Photo of Buffy Taylor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilmington, NC
Buffy Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28401
I specialize in supporting individuals who face depression, anxiety, mood/behavioral issues, and trauma. My expertise lies in working with survivors of sexual trauma and abuse, offering compassionate guidance and utilizing evidence-based therapies such as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) to help process and overcome past barriers. Additionally, as an Addictions Specialist, I am committed to assisting those navigating substance use and recovery.
I specialize in supporting individuals who face depression, anxiety, mood/behavioral issues, and trauma. My expertise lies in working with survivors of sexual trauma and abuse, offering compassionate guidance and utilizing evidence-based therapies such as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) to help process and overcome past barriers. Additionally, as an Addictions Specialist, I am committed to assisting those navigating substance use and recovery.
(910) 812-3496 View (910) 812-3496
Photo of Mary Krenzel, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wilmington, NC
Mary Krenzel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
Waitlist for new clients
I am Board Certified and have specialized training with resolving trauma, anxiety and depression utilizing trauma-focused therapy, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and mind-body awareness (somatic).
Take a deep breath. How do you feel? Has the stress of life drained your joy, leaving you tired and overwhelmed? Picture yourself filled with energy, peace and stability. Balancing work, family and other life stressors can be difficult and can impact both our mind and body causing pain and suffering. Together we can reduce your stress, balance your mood and find your passion. We may work to improve communication and create deeper connections, process old wounds and cultivate happiness. Now take another deep breath. You can do this.
I am Board Certified and have specialized training with resolving trauma, anxiety and depression utilizing trauma-focused therapy, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and mind-body awareness (somatic).
Take a deep breath. How do you feel? Has the stress of life drained your joy, leaving you tired and overwhelmed? Picture yourself filled with energy, peace and stability. Balancing work, family and other life stressors can be difficult and can impact both our mind and body causing pain and suffering. Together we can reduce your stress, balance your mood and find your passion. We may work to improve communication and create deeper connections, process old wounds and cultivate happiness. Now take another deep breath. You can do this.
(910) 817-4409 View (910) 817-4409
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 Kim Simpson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilmington, NC
Kim Simpson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
Helping people heal from trauma is sacred to me. It involves creating a safe space where, someone can reflect on past hurt and current aspects of life. The therapy process has the power to guide you towards introspection, enabling you to discover purpose, strength, healing and acceptance. By feeling secure enough to face your inner world, your external world will inevitably improve.
Helping people heal from trauma is sacred to me. It involves creating a safe space where, someone can reflect on past hurt and current aspects of life. The therapy process has the power to guide you towards introspection, enabling you to discover purpose, strength, healing and acceptance. By feeling secure enough to face your inner world, your external world will inevitably improve.
(910) 227-3057 View (910) 227-3057
Photo of Lauren Averitt, Counselor in Wilmington, NC
Lauren Averitt
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28401  (Online Only)
*For a quicker response, text 910-610-3199* I really enjoy working with young adults develop skills to manage anxiety and help build self-esteem. I have a passion for trauma work and welcome clients experiencing related difficulties. There are ways to enjoy the journey and I'd love to help you with this.
*For a quicker response, text 910-610-3199* I really enjoy working with young adults develop skills to manage anxiety and help build self-esteem. I have a passion for trauma work and welcome clients experiencing related difficulties. There are ways to enjoy the journey and I'd love to help you with this.
(910) 446-1163 View (910) 446-1163
Photo of Novatu Counseling and Assessment, Psychologist in Wilmington, NC
Novatu Counseling and Assessment
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
Waitlist for new clients
Have you suffered or survived traumatic experiences? Are you feeling stuck in your life and struggling in your relationships? Have you tried therapy but stalled in your progress? Are you being overwhelmed by anxiety, social isolation, hypervigilance, fear, feeling emotionally disconnected or any other trauma related symptoms? Are you motivated to feel better, process through the trauma that has plagued you and move forward with your life?
Have you suffered or survived traumatic experiences? Are you feeling stuck in your life and struggling in your relationships? Have you tried therapy but stalled in your progress? Are you being overwhelmed by anxiety, social isolation, hypervigilance, fear, feeling emotionally disconnected or any other trauma related symptoms? Are you motivated to feel better, process through the trauma that has plagued you and move forward with your life?
(910) 317-9125 View (910) 317-9125
Photo of Emma Erickson in Wilmington, NC
Emma Erickson
LCMHCA, LCAS-A, MAEd, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
Do you feel like your past is holding you back? Are you struggling to heal old wounds from childhood adversity? Do you want to develop a healthier relationship with alcohol or cannabis? If so, I'm here to help. My approach to therapy is grounded in collaboration, compassion, and evidence-based practice. Together, we'll identify self-defeating patterns, explore underlying issues, and work towards creating meaningful, sustainable change. I’m especially passionate about working with first-time therapy goers, complex trauma survivors, and individuals with ADHD.
