Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Austin, TX

Photo of Shima Patrick, Marriage & Family Therapist in Austin, TX
Shima Patrick
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78759  (Online Only)
Firstly, I want to commend you for seeking therapeutic services! Whether you're looking to address depression, anxiety, trauma, stressors at work, relationship issues, family conflict, or life transitions you're taking an important step in the right direction. I have experience in working with adults with all of these presenting concerns, and know that you don't need to walk this path alone! I enjoy working with adults from all different cultural backgrounds, and I am an LGBTQ+ ally!
Firstly, I want to commend you for seeking therapeutic services! Whether you're looking to address depression, anxiety, trauma, stressors at work, relationship issues, family conflict, or life transitions you're taking an important step in the right direction. I have experience in working with adults with all of these presenting concerns, and know that you don't need to walk this path alone! I enjoy working with adults from all different cultural backgrounds, and I am an LGBTQ+ ally!
(737) 232-6142 View (737) 232-6142
Photo of Courtney Guess, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Courtney Guess
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
I have worked with clients who have struggled with a wide range of challenges including stress, anxiety, depression,  relational issues, grief, loss, abuse, trauma, dissociation, PTSD, family of origin issues and low self esteem.
Are you struggling with day-to- day stressors, anxiety, depression, or relational challenges? It is possible to feel more balanced, in tune with your emotions and prepared to cope with life's challenges. I believe that we all have the ability to heal and make positive changes. I can help you to gain insight into your experiences and discover your strengths. Finding a therapist who you feel comfortable with is an important part of the process.  My goal is to create a warm, open and supportive environment where we can work together to meet your goals. Please contact my office to schedule a free 15 minute phone consultation.
I have worked with clients who have struggled with a wide range of challenges including stress, anxiety, depression,  relational issues, grief, loss, abuse, trauma, dissociation, PTSD, family of origin issues and low self esteem.
Are you struggling with day-to- day stressors, anxiety, depression, or relational challenges? It is possible to feel more balanced, in tune with your emotions and prepared to cope with life's challenges. I believe that we all have the ability to heal and make positive changes. I can help you to gain insight into your experiences and discover your strengths. Finding a therapist who you feel comfortable with is an important part of the process.  My goal is to create a warm, open and supportive environment where we can work together to meet your goals. Please contact my office to schedule a free 15 minute phone consultation.
(512) 730-0181 View (512) 730-0181
Photo of Chad Wysong - New Clients Accepted, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Chad Wysong - New Clients Accepted
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78705
If you are burdened with addiction or codependency that you feel is holding you hostage or fixed in the past, you are grappling with PTSD, or bogged down in emotional pain, I can help you understand, come to terms with the underlying causes, and relieve your distress.
I understand, it is a big step to reach out for help if you are in pain. While most of us tend to hunker down when feeling overwhelmed and out of control that is actually the best time to seek support. If you suffer from anxiety, depression, relationship issues, addiction, or other challenges I can help. I enjoy most working with clients seeking changes that help them overcome distress, feel good, and reach their goals. Reach out for your free 15 minute consultation to find out how I can assist you and if I am the right therapist for you.
If you are burdened with addiction or codependency that you feel is holding you hostage or fixed in the past, you are grappling with PTSD, or bogged down in emotional pain, I can help you understand, come to terms with the underlying causes, and relieve your distress.
I understand, it is a big step to reach out for help if you are in pain. While most of us tend to hunker down when feeling overwhelmed and out of control that is actually the best time to seek support. If you suffer from anxiety, depression, relationship issues, addiction, or other challenges I can help. I enjoy most working with clients seeking changes that help them overcome distress, feel good, and reach their goals. Reach out for your free 15 minute consultation to find out how I can assist you and if I am the right therapist for you.
