Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Portland, OR

Photo of Aaron Kelsay, MAC, LPC, LMHC, CADC I, Licensed Professional Counselor
Aaron Kelsay
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAC, LPC, LMHC, CADC I
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97266
This includes EMDR, trauma-based, and attachment-based modalities.
Healing is a journey. For some, "healing" means reversing years of trauma, and for others it means 'getting out of my own head' or 'getting un-stuck.' For everyone, the path to healing is a difficult one, and it is lighter, easier, more meaningful when others join in with you. To you who have tried to go it alone, I invite you to reach out. Connecting with a counselor is a way to get un-stuck in your journey towards health, to bring healing to those deeper places of hurt.
This includes EMDR, trauma-based, and attachment-based modalities.
Healing is a journey. For some, "healing" means reversing years of trauma, and for others it means 'getting out of my own head' or 'getting un-stuck.' For everyone, the path to healing is a difficult one, and it is lighter, easier, more meaningful when others join in with you. To you who have tried to go it alone, I invite you to reach out. Connecting with a counselor is a way to get un-stuck in your journey towards health, to bring healing to those deeper places of hurt.
(503) 461-1286 View (503) 461-1286
Photo of William Walker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
William Walker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping people cope with depression, anxiety, trauma, disability, grief, chronic illness, terminal illness, and chronic pain.
I provide a supportive and compassionate environment to give my clients space to process past trauma, current stress, and anxiety about the future. My practice integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Polyvagal Theory, mindfulness training, and Eye Movement Reprocessing and Desensitization (EMDR). Using these frameworks we will examine how past experiences impact your current functioning. We will identify traumatic experiences, dysfunctional thoughts and destructive behavior patterns. Then use EMDR and talk therapy to shift the beliefs that reinforce these habits to relieve psychological and emotional suffering.
I specialize in helping people cope with depression, anxiety, trauma, disability, grief, chronic illness, terminal illness, and chronic pain.
I provide a supportive and compassionate environment to give my clients space to process past trauma, current stress, and anxiety about the future. My practice integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Polyvagal Theory, mindfulness training, and Eye Movement Reprocessing and Desensitization (EMDR). Using these frameworks we will examine how past experiences impact your current functioning. We will identify traumatic experiences, dysfunctional thoughts and destructive behavior patterns. Then use EMDR and talk therapy to shift the beliefs that reinforce these habits to relieve psychological and emotional suffering.
(503) 966-9159 View (503) 966-9159
Full Circle Ecotherapy and Family Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97266
We specialize in helping individuals and families recover from the impacts of trauma, generational trauma and systemic trauma (including mental health systems) as well as chronic health issues and terminal illness. We have experience in working with foster, adopted, LGBTQ+ and neuro-divergent youth and adults. We offer nature-based groups for adults, caregivers and trauma survivors.
We specialize in helping individuals and families recover from the impacts of trauma, generational trauma and systemic trauma (including mental health systems) as well as chronic health issues and terminal illness. We have experience in working with foster, adopted, LGBTQ+ and neuro-divergent youth and adults. We offer nature-based groups for adults, caregivers and trauma survivors.
(971) 253-7371 View (971) 253-7371
Photo of Caretia A Silva, LCSW, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caretia A Silva
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212
I will support you through exploring your self-identity, healing from trauma, working through anxiety, depression, grief, loss, life stages and building connections within your community.
I have been a therapist for over 20 years, have trained in multiple approaches and am consistently deepening and refining my practice. I have specialized in childhood development, anxiety, neurodiversity, trauma focused and trauma informed care with all ages. Let's connect if you are you curious about what makes you tick, have found yourself in a phase of life that is difficult, confusing, challenging or scary, live with anxiety, or hoping to heal from trauma or generational trauma.
I will support you through exploring your self-identity, healing from trauma, working through anxiety, depression, grief, loss, life stages and building connections within your community.
I have been a therapist for over 20 years, have trained in multiple approaches and am consistently deepening and refining my practice. I have specialized in childhood development, anxiety, neurodiversity, trauma focused and trauma informed care with all ages. Let's connect if you are you curious about what makes you tick, have found yourself in a phase of life that is difficult, confusing, challenging or scary, live with anxiety, or hoping to heal from trauma or generational trauma.
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Photo of Aaron P Miller, PsyD, Psychologist
Aaron P Miller
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
One of my areas of expertise lies in guiding individuals through the aftermath of trauma and abuse.
