Trauma and PTSD Therapists in New York, NY

Photo of Jennifer Grant Schliessman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Jennifer Grant Schliessman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10028
I specialize in trauma recovery and assist clients in developing healthy coping strategies while harnessing a deeper understanding of their emotional regulation system.
I work with clients to help them regain a strong sense of self trust and personal freedom, which has often been ruptured as a result of enduring life traumas. Clients are presented with a compassionate environment to express their vulnerability and most authentic self, without judgement. As an interactive and holistic therapist, I aim to bring both humanistic and empowering energies into sessions to foster an optimal healing space. Whether you are needing emotional support while navigating a period of transition, struggling with personal relationships, or seeking deeper insight into self, therapy can help.
I specialize in trauma recovery and assist clients in developing healthy coping strategies while harnessing a deeper understanding of their emotional regulation system.
I work with clients to help them regain a strong sense of self trust and personal freedom, which has often been ruptured as a result of enduring life traumas. Clients are presented with a compassionate environment to express their vulnerability and most authentic self, without judgement. As an interactive and holistic therapist, I aim to bring both humanistic and empowering energies into sessions to foster an optimal healing space. Whether you are needing emotional support while navigating a period of transition, struggling with personal relationships, or seeking deeper insight into self, therapy can help.
(914) 246-5836 View (914) 246-5836
Photo of Vanessa Merlis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Vanessa Merlis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, EMDR, cert
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10011
I am a psychodynamically oriented psychotherapist, specializing in mood disturbances, trauma, and eating and developmental disorders. As your therapist, I would accompany you on a journey towards greater awareness and healing, using an integrative relational approach, which may include EMDR andTrauma-Informed modalitities, to work through chronic relationship issues, mood regulation concerns and trauma that may be negatively affecting your life and the lives of those you love.
I am a psychodynamically oriented psychotherapist, specializing in mood disturbances, trauma, and eating and developmental disorders. As your therapist, I would accompany you on a journey towards greater awareness and healing, using an integrative relational approach, which may include EMDR andTrauma-Informed modalitities, to work through chronic relationship issues, mood regulation concerns and trauma that may be negatively affecting your life and the lives of those you love.
(917) 725-3261 View (917) 725-3261
Photo of Christopher M. Shea, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Christopher M. Shea
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CASAC, CSAT, CPTT, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10011
I provide empathy, insight, and a seasoned approach in treating addiction, grief, trauma, anxiety, depression, and personality challenges. I assist individuals seeking freedom from out-of-control behaviors including substance abuse, sexual compulsivity, and other habituated difficulties. I'm credentialed to treat partners and couples affected by sexual betrayal as well as those experiencing negative relationship dynamics in general. My scope of practice also includes treating LGBTQ issues. Being a guide through adversity and loss, be it sudden or cumulative, is a primary objective in my collaborative approach with all my clients.
I provide empathy, insight, and a seasoned approach in treating addiction, grief, trauma, anxiety, depression, and personality challenges. I assist individuals seeking freedom from out-of-control behaviors including substance abuse, sexual compulsivity, and other habituated difficulties. I'm credentialed to treat partners and couples affected by sexual betrayal as well as those experiencing negative relationship dynamics in general. My scope of practice also includes treating LGBTQ issues. Being a guide through adversity and loss, be it sudden or cumulative, is a primary objective in my collaborative approach with all my clients.
(917) 979-5596 View (917) 979-5596
Photo of Shelley Messing, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Shelley Messing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD, MSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011
I am a licensed clinical social worker, with over 35 years of experience. I have a variety of clinical interests and areas of specialization, including the treatment of trauma and PTSD; couples therapy with heterosexual, gay and lesbian couples; analytic work "launching" young adults; Ericksonian hypnosis; EMDR;Sensorimotor Psychotherapy; adolescent and family therapy; and in-depth analytic work with individuals who are feeling stuck in repetitive patterns or dynamics left over from childhood, and want to change. I have led ongoing therapy groups for women with interpersonal trauma histories for over 30 years.
I am a licensed clinical social worker, with over 35 years of experience. I have a variety of clinical interests and areas of specialization, including the treatment of trauma and PTSD; couples therapy with heterosexual, gay and lesbian couples; analytic work "launching" young adults; Ericksonian hypnosis; EMDR;Sensorimotor Psychotherapy; adolescent and family therapy; and in-depth analytic work with individuals who are feeling stuck in repetitive patterns or dynamics left over from childhood, and want to change. I have led ongoing therapy groups for women with interpersonal trauma histories for over 30 years.
