The Art of Emotion - Sarah LeBoon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, QCSW, RPT-S, CAAPT
Verified Verified
Malvern, PA 19355
Experienced in the treatment of Depression, Anxiety, ADD/ADHD, Trauma/Abuse, Grief/Loss, and other emotional issues and diagnoses.
At The Art of Emotion, we believe in a collaborative approach to therapy. We work with our clients to create a safe and supportive environment where they can explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. The Art of Emotion is the group psychotherapy practice led by Sarah A. LeBoon, MSW, LCSW, QCSW, RPT-S, CAAPT. Dedicated to providing the highest quality managed services, Ms. LeBoon offers psychotherapy and assessment for a range of emotional issues and diagnoses in the office or remotely.
Experienced in the treatment of Depression, Anxiety, ADD/ADHD, Trauma/Abuse, Grief/Loss, and other emotional issues and diagnoses.
At The Art of Emotion, we believe in a collaborative approach to therapy. We work with our clients to create a safe and supportive environment where they can explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. The Art of Emotion is the group psychotherapy practice led by Sarah A. LeBoon, MSW, LCSW, QCSW, RPT-S, CAAPT. Dedicated to providing the highest quality managed services, Ms. LeBoon offers psychotherapy and assessment for a range of emotional issues and diagnoses in the office or remotely.
(484) 319-4159 View (484) 319-4159
Photo of Jackie Dougherty Hernandez, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Malvern, PA
Jackie Dougherty Hernandez
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, BS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Malvern, PA 19355
Not only have I experienced first-hand the struggles family systems endure after suffering through trauma, transition, and loss, but I have dedicated countless hours of education, research and practice honing the skills necessary to support the healing process.
I am currently earning my Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy from Syracuse University. I received my Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and Psychology from Shippensburg University, and then spent the better part of the decade following graduation, serving my country in the United States Army. My ambition is to work with veterans, first responders, civil servants, and their families, however, my passion is to assist any and all families during the multitude of life transitions that spark turmoil, anxiety, depression, or difficult challenges for the family system.
Not only have I experienced first-hand the struggles family systems endure after suffering through trauma, transition, and loss, but I have dedicated countless hours of education, research and practice honing the skills necessary to support the healing process.
I am currently earning my Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy from Syracuse University. I received my Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and Psychology from Shippensburg University, and then spent the better part of the decade following graduation, serving my country in the United States Army. My ambition is to work with veterans, first responders, civil servants, and their families, however, my passion is to assist any and all families during the multitude of life transitions that spark turmoil, anxiety, depression, or difficult challenges for the family system.
(484) 262-3062 View (484) 262-3062
Photo of Paul Duncan Gushurst, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Malvern, PA
Paul Duncan Gushurst
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Malvern, PA 19355
Paul Gushurst graduated Phi Betta Kappa from the University of Mary Washington with a BS in Psychology and from Virginia Commonwealth University with a Master’s degree in Social Work. He is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and psychotherapist with over 14 years of experience working with emotionally and behaviorally challenged children and their families. He also has over 8 years of experience working with adults and seniors who are dealing with many of the common mental health issues including: anxiety, mood disorders (depression and bipolar); trauma, and anger. Paul is also skilled in working with couples.
Paul Gushurst graduated Phi Betta Kappa from the University of Mary Washington with a BS in Psychology and from Virginia Commonwealth University with a Master’s degree in Social Work. He is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and psychotherapist with over 14 years of experience working with emotionally and behaviorally challenged children and their families. He also has over 8 years of experience working with adults and seniors who are dealing with many of the common mental health issues including: anxiety, mood disorders (depression and bipolar); trauma, and anger. Paul is also skilled in working with couples.
(484) 255-8292 View (484) 255-8292
Photo of Michele Chubb, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Malvern, PA
Michele Chubb
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Malvern, PA 19355
Have you been struggling with depression, anxiety or relationship issues? Do you feel like you are stuck or in a spiral? Have you had trauma in your life? Do you feel like you have no one to talk to or that no one understands what you are going through? I can help with these issues and more. I offer a safe and accepting environment while using an eclectic approach that best fits your individual needs and strengths. I take the time to listen and understand. We will also take the time to develop the therapeutic relationship which is a key element to successful therapy.
Have you been struggling with depression, anxiety or relationship issues? Do you feel like you are stuck or in a spiral? Have you had trauma in your life? Do you feel like you have no one to talk to or that no one understands what you are going through? I can help with these issues and more. I offer a safe and accepting environment while using an eclectic approach that best fits your individual needs and strengths. I take the time to listen and understand. We will also take the time to develop the therapeutic relationship which is a key element to successful therapy.
