and goals. By teaming up with my clients, we identify techniques and tools that work for their unique needs, while also engaging in self-reflection that leads to self-growth in all aspects on one's life.
(919) 822-9068 View (919) 822-9068
Photo of Stephanie Tucker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilmington, NC
Stephanie Tucker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, TITC-CT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma, & grief.
Life can be tough. It can be unpredictable and incomprehensible. We get hit with experiences that show up unexpected and uninvited. These experiences affect us and change us. My hope is that I can sit beside you on your journey to understand your experiences. You possess the power to heal and it is my job to help you find that inner power.
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma, & grief.
Life can be tough. It can be unpredictable and incomprehensible. We get hit with experiences that show up unexpected and uninvited. These experiences affect us and change us. My hope is that I can sit beside you on your journey to understand your experiences. You possess the power to heal and it is my job to help you find that inner power.
(910) 537-6518 View (910) 537-6518
Photo of Made Well Center for Wholeness, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilmington, NC
Made Well Center for Wholeness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RYT200, LCSW, BCFWP
Verified Verified
23 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
Have you been struggling with life recently? Are you feeling overly anxious, or depressed, or working to heal a trauma? Then the Made Well Center is here for you. We have multiple practitioners who are all trauma informed, holistically minded, and value client centered approaches to healing. We all walk through life differently, yet none of us are immune to hardships. We believe that you were made well & can live well & feel WHOLE. Practitioner availability: Stephanie, Laura Graham, Lia, and Cecilia. Gut Health Coaching Availability: Carrie Sink. Reach out to info at madewellcenter.org today!
Have you been struggling with life recently? Are you feeling overly anxious, or depressed, or working to heal a trauma? Then the Made Well Center is here for you. We have multiple practitioners who are all trauma informed, holistically minded, and value client centered approaches to healing. We all walk through life differently, yet none of us are immune to hardships. We believe that you were made well & can live well & feel WHOLE. Practitioner availability: Stephanie, Laura Graham, Lia, and Cecilia. Gut Health Coaching Availability: Carrie Sink. Reach out to info at madewellcenter.org today!
(910) 557-7017 View (910) 557-7017
Photo of Hunter Davis, Counselor in Wilmington, NC
Hunter Davis
Counselor, MS, LCMHC, CCTS-I, NCC
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403  (Online Only)
I'm so glad you're here! Taking the first steps towards unraveling generational trauma and shedding patterns that no longer serve you can feel overwhelming. But here's the thing: you've already achieved something remarkable by simply being here. I want to be your guide on this path of self-discovery and transformation. Together we will expand your self-awareness, address negative core beliefs, and heal past wounds that are still impacting the present moment so you're able to grow into your best self. My goal is to empower you and to help you develop the coping skills necessary to navigate life's challenges.
I'm so glad you're here! Taking the first steps towards unraveling generational trauma and shedding patterns that no longer serve you can feel overwhelming. But here's the thing: you've already achieved something remarkable by simply being here. I want to be your guide on this path of self-discovery and transformation. Together we will expand your self-awareness, address negative core beliefs, and heal past wounds that are still impacting the present moment so you're able to grow into your best self. My goal is to empower you and to help you develop the coping skills necessary to navigate life's challenges.
(910) 631-5573 View (910) 631-5573
Photo of Cayleigh Metcalf, Counselor in Wilmington, NC
Cayleigh Metcalf
Counselor, MS, LCMHC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
You have inherent value and my goal is to work collaboratively with you to find the best form of therapy to fit your needs. After all the suffering you’ve endured, you shouldn’t have to go through this alone. You deserve someone who will show you empathy and compassion, cheering you on, as you become your favorite version of yourself. Together, we can find a therapeutic method that works best for you. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, specializing in trauma from childhood, depression, and relationship issues. I see clients 18+ who are navigating trauma and PTSD, relationship issues, and attachment struggles
You have inherent value and my goal is to work collaboratively with you to find the best form of therapy to fit your needs. After all the suffering you’ve endured, you shouldn’t have to go through this alone. You deserve someone who will show you empathy and compassion, cheering you on, as you become your favorite version of yourself. Together, we can find a therapeutic method that works best for you. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, specializing in trauma from childhood, depression, and relationship issues. I see clients 18+ who are navigating trauma and PTSD, relationship issues, and attachment struggles
(910) 898-3359 View (910) 898-3359
Photo of Place of Peace Counseling and Therapeutic Center, Psychologist in Wilmington, NC
Place of Peace Counseling and Therapeutic Center
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
Place of Peace Counseling and Therapeutic Center offers therapy in a soothing and comfortable environment for those who are struggling with anxiety disorders, depression, trauma/PTSD, relationship issues, substance abuse, low self-esteem and grief. We know that life's challenges can at times throw us off our path, resulting in mental health symptoms, distressing feelings and problems in completing our responsibilities or pursuing our goals. We offer several empirically-validated modalities of therapy to help you address your concerns and get back on the path to the life you desire.