(646) 480-7155 View (646) 480-7155
Photo of Michael DeVito, Marriage & Family Therapist in New York, NY
Michael DeVito
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
New York, NY 10018  (Online Only)
Currently, I have openings for individuals. I am licensed in NY, IL, and CA working on Zoom. I have 20 years of experience helping people with anxiety/stress, trauma, depression, relationship difficulties, chronic health, and substance use concerns. My work is strength-based and emphasizes the development of resilience, interpersonal skills, and ways to better manage challenging emotions, thoughts, and life circumstances.
Currently, I have openings for individuals. I am licensed in NY, IL, and CA working on Zoom. I have 20 years of experience helping people with anxiety/stress, trauma, depression, relationship difficulties, chronic health, and substance use concerns. My work is strength-based and emphasizes the development of resilience, interpersonal skills, and ways to better manage challenging emotions, thoughts, and life circumstances.
(646) 916-5609 View (646) 916-5609
Photo of Salina Grilli, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Salina Grilli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10017
I have extensive experience working with clients healing from anxiety disorders, eating disorders, and trauma.
I'm not your average therapist. I'm a relatable and supportive therapist who utilizes an integrative approach (think MIND and BODY) for 20- and 30-something New Yorkers. Many of my clients appear to have it all together; however, they can't seem to shake the unrelenting self-doubt, ‘what-if’ thinking, and uncertainty. If you can relate to this, you've probably also tried it all to feel better - therapy, self-help courses, podcasts. This is where I come in. My approach to therapy is solution-focused and integrative meaning you'll feel supported and empowered to dig deep and make incredible changes in your life.
I have extensive experience working with clients healing from anxiety disorders, eating disorders, and trauma.
I'm not your average therapist. I'm a relatable and supportive therapist who utilizes an integrative approach (think MIND and BODY) for 20- and 30-something New Yorkers. Many of my clients appear to have it all together; however, they can't seem to shake the unrelenting self-doubt, ‘what-if’ thinking, and uncertainty. If you can relate to this, you've probably also tried it all to feel better - therapy, self-help courses, podcasts. This is where I come in. My approach to therapy is solution-focused and integrative meaning you'll feel supported and empowered to dig deep and make incredible changes in your life.
(917) 900-9075 View (917) 900-9075
Photo of Frank Castro, Psychologist in New York, NY
Frank Castro
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10024  (Online Only)
I have extensive clinical experience treating a wide spectrum of issues including: anxiety disorders; trauma and PTSD; depressive symptoms; substance abuse as well as treating more existential/identity concerns that are not as easily defined by a particular label.
My passion is helping you make choices: the choice of how you want to view yourself and the type of life you want to lead. Working together as hardy co-explorers, we will probe where you are in life, where you want to go and how best to get you there. You are the captain of your fate and the master of your soul; my goal is to provide you with a space in which you are free to understand and embrace yourself as captain and master, empowering you to make healthier life choices.
I have extensive clinical experience treating a wide spectrum of issues including: anxiety disorders; trauma and PTSD; depressive symptoms; substance abuse as well as treating more existential/identity concerns that are not as easily defined by a particular label.
My passion is helping you make choices: the choice of how you want to view yourself and the type of life you want to lead. Working together as hardy co-explorers, we will probe where you are in life, where you want to go and how best to get you there. You are the captain of your fate and the master of your soul; my goal is to provide you with a space in which you are free to understand and embrace yourself as captain and master, empowering you to make healthier life choices.
(917) 746-5455 View (917) 746-5455
Photo of Tina Joen in New York, NY
Tina Joen
MA, MFT, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10017
Specialties: Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Trauma, Family Relationships, Peer Relationships, Intimate Relationships, Dating, Parenting, Self-Esteem, Sexual Trauma, Anger Management, Self Harm, Suicidal Ideation, Sex-Related Concerns, Sex Therapy, Life Transitions, Christian Counseling, Religious and Cultural Issues.
Tina Joen, MFT-LP holds a Master’s Degree from Alliance University. Embracing the belief that family dynamics and patterns intricately shape individual experiences, Tina approaches her practice with a focus on the interconnected set of relationships that define each client’s journey.
Specialties: Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Trauma, Family Relationships, Peer Relationships, Intimate Relationships, Dating, Parenting, Self-Esteem, Sexual Trauma, Anger Management, Self Harm, Suicidal Ideation, Sex-Related Concerns, Sex Therapy, Life Transitions, Christian Counseling, Religious and Cultural Issues.
