Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Nashville, TN

Photo of Holly Cook, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nashville, TN
Holly Cook
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37212
I work with a wide range of problems including, trauma, PTSD, attachment issues, depression, anxiety, marital/relationship issues, life & transition issues & addictions/recovery.
At the core of everything I do in therapy is the belief that true healing happens through empowerment and love, not fear. Therapy encompasses a bit of art, science, intuition, and loving kindness. What works in therapy is a real person connecting to a real person and I believe the best therapists are those who show you where to look, but don't tell you what to see. My approach is based on a model of healing and empowerment to help you reconnect with that whole, thoughtful, creative, fearless human being you are and to trust your inner wisdom.
I work with a wide range of problems including, trauma, PTSD, attachment issues, depression, anxiety, marital/relationship issues, life & transition issues & addictions/recovery.
At the core of everything I do in therapy is the belief that true healing happens through empowerment and love, not fear. Therapy encompasses a bit of art, science, intuition, and loving kindness. What works in therapy is a real person connecting to a real person and I believe the best therapists are those who show you where to look, but don't tell you what to see. My approach is based on a model of healing and empowerment to help you reconnect with that whole, thoughtful, creative, fearless human being you are and to trust your inner wisdom.
(615) 338-6517 View (615) 338-6517
Photo of Alexis Fleming in Nashville, TN
Alexis Fleming
MS
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37203
I use EMDR and other trauma informed approaches to help people feel more in control of their emotions.
Have you experienced emotional or physical abuse? Do you have a hard time calming down when you're upset? Do you have overwhelming thoughts and emotions? Have you been having a difficult time managing life since something big has happened? Experiencing trauma can make it difficult to control your emotions and have relationships with others. This makes it hard for you to trust other people and feel comfortable being vulnerable. I commonly see people who have experienced sexual abuse, traumatic childhood experiences, trauma from their religious community, and those who struggle coping with intense emotions and unresolved anger.
I use EMDR and other trauma informed approaches to help people feel more in control of their emotions.
Have you experienced emotional or physical abuse? Do you have a hard time calming down when you're upset? Do you have overwhelming thoughts and emotions? Have you been having a difficult time managing life since something big has happened? Experiencing trauma can make it difficult to control your emotions and have relationships with others. This makes it hard for you to trust other people and feel comfortable being vulnerable. I commonly see people who have experienced sexual abuse, traumatic childhood experiences, trauma from their religious community, and those who struggle coping with intense emotions and unresolved anger.
(615) 552-0566 View (615) 552-0566
Photo of Julia Hoge, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nashville, TN
Julia Hoge
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, NCC, LPCtemp
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37216
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize each clients’ strengths alongside both attachment-based and trauma-informed lenses to help them meet their counseling goals.
I believe in the counseling process; the space it opens internally and the shifting it can provide for clients and families on their life's journey. With over a decade of counseling children and adolescents in Metro Nashville Public Schools, I have a unique and expansive experience working with children, adolescents, and their families as they find togetherness, and themselves.
I utilize each clients’ strengths alongside both attachment-based and trauma-informed lenses to help them meet their counseling goals.
I believe in the counseling process; the space it opens internally and the shifting it can provide for clients and families on their life's journey. With over a decade of counseling children and adolescents in Metro Nashville Public Schools, I have a unique and expansive experience working with children, adolescents, and their families as they find togetherness, and themselves.
(615) 985-6821 View (615) 985-6821
Photo of Kelsey MacDonald, Pre-Licensed Professional in Nashville, TN
Kelsey MacDonald
Pre-Licensed Professional, EdS, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
If you have social anxiety, are neurodivergent (HSP, ADHD, OCD, Autism) and/or have complex trauma/C-PTSD, you're in the right place.
Does overstimulation and anxiety rule your life? Do you feel like traditional talk therapy has only gotten you so far? You may feel painfully stressed interacting with others, struggle with negative or shame based thoughts about yourself, experience feelings of embarrassment, or frequently experience sensations in your body such as panic attacks, a racing heart, nausea, trembling, etc. This cycle can be so exhausting, and I’m here to help. I help clients learn coping tools to manage their feelings and thoughts, increase skills in navigating relationships with others, and heal their trauma for lasting change.
If you have social anxiety, are neurodivergent (HSP, ADHD, OCD, Autism) and/or have complex trauma/C-PTSD, you're in the right place.