As a compassionate clinical psychologist, I understand that life's journey can be challenging. The weight of daily struggles and the echoes of past events can sometimes become overwhelming, leaving you feeling adrift in a sea of confusion, stress, and exhaustion. It's okay to acknowledge these feelings – they're a natural part of being human. However, it's also important to know that you don't have to face them alone. In times of uncertainty and turmoil, psychotherapy offers a path towards clarity, freedom, and relief.
One of my areas of expertise lies in guiding individuals through the aftermath of trauma and abuse.
As a compassionate clinical psychologist, I understand that life's journey can be challenging. The weight of daily struggles and the echoes of past events can sometimes become overwhelming, leaving you feeling adrift in a sea of confusion, stress, and exhaustion. It's okay to acknowledge these feelings – they're a natural part of being human. However, it's also important to know that you don't have to face them alone. In times of uncertainty and turmoil, psychotherapy offers a path towards clarity, freedom, and relief.
(503) 395-3957 View (503) 395-3957
Photo of Grace Silvia, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Grace Silvia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
I support people healing through grief; depression; anxiety; childhood sexual abuse; acute/chronic oppression; hearing voices; mania/spiritual emergency; DID/multiplicity; historical trauma; burnout; compulsive eating; and people wanting to reduce or stop taking psychiatric medications.
Deeply Respectful. Gentle and Empowering. Core Transformation. I will support you in developing curiosity, compassion and mindfulness in the exploration of your inner and outer worlds. All of you is welcome - - heart, body, mind, soul.
I support people healing through grief; depression; anxiety; childhood sexual abuse; acute/chronic oppression; hearing voices; mania/spiritual emergency; DID/multiplicity; historical trauma; burnout; compulsive eating; and people wanting to reduce or stop taking psychiatric medications.
Deeply Respectful. Gentle and Empowering. Core Transformation. I will support you in developing curiosity, compassion and mindfulness in the exploration of your inner and outer worlds. All of you is welcome - - heart, body, mind, soul.
(971) 318-5376 View (971) 318-5376
Photo of DANIEL Nishina, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
DANIEL Nishina
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97206
Including emphasis on the impact of trauma.
A person considering counseling is already making the first step of trying to achieve, or return to, a healthier and happier equilibrium. I believe that “loosening up” and releasing the many things we hold, particularly unconsciously, allow us to activate that capacity and return to, or discover, a healthier state of being. Top-down, this would involve uncovering our various thought patterns, reactions, and story that we have about ourselves. Bottom-up, it involves noticing and feeling - the various ways our body is in relation to how we are mentally.
Including emphasis on the impact of trauma.
A person considering counseling is already making the first step of trying to achieve, or return to, a healthier and happier equilibrium. I believe that “loosening up” and releasing the many things we hold, particularly unconsciously, allow us to activate that capacity and return to, or discover, a healthier state of being. Top-down, this would involve uncovering our various thought patterns, reactions, and story that we have about ourselves. Bottom-up, it involves noticing and feeling - the various ways our body is in relation to how we are mentally.
(503) 455-7871 View (503) 455-7871
Photo of Melissa Wijetunga, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melissa Wijetunga
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97218  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in trauma-informed approaches such as ACT, EMDR, & MBCT.
Whether you are new to seeking therapy or are well-versed with the process, I am committed to creating a warm and respectful space to support your sense of self and potential for growth. I work with individuals including children, teens, and adults. Do you find it difficult to cope with the challenges of family, work, or school? Has a recent circumstance caused you to feel lost or uncertain? Have your past traumas distorted your self-view as someone who is broken or unworthy? You can heal and I’m here to help. Together, we’ll build upon the talents and skills you already have to reach your future goals.
I am trained in trauma-informed approaches such as ACT, EMDR, & MBCT.
Whether you are new to seeking therapy or are well-versed with the process, I am committed to creating a warm and respectful space to support your sense of self and potential for growth. I work with individuals including children, teens, and adults. Do you find it difficult to cope with the challenges of family, work, or school? Has a recent circumstance caused you to feel lost or uncertain? Have your past traumas distorted your self-view as someone who is broken or unworthy? You can heal and I’m here to help. Together, we’ll build upon the talents and skills you already have to reach your future goals.
(503) 563-8619 View (503) 563-8619
Photo of Quin McFadin, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Quin McFadin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212  (Online Only)
Having worked with many people from a wide variety of life experiences and backgrounds I've developed particular capabilities in childhood trauma, mood disorders, non-traditional gender identities and sexual/affection orientations as well as chronic pain.