Tina Joen, MFT-LP holds a Master’s Degree from Alliance University. Embracing the belief that family dynamics and patterns intricately shape individual experiences, Tina approaches her practice with a focus on the interconnected set of relationships that define each client’s journey.
(929) 512-7846 View (929) 512-7846
Photo of Victoria Swire Yoffie in New York, NY
Victoria Swire Yoffie
MHC-LP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10028
I provide support to individuals, couples, adult twins, & twin parents presenting with challenges related to anxiety, attachment, partnership, twinship, infertility, pre & postnatal stress, parenthood, & trauma.
My goal is to create a uniquely secure space for you to identify your blocks, understand your relationship to them, & find the tools you need to break through. Each of us has an innate potential for change & growth. I will jump into the work with you & be by your side throughout your discovery. My intention is to bring compassion & truth-telling to the process. After nearly two decades as a mindfulness educator, I believe our connection to our mind & body brings us closer to our motivation & inherent resilience. In our work together we’ll explore this connection to guide you toward the truest & most powerful version of yourself.
I provide support to individuals, couples, adult twins, & twin parents presenting with challenges related to anxiety, attachment, partnership, twinship, infertility, pre & postnatal stress, parenthood, & trauma.
My goal is to create a uniquely secure space for you to identify your blocks, understand your relationship to them, & find the tools you need to break through. Each of us has an innate potential for change & growth. I will jump into the work with you & be by your side throughout your discovery. My intention is to bring compassion & truth-telling to the process. After nearly two decades as a mindfulness educator, I believe our connection to our mind & body brings us closer to our motivation & inherent resilience. In our work together we’ll explore this connection to guide you toward the truest & most powerful version of yourself.
(646) 921-5609 View (646) 921-5609
Photo of Melanie Van Orden | Trauma Recovery | Psychedelic Assisted Therapy (Ketamine), Licensed Master Social Worker in New York, NY
Melanie Van Orden | Trauma Recovery | Psychedelic Assisted Therapy (Ketamine)
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10019
Have you tried traditional talk therapy and find yourself hitting a plateau? Are you experiencing trauma and PTSD due to a break-up, divorce, grief, sexual addiction, infidelity, love addiction, or sexual abuse and wonder if relief will ever be available to you? Perhaps you're curious if the growing field of psychedelic-assisted therapy could help you find the change you are seeking. If so, you've come to the right place. I specialize in helping people find the breakthroughs they desire through an eclectic approach, including trauma-based therapy, somatic parts work, and psychedelic assisted therapy (currently utilizing ketamine).
Have you tried traditional talk therapy and find yourself hitting a plateau? Are you experiencing trauma and PTSD due to a break-up, divorce, grief, sexual addiction, infidelity, love addiction, or sexual abuse and wonder if relief will ever be available to you? Perhaps you're curious if the growing field of psychedelic-assisted therapy could help you find the change you are seeking. If so, you've come to the right place. I specialize in helping people find the breakthroughs they desire through an eclectic approach, including trauma-based therapy, somatic parts work, and psychedelic assisted therapy (currently utilizing ketamine).
(718) 571-8412 View (718) 571-8412
Photo of Laura Swanson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Laura Swanson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10019  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with people that have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and difficulty with relationships and communication.
You deserve empathic and non-judgemental care with a professional that is skilled and meets you where you’re at. I work with the belief that you are the expert of your experience, and will support you in processing and unraveling the many complexities of who you are in your thoughts, beliefs, emotions, and behaviors. My hope for you is to progress towards the goals you create and seek healing and growth for the quality of life you deserve.
I specialize in working with people that have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and difficulty with relationships and communication.
You deserve empathic and non-judgemental care with a professional that is skilled and meets you where you’re at. I work with the belief that you are the expert of your experience, and will support you in processing and unraveling the many complexities of who you are in your thoughts, beliefs, emotions, and behaviors. My hope for you is to progress towards the goals you create and seek healing and growth for the quality of life you deserve.
(347) 252-8607 View (347) 252-8607
Photo of Kimberly Ahearn Young, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Kimberly Ahearn Young
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016
I am a psychodynamically trained psychotherapist and have worked with adults and children for 18 years around issues that include PTSD, trauma, relationship problems, employment concerns, parenting questions, grief and loss, depression, and anxiety. I have found that talking can greatly reduce stress and distress and can lead to significant change. People tend to find immediate relief after beginning the process. I also practice Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to help people work through traumas and areas where they are stuck in their lives.