Does overstimulation and anxiety rule your life? Do you feel like traditional talk therapy has only gotten you so far? You may feel painfully stressed interacting with others, struggle with negative or shame based thoughts about yourself, experience feelings of embarrassment, or frequently experience sensations in your body such as panic attacks, a racing heart, nausea, trembling, etc. This cycle can be so exhausting, and I’m here to help. I help clients learn coping tools to manage their feelings and thoughts, increase skills in navigating relationships with others, and heal their trauma for lasting change.
(615) 488-8276 View (615) 488-8276
Photo of Katy Hurst Counseling & Associates, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nashville, TN
Katy Hurst Counseling & Associates, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
We specialize in trauma, including complex trauma and dissociation, and love helping clients at the intersection of neurodivergence and trauma.
Are you tired of constantly trying to heal? Does it feel like other people got a handbook on how to handle emotions, relationships, and work-life balance, but you were left off the list? At this point, you may even have a laundry list of diagnoses - Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, Autism, disordered eating - but you struggle to find success through traditional therapy. If this is you, we need to chat!
We specialize in trauma, including complex trauma and dissociation, and love helping clients at the intersection of neurodivergence and trauma.
Are you tired of constantly trying to heal? Does it feel like other people got a handbook on how to handle emotions, relationships, and work-life balance, but you were left off the list? At this point, you may even have a laundry list of diagnoses - Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, Autism, disordered eating - but you struggle to find success through traditional therapy. If this is you, we need to chat!
(615) 551-9600 View (615) 551-9600
Photo of Danielle Laray Ryder, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nashville, TN
Danielle Laray Ryder
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37212
Neurodiversity-affirming and trauma informed care at Rising Winds Counseling goes beyond the therapeutic relationship to encompass our advocacy efforts, treatment planning, telehealth option, and even our office space (soft lighting and other sensory considerations). We acknowledge that there has been a history of ableism within the mental health treatment that has created some fears related to seeking therapy which is why we rely on strength based approaches, research that is specific to neurodiverse individuals, and a therapeutic approach that empowers you to both achieve your goals and honor the unique aspects of yourself.
Neurodiversity-affirming and trauma informed care at Rising Winds Counseling goes beyond the therapeutic relationship to encompass our advocacy efforts, treatment planning, telehealth option, and even our office space (soft lighting and other sensory considerations). We acknowledge that there has been a history of ableism within the mental health treatment that has created some fears related to seeking therapy which is why we rely on strength based approaches, research that is specific to neurodiverse individuals, and a therapeutic approach that empowers you to both achieve your goals and honor the unique aspects of yourself.
(615) 249-4191 View (615) 249-4191
Photo of Blythe Corinne Landry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nashville, TN
Blythe Corinne Landry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, MEd
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37213
With specialties in addiction, grief/loss, trauma and change.
Isolated? Fearful? Tired of doing it alone? It's a new day, and I can help. I adhere to the belief that nobody's story is too painful to be heard or healed-even yours. With an emphasis on empowering my clients for long-term change, I have helped hundreds of people coping with trauma, grief/loss and painful relationship patterns to achieve lasting change. I would be honored to help you too. I am the author of Trauma Intelligence and offer trauma and grief recovery workshops for organizations.
With specialties in addiction, grief/loss, trauma and change.
Isolated? Fearful? Tired of doing it alone? It's a new day, and I can help. I adhere to the belief that nobody's story is too painful to be heard or healed-even yours. With an emphasis on empowering my clients for long-term change, I have helped hundreds of people coping with trauma, grief/loss and painful relationship patterns to achieve lasting change. I would be honored to help you too. I am the author of Trauma Intelligence and offer trauma and grief recovery workshops for organizations.
(773) 417-5294 View (773) 417-5294
Photo of Beth Barnard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nashville, TN
Beth Barnard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37205
By curiously hearing and understanding your life story through our professional relationship, I hope to unburden you of your pain and help you remove road blocks which might be keeping you from experiencing greater pleasure. I work with adults ranging in age from 18 through post retirement years and specialize in treating life transitions, relationship concerns, depression, anxiety, trauma, infertility, adoption, postpartum depression, grief, loss, and divorce. I'm sensitive to issues of diversity and inclusion, am interested in working with people from various cultural backgrounds, and am a LGBTQ ally.
By curiously hearing and understanding your life story through our professional relationship, I hope to unburden you of your pain and help you remove road blocks which might be keeping you from experiencing greater pleasure. I work with adults ranging in age from 18 through post retirement years and specialize in treating life transitions, relationship concerns, depression, anxiety, trauma, infertility, adoption, postpartum depression, grief, loss, and divorce. I'm sensitive to issues of diversity and inclusion, am interested in working with people from various cultural backgrounds, and am a LGBTQ ally.