Licensed in CA and OR. A comfortable alliance with a skilled therapist can help you to bring greater awareness and agency to choices you make. Perhaps fulfillment comes from having looked into yourself with curiosity, compassion and support. Bringing yourself forward in your own way and expressing yourself can be challenging in many ways... cultural, political and social inequities, childhood injuries, confusing relationships, difficulties that began with your ancestors, stressful current circumstances. Sometimes being present in yourself as well as in the world with compassion is the most poignant challenge of all.
Having worked with many people from a wide variety of life experiences and backgrounds I've developed particular capabilities in childhood trauma, mood disorders, non-traditional gender identities and sexual/affection orientations as well as chronic pain.
Licensed in CA and OR. A comfortable alliance with a skilled therapist can help you to bring greater awareness and agency to choices you make. Perhaps fulfillment comes from having looked into yourself with curiosity, compassion and support. Bringing yourself forward in your own way and expressing yourself can be challenging in many ways... cultural, political and social inequities, childhood injuries, confusing relationships, difficulties that began with your ancestors, stressful current circumstances. Sometimes being present in yourself as well as in the world with compassion is the most poignant challenge of all.
(541) 214-2253 View (541) 214-2253
Photo of Tara Russell Paul, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tara Russell Paul
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Starting a healing journey is a big step, and I am excited to meet you here. I love working with folks who want to do deep healing work. I focus on attachment and relationships, healing from complex trauma, and discovering your sexual self. This work can be very meaningful for individuals and couples. You can visit my website to see more detail about this work and how I approach it. The most important variable in successful therapy is the individual's feelings of trust and safety with the therapist. My first goal is to create a space where you feel comfortable to be yourself.
Starting a healing journey is a big step, and I am excited to meet you here. I love working with folks who want to do deep healing work. I focus on attachment and relationships, healing from complex trauma, and discovering your sexual self. This work can be very meaningful for individuals and couples. You can visit my website to see more detail about this work and how I approach it. The most important variable in successful therapy is the individual's feelings of trust and safety with the therapist. My first goal is to create a space where you feel comfortable to be yourself.
(512) 717-5972 View (512) 717-5972
Photo of Christina Gonçalves, MSW, CSWA
Christina Gonçalves
Clinical Social Work Associate, MSW, CSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97212  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Feeling overwhelmed, depressed, on edge from anxiety or stressed? Perhaps you feel stuck, despite your efforts? You’re not alone. I’m here to help. Let’s be honest, sometimes we all need a little help & support, even if we’ve tried working on it for a while on our own. Life can be complex & hard at times. Sometimes we find ourselves facing issues of pain stemming from racism, poverty, and/or different types of trauma (including religious trauma). As a biracial & multicultural therapist (Latina/White/ Brazilian born), I would be honored to collaborate on how we can work together to get the relief or changes you desire.
Feeling overwhelmed, depressed, on edge from anxiety or stressed? Perhaps you feel stuck, despite your efforts? You’re not alone. I’m here to help. Let’s be honest, sometimes we all need a little help & support, even if we’ve tried working on it for a while on our own. Life can be complex & hard at times. Sometimes we find ourselves facing issues of pain stemming from racism, poverty, and/or different types of trauma (including religious trauma). As a biracial & multicultural therapist (Latina/White/ Brazilian born), I would be honored to collaborate on how we can work together to get the relief or changes you desire.
(971) 278-9371 View (971) 278-9371
Photo of Jordan Valentine, CSWA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jordan Valentine
Pre-Licensed Professional, CSWA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
I also am interested in the ways in which trauma shows up in the body and how to identify and regulate responses.
My work in mental wellness is guided by the belief that all humans have the ability to heal when they have the tools and safe space to do so. My hope is to provide that space where folks can show up as their authentic self, free from fear of judgment. I believe that we are shaped by our experiences and our environments, and my goal in this work is to support people in investigating and making meaning of their stories and their contexts with compassion.
I also am interested in the ways in which trauma shows up in the body and how to identify and regulate responses.
My work in mental wellness is guided by the belief that all humans have the ability to heal when they have the tools and safe space to do so. My hope is to provide that space where folks can show up as their authentic self, free from fear of judgment. I believe that we are shaped by our experiences and our environments, and my goal in this work is to support people in investigating and making meaning of their stories and their contexts with compassion.