Do you feel like your past is holding you back? Are you struggling to heal old wounds from childhood adversity? Do you want to develop a healthier relationship with alcohol or cannabis? If so, I'm here to help. My approach to therapy is grounded in collaboration, compassion, and evidence-based practice. Together, we'll identify self-defeating patterns, explore underlying issues, and work towards creating meaningful, sustainable change. I’m especially passionate about working with first-time therapy goers, complex trauma survivors, and individuals with ADHD.
(910) 830-8679 View (910) 830-8679
Photo of Mary Engelstatter, Psychologist in Wilmington, NC
Mary Engelstatter
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28405
We will work together to address issues that may be worsening day-to-day strain - whether it be anxiety, negative thoughts, difficulty with attention and concentration, or processing through past trauma.
Do you ever feel like you are putting on a happy face to get through the day, only to come home, emotionally drained, and just tired of faking it? Are you ready to take the next step but have spent so long feeling like a burden that speaking about your problems seems almost impossible? Starting therapy can be frightening and, for a lot of us, talking about our feelings doesn’t come easy. That's ok. (Seriously!) I want you to know that it's normal to feel nervous at first and that it is worth it to get your life back. Together, we will work towards helping you live a better life - however that may be defined for you.
We will work together to address issues that may be worsening day-to-day strain - whether it be anxiety, negative thoughts, difficulty with attention and concentration, or processing through past trauma.
Do you ever feel like you are putting on a happy face to get through the day, only to come home, emotionally drained, and just tired of faking it? Are you ready to take the next step but have spent so long feeling like a burden that speaking about your problems seems almost impossible? Starting therapy can be frightening and, for a lot of us, talking about our feelings doesn’t come easy. That's ok. (Seriously!) I want you to know that it's normal to feel nervous at first and that it is worth it to get your life back. Together, we will work towards helping you live a better life - however that may be defined for you.
(910) 519-1970 View (910) 519-1970
Photo of Monumental Foundations PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wilmington, NC
Monumental Foundations PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS, CCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28405
Whether your struggle is depression, trauma, relationships, addiction or other mental health concerns,.
I am a mother, a veteran, a christian, a counselor and a survivor. I have a passion for my work and I pride myself in caring about the interest of my clients and their concerns. I know that sometimes life hurdles prevent us from living the life we so richly deserve. From time to time we may face difficulties in our life, our relationships or finding a peace within ourselves. I utilize an individualized, integrative and eclectic approach in therapy to assist individuals in reaching their self-determined goals.
Whether your struggle is depression, trauma, relationships, addiction or other mental health concerns,.
I am a mother, a veteran, a christian, a counselor and a survivor. I have a passion for my work and I pride myself in caring about the interest of my clients and their concerns. I know that sometimes life hurdles prevent us from living the life we so richly deserve. From time to time we may face difficulties in our life, our relationships or finding a peace within ourselves. I utilize an individualized, integrative and eclectic approach in therapy to assist individuals in reaching their self-determined goals.
(910) 294-3305 View (910) 294-3305
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 Megan M Havel, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wilmington, NC
Megan M Havel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
In treatment, together, we will improve your positive thinking, develop deeper emotional awareness, and process any past trauma you have gone through.
Have you been looking for support to make life changes? Feeling your world has been tough to navigate on your own? Struggling with relationship issues? Need support with parenting decisions? I am a strength-based clinician helping people going through life changes, low-self esteem, anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, codependency, and family conflict. Many people experience these issues and you are not alone! I am here to stand beside you on your journey towards healing, self-discovery and life fulfillment.
In treatment, together, we will improve your positive thinking, develop deeper emotional awareness, and process any past trauma you have gone through.
Have you been looking for support to make life changes? Feeling your world has been tough to navigate on your own? Struggling with relationship issues? Need support with parenting decisions? I am a strength-based clinician helping people going through life changes, low-self esteem, anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, codependency, and family conflict. Many people experience these issues and you are not alone! I am here to stand beside you on your journey towards healing, self-discovery and life fulfillment.
(910) 202-6201 View (910) 202-6201
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 Oceanside Counseling, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Wilmington, NC
Oceanside Counseling
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28409
Specialties include: -Marriage Counseling, Relationship Issues, Communication Problems, Divorce, Separation, Child Custody, Split Parenting, Infidelity, Narcissism, Sociopathy, Psychopathy, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder/PTSD, Abuse, Military Families, PCS, Deployment, Retirement, Combat Stress, Addiction, Substance Abuse, Porn Addiction, Mood Disorders.