(615) 807-0935 View (615) 807-0935
Photo of Michelle Stafford, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nashville, TN
Michelle Stafford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37207
I specialize in LGBTQIA+ issues, complex trauma/PTSD, and relational & attachment wounds.
Are you wondering if your life could be more free, authentic, or beautiful than it has been? I’m here to help you get from “not this” to “this, instead”. My clients have described me as warm and grounding. I am comfortable holding steadiness during emotional moments as well as challenging your blind spots with kindness. I believe in the power of humor to soften the heaviness of our stories. My hope is that it is incredibly obvious how much I love my job and how wonderful it is to show up for you. Learn more on my website: goldenhourcounseling.org
I specialize in LGBTQIA+ issues, complex trauma/PTSD, and relational & attachment wounds.
Are you wondering if your life could be more free, authentic, or beautiful than it has been? I’m here to help you get from “not this” to “this, instead”. My clients have described me as warm and grounding. I am comfortable holding steadiness during emotional moments as well as challenging your blind spots with kindness. I believe in the power of humor to soften the heaviness of our stories. My hope is that it is incredibly obvious how much I love my job and how wonderful it is to show up for you. Learn more on my website: goldenhourcounseling.org
(615) 437-3731 View (615) 437-3731
Photo of Mary Ann Green, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nashville, TN
Mary Ann Green
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCMHSP, RDN, LDN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37221
I specialize in treating eating disorders, trauma and anxiety, and am dually licensed as a therapist and dietitian.
Life is a gift that brings many joyful opportunities AND it also brings times of pain, suffering and added pressure. Perhaps you've found it harder to enjoy the blessings of life lately because of a hard transition, a difficult relationship or a traumatic event. Perhaps you've found yourself using destructive habits to cope with the stress such as dysfunctional eating, excessive alcohol use, perfectionism or isolation. Perhaps you're very hard on yourself and have a very loud inner critic in your head, and part of the struggle is negative body image. And perhaps you also want support from a spiritual perspective.
I specialize in treating eating disorders, trauma and anxiety, and am dually licensed as a therapist and dietitian.
Life is a gift that brings many joyful opportunities AND it also brings times of pain, suffering and added pressure. Perhaps you've found it harder to enjoy the blessings of life lately because of a hard transition, a difficult relationship or a traumatic event. Perhaps you've found yourself using destructive habits to cope with the stress such as dysfunctional eating, excessive alcohol use, perfectionism or isolation. Perhaps you're very hard on yourself and have a very loud inner critic in your head, and part of the struggle is negative body image. And perhaps you also want support from a spiritual perspective.
(615) 471-7280 View (615) 471-7280
Photo of Barbie Hessel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nashville, TN
Barbie Hessel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, EdD, LCSW, SEP, RSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37204
Waitlist for new clients
It is natural to experience a range of emotions; some flooding us thoroughly, and others frozen at our core. Sometimes we all feel challenged by life itself. This is why it can be helpful to seek out a therapist. My counseling practice is focused on helping adults and teens who struggle with trauma, depression, anxiety, and chronic stress. The foundation of my practice is layered. In order to effectively work together, I believe that it is important to understand your past, as it informs your present. Much of our resilience stems from our interactions with attachment figures—It is necessary to consider the context of our life.
It is natural to experience a range of emotions; some flooding us thoroughly, and others frozen at our core. Sometimes we all feel challenged by life itself. This is why it can be helpful to seek out a therapist. My counseling practice is focused on helping adults and teens who struggle with trauma, depression, anxiety, and chronic stress. The foundation of my practice is layered. In order to effectively work together, I believe that it is important to understand your past, as it informs your present. Much of our resilience stems from our interactions with attachment figures—It is necessary to consider the context of our life.
(615) 810-0865 View (615) 810-0865
Photo of Aaron M Free, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nashville, TN
Aaron M Free
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LMSW, CTP
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37228  (Online Only)
Are you exhausted from the relentless grip of chronic aches, pains, or the weight of trauma and dissociation? Do you want to get back to enjoying the things you used to? Are you looking to work with someone who understands your LGBTQ+ identity? If you're here, you've already taken the first step towards finding relief and reclaiming control over your life. I am dedicated to fostering a collaborative relationship focused on setting goals, tracking progress, and facilitating healing. Beyond our therapy sessions, my commitment extends to actively researching resources, interventions, and personalized solutions to fit your needs.
Are you exhausted from the relentless grip of chronic aches, pains, or the weight of trauma and dissociation? Do you want to get back to enjoying the things you used to? Are you looking to work with someone who understands your LGBTQ+ identity? If you're here, you've already taken the first step towards finding relief and reclaiming control over your life. I am dedicated to fostering a collaborative relationship focused on setting goals, tracking progress, and facilitating healing. Beyond our therapy sessions, my commitment extends to actively researching resources, interventions, and personalized solutions to fit your needs.