(484) 406-3130 View (484) 406-3130
Photo of Paoli Psychological Associates, Psychologist in Malvern, PA
Paoli Psychological Associates
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Malvern, PA 19355
Some of our specialties include anxiety, depression, biplolar disorder, ADHD, marriage, family, and relationships, child and adolescent counseling, learning disabilities, academic achievement, social skills enhancement, trauma and PTSD, drug and alcohol, career and workplace, stress management, headaches, biofeedback, psychological testing, psychoeducational evaluations, and forensic evaluations.
Paoli Psychological Associates is a group of mental health professionals dedicated to helping people develop the skills they need for life's challenges. Our counseling services offer personalized attention and an individualized approach to helping individuals, couples, and families overcome life's challenges, grow, and develop greater satisfaction and success. Our services include psychotherapy, counseling, testing, and psychological evaluation. We specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Dr. Bill Morgan, director of PPA, is a licensed psychologist with over 20 years experience. Within our group we have a number of highly trained professionals covering a variety of specialties. We are committed to providing high quality services.
Some of our specialties include anxiety, depression, biplolar disorder, ADHD, marriage, family, and relationships, child and adolescent counseling, learning disabilities, academic achievement, social skills enhancement, trauma and PTSD, drug and alcohol, career and workplace, stress management, headaches, biofeedback, psychological testing, psychoeducational evaluations, and forensic evaluations.
Paoli Psychological Associates is a group of mental health professionals dedicated to helping people develop the skills they need for life's challenges. Our counseling services offer personalized attention and an individualized approach to helping individuals, couples, and families overcome life's challenges, grow, and develop greater satisfaction and success. Our services include psychotherapy, counseling, testing, and psychological evaluation. We specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Dr. Bill Morgan, director of PPA, is a licensed psychologist with over 20 years experience. Within our group we have a number of highly trained professionals covering a variety of specialties. We are committed to providing high quality services.
(610) 644-8182 View (610) 644-8182
Photo of Anne Unterkoefler LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Malvern, PA
Anne Unterkoefler LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Malvern, PA 19355
Waitlist for new clients
Throughout my career I have helped many clients who have dealt with a wide variety of trauma's and losses.
As a therapist for 25+ years, I believe it is important to recognize a person's strengths to help them deal with emotional difficulties when they occur. I work with children, adolescents, adults, families and the elderly to enhance their coping skills, so they have a variety of options to deal with their life stresses. I enjoy working in collaboration with people of all ages and diagnoses to achieve their mental health goals. Being trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy I have a wealth of knowledge in teaching coping skills to help a wide variety of diagnoses.
Throughout my career I have helped many clients who have dealt with a wide variety of trauma's and losses.
As a therapist for 25+ years, I believe it is important to recognize a person's strengths to help them deal with emotional difficulties when they occur. I work with children, adolescents, adults, families and the elderly to enhance their coping skills, so they have a variety of options to deal with their life stresses. I enjoy working in collaboration with people of all ages and diagnoses to achieve their mental health goals. Being trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy I have a wealth of knowledge in teaching coping skills to help a wide variety of diagnoses.
(484) 350-5345 View (484) 350-5345
Photo of Andrea Morganstein, Licensed Professional Counselor in Malvern, PA
Andrea Morganstein
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Malvern, PA 19355
Not accepting new clients
" I am knowledgeable about: depression, trauma, executive functioning skills, role of nutrition/sleep in mental wellness, and parenting issues.
Current appt. availability on my website. People come to me because they are struggling and feel stuck. I specialize in working with adults and children/families who are challenged by anxiety, ADHD, or "Asperger's" but have experience with many different issues. My approach involves providing info about how the brain works, how to use it as your ally instead of an enemy, and how to find strength in the very things that challenge you. (ex: There are so many wonderful things about having ADHD!) I do this in the context of interpersonal relationships where we talk about things like identity and communication/conflict resolution skills.
" I am knowledgeable about: depression, trauma, executive functioning skills, role of nutrition/sleep in mental wellness, and parenting issues.
Current appt. availability on my website. People come to me because they are struggling and feel stuck. I specialize in working with adults and children/families who are challenged by anxiety, ADHD, or "Asperger's" but have experience with many different issues. My approach involves providing info about how the brain works, how to use it as your ally instead of an enemy, and how to find strength in the very things that challenge you. (ex: There are so many wonderful things about having ADHD!) I do this in the context of interpersonal relationships where we talk about things like identity and communication/conflict resolution skills.