(737) 232-5907 x4805 View (737) 232-5907 x4805
Photo of Waterloo Counseling Center in Austin, TX
Waterloo Counseling Center
LCSW, LPC, LMSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78752  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Waterloo Counseling Center is a nonprofit organization offering high quality, affordable therapy. We welcome the entire community and have an expertise in serving the LGBTQIA+ population, people living with HIV/AIDS, veterans and people experiencing trauma. Waterloo accepts many forms of insurance and has a sliding scale based on income for people who are uninsured. We offer individual, couples and family therapy, as well as support groups for bisexual and gay men, trans women and trans men. Waterloo offers web-based therapy over a HIPAA-compliant connection (licensing requirements limit this service to residents of Texas).
Waterloo Counseling Center is a nonprofit organization offering high quality, affordable therapy. We welcome the entire community and have an expertise in serving the LGBTQIA+ population, people living with HIV/AIDS, veterans and people experiencing trauma. Waterloo accepts many forms of insurance and has a sliding scale based on income for people who are uninsured. We offer individual, couples and family therapy, as well as support groups for bisexual and gay men, trans women and trans men. Waterloo offers web-based therapy over a HIPAA-compliant connection (licensing requirements limit this service to residents of Texas).
(512) 520-0937 View (512) 520-0937
Photo of Justin Gardner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Justin Gardner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78704
Looking to feel more whole? To address inner conflict and live with greater joy and integrity despite the challenges and viscitudes of life? Together, we will help you find greater connection with your own inner guidance and resources, develop more skillful boundaries and more productive habits and awaken a deeper capacity for relational intimacy with this Life flowing in and around you. Trauma and loss, depression and anxiety, relational conflict, past mistakes and addictions don't have to create a lifelong sentence limiting your life's unique potential. I'm here to assist in your journey from Victim to Survivor to Thriving.
Looking to feel more whole? To address inner conflict and live with greater joy and integrity despite the challenges and viscitudes of life? Together, we will help you find greater connection with your own inner guidance and resources, develop more skillful boundaries and more productive habits and awaken a deeper capacity for relational intimacy with this Life flowing in and around you. Trauma and loss, depression and anxiety, relational conflict, past mistakes and addictions don't have to create a lifelong sentence limiting your life's unique potential. I'm here to assist in your journey from Victim to Survivor to Thriving.
(512) 368-7408 View (512) 368-7408
Photo of Rosy Fuentes(Bilingual), Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Rosy Fuentes(Bilingual)
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78754
Most of my work is with individuals who are experiencing issues related to depression, anxiety, PTSD, self-esteem, family conflict, trauma and sexual abuse.
There are difficult things that are hard to talk about and you may carry them quietly for years and years. They weigh on you, causing emotional, physical and relational problems. If you've reached a point where you feel that you can no longer do it alone, I would like to help. As a counselor, I will listen, and will work together in helping you with what has or is happening. Our goal will be to accept yourself unconditionally and determine the best next steps to overcome what you are facing.
Most of my work is with individuals who are experiencing issues related to depression, anxiety, PTSD, self-esteem, family conflict, trauma and sexual abuse.
There are difficult things that are hard to talk about and you may carry them quietly for years and years. They weigh on you, causing emotional, physical and relational problems. If you've reached a point where you feel that you can no longer do it alone, I would like to help. As a counselor, I will listen, and will work together in helping you with what has or is happening. Our goal will be to accept yourself unconditionally and determine the best next steps to overcome what you are facing.
(737) 345-3002 View (737) 345-3002
Photo of Kristina Kirwin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Kristina Kirwin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78723  (Online Only)
I work with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief, domestic violence and life transitions.
Are you finding it difficult to find joy under the pressure of daily life? Are you experiencing depression, anxiety or sleep issues due to a traumatic event or as a new parent? I'm here to help. I provide individual mental health services that are tailored towards your needs and goals. My therapy approach is client-centered and strengths-based. I believe everyone can benefit from therapy as they work to confront traumatic experiences or everyday stresses. I'm committed to creating a supportive and nonjudgmental therapeutic environment for clients to explore their feelings, work through difficult issues and increase coping skills.
