Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Cleveland, TN

Photo of Hanna Marino, Pre-Licensed Professional in Cleveland, TN
Hanna Marino
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, MFT-I, AAMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cleveland, TN 37311
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in Religious Trauma and Trauma-Focused CBT, which works well with PTSD and other trauma-related issues.
Hello! I am so glad you're here! I work with LGBTQ+, Couples, Individuals & Families through a variety of life hardships. If you’re dealing with Trauma/PTSD, religious trauma, spirituality issues, communication, life transitions, conflict, sexual concerns, sexuality, anxiety, anger, teenage struggles, self-esteem/identity, or any other issues, you deserve a safe space to process through them. When you come to my office you will not simply get a trained professional, but a human who feels deeply with other humans. "Know all the theories, master all the techniques, but as you touch a human soul be another human soul". - Carl Jung.
I am trained in Religious Trauma and Trauma-Focused CBT, which works well with PTSD and other trauma-related issues.
Hello! I am so glad you're here! I work with LGBTQ+, Couples, Individuals & Families through a variety of life hardships. If you’re dealing with Trauma/PTSD, religious trauma, spirituality issues, communication, life transitions, conflict, sexual concerns, sexuality, anxiety, anger, teenage struggles, self-esteem/identity, or any other issues, you deserve a safe space to process through them. When you come to my office you will not simply get a trained professional, but a human who feels deeply with other humans. "Know all the theories, master all the techniques, but as you touch a human soul be another human soul". - Carl Jung.
(423) 919-9397 View (423) 919-9397
Photo of Heal and Hope Counseling Services, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cleveland, TN
Heal and Hope Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MFT, LPC, CTMH, CCTP
Verified Verified
Cleveland, TN 37312
We are more than a business, we are a ministry to any who come to us in need for help. We have multiple counselors: Glyndora Condon MS MFT LPC CTMH, CCTP EMDRIA ACS: specializing in behavioral, relational (marriage, couple, children, friendships) emotional, trauma, anger, autism, domestic violence, life transitions, dissociative, addictions, and provides certified classes for DV, Anger, A&D, and Parenting; also Kelly Brownlow, MS SW, who specializes Family/Children/Adolescent and behavioral issues. Amanda Teague MSW, trauma and DID; Lakita Quarles, LME; Family, adolescents, A&D issues. Cierra Cannaly MFT-Child and adult, multi-issue
We are more than a business, we are a ministry to any who come to us in need for help. We have multiple counselors: Glyndora Condon MS MFT LPC CTMH, CCTP EMDRIA ACS: specializing in behavioral, relational (marriage, couple, children, friendships) emotional, trauma, anger, autism, domestic violence, life transitions, dissociative, addictions, and provides certified classes for DV, Anger, A&D, and Parenting; also Kelly Brownlow, MS SW, who specializes Family/Children/Adolescent and behavioral issues. Amanda Teague MSW, trauma and DID; Lakita Quarles, LME; Family, adolescents, A&D issues. Cierra Cannaly MFT-Child and adult, multi-issue
(423) 380-0204 View (423) 380-0204
Photo of Hannah Manning, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Cleveland, TN
Hannah Manning
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MFT-I
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cleveland, TN 37311
Waitlist for new clients
I have a passion for working with couples, individuals, and teenagers/young adults (14 & up) with special interests pertaining to trauma, infidelity, sexual issues, spirituality, and life transitions.
There are times in our lives that we can feel stuck, uncertain, scared, and immobilized. Coming to terms with your own story and the image of yourself can be daunting. We can feel this way maybe because of a break up, onset of depression, sexual issues, problems with connecting with others, or simply a life transition. You’re uncertain if you can experience healing, but I can tell you that there is hope! Therapy is an opportunity meant to be safe, secure, and a process to learn how to thrive again. I’m here to walk you through the process of finding meaning in your own story, working through shame and doubt, and finding connection.