I am a psychodynamically trained psychotherapist and have worked with adults and children for 18 years around issues that include PTSD, trauma, relationship problems, employment concerns, parenting questions, grief and loss, depression, and anxiety. I have found that talking can greatly reduce stress and distress and can lead to significant change. People tend to find immediate relief after beginning the process. I also practice Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to help people work through traumas and areas where they are stuck in their lives.
(646) 846-4745 View (646) 846-4745
Photo of Sarah Murray, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Sarah Murray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10007
My mission is to guide people through loss and trauma toward acceptance and healing. Therapy isn't a space where we "fix ourselves," but rather where we find ourselves in our pain and discover how strong we are in the process. Going to therapy is self-empowerment. It means making a conscious decision to start exploring and accepting all parts of self so that you can feel empowered to live your best life. As a clinician, I meet each client where they are, honor their individuality and unique life experience, and co-create a space where they can feel—and heal—trauma, loss, and grief.
My mission is to guide people through loss and trauma toward acceptance and healing. Therapy isn't a space where we "fix ourselves," but rather where we find ourselves in our pain and discover how strong we are in the process. Going to therapy is self-empowerment. It means making a conscious decision to start exploring and accepting all parts of self so that you can feel empowered to live your best life. As a clinician, I meet each client where they are, honor their individuality and unique life experience, and co-create a space where they can feel—and heal—trauma, loss, and grief.
(646) 692-0339 View (646) 692-0339
Photo of Rianna Black, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Rianna Black
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10010
As a therapist, I work with people who are struggling with anxiety, self-esteem, or loneliness. I am passionate about working with people who are healing from various forms of trauma such as sexual abuse, domestic violence, or other interpersonal traumas. I also enjoy helping young or emerging adults who are facing challenging transitions. I help clients to identify and build on their own internal coping skills and strengths to facilitate growth and healing.
As a therapist, I work with people who are struggling with anxiety, self-esteem, or loneliness. I am passionate about working with people who are healing from various forms of trauma such as sexual abuse, domestic violence, or other interpersonal traumas. I also enjoy helping young or emerging adults who are facing challenging transitions. I help clients to identify and build on their own internal coping skills and strengths to facilitate growth and healing.
(347) 434-8439 View (347) 434-8439
Photo of Rachel Friedman, Psychologist in New York, NY
Rachel Friedman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10003
I also have experience in treating PTSD through empirically supported treatments.
As a member of the team at NYCBT, I provide individual therapy to adults who are struggling with a wide range of difficulties. In working together, my hope is to help you decrease your emotional suffering, enhance your relationships, and work towards meaningful change in your life. Additionally, I have experience in working with those who struggle with depression, anxiety, coping with past traumas, and relationship dilemmas.
I also have experience in treating PTSD through empirically supported treatments.
As a member of the team at NYCBT, I provide individual therapy to adults who are struggling with a wide range of difficulties. In working together, my hope is to help you decrease your emotional suffering, enhance your relationships, and work towards meaningful change in your life. Additionally, I have experience in working with those who struggle with depression, anxiety, coping with past traumas, and relationship dilemmas.
(646) 653-0933 View (646) 653-0933
Photo of Nicholas F. Cimorelli, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Nicholas F. Cimorelli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10014
My years of psychodynamic work have brought me full circle to the realization that patterns of fear and doubt are most often at the core of one's desire for seeking help. Along with this awareness is the keen understanding that there are blueprints & pathways to enable one to move beyond these challenging states of being. Applied Attachment Theory provides a lens as well as a portal to transform insecurities when it is combined with eclectic models of developmental trauma designed to concurrently address the fears embedded in one's mind and nervous system. Hence, a psycho-biological integrative approach for transformation!
My years of psychodynamic work have brought me full circle to the realization that patterns of fear and doubt are most often at the core of one's desire for seeking help. Along with this awareness is the keen understanding that there are blueprints & pathways to enable one to move beyond these challenging states of being. Applied Attachment Theory provides a lens as well as a portal to transform insecurities when it is combined with eclectic models of developmental trauma designed to concurrently address the fears embedded in one's mind and nervous system. Hence, a psycho-biological integrative approach for transformation!
(646) 351-1906 View (646) 351-1906
Photo of Rachel Maki, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Rachel Maki
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, RYT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10038  (Online Only)
Do you struggle with anxiety or feel lost in how to heal from past trauma? Are you feeling overwhelmed and unsure about how to cope with complex relationships? Struggling with intense emotions and trauma can feel exhausting and impact every aspect of our lives, even our physical health. As a therapist and yoga instructor, I bring my insight of the mind-body connection to help clients cultivate a healthier relationship with themselves, draw wisdom from their own emotions including anxiety, heal from trauma, and foster a greater sense of health in their relationships.