I work with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief, domestic violence and life transitions.
Are you finding it difficult to find joy under the pressure of daily life? Are you experiencing depression, anxiety or sleep issues due to a traumatic event or as a new parent? I'm here to help. I provide individual mental health services that are tailored towards your needs and goals. My therapy approach is client-centered and strengths-based. I believe everyone can benefit from therapy as they work to confront traumatic experiences or everyday stresses. I'm committed to creating a supportive and nonjudgmental therapeutic environment for clients to explore their feelings, work through difficult issues and increase coping skills.
(512) 572-9502 View (512) 572-9502
Photo of Amy A Hays, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Amy A Hays
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78729
It is a form of therapy that helps people heal from trauma or other distressing life experiences.
I love helping people find their way, whether through traumatic experiences from the past or through current life stressors. For adolescents and adults who have experienced emotional trauma, I utilize trauma-focused approaches, including EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). There are a variety of approaches to therapy and together, we will explore which would be most beneficial to you as the client. I find that most people really enjoy the therapeutic experience and come out of it more self-assured and confident.
It is a form of therapy that helps people heal from trauma or other distressing life experiences.
I love helping people find their way, whether through traumatic experiences from the past or through current life stressors. For adolescents and adults who have experienced emotional trauma, I utilize trauma-focused approaches, including EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). There are a variety of approaches to therapy and together, we will explore which would be most beneficial to you as the client. I find that most people really enjoy the therapeutic experience and come out of it more self-assured and confident.
(512) 861-6184 View (512) 861-6184
Photo of Pamela B Schott, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Pamela B Schott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78704  (Online Only)
I have been trained in many approaches, but now focus on trauma work and couples therapy.
Clients describe my therapeutic style as interactive, warm, and reassuring. It isn't easy to disclose personal challenges, but my clients have responded pretty quickly to my efforts to build rapport, explore issues, and experiment with solutions. Sometimes this work has been about learning new coping skills, and sometimes the work has been about digging deeply into the past to uproot old patterns that dampen the spirit. In my work with clients--whether individual or couples--I include a focus on integrating body awareness into the work of the heart and mind, so that more profound healing may take place.
I have been trained in many approaches, but now focus on trauma work and couples therapy.
Clients describe my therapeutic style as interactive, warm, and reassuring. It isn't easy to disclose personal challenges, but my clients have responded pretty quickly to my efforts to build rapport, explore issues, and experiment with solutions. Sometimes this work has been about learning new coping skills, and sometimes the work has been about digging deeply into the past to uproot old patterns that dampen the spirit. In my work with clients--whether individual or couples--I include a focus on integrating body awareness into the work of the heart and mind, so that more profound healing may take place.
(361) 444-0867 View (361) 444-0867
Photo of EMDR Therapy Austin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
EMDR Therapy Austin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-A
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78756  (Online Only)
At EMDR Therapy Austin we don’t just treat trauma, we help resolve trauma. We address the core, underlying patterns and long-held beliefs that drive symptoms of anxiety and depression and are perpetuated by unresolved trauma. While EMDR therapy is in our name, our therapists are integrative. Our individualized approach is both scientific and artful— skillfully blending cutting-edge trauma modalities like NARM, somatic therapies, and IFS parts work; relationship science rooted in attachment theory; our own intuition and hard-earned wisdom; as well as a genuine curiosity to get to know you deeply.
At EMDR Therapy Austin we don’t just treat trauma, we help resolve trauma. We address the core, underlying patterns and long-held beliefs that drive symptoms of anxiety and depression and are perpetuated by unresolved trauma. While EMDR therapy is in our name, our therapists are integrative. Our individualized approach is both scientific and artful— skillfully blending cutting-edge trauma modalities like NARM, somatic therapies, and IFS parts work; relationship science rooted in attachment theory; our own intuition and hard-earned wisdom; as well as a genuine curiosity to get to know you deeply.