I have a passion for working with couples, individuals, and teenagers/young adults (14 & up) with special interests pertaining to trauma, infidelity, sexual issues, spirituality, and life transitions.
There are times in our lives that we can feel stuck, uncertain, scared, and immobilized. Coming to terms with your own story and the image of yourself can be daunting. We can feel this way maybe because of a break up, onset of depression, sexual issues, problems with connecting with others, or simply a life transition. You’re uncertain if you can experience healing, but I can tell you that there is hope! Therapy is an opportunity meant to be safe, secure, and a process to learn how to thrive again. I’m here to walk you through the process of finding meaning in your own story, working through shame and doubt, and finding connection.
(423) 564-3485 View (423) 564-3485
Photo of Crystal Fawley, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Cleveland, TN
Crystal Fawley
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MS, MFT
Not Verified Not Verified
2 Endorsed
Cleveland, TN 37311
I specialize in relationship difficulties, religious trauma, life-stage transitions, and parenting challenges, including foster and adoptive parenting.
Choosing to pursue therapy is courageous. Life throws curve balls, often forcing us to face challenges which seem impossible to navigate. Obstacles such as trauma, infidelity, life transitions (birth, divorce, facing an empty nest, etc.), anxiety, or depression, can feel daunting. I am privileged to hear your story and I am honored to sit with you as we sort through your specific situation and move toward healing.
I specialize in relationship difficulties, religious trauma, life-stage transitions, and parenting challenges, including foster and adoptive parenting.
Choosing to pursue therapy is courageous. Life throws curve balls, often forcing us to face challenges which seem impossible to navigate. Obstacles such as trauma, infidelity, life transitions (birth, divorce, facing an empty nest, etc.), anxiety, or depression, can feel daunting. I am privileged to hear your story and I am honored to sit with you as we sort through your specific situation and move toward healing.
(423) 401-6750 View (423) 401-6750
Photo of Lauren Finch, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Cleveland, TN
Lauren Finch
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MS, MFT-I, AAMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Cleveland, TN 37312
I work with individuals and couples struggling with relational difficulties, sexual addictions, grief, and trauma that are ready to work hard.
Connection to ourselves and others gives us a sense of who we are. Feeling disconnected from ourselves can inhibit our intimacy with others. When we take relational risks, shame often lurks in the dark telling us to remain alone would be better - but I want to offer you and your relationships hope that it does not have to always be this way. If you are ready for the hard work, there is hope for you and your relationships.
I work with individuals and couples struggling with relational difficulties, sexual addictions, grief, and trauma that are ready to work hard.
Connection to ourselves and others gives us a sense of who we are. Feeling disconnected from ourselves can inhibit our intimacy with others. When we take relational risks, shame often lurks in the dark telling us to remain alone would be better - but I want to offer you and your relationships hope that it does not have to always be this way. If you are ready for the hard work, there is hope for you and your relationships.
(423) 454-3969 View (423) 454-3969
Photo of Maddy Morris, Pre-Licensed Professional in Cleveland, TN
Maddy Morris
Pre-Licensed Professional, MMFT
Verified Verified
Cleveland, TN 37311
Children, adolescents, and young adults who need someone to meet them where they’re at. I enjoy working with a variety of issues, including: anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, grief/loss, family conflict, and blended family acclimation.
Children, adolescents, and young adults who need someone to meet them where they’re at. I enjoy working with a variety of issues, including: anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, grief/loss, family conflict, and blended family acclimation.
(423) 375-8574 View (423) 375-8574
Photo of Courtney Liljekvist, Marriage & Family Therapist in Cleveland, TN
Courtney Liljekvist
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cleveland, TN 37312
I work with trauma and attachment wounds.
