Photo of Renee Ferguson, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in South Carolina
Renee Ferguson
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Goose Creek, SC 29445
Are you or your child struggling with anxiety, depression, or the effects of trauma? I'm passionate about working with each client to provide a safe place where you can begin to explore, learn, and heal from life experiences. I believe you are the expert of your own life, and I would love to partner with you on the journey to reaching your full potential.
Are you or your child struggling with anxiety, depression, or the effects of trauma? I'm passionate about working with each client to provide a safe place where you can begin to explore, learn, and heal from life experiences. I believe you are the expert of your own life, and I would love to partner with you on the journey to reaching your full potential.
(843) 900-7009 View (843) 900-7009
Photo of Healing Solutions, Licensed Professional Counselor in South Carolina
Healing Solutions
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Lexington, SC 29072
Waitlist for new clients
I am an LPC with 17 years of experience, EMDR trained to work with clients of all ages. I am also a Christian Counselor if that is what my clients are needing. I love children, adolescents and the challenges they bring to family dynamics. I tailor my style to the needs of my clients, because no two clients are alike. I'm solution, attachment & trauma focused. My heart is in what I do and invested in my clients success in therapy. My passion for what I do and helping others, is what makes me an effective therapist.
I am an LPC with 17 years of experience, EMDR trained to work with clients of all ages. I am also a Christian Counselor if that is what my clients are needing. I love children, adolescents and the challenges they bring to family dynamics. I tailor my style to the needs of my clients, because no two clients are alike. I'm solution, attachment & trauma focused. My heart is in what I do and invested in my clients success in therapy. My passion for what I do and helping others, is what makes me an effective therapist.
(970) 443-0252 View (970) 443-0252
Photo of Rex Dula, Licensed Professional Counselor in South Carolina
Rex Dula
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCS/C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charleston, SC 29407
Most of my training and experience has been with survivors of trauma ranging in age from 3 years of age to 70 and over.
Working with a diverse client population is what keeps me going and motivated each day. I enjoy getting to know the lives of each of my clients and learning what make them tick. Each of us have so much to offer the world as well as each other and we sometimes lose sight of that. Whether you are struggling with issues around gender identity, your past traumas and their current effects, or looking to improve your family or intimate relationships, I would love to work with you as you grow and learn ways to improve your life on your terms. You are the author of your own novel and I would enjoy helping you fill the pages with positivity.
Most of my training and experience has been with survivors of trauma ranging in age from 3 years of age to 70 and over.
Working with a diverse client population is what keeps me going and motivated each day. I enjoy getting to know the lives of each of my clients and learning what make them tick. Each of us have so much to offer the world as well as each other and we sometimes lose sight of that. Whether you are struggling with issues around gender identity, your past traumas and their current effects, or looking to improve your family or intimate relationships, I would love to work with you as you grow and learn ways to improve your life on your terms. You are the author of your own novel and I would enjoy helping you fill the pages with positivity.
(843) 874-8382 View (843) 874-8382
Photo of Bluffton Okatie Counseling Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in South Carolina
Bluffton Okatie Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
Ridgeland, SC 29936
We have training and experience in trauma, adoption, ADHD, anxiety, depression, personality disorders, addiction, family issues, recovery from abuse, and surviving your teenager.
We are a group of counselors with different skills, specialties, and credentials. We strive to have a clinician suited for each and every client who contacts us. We are happy to check your insurance benefits prior to your visit. All of our clinicians are trauma-informed and trained in either TF-CBT or EMDR. We help clients as young as five through retirement age. We are conveniently located in the Riverwalk Business Park. We are 2 miles from Bluffton in the Okatie area of Ridgeland.
We have training and experience in trauma, adoption, ADHD, anxiety, depression, personality disorders, addiction, family issues, recovery from abuse, and surviving your teenager.
We are a group of counselors with different skills, specialties, and credentials. We strive to have a clinician suited for each and every client who contacts us. We are happy to check your insurance benefits prior to your visit. All of our clinicians are trauma-informed and trained in either TF-CBT or EMDR. We help clients as young as five through retirement age. We are conveniently located in the Riverwalk Business Park. We are 2 miles from Bluffton in the Okatie area of Ridgeland.
(843) 547-3993 View (843) 547-3993
Photo of The Sonshine Exchange Lelia Denise McKay , Licensed Professional Counselor in South Carolina
The Sonshine Exchange Lelia Denise McKay
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Florence, SC 29501
Are you lost? Lonely? Grieving? Acting or thinking in ways you don't understand? Looking for something more in your life? Not knowing what the next step is? Wanting to make big, positive changes (or even small ones) and don't know how? I love helping people explore their lives and themselves! Let's find out what's next, what's inside, what you want and who you are! We can talk, draw, play, sit... many ways to explore the issues you want to understand. Depression, anxiety, life transitions, grief & loss, childhood trauma. My goal is to help you find your best version of yourself. I LOVE helping others walk through any obstacle.