(971) 265-8866 View (971) 265-8866
Photo of Daniel Hofmann, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Daniel Hofmann
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
My approach to therapy is trauma-informed and integrative, drawing on my knowledge of a variety of therapeutic models while being rooted in humanistic, cognitive-behavioral, and emotionally-focused psychotherapies.
Were you taught that certain feelings were invalid and unacceptable? Do you feel stuck in a role that limits you? Maybe you're just burnt out and exhausted. I can help you improve your relationship with yourself and others, work through old traumas, and/or free yourself from feelings of depression and anxiety.
My approach to therapy is trauma-informed and integrative, drawing on my knowledge of a variety of therapeutic models while being rooted in humanistic, cognitive-behavioral, and emotionally-focused psychotherapies.
Were you taught that certain feelings were invalid and unacceptable? Do you feel stuck in a role that limits you? Maybe you're just burnt out and exhausted. I can help you improve your relationship with yourself and others, work through old traumas, and/or free yourself from feelings of depression and anxiety.
(503) 994-1267 View (503) 994-1267
Photo of Ryan Carroll, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ryan Carroll
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97203  (Online Only)
With EMDR you can adaptively process trauma & emerge stronger.
Are you ready to explore a new path and navigate life’s challenges successfully? You can transform and become truly authentic. As your guide, I will spark your curiosity and ignite motivation. I will actively listen, offer empathetic and compassionate feedback, and encourage self-discovery through introspection. On this path you will develop a growth mindset, truly believing that you can become better and improve with time and practice. As you begin to live the life you want to live you will start embracing challenges. As you start to harness the power of your mind, you’ll begin to get the results you want and move towards success.
With EMDR you can adaptively process trauma & emerge stronger.
Are you ready to explore a new path and navigate life’s challenges successfully? You can transform and become truly authentic. As your guide, I will spark your curiosity and ignite motivation. I will actively listen, offer empathetic and compassionate feedback, and encourage self-discovery through introspection. On this path you will develop a growth mindset, truly believing that you can become better and improve with time and practice. As you begin to live the life you want to live you will start embracing challenges. As you start to harness the power of your mind, you’ll begin to get the results you want and move towards success.
(971) 290-1067 View (971) 290-1067
Photo of Mark Schorr, LPC, CADCI, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mark Schorr
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CADCI, LMHC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239
The greatest joy comes when clients break free of painful patterns and move to feeling comfortable with life. I've been a counselor for 30 years, with extensive experience helping those struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, and addictions. Getting at underlying issues of shame, loss of control and grief changes lives. When therapy works there's more than just insight; clients feel it in their heart as well as their head. Those around them see that they have a life worth living with more happiness and better handling of the inevitable potholes.
The greatest joy comes when clients break free of painful patterns and move to feeling comfortable with life. I've been a counselor for 30 years, with extensive experience helping those struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, and addictions. Getting at underlying issues of shame, loss of control and grief changes lives. When therapy works there's more than just insight; clients feel it in their heart as well as their head. Those around them see that they have a life worth living with more happiness and better handling of the inevitable potholes.
(503) 379-9857 View (503) 379-9857
Photo of Lexi Marquardt Hill, LCSW, LICSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lexi Marquardt Hill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97204  (Online Only)
I treat trauma and PTSD using CPT and soon EMDR.
From the very beginning, I work to build trust and a foundation for my clients that allows them to feel safe to share and explore their personal narrative. I empower individuals to recognize that they have the ability to change negative ways of thinking, create new patterns of relationships with themselves and others, and set boundaries that allow them to move through the world feeling supported. My main focus is treating eating disorders using the HAES foundation. I am a certified clinical trauma professional currently working on my EMDR certification. Other modalities I utilize are CBT, DBT, IFS, Solution Focused, MI, and more.
I treat trauma and PTSD using CPT and soon EMDR.
From the very beginning, I work to build trust and a foundation for my clients that allows them to feel safe to share and explore their personal narrative. I empower individuals to recognize that they have the ability to change negative ways of thinking, create new patterns of relationships with themselves and others, and set boundaries that allow them to move through the world feeling supported. My main focus is treating eating disorders using the HAES foundation. I am a certified clinical trauma professional currently working on my EMDR certification. Other modalities I utilize are CBT, DBT, IFS, Solution Focused, MI, and more.