Do you struggle with anxiety or feel lost in how to heal from past trauma? Are you feeling overwhelmed and unsure about how to cope with complex relationships? Struggling with intense emotions and trauma can feel exhausting and impact every aspect of our lives, even our physical health. As a therapist and yoga instructor, I bring my insight of the mind-body connection to help clients cultivate a healthier relationship with themselves, draw wisdom from their own emotions including anxiety, heal from trauma, and foster a greater sense of health in their relationships.
(646) 741-5093 View (646) 741-5093
Photo of Adelyn Melnikoff, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Adelyn Melnikoff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10012
Adelyn is a seasoned therapist dedicated to guiding individuals toward a life of fulfillment, purpose, and personal growth. Specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Adelyn brings extensive experience from working in Mt. Sinai Hospital system’s top CBT and therapy programs. She has treated a diverse set of adult clients across all life stages, navigating a wide range of psychiatric and medical challenges in both outpatient and inpatient settings. She specializes in trauma- and stressor-related disorders, anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, executive functioning, and the intersection of medical conditions and mental health.
Adelyn is a seasoned therapist dedicated to guiding individuals toward a life of fulfillment, purpose, and personal growth. Specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Adelyn brings extensive experience from working in Mt. Sinai Hospital system’s top CBT and therapy programs. She has treated a diverse set of adult clients across all life stages, navigating a wide range of psychiatric and medical challenges in both outpatient and inpatient settings. She specializes in trauma- and stressor-related disorders, anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, executive functioning, and the intersection of medical conditions and mental health.
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Photo of David Baskin, Psychologist in New York, NY
David Baskin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10023
As a trauma specialist, I work with survivors of physical, sexual, and emotional abuse.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in the treatment of psychological trauma. I offer individual psychotherapy to adults and older adolescents, as well as couples therapy. I have extensive experience working with a broad range of psychological concerns, and my style as a therapist is collaborative, interactive, empathic, and non-judgmental. I view psychotherapy as a vehicle for growth and change, and as a process that must be tailored to each individual's needs and unique identity. I will carefully consider your reasons for seeking therapy and work with you to develop a personalized and holistic treatment plan.
As a trauma specialist, I work with survivors of physical, sexual, and emotional abuse.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in the treatment of psychological trauma. I offer individual psychotherapy to adults and older adolescents, as well as couples therapy. I have extensive experience working with a broad range of psychological concerns, and my style as a therapist is collaborative, interactive, empathic, and non-judgmental. I view psychotherapy as a vehicle for growth and change, and as a process that must be tailored to each individual's needs and unique identity. I will carefully consider your reasons for seeking therapy and work with you to develop a personalized and holistic treatment plan.
(917) 512-4139 View (917) 512-4139
Photo of Amina Mbodj, Pre-Licensed Professional in New York, NY
Amina Mbodj
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001
I specialize in working with emerging adults (18-40), especially BIPOC, sex workers, kink/BDSM, interracial couples, LGBTQIA+ folx, poly/CNM, ADHD, depression, anxiety, and people dealing with complex trauma.
Currently accepting for black folx & relational therapy! I work with clients who are open to growth, challenging conversations, improving relationships, and values spirituality or personal development. As a relationship therapist, I specialize in guiding clients to explore healing and connect with their well-being, including relationships with themselves, others, and the world. I prioritize healthy communication, conflict resolution, and navigating emotions while emphasizing the balance between headspace and heartspace. My expertise extends to cultural, ethnic, and racial identity issues, as well as various relationship challenges.
I specialize in working with emerging adults (18-40), especially BIPOC, sex workers, kink/BDSM, interracial couples, LGBTQIA+ folx, poly/CNM, ADHD, depression, anxiety, and people dealing with complex trauma.
Currently accepting for black folx & relational therapy! I work with clients who are open to growth, challenging conversations, improving relationships, and values spirituality or personal development. As a relationship therapist, I specialize in guiding clients to explore healing and connect with their well-being, including relationships with themselves, others, and the world. I prioritize healthy communication, conflict resolution, and navigating emotions while emphasizing the balance between headspace and heartspace. My expertise extends to cultural, ethnic, and racial identity issues, as well as various relationship challenges.
(332) 244-0340 View (332) 244-0340
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.