(865) 327-2011 View (865) 327-2011
Photo of Campbell Hopkins, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nashville, TN
Campbell Hopkins
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37215
I have specialized training in trauma and predominantly utilize Internal Family Systems (IFS) or "parts work" in my therapeutic practice.
Two values I strive for in the therapy room are understanding and security. When you walk through my door, I want you to feel the kind of safety that allows you to get cozy on the sofa and take a deep breath before diving into what matters most to you. Throughout the process, my hope is that all parts of you - those you love and know well and those that you struggle with or push away in your daily life - feel welcome, seen, appreciated, and understood. My clients are primarily adult individuals who hope to find healing and connection within themselves and with others.
I have specialized training in trauma and predominantly utilize Internal Family Systems (IFS) or "parts work" in my therapeutic practice.
Two values I strive for in the therapy room are understanding and security. When you walk through my door, I want you to feel the kind of safety that allows you to get cozy on the sofa and take a deep breath before diving into what matters most to you. Throughout the process, my hope is that all parts of you - those you love and know well and those that you struggle with or push away in your daily life - feel welcome, seen, appreciated, and understood. My clients are primarily adult individuals who hope to find healing and connection within themselves and with others.
(615) 471-6747 View (615) 471-6747
Photo of Anita Joy Martin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nashville, TN
Anita Joy Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
Today, you've taken the most difficult step toward feeling better by considering professional help. Are you ready to address unhealthy behaviors that keep you from living the life you desire? Do you want to progress toward your goals? Whether you're struggling with relationships, life transitions, anxiety, or trauma I will help you uncover the root issues holding you back and support you with a plan that promotes real change in your day to day life. During this process you will begin to see that you're not alone and feelings of emptiness & isolation will diminish over time.
Today, you've taken the most difficult step toward feeling better by considering professional help. Are you ready to address unhealthy behaviors that keep you from living the life you desire? Do you want to progress toward your goals? Whether you're struggling with relationships, life transitions, anxiety, or trauma I will help you uncover the root issues holding you back and support you with a plan that promotes real change in your day to day life. During this process you will begin to see that you're not alone and feelings of emptiness & isolation will diminish over time.
(615) 205-4514 View (615) 205-4514
Photo of Dr. Layla J. Bonner, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nashville, TN
Dr. Layla J. Bonner
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, NCC
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37203  (Online Only)
If you wish to process experiences of loss, relational wounds, family conflict, trauma, chronic anxiety, or difficult personal transitions, I am happy to offer a healing presence to you.
I work best with clients who have a deep desire to be seen, heard, and known. I want to know your heart, your fears, your shame, and your pain. I want to know how past hurts and trauma affect your everyday life today.
If you wish to process experiences of loss, relational wounds, family conflict, trauma, chronic anxiety, or difficult personal transitions, I am happy to offer a healing presence to you.
I work best with clients who have a deep desire to be seen, heard, and known. I want to know your heart, your fears, your shame, and your pain. I want to know how past hurts and trauma affect your everyday life today.
(615) 908-3841 View (615) 908-3841
Photo of Cynthia P Lucas, Psychologist in Nashville, TN
Cynthia P Lucas
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
I work with individuals and couples using CBT, interpersonal psychodynamic therapy, and EMDR among other techniques. Interests include trauma, anxiety, relationships issues, family of origin issues, and how coping strategies to manage past situations may be tripping us up currently. I am skillful at helping clients find new solutions when they hit impasses. I strive to provide a collaborative, healing relationship where clients can unlearn, relearn, or learn anew as appropriate to be able to experience their full range of emotions and live without too much of their energy being tied up in the past. Humor is often useful in our journey.
I work with individuals and couples using CBT, interpersonal psychodynamic therapy, and EMDR among other techniques. Interests include trauma, anxiety, relationships issues, family of origin issues, and how coping strategies to manage past situations may be tripping us up currently. I am skillful at helping clients find new solutions when they hit impasses. I strive to provide a collaborative, healing relationship where clients can unlearn, relearn, or learn anew as appropriate to be able to experience their full range of emotions and live without too much of their energy being tied up in the past. Humor is often useful in our journey.