I work with children (ages 4-12), adolescents, families, and adults. My goal is to offer a safe space to those who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, suicidality, low self-esteem, family conflict, or attachment issues. While I like to draw from multiple approaches, including: attachment work, play therapy, mindfulness practices, art therapy, CBT, and family therapy. I ultimately tailor my approach to the needs of the person. Coming to therapy takes a significant step of bravery and I strive to create an environment that promotes acceptance and growth.
I work with trauma and attachment wounds.
I work with children (ages 4-12), adolescents, families, and adults. My goal is to offer a safe space to those who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, suicidality, low self-esteem, family conflict, or attachment issues. While I like to draw from multiple approaches, including: attachment work, play therapy, mindfulness practices, art therapy, CBT, and family therapy. I ultimately tailor my approach to the needs of the person. Coming to therapy takes a significant step of bravery and I strive to create an environment that promotes acceptance and growth.
(423) 561-9914 View (423) 561-9914
Photo of Steve Knapp, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cleveland, TN
Steve Knapp
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cleveland, TN 37312
I specialize in trauma, OCD, anxiety, depression, and spiritual/existential concerns but also work with many other concerns.
Pain is an unavoidable reality in life, but it does not have to have the final word. If we are willing to step into our emerging story, new possibilities of healing and growth become achievable and lead us towards a more meaningful life. Whether it is dealing with the effects of trauma or other negative past life events, persistent or recurrent painful emotions, or a difficult season of life, we all have times where it is hard to find the path forward. But there is a path forward, especially when we are willing to reach out for help.
I specialize in trauma, OCD, anxiety, depression, and spiritual/existential concerns but also work with many other concerns.
Pain is an unavoidable reality in life, but it does not have to have the final word. If we are willing to step into our emerging story, new possibilities of healing and growth become achievable and lead us towards a more meaningful life. Whether it is dealing with the effects of trauma or other negative past life events, persistent or recurrent painful emotions, or a difficult season of life, we all have times where it is hard to find the path forward. But there is a path forward, especially when we are willing to reach out for help.
(423) 345-9381 View (423) 345-9381
Photo of Lara Kate Todd, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Cleveland, TN
Lara Kate Todd
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MS, MFT-I
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Cleveland, TN 37311
I work with individuals and couples who are encountering relational issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, and more.
Life brings so many challenges, and at times you can feel stuck and lost. You may be feeling stuck in your relationship, or you may be feeling overwhelmed with all the changes life has thrown at you. Therapy is a safe place to process your experiences and walk through your journey. I would be honored to work with you while you navigate these difficult situations and participate in your healing process. My goal as a therapist is for you to feel seen, heard, and understood. There is hope in your journey and you are not alone!
I work with individuals and couples who are encountering relational issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, and more.
Life brings so many challenges, and at times you can feel stuck and lost. You may be feeling stuck in your relationship, or you may be feeling overwhelmed with all the changes life has thrown at you. Therapy is a safe place to process your experiences and walk through your journey. I would be honored to work with you while you navigate these difficult situations and participate in your healing process. My goal as a therapist is for you to feel seen, heard, and understood. There is hope in your journey and you are not alone!
(423) 561-9148 View (423) 561-9148
Photo of Anchor Family Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cleveland, TN
Anchor Family Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Cleveland, TN 37312
Waitlist for new clients
My passion for working with individuals (children, adolescents, and adults of all ages) is rooted in my faith in God. I utilize skills, tools, and techniques in a modern "human to human" approach to help my clients find their hope and passion for life. Whether you have abuse & trauma, anxiety, ADHD, child and adolescent issues, depression, divorce recovery, mood disorder, eating disorder, addiction or substance use, grief & loss, parenting struggles, self-esteem, or social skills, assisting you in finding hope, I consider a divine appointment.
My passion for working with individuals (children, adolescents, and adults of all ages) is rooted in my faith in God. I utilize skills, tools, and techniques in a modern "human to human" approach to help my clients find their hope and passion for life. Whether you have abuse & trauma, anxiety, ADHD, child and adolescent issues, depression, divorce recovery, mood disorder, eating disorder, addiction or substance use, grief & loss, parenting struggles, self-esteem, or social skills, assisting you in finding hope, I consider a divine appointment.