(610) 314-0799 View (610) 314-0799

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Tari Lyn Getz, Licensed Professional Counselor in Malvern, PA
Tari Lyn Getz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Devon, PA 19333
I have a strong background in trauma and in providing services for at-risk youth and young adults.
I began my career as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) later in life, and I have great passion for the work I do with my clients. I have 10+ years of experience as a therapist for children/teens, adults, and families. I have worked in out-patient, school-based, in-home, and community settings. With younger children and parents, I often employ the principles of Parent-Child Interactive Therapy, focusing on child-directed and parent-directed play. For family therapy, I use a relational approach that is based on positive communication, mutual respect, and active listening skills. I enjoy collaborating with clients on goals.
I have a strong background in trauma and in providing services for at-risk youth and young adults.
I began my career as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) later in life, and I have great passion for the work I do with my clients. I have 10+ years of experience as a therapist for children/teens, adults, and families. I have worked in out-patient, school-based, in-home, and community settings. With younger children and parents, I often employ the principles of Parent-Child Interactive Therapy, focusing on child-directed and parent-directed play. For family therapy, I use a relational approach that is based on positive communication, mutual respect, and active listening skills. I enjoy collaborating with clients on goals.
(610) 463-0619 View (610) 463-0619
Photo of Jessica Benzing, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Malvern, PA
Jessica Benzing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Phoenixville, PA 19460
Are you struggling with wanting change and not knowing how to start? Are you dealing with worry, sadness or relationship struggles? Are you wanting to work through trauma from your past and not able to navigate that on your own? If you identify with these questions I may be the right therapist for you.
Are you struggling with wanting change and not knowing how to start? Are you dealing with worry, sadness or relationship struggles? Are you wanting to work through trauma from your past and not able to navigate that on your own? If you identify with these questions I may be the right therapist for you.
(610) 859-4858 View (610) 859-4858
Photo of Jessica DiIenno, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Malvern, PA
Jessica DiIenno
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Downingtown, PA 19335
I am passionate about providing trauma-informed and attachment focused care to clients of all ages.
Are you looking for a therapist for your child or adolescent because they seem down, anxious, or having trouble managing relationships or stress? Being a kid right now is so challenging, and having additional support from a therapist can be invaluable! Maybe you are looking for help for yourself. Maybe you are a parent struggling in that role. Or, maybe you are trying to heal your own wounds from experiences you had early on in life. Maybe you'd like to heal so you can feel better, more present, and less anxious in your here and now.
I am passionate about providing trauma-informed and attachment focused care to clients of all ages.
Are you looking for a therapist for your child or adolescent because they seem down, anxious, or having trouble managing relationships or stress? Being a kid right now is so challenging, and having additional support from a therapist can be invaluable! Maybe you are looking for help for yourself. Maybe you are a parent struggling in that role. Or, maybe you are trying to heal your own wounds from experiences you had early on in life. Maybe you'd like to heal so you can feel better, more present, and less anxious in your here and now.
(610) 595-5170 View (610) 595-5170
Photo of Kathy Devries, Counselor in Malvern, PA
Kathy Devries
Counselor, MBA, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Exton, PA 19341
Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) is a researched based approach which helps clients who have experienced adverse events or trauma.
We provide compassionate counseling care which is rooted in research proven methods as well as a Christian world view. In therapy we help you design a plan which will help you heal from past hurts, build better relationships, set boundaries, and celebrate your gifts and talents. We check in regularly to make sure you feel heard and are getting what you need from counseling.
Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) is a researched based approach which helps clients who have experienced adverse events or trauma.
We provide compassionate counseling care which is rooted in research proven methods as well as a Christian world view. In therapy we help you design a plan which will help you heal from past hurts, build better relationships, set boundaries, and celebrate your gifts and talents. We check in regularly to make sure you feel heard and are getting what you need from counseling.
(484) 270-4159 View (484) 270-4159
Photo of Jennifer King, Pre-Licensed Professional in Malvern, PA
Jennifer King
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, EdS
Verified Verified
West Chester, PA 19380
I specialize in the treatment of trauma and adjustment issues relating to life transitions and aging.
“If you are depressed you are living in the past, if you are anxious you are living in the future, if you are at peace, you are living in the present". . .The immortal wisdom of 6th c. philosopher Lao Tzu informs my approach to life and to therapy. I seek to help my clients be open, curious, and accepting of their present experiences, to make meaning from their adversity, and to embrace their futures with a sense of agency and adventure.
I specialize in the treatment of trauma and adjustment issues relating to life transitions and aging.