(615) 933-2703 View (615) 933-2703
Photo of Pamela Bean, Pre-Licensed Professional in Nashville, TN
Pamela Bean
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMFT, temp
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37220
I am a daughter of Lao refugees, born and raised in Tennessee. I love working with clients who are wanting to process through their trauma, in the midst of life transitions, experiencing anxiety and/or depression, and wrestling with aspects of their identity. Throughout life, I have learned that every human has a unique story; having a longing to be understood, accepted, and seen and continue to learn the importance of understanding all the different parts that make up my clients’ lives. It’s my desire that I create a safe space for you to bring and be all of who you are on your unique journey of healing and discovery.
I am a daughter of Lao refugees, born and raised in Tennessee. I love working with clients who are wanting to process through their trauma, in the midst of life transitions, experiencing anxiety and/or depression, and wrestling with aspects of their identity. Throughout life, I have learned that every human has a unique story; having a longing to be understood, accepted, and seen and continue to learn the importance of understanding all the different parts that make up my clients’ lives. It’s my desire that I create a safe space for you to bring and be all of who you are on your unique journey of healing and discovery.
(615) 205-7978 View (615) 205-7978
Photo of Carolyn Kutsko, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nashville, TN
Carolyn Kutsko
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37204
David Forbes and I facilitate Groups helping clients heal from trauma and emotional pain.
I am a Holistic Therapist meaning I treat mental health through the lens of the whole person: emotional, relational, physical, and spiritual. I offer experiences treating depression, trauma, anxiety, eating disorders and other mental health issues aiming to bring clients into their bodies and out of the mode of traditional talk therapy. These include psychodrama, sand tray, art, and yoga therapy. Wounding happens through living, relational, body-felt experiences and require similar experiences to heal. I create a safe container and relationship for the natural process of healing to occur. Expect to move, breath, and feel... we will not just sit and talk.
David Forbes and I facilitate Groups helping clients heal from trauma and emotional pain.
I am a Holistic Therapist meaning I treat mental health through the lens of the whole person: emotional, relational, physical, and spiritual. I offer experiences treating depression, trauma, anxiety, eating disorders and other mental health issues aiming to bring clients into their bodies and out of the mode of traditional talk therapy. These include psychodrama, sand tray, art, and yoga therapy. Wounding happens through living, relational, body-felt experiences and require similar experiences to heal. I create a safe container and relationship for the natural process of healing to occur. Expect to move, breath, and feel... we will not just sit and talk.
(615) 800-7078 View (615) 800-7078
Photo of Nicki Sindle, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nashville, TN
Nicki Sindle
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP, EMDR II
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37212
I have extensive experience working with various types of compulsive/addictive behaviors, anxiety, depression, panic, agoraphobia, and trauma.
Asking for help and deciding to begin therapy is a difficult decision, requiring courage and strength. I commend you on taking the first step toward feeling better, self-awareness, and personal growth. My goal is to empower clients to make positive changes in their emotional, mental, spiritual, and physical health. As clients learn to identify & reprocess their negative beliefs, they are able to make personal improvements in lifestyle choices & relationships. I aim to provide a physically and emotionally safe and caring environment for clients to engage in a interactive process to ultimately make the positive changes they wish for.
I have extensive experience working with various types of compulsive/addictive behaviors, anxiety, depression, panic, agoraphobia, and trauma.
Asking for help and deciding to begin therapy is a difficult decision, requiring courage and strength. I commend you on taking the first step toward feeling better, self-awareness, and personal growth. My goal is to empower clients to make positive changes in their emotional, mental, spiritual, and physical health. As clients learn to identify & reprocess their negative beliefs, they are able to make personal improvements in lifestyle choices & relationships. I aim to provide a physically and emotionally safe and caring environment for clients to engage in a interactive process to ultimately make the positive changes they wish for.
(615) 285-3107 View (615) 285-3107
Photo of Lane Newton, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nashville, TN
Lane Newton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37220
I practice evidenced-based treatments and am certified in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Attachment, Self-Regulation, and Competency (ARC), and Trust Based Relational Intervention (TBRI) therapies.
It is an honor to be able to listen, support, and help families find hope. I am a licensed professional counselor who provides counseling services to children, women, and families in Nashville. I specialize in working with trauma, abuse, and attachment and have experience with clients in a variety of settings, including domestic violence, adoption, and foster care.
I practice evidenced-based treatments and am certified in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Attachment, Self-Regulation, and Competency (ARC), and Trust Based Relational Intervention (TBRI) therapies.
It is an honor to be able to listen, support, and help families find hope. I am a licensed professional counselor who provides counseling services to children, women, and families in Nashville. I specialize in working with trauma, abuse, and attachment and have experience with clients in a variety of settings, including domestic violence, adoption, and foster care.
(615) 502-4937 View (615) 502-4937
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.