(423) 375-8676 View (423) 375-8676
Photo of Alexys Morris, Pre-Licensed Professional in Cleveland, TN
Alexys Morris
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFTI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cleveland, TN 37311
I consider it a privilege to walk alongside others on their journey toward self-discovery and healing. Whether you've carried these wounds for as long as you can remember, or are grappling with recent life difficulties, I'm here to support you. Creating a safe and inclusive space is of utmost importance to me, and I am a devoted ally to the LGBTQ+ community. My passion lies in helping others navigate through various challenges, including grief, stress, anxiety, religious trauma and deconstruction, divorce, relationship difficulties, attachment wounds, and gender and sexuality issues. I have immediate availability!
I consider it a privilege to walk alongside others on their journey toward self-discovery and healing. Whether you've carried these wounds for as long as you can remember, or are grappling with recent life difficulties, I'm here to support you. Creating a safe and inclusive space is of utmost importance to me, and I am a devoted ally to the LGBTQ+ community. My passion lies in helping others navigate through various challenges, including grief, stress, anxiety, religious trauma and deconstruction, divorce, relationship difficulties, attachment wounds, and gender and sexuality issues. I have immediate availability!
(423) 414-4924 View (423) 414-4924
Photo of Mandy Boerema, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Cleveland, TN
Mandy Boerema
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cleveland, TN 37312
My approaches to therapy are psychoeducation, psychodynamic, mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and trauma-informed models.
Symptoms/issues that I most often see are anxiety, depression, grief, self-esteem, parenting issues, divorce, trauma, life transitions, emotion regulation/anger management, and others. I work with minors (ages 3 and up), adults, and families. In addition to in-session work with clients, I offer court-related services to further advocate for clients' emotional and mental well-being. A niche and passion that I have is working with victims of abuse. I have first-hand understanding and life experience to treat the traumatic emotional and mental effects of difficult relationship experiences.
My approaches to therapy are psychoeducation, psychodynamic, mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and trauma-informed models.
Symptoms/issues that I most often see are anxiety, depression, grief, self-esteem, parenting issues, divorce, trauma, life transitions, emotion regulation/anger management, and others. I work with minors (ages 3 and up), adults, and families. In addition to in-session work with clients, I offer court-related services to further advocate for clients' emotional and mental well-being. A niche and passion that I have is working with victims of abuse. I have first-hand understanding and life experience to treat the traumatic emotional and mental effects of difficult relationship experiences.
(423) 556-3486 View (423) 556-3486
Photo of Belinda F Thornton, Pre-Licensed Professional in Cleveland, TN
Belinda F Thornton
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cleveland, TN 37311
We can collaborate amidst diverse contexts-whether you are a trauma or disease survivor, mental health novice or veteran, in stagnation or transition, or someone who has lost self, a loved one, or a “dream.
You are of great value and have potential for resiliency and change, even if you feel too wounded, unworthy, or overwhelmed. Having someone to empathically hold your experiences and emotionally vulnerable or conflicted state while also facilitating the healing and growth you are capable of, is comforting and empowering. Allow me the privilege of partnering with you in developing and experiencing a practical, personally meaningful, trauma and culturally informed journey to improved mental-emotional health, wellness, and completeness.
We can collaborate amidst diverse contexts-whether you are a trauma or disease survivor, mental health novice or veteran, in stagnation or transition, or someone who has lost self, a loved one, or a “dream.
You are of great value and have potential for resiliency and change, even if you feel too wounded, unworthy, or overwhelmed. Having someone to empathically hold your experiences and emotionally vulnerable or conflicted state while also facilitating the healing and growth you are capable of, is comforting and empowering. Allow me the privilege of partnering with you in developing and experiencing a practical, personally meaningful, trauma and culturally informed journey to improved mental-emotional health, wellness, and completeness.