(737) 530-2364 View (737) 530-2364
Photo of Jane Milman, Pre-Licensed Professional in Austin, TX
Jane Milman
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78745
We try to live lives that make sense and matter to us, but life changes can make you question who you are, what your life is about, your expectations for the future, and your relationships. I provide individual and couples therapy focusing on grief, illness, trauma, employment change, becoming a parent, relationship struggles, and other challenging life events and transitions. I will work with you to support your well-being as we find meaningful ways to move through these struggles. You can expect our work together to be active and reflective.
We try to live lives that make sense and matter to us, but life changes can make you question who you are, what your life is about, your expectations for the future, and your relationships. I provide individual and couples therapy focusing on grief, illness, trauma, employment change, becoming a parent, relationship struggles, and other challenging life events and transitions. I will work with you to support your well-being as we find meaningful ways to move through these struggles. You can expect our work together to be active and reflective.
(512) 229-9618 View (512) 229-9618
Photo of Mandi Farley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Mandi Farley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78727  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in helping clients unhook the grip of past trauma in their lives.
I believe that we are all predisposed to live happy, healthy, balanced lives. However, sometimes life experiences and nagging feelings of depression and anxiety can slow us down, making us feel stuck and hopeless. If this is where you are and would like to move toward more relaxation, peace, abundance, and joy in your life, I am here to help.
I specialize in helping clients unhook the grip of past trauma in their lives.
I believe that we are all predisposed to live happy, healthy, balanced lives. However, sometimes life experiences and nagging feelings of depression and anxiety can slow us down, making us feel stuck and hopeless. If this is where you are and would like to move toward more relaxation, peace, abundance, and joy in your life, I am here to help.
(512) 842-6719 View (512) 842-6719
Photo of Heather W. Outlaw, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Heather W. Outlaw
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78736
You've tried everything and it feels like nothing is changing. You need help in treating trauma, addiction, co-dependence or moving through a difficult life transition. I am passionate about helping you examine and discard outdated beliefs and family, societal and cultural rules that bind you. It is my honor and a joy to help you bravely face and work through issues to be able to re-enter your life from a place of authenticity and strength. EMDR is AMAZING! I am trained in the Meadows Survivors protocol and I am a Certified Daring Way (Brene Brown), Facilitator. Call me! I want to help.
You've tried everything and it feels like nothing is changing. You need help in treating trauma, addiction, co-dependence or moving through a difficult life transition. I am passionate about helping you examine and discard outdated beliefs and family, societal and cultural rules that bind you. It is my honor and a joy to help you bravely face and work through issues to be able to re-enter your life from a place of authenticity and strength. EMDR is AMAZING! I am trained in the Meadows Survivors protocol and I am a Certified Daring Way (Brene Brown), Facilitator. Call me! I want to help.
(617) 936-7846 View (617) 936-7846
Photo of Hillary Cauthen, Psychologist in Austin, TX
Hillary Cauthen
Psychologist, PsyD, CMPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78731
I specialize in bx modification, depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, relationship problems & sport psychology.
I strongly believe in the practice of: embracing personal growth, enhancing performance, and enriching one's passion.I am curious about finding ways to enhance one's "heart" and inner drive that leads to greater sense of empowerment. While pushing oneself to their physical limits one can begin to understand the importance of mental strength. My goal is to understand your experience, your needs, and provide evidence based treatment. The therapeutic journey is personal and emotional. I appreciate being a part of your journey.
I specialize in bx modification, depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, relationship problems & sport psychology.
I strongly believe in the practice of: embracing personal growth, enhancing performance, and enriching one's passion.I am curious about finding ways to enhance one's "heart" and inner drive that leads to greater sense of empowerment. While pushing oneself to their physical limits one can begin to understand the importance of mental strength. My goal is to understand your experience, your needs, and provide evidence based treatment. The therapeutic journey is personal and emotional. I appreciate being a part of your journey.