Are you lost? Lonely? Grieving? Acting or thinking in ways you don't understand? Looking for something more in your life? Not knowing what the next step is? Wanting to make big, positive changes (or even small ones) and don't know how? I love helping people explore their lives and themselves! Let's find out what's next, what's inside, what you want and who you are! We can talk, draw, play, sit... many ways to explore the issues you want to understand. Depression, anxiety, life transitions, grief & loss, childhood trauma. My goal is to help you find your best version of yourself. I LOVE helping others walk through any obstacle.
(843) 883-6620 View (843) 883-6620
Photo of Elena Eugenia Corral, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in South Carolina
Elena Eugenia Corral
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29607
If you are reading this, you probably never knew or forgot how special you really are. You can discover this! I am a therapist with 22 years of post graduate experience working with children, adolescents, adults, elderlies, couples, parents, and families. I am specialized in assisting children and adults who suffered traumatic experiences alleviate their inner suffering through the use of Internal Family Systems model, combined with psychodynamic theory, mindfulness, and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. And very unique lately: mindfulness groups for teenagers to assist in coping with overwhelming emotions.
If you are reading this, you probably never knew or forgot how special you really are. You can discover this! I am a therapist with 22 years of post graduate experience working with children, adolescents, adults, elderlies, couples, parents, and families. I am specialized in assisting children and adults who suffered traumatic experiences alleviate their inner suffering through the use of Internal Family Systems model, combined with psychodynamic theory, mindfulness, and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. And very unique lately: mindfulness groups for teenagers to assist in coping with overwhelming emotions.
(864) 507-2369 View (864) 507-2369
Photo of Wayne Schaefer Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in South Carolina
Wayne Schaefer Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC
Verified Verified
Rock Hill, SC 29732
I am extremely diversified.So, it is my belief I can professionally handle any clinical issue that comes my way.I am very good with PTSD issues & relationship themes.I believe I do God's works so I do not lack confidence.I suppose I learned that from Notre Dame University.However, since I was also very good at football,boxing and skiing & I have excelled in many other endeavors,I love my work as it allows me to be helpful & creative and I can put my extensive years of education & experience into practice.
I am extremely diversified.So, it is my belief I can professionally handle any clinical issue that comes my way.I am very good with PTSD issues & relationship themes.I believe I do God's works so I do not lack confidence.I suppose I learned that from Notre Dame University.However, since I was also very good at football,boxing and skiing & I have excelled in many other endeavors,I love my work as it allows me to be helpful & creative and I can put my extensive years of education & experience into practice.
(803) 450-2566 View (803) 450-2566
Photo of Therapy Corner, Licensed Professional Counselor in South Carolina
Therapy Corner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, RBT, Certifi, Trauma, Profess
Verified Verified
Summerville, SC 29486  (Online Only)
Therapy Corner specializes in Trauma Focus, CBT, Client Centered, Play Therapy, Reality Therapy, ABA Therapy, Telemedicine with Behavioral Health etc.
The Professionals at Therapy Corner addresses the needs of children, teens, and adults. Through talk therapy, often we find that we have coping skills we have not accessed. We help clients help themselves!! Telehealth as well as telephone counseling , Facetime, and limited home visits are now offered. Flexible scheduling provided for your convenience. Alcohol and Drug counseling is also provided.
Therapy Corner specializes in Trauma Focus, CBT, Client Centered, Play Therapy, Reality Therapy, ABA Therapy, Telemedicine with Behavioral Health etc.
The Professionals at Therapy Corner addresses the needs of children, teens, and adults. Through talk therapy, often we find that we have coping skills we have not accessed. We help clients help themselves!! Telehealth as well as telephone counseling , Facetime, and limited home visits are now offered. Flexible scheduling provided for your convenience. Alcohol and Drug counseling is also provided.
(843) 410-5370 View (843) 410-5370
Photo of The Couples & Family Counseling & Wellness Center, Counselor in South Carolina
The Couples & Family Counseling & Wellness Center
Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Myrtle Beach, SC 29588
Come to our center to get help with your mental health as our therapy style is warm, friendly, and interactive. We believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. Our approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic, mindfulness, play therapy, rational-emotive therapy and EMDR, eye movement desensitation and reprocessing. EMDR can relieve these depressive symptoms and help reframe negative beliefs, resolve unprocessed trauma and adverse experiences, improve energy and mood, and create a more positive understanding of the self and others.