Oceanside Counseling was created to give you hope and to help you feel listened to and supported in your pursuit of health and healing. At Oceanside you are not just another number. Your mental health matters to us and we value and treat you like we would want to be treated ourselves. Recent events have increased stress for people throughout the world and many people are struggling with overwhelming emotions and fears. If you are in need, please reach out to us. We are currently providing virtual services (video/telephone) to anyone living in North Carolina and we are accepting new patients.
Specialties include: -Marriage Counseling, Relationship Issues, Communication Problems, Divorce, Separation, Child Custody, Split Parenting, Infidelity, Narcissism, Sociopathy, Psychopathy, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder/PTSD, Abuse, Military Families, PCS, Deployment, Retirement, Combat Stress, Addiction, Substance Abuse, Porn Addiction, Mood Disorders.
Oceanside Counseling was created to give you hope and to help you feel listened to and supported in your pursuit of health and healing. At Oceanside you are not just another number. Your mental health matters to us and we value and treat you like we would want to be treated ourselves. Recent events have increased stress for people throughout the world and many people are struggling with overwhelming emotions and fears. If you are in need, please reach out to us. We are currently providing virtual services (video/telephone) to anyone living in North Carolina and we are accepting new patients.
(910) 378-0880 View (910) 378-0880
Photo of Elizabeth Clay Doxey, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Wilmington, NC
Elizabeth Clay Doxey
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS, MAC
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28409
I have post graduation training in EMDR, Gestalt, Trauma and Addictions.
Looking for an experienced, confidential therapist to begin with to help with anxiety or depression? Are you tired of trying to get through life without serenity and purpose? Are financial worries, addiction issues, or problems about how you look bothering you? I have 23 years in the field of mental health and substance abuse, and I would love to work with you. Confidentially. For only $77 a session, and NO information will go to your insurance company. That's important, because if you use your insurance with mental health or addictions, information IS recorded on your insurance record, including your diagnosis.
I have post graduation training in EMDR, Gestalt, Trauma and Addictions.
Looking for an experienced, confidential therapist to begin with to help with anxiety or depression? Are you tired of trying to get through life without serenity and purpose? Are financial worries, addiction issues, or problems about how you look bothering you? I have 23 years in the field of mental health and substance abuse, and I would love to work with you. Confidentially. For only $77 a session, and NO information will go to your insurance company. That's important, because if you use your insurance with mental health or addictions, information IS recorded on your insurance record, including your diagnosis.
(910) 716-4181 View (910) 716-4181
Photo of Nola Metz Simpson, Counselor in Wilmington, NC
Nola Metz Simpson
Counselor, MPA, MEd, LCMHC, NCC, CGCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
Navigating grief and healing from trauma can feel utterly overwhelming. In grief, burdens, unresolved concerns, and newfound questions about our own purpose emerge in the wake of our losses. The weight of anxiety intensifies, casting doubt on our sense of self and triggering a quest for peace amidst the turmoil. Grief serves as a profound entry point to our souls, demanding introspection into our selves, relationships, and beliefs. Healing from trauma requires a trusted, experienced guide, to help unravel the wounds of the past, and help guide healing into the future.
Navigating grief and healing from trauma can feel utterly overwhelming. In grief, burdens, unresolved concerns, and newfound questions about our own purpose emerge in the wake of our losses. The weight of anxiety intensifies, casting doubt on our sense of self and triggering a quest for peace amidst the turmoil. Grief serves as a profound entry point to our souls, demanding introspection into our selves, relationships, and beliefs. Healing from trauma requires a trusted, experienced guide, to help unravel the wounds of the past, and help guide healing into the future.
(919) 739-4772 View (919) 739-4772
Photo of Katie Schneeberger, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wilmington, NC
Katie Schneeberger
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403  (Online Only)
Life can feel overwhelming & exhausting, causing us to feel burned out, stressed out, & stuck surviving instead of thriving. So many things can lead us to this place, including trauma, depression, masking our neurodivergences, anxiety, ADHD, Autism, parenting, pregnancy, being the default parent, carrying a heavy mental load, struggling in our relationships with food & our bodies, complicated relationships, & managing a huge workload at home, school, & work. You may want to figure out how to balance life's stressors, accept & love your authentic self, set boundaries, eat intuitively, process trauma, initiate and complete tasks, etc.
Life can feel overwhelming & exhausting, causing us to feel burned out, stressed out, & stuck surviving instead of thriving. So many things can lead us to this place, including trauma, depression, masking our neurodivergences, anxiety, ADHD, Autism, parenting, pregnancy, being the default parent, carrying a heavy mental load, struggling in our relationships with food & our bodies, complicated relationships, & managing a huge workload at home, school, & work. You may want to figure out how to balance life's stressors, accept & love your authentic self, set boundaries, eat intuitively, process trauma, initiate and complete tasks, etc.