“If you are depressed you are living in the past, if you are anxious you are living in the future, if you are at peace, you are living in the present". . .The immortal wisdom of 6th c. philosopher Lao Tzu informs my approach to life and to therapy. I seek to help my clients be open, curious, and accepting of their present experiences, to make meaning from their adversity, and to embrace their futures with a sense of agency and adventure.
(610) 379-1343 View (610) 379-1343
Photo of Lotus Counseling & Consulting, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Malvern, PA
Lotus Counseling & Consulting, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
West Chester, PA 19380  (Online Only)
I specialize in trauma, grief, anxiety and depression.
At times, people just want to have a conversation and we put off going to counseling, because honestly we tell ourselves that this other thing is just a little bit more important, a bit more pressing. We forget to invest in ourselves. Life is tough, there is no doubt about that; but why go through it alone. Let me be that person for you to aid you through those tough times or I can simply be that someone that you talk with.
I specialize in trauma, grief, anxiety and depression.
At times, people just want to have a conversation and we put off going to counseling, because honestly we tell ourselves that this other thing is just a little bit more important, a bit more pressing. We forget to invest in ourselves. Life is tough, there is no doubt about that; but why go through it alone. Let me be that person for you to aid you through those tough times or I can simply be that someone that you talk with.
(484) 214-2598 View (484) 214-2598
Photo of Kelly Pohlig, Pre-Licensed Professional in Malvern, PA
Kelly Pohlig
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
King Of Prussia, PA 19406  (Online Only)
I use a trauma informed approach to therapy which combines client focused therapy, psychodynamic applications, play therapy, and EMDR.
Hey there! It can be highly challenging it can be to reach out for help; you are taking the best step in seeking a partner for personal healing. I will work with you to create positive changes in your life, resolve conflicts, and towards the goals you desire. As a counselor, I work with individuals coping with various concerns related to neurodiversity, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, PTSD/ complex trauma, caregiver concerns, relationship issues, parenting struggles, communication skills, and general life dissatisfaction.
I use a trauma informed approach to therapy which combines client focused therapy, psychodynamic applications, play therapy, and EMDR.
Hey there! It can be highly challenging it can be to reach out for help; you are taking the best step in seeking a partner for personal healing. I will work with you to create positive changes in your life, resolve conflicts, and towards the goals you desire. As a counselor, I work with individuals coping with various concerns related to neurodiversity, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, PTSD/ complex trauma, caregiver concerns, relationship issues, parenting struggles, communication skills, and general life dissatisfaction.
(484) 646-2710 View (484) 646-2710
Photo of Jessica Ventura, Licensed Professional Counselor in Malvern, PA
Jessica Ventura
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenixville, PA 19460  (Online Only)
My name is Jess, I have experience working with adults, teens, adolescents, children & family systems. My specialties are treating trauma related disorders, adolescent and teen adjustment issues, emotional & behavioral regulation concerns, grief/loss and identity development. I also specialize in treating anxiety and depression. I am trained and certified in Eye Movement Desensitization Therapy (EMDR). I utilize Psychodynamic, Emotion Focused, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy tools and techniques to help clients recognize, accept, and cope with feelings generated by their past and present experiences.
My name is Jess, I have experience working with adults, teens, adolescents, children & family systems. My specialties are treating trauma related disorders, adolescent and teen adjustment issues, emotional & behavioral regulation concerns, grief/loss and identity development. I also specialize in treating anxiety and depression. I am trained and certified in Eye Movement Desensitization Therapy (EMDR). I utilize Psychodynamic, Emotion Focused, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy tools and techniques to help clients recognize, accept, and cope with feelings generated by their past and present experiences.
(484) 218-4620 View (484) 218-4620
Photo of Kini Bryant, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Malvern, PA
Kini Bryant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RSP
Verified Verified
Chester Springs, PA 19425
Sandplay Therapy is an effective tool for children and, too, it is an effective tool for adolescents and adults. Often, finding the words to express ones' feelings is a challenge. Together the client and the therapist review the creative process to help understand the feelings and experience. The picture created in the sand tray is a way for expressing ones’ internal feelings. Trauma whether it happens to a child, adolescent or an adult can contribute to feeling disorganized and insecure. For a child, adolescent or an adult feeling disorganized is scary. Sandplay Therapy will enhance self- regulation evident in one' behavior.
Sandplay Therapy is an effective tool for children and, too, it is an effective tool for adolescents and adults. Often, finding the words to express ones' feelings is a challenge. Together the client and the therapist review the creative process to help understand the feelings and experience. The picture created in the sand tray is a way for expressing ones’ internal feelings. Trauma whether it happens to a child, adolescent or an adult can contribute to feeling disorganized and insecure. For a child, adolescent or an adult feeling disorganized is scary. Sandplay Therapy will enhance self- regulation evident in one' behavior.