Come to our center to get help with your mental health as our therapy style is warm, friendly, and interactive. We believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. Our approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic, mindfulness, play therapy, rational-emotive therapy and EMDR, eye movement desensitation and reprocessing. EMDR can relieve these depressive symptoms and help reframe negative beliefs, resolve unprocessed trauma and adverse experiences, improve energy and mood, and create a more positive understanding of the self and others.
(843) 603-8313 View (843) 603-8313
Photo of Gina Viruso-Kitts, Licensed Professional Counselor in South Carolina
Gina Viruso-Kitts
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Rock Hill, SC 29732
Experience with individuals varying but not limited to: Autism spectrum disorders, depression, anxiety, PTSD, traumatic issues, grief/loss, mood & behavioral disorders, self esteem/self concept.
I am a licensed mental health counselor in South Carolina. I specialize in Equine Assisted Psychotherapy. I am fluent in American Sign Language, thus, I am able to work with deaf individuals and those with hearing loss and their family members. I have experience working with a variety of populations and cultures in the community and school settings with issues that vary from life circumstance changes, emotional, mental and social issues. There are times when one is faced with issues and difficulties in which I can assist adults, adolescents and children in finding the balance they need in their life.
Experience with individuals varying but not limited to: Autism spectrum disorders, depression, anxiety, PTSD, traumatic issues, grief/loss, mood & behavioral disorders, self esteem/self concept.
I am a licensed mental health counselor in South Carolina. I specialize in Equine Assisted Psychotherapy. I am fluent in American Sign Language, thus, I am able to work with deaf individuals and those with hearing loss and their family members. I have experience working with a variety of populations and cultures in the community and school settings with issues that vary from life circumstance changes, emotional, mental and social issues. There are times when one is faced with issues and difficulties in which I can assist adults, adolescents and children in finding the balance they need in their life.
(803) 526-7163 View (803) 526-7163
Photo of Mary Earle Campbell, Licensed Professional Counselor in South Carolina
Mary Earle Campbell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Greenwood, SC 29649
If you are looking for a non-judgmental, caring professional to gently guide you through the distress you are experiencing, let me help you. I am clinically trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), evidence based trauma therapy (TF-CBT), Mindfulness, and Hypnotherapy. I enjoy working with diverse populations: teens and adults in individual, couple, and family therapy. Whether your pain is due to anxiety, depression, trauma, abuse, or another issue interfering with your happiness and quality of life, it will be addressed in a compassionate, competent,and confidential manner. Each individual is unique, so I adapt my clinical approach to fit your needs and strengths.
If you are looking for a non-judgmental, caring professional to gently guide you through the distress you are experiencing, let me help you. I am clinically trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), evidence based trauma therapy (TF-CBT), Mindfulness, and Hypnotherapy. I enjoy working with diverse populations: teens and adults in individual, couple, and family therapy. Whether your pain is due to anxiety, depression, trauma, abuse, or another issue interfering with your happiness and quality of life, it will be addressed in a compassionate, competent,and confidential manner. Each individual is unique, so I adapt my clinical approach to fit your needs and strengths.
(803) 675-7263 View (803) 675-7263
Photo of Samantha Aggeles, Licensed Professional Counselor in South Carolina
Samantha Aggeles
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Charleston, SC 29407
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy to address trauma and help clients replace negative core beliefs about themselves and the world around them.
As a therapist, it is my job to help you understand, discover, and define your story. Our stories create narratives and paradigms that we choose to live by as truth – but not all stories tell truth. Some stories tell lies, distorted truths, and suppress what’s true altogether. I want to untangle your story with you, help you find the truths and light pieces, and gift it back to you in a way that gives you the freedom to live your most authentic life, with vulnerability and courage. With my background in trauma, mood disorders, personality disorders and spiritual counseling, I hope to help you live your best story.
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy to address trauma and help clients replace negative core beliefs about themselves and the world around them.
As a therapist, it is my job to help you understand, discover, and define your story. Our stories create narratives and paradigms that we choose to live by as truth – but not all stories tell truth. Some stories tell lies, distorted truths, and suppress what’s true altogether. I want to untangle your story with you, help you find the truths and light pieces, and gift it back to you in a way that gives you the freedom to live your most authentic life, with vulnerability and courage. With my background in trauma, mood disorders, personality disorders and spiritual counseling, I hope to help you live your best story.