(971) 328-3338 View (971) 328-3338
Photo of Saussha Flint, CSWA, CADCIII, QMHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Saussha Flint
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSWA, CADCIII, QMHP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have seen how early life trauma can interfere with a deep sense of self and belonging.
Many of us are waking up to the effects of generational trauma. You may have a history that has included family members with addictions, severe mental illness or anger problems. It could be a new realization leading to a hunger to to break free and do life differently. Or it may be you've been aware of the effects of familial patterns for some time and have worked hard to create a life that goes in a better direction. Despite all the work, it can still be possible to get stuck from time to time. I hope to walk beside you as you break the cycles, find your path and create the life where you belong.
I have seen how early life trauma can interfere with a deep sense of self and belonging.
Many of us are waking up to the effects of generational trauma. You may have a history that has included family members with addictions, severe mental illness or anger problems. It could be a new realization leading to a hunger to to break free and do life differently. Or it may be you've been aware of the effects of familial patterns for some time and have worked hard to create a life that goes in a better direction. Despite all the work, it can still be possible to get stuck from time to time. I hope to walk beside you as you break the cycles, find your path and create the life where you belong.
(503) 744-6229 View (503) 744-6229
Photo of Zina Krivoruk, LCSW, CHT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Zina Krivoruk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97209  (Online Only)
I firmly believe that the journey towards healing from trauma often commences within our own hearts and homes.
As a therapist, I specialize in working with highly sensitive individuals, those eager to explore spirituality in depth, teachers, creative minds, and individuals striving to enhance their roles as partners in relationships. My core therapeutic approach is rooted in mindfulness, shaped by my intensive training in a Buddhist Monastery where I honed my meditation skills and embraced prolonged periods of introspective silence. These experiences have equipped me with the tools to guide others towards a space of joyful self-discovery, facilitating the germination of authentic desires.
I firmly believe that the journey towards healing from trauma often commences within our own hearts and homes.
As a therapist, I specialize in working with highly sensitive individuals, those eager to explore spirituality in depth, teachers, creative minds, and individuals striving to enhance their roles as partners in relationships. My core therapeutic approach is rooted in mindfulness, shaped by my intensive training in a Buddhist Monastery where I honed my meditation skills and embraced prolonged periods of introspective silence. These experiences have equipped me with the tools to guide others towards a space of joyful self-discovery, facilitating the germination of authentic desires.
(503) 436-6398 View (503) 436-6398
Photo of Jessica Klein, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Klein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219
Current In-Person Availability. I am an interactive therapist who will work to find unique tools and solutions for you. I specialize in couples therapy and adult individual therapy. I have advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy, an approach that helps couples increase closeness and heal through understanding each together, increasing empathy and interrupting destructive cycles. I also specialize in trauma and use EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing), somatic psychotherapy, polyvagal theory, and mindfulness tools to help clients stabilize their systems, process trauma and heal.
Current In-Person Availability. I am an interactive therapist who will work to find unique tools and solutions for you. I specialize in couples therapy and adult individual therapy. I have advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy, an approach that helps couples increase closeness and heal through understanding each together, increasing empathy and interrupting destructive cycles. I also specialize in trauma and use EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing), somatic psychotherapy, polyvagal theory, and mindfulness tools to help clients stabilize their systems, process trauma and heal.
(971) 545-4944 View (971) 545-4944
Photo of Ashley Tidwell, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashley Tidwell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
As a primary focus I work with trauma, and the numerous ways that trauma presents itself in the body and mind.
Hello, my name is Ashley Tidwell and I am accepting new clients in Oregon! It is my goal and passion to facilitate the journey of others into finding within themselves a reservoir of resiliency and strength, which will give them greater peace of mind, more secure relationships, and overall wellness. My goal in working with you will be to help identify how your modes of conduct may be inhibiting your wellness, and to assist you in finding the tools to live your life as your most authentic and whole self.
As a primary focus I work with trauma, and the numerous ways that trauma presents itself in the body and mind.
Hello, my name is Ashley Tidwell and I am accepting new clients in Oregon! It is my goal and passion to facilitate the journey of others into finding within themselves a reservoir of resiliency and strength, which will give them greater peace of mind, more secure relationships, and overall wellness. My goal in working with you will be to help identify how your modes of conduct may be inhibiting your wellness, and to assist you in finding the tools to live your life as your most authentic and whole self.
(971) 999-3027 View (971) 999-3027
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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.