(423) 460-8389 View (423) 460-8389
Photo of Leigh Irvin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cleveland, TN
Leigh Irvin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cleveland, TN 37311
Through that experience guidance has been offered in learning to better cope with trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, self-injury, and relationships in a healthy way.
As an individual committed to your well-being, I offer personalized counseling to guide you through life's challenges. Together, we can explore strengths, navigate difficulties, and foster a positive mindset. I can provide deep understanding of diverse challenges, offering proven strategies for positive change. Step into a safe space where your thoughts are heard without judgment. My commitment to providing this safe space ensures you can explore, express, and heal. Take the first step toward a more fulfilling life because your path to a happier, healthier life can begin here. Let's embark on this journey together.
Through that experience guidance has been offered in learning to better cope with trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, self-injury, and relationships in a healthy way.
As an individual committed to your well-being, I offer personalized counseling to guide you through life's challenges. Together, we can explore strengths, navigate difficulties, and foster a positive mindset. I can provide deep understanding of diverse challenges, offering proven strategies for positive change. Step into a safe space where your thoughts are heard without judgment. My commitment to providing this safe space ensures you can explore, express, and heal. Take the first step toward a more fulfilling life because your path to a happier, healthier life can begin here. Let's embark on this journey together.
(423) 509-0480 View (423) 509-0480
Photo of Machelle Johnson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cleveland, TN
Machelle Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Cleveland, TN 37312
My specialty areas include depression, anxiety, grief, co-dependency, substance abuse, trauma, abuse and other life controlling issues.
"People Start To Heal The Moment They Are Heard." - Cheryl Richardson. The chapters of your past do not have to dictate who you want to be. Recovery is determined by choosing not to stay where you are. It's my desire to help you start writing the next chapters of your life. I find joy when others find hope.
My specialty areas include depression, anxiety, grief, co-dependency, substance abuse, trauma, abuse and other life controlling issues.
"People Start To Heal The Moment They Are Heard." - Cheryl Richardson. The chapters of your past do not have to dictate who you want to be. Recovery is determined by choosing not to stay where you are. It's my desire to help you start writing the next chapters of your life. I find joy when others find hope.
(423) 454-1200 View (423) 454-1200
Photo of Becca Davis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cleveland, TN
Becca Davis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-MHS, CSAT
Verified Verified
Cleveland, TN 37311
If you are struggling with issues of unwanted sexual behavior, the effects of a loved one's sexual betrayal, other addictions, and/or the effects of trauma, I can help.
If you're here, chances are you and/or your loved one is in pain. You want solutions and someone who can help in a compassionate way no matter what your struggle is. I provide expert, professional therapy with in the context of understanding and acceptance, regardless of what behaviors you are struggling with. Using a variety of modalities, I seek to meet you where you are and help you achieve life-long change for yourself as well as in your relationships and family. It won't be easy, but it will be worth it!
If you are struggling with issues of unwanted sexual behavior, the effects of a loved one's sexual betrayal, other addictions, and/or the effects of trauma, I can help.
If you're here, chances are you and/or your loved one is in pain. You want solutions and someone who can help in a compassionate way no matter what your struggle is. I provide expert, professional therapy with in the context of understanding and acceptance, regardless of what behaviors you are struggling with. Using a variety of modalities, I seek to meet you where you are and help you achieve life-long change for yourself as well as in your relationships and family. It won't be easy, but it will be worth it!
(423) 799-4377 View (423) 799-4377
Photo of Christopher Atkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cleveland, TN
Christopher Atkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cleveland, TN 37311
Hi, my name is Chris and I'm ready to help you through whatever you're facing right now. I will give you high impact techniques to help you move from sleeplessness to energized days, from anxiety towards calm and mindful peace, and from relationship distress towards renewed understanding. I am also certified in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART). As an Army Behavioral Health Officer I've used ART during my last two deployments with amazing results. ART can help you overcome any trauma or anxiety and replace negative images and sensations with those of empowerment and future focus. I look forward to our first session. Be well.