(843) 891-6864 View (843) 891-6864
Photo of Kimberly Hanson, Licensed Professional Counselor in South Carolina
Kimberly Hanson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT, CIMHP
Verified Verified
Charleston, SC 29492
Life is often a series of difficult challenges and painful struggles. It can be hard to make sense of it all, let go and truly heal. Still, trauma, chronic pain/illness, mood issues, loss or other difficult problems do NOT need to define you or your life. I have a passion to help young adults, women, single moms, military families, and others who've been impacted by the tough stuff life has to offer. Using a holistic, strengths-based approach that integrates wellness practices, with trauma informed modalities I can help facilitate the healing process, and provide an opportunity for you to become the best version of yourself!
Life is often a series of difficult challenges and painful struggles. It can be hard to make sense of it all, let go and truly heal. Still, trauma, chronic pain/illness, mood issues, loss or other difficult problems do NOT need to define you or your life. I have a passion to help young adults, women, single moms, military families, and others who've been impacted by the tough stuff life has to offer. Using a holistic, strengths-based approach that integrates wellness practices, with trauma informed modalities I can help facilitate the healing process, and provide an opportunity for you to become the best version of yourself!
(843) 284-9402 View (843) 284-9402
Photo of Denise Ann Rothman, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in South Carolina
Denise Ann Rothman
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MPC, LPC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Myrtle Beach, SC 29588  (Online Only)
My name is Denise Rothman and I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) in NC and a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in both SC and NJ. I offer a welcoming, non-judgmental approach in working with my clients to help them achieve personal fulfillment and individual growth. I am experienced in treating adults, couples, children, and adolescents with various difficulties including, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, ADHD, attachment disorders, parenting issues, family conflicts, and childhood trauma. I am licensed in NC, SC, and NJ and I am available to provide Teletherapy to those who live in these states
My name is Denise Rothman and I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) in NC and a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in both SC and NJ. I offer a welcoming, non-judgmental approach in working with my clients to help them achieve personal fulfillment and individual growth. I am experienced in treating adults, couples, children, and adolescents with various difficulties including, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, ADHD, attachment disorders, parenting issues, family conflicts, and childhood trauma. I am licensed in NC, SC, and NJ and I am available to provide Teletherapy to those who live in these states
(919) 289-1296 View (919) 289-1296
Photo of Terry Masi, Marriage & Family Therapist in South Carolina
Terry Masi
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Myrtle Beach, SC 29579
My specialties include EMDR for trauma, CBT for depression and anxiety and motivational interviewing with 12-steps for addiction.
The therapeutic process is unique to the client. For some it involves deep reflection and questioning old idea's, and for others a problem solving collaboration. For me it is the excitement of the journey you will embark on, and the endless possibilities for growth. Transparency is paramount, and key to the process for both client and therapist. Work is progressive and tailored to the individual. As issues emerge, treatment plans are re-assessed and revised to meet client needs. For trauma I am trained in Trauma focused CBT and Functional Family Systems,for addiction CBT and 12-step and for couples family systems therapy.
My specialties include EMDR for trauma, CBT for depression and anxiety and motivational interviewing with 12-steps for addiction.
The therapeutic process is unique to the client. For some it involves deep reflection and questioning old idea's, and for others a problem solving collaboration. For me it is the excitement of the journey you will embark on, and the endless possibilities for growth. Transparency is paramount, and key to the process for both client and therapist. Work is progressive and tailored to the individual. As issues emerge, treatment plans are re-assessed and revised to meet client needs. For trauma I am trained in Trauma focused CBT and Functional Family Systems,for addiction CBT and 12-step and for couples family systems therapy.
(310) 982-7954 View (310) 982-7954
Photo of Bit of Hope Ranch Equine Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in South Carolina
Bit of Hope Ranch Equine Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Rock Hill, SC 29730
Tired of talking? Bit of Hope Ranch offers a unique approach to counseling using traditional office therapy as well as Equine Assisted Psychotherapy and Outdoor Nature Therapy. Our therapy teams use a variety of approaches to address: depression/anxiety, eating disorders, substance abuse, trauma, sexual abuse, ADHA/ADD, autism, behavioral modification, anger management, etc. The therapy teams also specialize in helping people who are stuck in life, adjusting to change or just needing some coaching. We also offer Christian counseling for those wanting to integrate faith in their healing.
Tired of talking? Bit of Hope Ranch offers a unique approach to counseling using traditional office therapy as well as Equine Assisted Psychotherapy and Outdoor Nature Therapy. Our therapy teams use a variety of approaches to address: depression/anxiety, eating disorders, substance abuse, trauma, sexual abuse, ADHA/ADD, autism, behavioral modification, anger management, etc. The therapy teams also specialize in helping people who are stuck in life, adjusting to change or just needing some coaching. We also offer Christian counseling for those wanting to integrate faith in their healing.