(484) 578-0824 View (484) 578-0824
Photo of Dr. Bre Ford, Marriage & Family Therapist in Malvern, PA
Dr. Bre Ford
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chester Springs, PA 19425  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in narrative therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and trauma-informed therapies.
Are you a college student, looking to expand your sense of who you are? Maybe you're having a difficult time adjusting to college life due to peer pressure, academic stress, depression or anxiety. Or, maybe you finally feel ready to embrace your main character energy and prioritize your happiness. Or, maybe are you a parent, and you wish there was a way to support your college student from afar. I'm here to help. Using telehealth, I provide college students and their families with quality, short or long-term therapy.
I am trained in narrative therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and trauma-informed therapies.
Are you a college student, looking to expand your sense of who you are? Maybe you're having a difficult time adjusting to college life due to peer pressure, academic stress, depression or anxiety. Or, maybe you finally feel ready to embrace your main character energy and prioritize your happiness. Or, maybe are you a parent, and you wish there was a way to support your college student from afar. I'm here to help. Using telehealth, I provide college students and their families with quality, short or long-term therapy.
(267) 833-4010 View (267) 833-4010
Photo of Dr. Dorothy Gail Monteith, Counselor in Malvern, PA
Dr. Dorothy Gail Monteith
Counselor, LPC, EdD, MHS
Verified Verified
Downingtown, PA 19335
I like to hear the stories of people, especially of their lives, and trauma, and where I can see patterns to help.
I work well with clients that want to add to their own improvement and are motivated to change. I want to help with this need, or their want to improve. I want to help how you feel, and make you feel more positive. I am a positive, caring, compassionate person and i I listen carefully, and want to help.
I like to hear the stories of people, especially of their lives, and trauma, and where I can see patterns to help.
I work well with clients that want to add to their own improvement and are motivated to change. I want to help with this need, or their want to improve. I want to help how you feel, and make you feel more positive. I am a positive, caring, compassionate person and i I listen carefully, and want to help.
(610) 347-5704 View (610) 347-5704
Photo of Yellow Springs Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Malvern, PA
Yellow Springs Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenixville, PA 19460
I have worked for years in the following fields as they relate to adolescents/teens: trauma/PTSD, behavioral concerns, school issues, self-harm and suicidal ideation, depression, anxiety, and family relations.
In working with children and adolescents (ages 5-17) you accept the responsibility of meeting with a population who may not have consented to therapy. Although guardians act within the child's best interest, the intervention may not be something the adolescent supports at the time. With this understanding, my primary goal is to simply connect regardless of who walks through that door. Progress cannot occur without a strong and trusting therapeutic relationship. To ensure this result, I rely on genuineness and transparency with the client. My extensive experience, both as a School Counselor and Therapist, lead my counseling direction
I have worked for years in the following fields as they relate to adolescents/teens: trauma/PTSD, behavioral concerns, school issues, self-harm and suicidal ideation, depression, anxiety, and family relations.
In working with children and adolescents (ages 5-17) you accept the responsibility of meeting with a population who may not have consented to therapy. Although guardians act within the child's best interest, the intervention may not be something the adolescent supports at the time. With this understanding, my primary goal is to simply connect regardless of who walks through that door. Progress cannot occur without a strong and trusting therapeutic relationship. To ensure this result, I rely on genuineness and transparency with the client. My extensive experience, both as a School Counselor and Therapist, lead my counseling direction
(610) 467-2436 View (610) 467-2436
Photo of Main Line Therapy Center, Marriage & Family Therapist in Malvern, PA
Main Line Therapy Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Wayne, PA 19087
Jen is certified in Eco-Systemic Structural Family Therapy and has extensive knowledge, training, and experience in Brain Based Trauma Informed Care working with children and adolescents. She is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years’ hands-on experience with children, adolescents, and families. Jen combines a customized variety of evidence-based techniques and skills to create growth and healing in her treatment with individuals and families. Jen works closely with parents to support their unique individual child and family by helping them better understand early brain development and promote change.
Jen is certified in Eco-Systemic Structural Family Therapy and has extensive knowledge, training, and experience in Brain Based Trauma Informed Care working with children and adolescents. She is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years’ hands-on experience with children, adolescents, and families. Jen combines a customized variety of evidence-based techniques and skills to create growth and healing in her treatment with individuals and families. Jen works closely with parents to support their unique individual child and family by helping them better understand early brain development and promote change.
(610) 756-0212 View (610) 756-0212
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.