Hi, my name is Chris and I'm ready to help you through whatever you're facing right now. I will give you high impact techniques to help you move from sleeplessness to energized days, from anxiety towards calm and mindful peace, and from relationship distress towards renewed understanding. I am also certified in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART). As an Army Behavioral Health Officer I've used ART during my last two deployments with amazing results. ART can help you overcome any trauma or anxiety and replace negative images and sensations with those of empowerment and future focus. I look forward to our first session. Be well.
(423) 657-2376 View (423) 657-2376
Photo of Beth Zumwalt Brewer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cleveland, TN
Beth Zumwalt Brewer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Cleveland, TN 37311
Welcome! I’m so glad you're taking this courageous step in searching for the right therapist for you. What a kindness you’re already doing for yourself. You might have unresolved trauma, are dealing with the aftermath of a life transition, or maybe you’re feeling overwhelmed and held back..like you aren’t able to live life in the connected way you had imagined. If this sounds familiar, I would love to partner with you. With specialized training in trauma treatment (EMDR), I work with folks from all walks of life who are navigating complex trauma, anxiety, life transitions, boundary setting, and relationship issues.
Welcome! I’m so glad you're taking this courageous step in searching for the right therapist for you. What a kindness you’re already doing for yourself. You might have unresolved trauma, are dealing with the aftermath of a life transition, or maybe you’re feeling overwhelmed and held back..like you aren’t able to live life in the connected way you had imagined. If this sounds familiar, I would love to partner with you. With specialized training in trauma treatment (EMDR), I work with folks from all walks of life who are navigating complex trauma, anxiety, life transitions, boundary setting, and relationship issues.
(423) 529-2047 View (423) 529-2047
Photo of Julie Fickley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cleveland, TN
Julie Fickley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, CMHC
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Cleveland, TN 37311
I provide individual counseling to clients with anxiety, relational difficulties, work-related stress, life transitions, grief, and trauma.
Life is filled with so much beauty and pain. We have all been through more than enough difficulties in the past few years. Perhaps what is currently challenging for you has also brought up wounds from your past. Perhaps you are overwhelmed and can no longer manage your emotions, thoughts, or behaviors. Perhaps you feel ashamed or alone or hopeless. I am here to help.
I provide individual counseling to clients with anxiety, relational difficulties, work-related stress, life transitions, grief, and trauma.
Life is filled with so much beauty and pain. We have all been through more than enough difficulties in the past few years. Perhaps what is currently challenging for you has also brought up wounds from your past. Perhaps you are overwhelmed and can no longer manage your emotions, thoughts, or behaviors. Perhaps you feel ashamed or alone or hopeless. I am here to help.
(423) 205-6841 View (423) 205-6841
Photo of Bailey Spradling, Pre-Licensed Professional in Cleveland, TN
Bailey Spradling
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, MFT-I
Not Verified Not Verified
5 Endorsed
Cleveland, TN 37311
I am passionate about working with children and adolescents ages 3-18 to help navigate trauma, family conflict and other life events that lead to big feelings and behaviors.
I understand the exhaustion that can come from feeling like you’ve tried everything. Whether you are a young adult looking for services for yourself, or a parent seeking services for your child, I would love to join you in your journey to try and trust the therapeutic process.
I am passionate about working with children and adolescents ages 3-18 to help navigate trauma, family conflict and other life events that lead to big feelings and behaviors.
I understand the exhaustion that can come from feeling like you’ve tried everything. Whether you are a young adult looking for services for yourself, or a parent seeking services for your child, I would love to join you in your journey to try and trust the therapeutic process.
(423) 441-4682 View (423) 441-4682

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.