(704) 870-0501 View (704) 870-0501
Photo of Blooming Fields Christian Counseling, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in South Carolina
Blooming Fields Christian Counseling
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LCMHC, NCCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Wylie, SC 29710
Waitlist for new clients
No matter what life brings, YOU are worthy, YOU matter, and YOU can find healing as I commit to offer support, unconditional compassion, and a relentless desire to meet you where you are in life. I consider it an honor to work with children, tweens/teens, families, and adults seeking help and comfort during challenging situations. I aim to equip and encourage parents who are seeking tools and resources to regain confidence in parenting, healthy communication, and secure attachment with their children. Divorce, adoption, anxiety, depression, trauma, life adjustments and emotion regulation are a few of the issues that I typically see.
No matter what life brings, YOU are worthy, YOU matter, and YOU can find healing as I commit to offer support, unconditional compassion, and a relentless desire to meet you where you are in life. I consider it an honor to work with children, tweens/teens, families, and adults seeking help and comfort during challenging situations. I aim to equip and encourage parents who are seeking tools and resources to regain confidence in parenting, healthy communication, and secure attachment with their children. Divorce, adoption, anxiety, depression, trauma, life adjustments and emotion regulation are a few of the issues that I typically see.
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Photo of Leigh Ann Wyrick, Counselor in South Carolina
Leigh Ann Wyrick
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Indian Land, SC 29707
My areas of specialization include helping individuals who may be struggling with relationship issues, family dynamics, PTSD, developmental disabilities, and various other mental health issues.
I firmly believe that every individual possesses the inherent capacity for self-understanding and growth. As a counselor, I am wholeheartedly committed to making a difference in the lives of those who may be facing various challenges. My goal is to create a safe and empathetic space where clients can freely explore their emotions, thoughts, and experiences without fear of judgment. I use a variety of different therapeutic techniques to suit the unique needs and goals of each individual. However, a person-centered approach forms the foundation of my counseling philosophy.
My areas of specialization include helping individuals who may be struggling with relationship issues, family dynamics, PTSD, developmental disabilities, and various other mental health issues.
I firmly believe that every individual possesses the inherent capacity for self-understanding and growth. As a counselor, I am wholeheartedly committed to making a difference in the lives of those who may be facing various challenges. My goal is to create a safe and empathetic space where clients can freely explore their emotions, thoughts, and experiences without fear of judgment. I use a variety of different therapeutic techniques to suit the unique needs and goals of each individual. However, a person-centered approach forms the foundation of my counseling philosophy.
(704) 486-2813 View (704) 486-2813
Photo of Leslie Laurice Wright, Licensed Professional Counselor in South Carolina
Leslie Laurice Wright
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, ADC, ASDCS
Verified Verified
Kingstree, SC 29556
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in South Carolina and West Virginia. In addition, I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in the state of North Carolina. I am a certified Addiction Counselor and a Substance Abuse Professional. I have over ten years of experience working with patients of all ages. My experiences have afforded me the opportunity to become skilled in offering a wide range of counseling services. Depression, anxiety, OCD, marriage and family, anger management, PTSD, ADHD, Autism, and addiction are some of those areas.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in South Carolina and West Virginia. In addition, I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in the state of North Carolina. I am a certified Addiction Counselor and a Substance Abuse Professional. I have over ten years of experience working with patients of all ages. My experiences have afforded me the opportunity to become skilled in offering a wide range of counseling services. Depression, anxiety, OCD, marriage and family, anger management, PTSD, ADHD, Autism, and addiction are some of those areas.
(843) 279-8969 View (843) 279-8969
Photo of BarberTherapy & Associates, Licensed Professional Counselor in South Carolina
BarberTherapy & Associates
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD , MEd, LCMHC-S, Divorce, Mediato
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rock Hill, SC 29730
I have over 30 years of experience in the mental health field and we serve clients with depression, ptsd (veterans), sexual issues, ADHD, marital issues, and substance abuse.
BarberTherapy & Assoc. provides quality Mental Health services to children, adolescents, adults, families and couples utilizing a strengths based approach that promotes trust, respect, privacy and transparency.
I have over 30 years of experience in the mental health field and we serve clients with depression, ptsd (veterans), sexual issues, ADHD, marital issues, and substance abuse.
BarberTherapy & Assoc. provides quality Mental Health services to children, adolescents, adults, families and couples utilizing a strengths based approach that promotes trust, respect, privacy and transparency.
(704) 870-0545 View (704) 870-0545

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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.