(910) 370-8466 View (910) 370-8466
Photo of Dr. Cathy Norton Mental Health &Addiction Recovery, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Wilmington, NC
Dr. Cathy Norton Mental Health &Addiction Recovery
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHCS, LCAS, CSOTP, CCTP, SAP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
A specialty is victims of narcissistic abuse & trauma.
Feeling broken or overwhelmed? I understand. I've done much research on addiction, codependency & adult children from dysfunctional families. It is possible to overcome barriers to intimacy and learn why we repeat the same relationship mistakes over and over again in new relationships or why we choose unhealthy people. We can change and think differently. It takes effort and accountability, but there is help and hope. Learn from your past. Don't continue to be its victim and let the past determine your future. I work with mental health and all kinds of addictions (substances and behavioral). Let's talk. Live life!
A specialty is victims of narcissistic abuse & trauma.
Feeling broken or overwhelmed? I understand. I've done much research on addiction, codependency & adult children from dysfunctional families. It is possible to overcome barriers to intimacy and learn why we repeat the same relationship mistakes over and over again in new relationships or why we choose unhealthy people. We can change and think differently. It takes effort and accountability, but there is help and hope. Learn from your past. Don't continue to be its victim and let the past determine your future. I work with mental health and all kinds of addictions (substances and behavioral). Let's talk. Live life!
(910) 408-7991 View (910) 408-7991
Photo of Rob Moser, Counselor in Wilmington, NC
Rob Moser
Counselor, MEd, LCMHCA, LCASA
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
He specializes in marriage and family, child/teen, men’s issues, issues of faith/church/religion, grief and loss, trauma, and depression/anxiety disorders.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage issues, relationship struggles, parenting/child/teen problems, pain, addiction, pornography, or a faith crisis? Or maybe just seeking peace amidst life’s general uncertainty? Rob’s 20-year career in counseling, six years as a lead pastor, and four years as an overseas missionary, as well as his experience as a foster/adoptive parent, give him the confidence to wade into a myriad of life’s challenges with you.
He specializes in marriage and family, child/teen, men’s issues, issues of faith/church/religion, grief and loss, trauma, and depression/anxiety disorders.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage issues, relationship struggles, parenting/child/teen problems, pain, addiction, pornography, or a faith crisis? Or maybe just seeking peace amidst life’s general uncertainty? Rob’s 20-year career in counseling, six years as a lead pastor, and four years as an overseas missionary, as well as his experience as a foster/adoptive parent, give him the confidence to wade into a myriad of life’s challenges with you.
(910) 812-8310 View (910) 812-8310
Photo of Carol Kirby in Wilmington, NC
Carol Kirby
MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28411
I have experience with a wide variety of issues including overcoming damaging effects of life experiences, anxiety, depression, anger management, PTSD, impulse control, bipolar disorder, parenting skills, stress management, grieving, relationship skills, self esteem, and spirituality.
If you think about it, your mental health is probably the most important thing you have. Without it, there is not a lot left. I like to work collaboratively in helping others grow and deepen themselves and their self esteem to make a stronger, self empowered individual of your own design. I have found that with support, insight, and building a strong identity, people feel more free and happy, not depending on others for happiness. I mostly do Individual therapy with adults and older teens.
I have experience with a wide variety of issues including overcoming damaging effects of life experiences, anxiety, depression, anger management, PTSD, impulse control, bipolar disorder, parenting skills, stress management, grieving, relationship skills, self esteem, and spirituality.
If you think about it, your mental health is probably the most important thing you have. Without it, there is not a lot left. I like to work collaboratively in helping others grow and deepen themselves and their self esteem to make a stronger, self empowered individual of your own design. I have found that with support, insight, and building a strong identity, people feel more free and happy, not depending on others for happiness. I mostly do Individual therapy with adults and older teens.
(910) 400-1161 View (910) 400-1161
Photo of Shelley Bunn, Counselor in Wilmington, NC
Shelley Bunn
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28401
Feeling misunderstood and unloved by those closest to us is living hell. Pain, hopelessness, and anger burrow deep as repair seems impossible. It's exhausting to cope with past trauma while trying to keep things together in the present. Any added stress, anxiety, or depression is overwhelming. Those of you with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) are struggling with these symptoms simultaneously and it's unbearable. I specialize in relationship repair and borderline personality disorder. In family, individual, or marriage counseling I can help you heal, connect, and once again find hope.
Feeling misunderstood and unloved by those closest to us is living hell. Pain, hopelessness, and anger burrow deep as repair seems impossible. It's exhausting to cope with past trauma while trying to keep things together in the present. Any added stress, anxiety, or depression is overwhelming. Those of you with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) are struggling with these symptoms simultaneously and it's unbearable. I specialize in relationship repair and borderline personality disorder. In family, individual, or marriage counseling I can help you heal, connect, and once again find hope.
(910) 708-4632 View (910) 708-4632
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.