Place of Peace Counseling and Therapeutic Center offers therapy in a soothing and comfortable environment for those who are struggling with anxiety disorders, depression, trauma/PTSD, relationship issues, substance abuse, low self-esteem and grief. We know that life's challenges can at times throw us off our path, resulting in mental health symptoms, distressing feelings and problems in completing our responsibilities or pursuing our goals. We offer several empirically-validated modalities of therapy to help you address your concerns and get back on the path to the life you desire.
(910) 777-7858 View (910) 777-7858
Photo of Jenny Lynn Vaughn, Counselor in Wilmington, NC
Jenny Lynn Vaughn
Counselor, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403  (Online Only)
My name is Jenny Vaughn and I am a Licensed clinician in the Wilmington area. I specialize in EMDR interventions and work well with trauma, life-adjustments, Anxiety, Depression, and Attachment. In working with me, you will find that I strive to provide a comfortable space for connection and intervention. I find that connecting with my clients is important and the therapeutic relationship should be equally professional and deeply personal.
My name is Jenny Vaughn and I am a Licensed clinician in the Wilmington area. I specialize in EMDR interventions and work well with trauma, life-adjustments, Anxiety, Depression, and Attachment. In working with me, you will find that I strive to provide a comfortable space for connection and intervention. I find that connecting with my clients is important and the therapeutic relationship should be equally professional and deeply personal.
(910) 698-8156 View (910) 698-8156
Photo of Amanda D'Angelo, Psychologist in Wilmington, NC
Amanda D'Angelo
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
Waitlist for new clients
I understand the importance of a collaborative relationship in therapy and believe it is the most important vehicle for change. I attempt to provide a warm, caring, and accepting atmosphere that will encourage clients to move towards their goals and improve their lives. My professionalism, authenticity, and sense of humor set me apart as a clinician. I specialize in working with individuals and couples that have been impacted by sexual trauma.
I understand the importance of a collaborative relationship in therapy and believe it is the most important vehicle for change. I attempt to provide a warm, caring, and accepting atmosphere that will encourage clients to move towards their goals and improve their lives. My professionalism, authenticity, and sense of humor set me apart as a clinician. I specialize in working with individuals and couples that have been impacted by sexual trauma.
(910) 444-1806 View (910) 444-1806
Photo of Nicole Murray, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Wilmington, NC
Nicole Murray
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
I hold certification in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, a specialized treatment program designed to address the effects of traumatic experiences through a trauma-sensitive approach.
Dealing with life's challenges can feel daunting, frightening, and almost impossible to bear. You don't have to face them by yourself. I am committed to establishing a secure, supportive, and accepting space where you can openly express your difficulties. My goal is for those I support to experience healing as they navigate their individual paths. Every individual holds the potential for change, and I aim to help you acquire the necessary resources for positive transformation. Don't hesitate...get in touch, and let's embark on this journey together. It's time for you to prioritize yourself.
I hold certification in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, a specialized treatment program designed to address the effects of traumatic experiences through a trauma-sensitive approach.
Dealing with life's challenges can feel daunting, frightening, and almost impossible to bear. You don't have to face them by yourself. I am committed to establishing a secure, supportive, and accepting space where you can openly express your difficulties. My goal is for those I support to experience healing as they navigate their individual paths. Every individual holds the potential for change, and I aim to help you acquire the necessary resources for positive transformation. Don't hesitate...get in touch, and let's embark on this journey together. It's time for you to prioritize yourself.
(910) 218-8584 View (910) 218-8584
Photo of Brittany Patterson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilmington, NC
Brittany Patterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
Waitlist for new clients
I have a passion for working with clients who are struggling with trauma, depression and relationship/family stress.
"The world breaks everyone, but some are strong at the broken places." -Ernest Hemingway. We all encounter challenges from time to time that seem to break us but with support we can strengthen the broken places to become whole again. If you are facing challenges in life with PTSD, depression, anxiety, relationship challenges or parenting needs I will help come alongside you to find the strength to heal and become whole again. I work with individuals of all ages (0-adult) as well as families. I take a holistic client centered approach to therapy.
I have a passion for working with clients who are struggling with trauma, depression and relationship/family stress.
"The world breaks everyone, but some are strong at the broken places." -Ernest Hemingway. We all encounter challenges from time to time that seem to break us but with support we can strengthen the broken places to become whole again. If you are facing challenges in life with PTSD, depression, anxiety, relationship challenges or parenting needs I will help come alongside you to find the strength to heal and become whole again. I work with individuals of all ages (0-adult) as well as families. I take a holistic client centered approach to therapy.
(910) 405-8825 View (910) 405-8825
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.