(512) 456-3336 View (512) 456-3336
Photo of Mel Walsh, Licensed Master Social Worker in Austin, TX
Mel Walsh
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78745
I help people struggling with anxiety, trauma, life transitions and stress to heal from the past and experience peace and fulfillment in the present. I enjoy working with folks who feel ready for a change and want to transform their problems at the root level. I have experience working with children, teens and adults from diverse backgrounds, and I enjoy working with LGBTQ+ folks, immigrants, parents, and creatives.
I help people struggling with anxiety, trauma, life transitions and stress to heal from the past and experience peace and fulfillment in the present. I enjoy working with folks who feel ready for a change and want to transform their problems at the root level. I have experience working with children, teens and adults from diverse backgrounds, and I enjoy working with LGBTQ+ folks, immigrants, parents, and creatives.
(512) 714-3403 View (512) 714-3403
Photo of Avery Brookshire Supervised By Reem Glasco Lpc-S + Chris Legg Lpc-S, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Austin, TX
Avery Brookshire Supervised By Reem Glasco Lpc-S + Chris Legg Lpc-S
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78701
I specialize in working with break ups, trauma, life transitions, anxiety + depression.
Are you feeling ready to invest in yourself? Congratulations! This is a major step. Our minds can feel like a battlefield and undigested past can often be experienced in the present. Working with clients who are dedicated to exploring their innermost self, excites me with the opportunity to guide you towards an understanding of your inherent worth. You are deserving of love and abundance. Your experience is important and past pain can be used for great purpose. I would love to connect with you and immerse myself in understanding your unique story, and help guide you towards a you, you love.
I specialize in working with break ups, trauma, life transitions, anxiety + depression.
Are you feeling ready to invest in yourself? Congratulations! This is a major step. Our minds can feel like a battlefield and undigested past can often be experienced in the present. Working with clients who are dedicated to exploring their innermost self, excites me with the opportunity to guide you towards an understanding of your inherent worth. You are deserving of love and abundance. Your experience is important and past pain can be used for great purpose. I would love to connect with you and immerse myself in understanding your unique story, and help guide you towards a you, you love.
(512) 980-3818 View (512) 980-3818
Photo of Sarah Pendergraft, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Sarah Pendergraft
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
We can lose touch with ourselves for a variety of reasons. Sometimes the symptoms of our issues disconnect us from ourselves, our environment, and our loved ones. I help clients reconnect with who they are, what they need, and what is most important to them. In sessions, I help clients work through trauma, addiction, chronic pain, chronic health, personal development, relationships, limiting beliefs, black-and-white thinking, judgments, and self-compassion. As a somatic therapist and yoga instructor, I help clients cultivate mindfulness and meditation skills, which can be a critical part of the therapeutic process.
We can lose touch with ourselves for a variety of reasons. Sometimes the symptoms of our issues disconnect us from ourselves, our environment, and our loved ones. I help clients reconnect with who they are, what they need, and what is most important to them. In sessions, I help clients work through trauma, addiction, chronic pain, chronic health, personal development, relationships, limiting beliefs, black-and-white thinking, judgments, and self-compassion. As a somatic therapist and yoga instructor, I help clients cultivate mindfulness and meditation skills, which can be a critical part of the therapeutic process.
(512) 233-6018 View (512) 233-6018
Photo of Julie Jones, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Julie Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LCDC
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78748  (Online Only)
My experience treating complex trauma allows me to navigate the brain's natural defenses around processing trauma.
I am an empathic therapist with 18 years therapy experience. Clients often come to me with an impaired sense of self, difficulties in relationships, and feeling unsafe in the world due to trauma/hardships in their lives. I assist my clients in transforming their deepest pain into their greatest strengths, finding passion in life, and confidence in themselves. They learn to have deep and meaningful relationships. Ideally, clients will move from a limited set of beliefs to an expansive perspective on what is possible in this life. I also love working with therapists; their personal work enhances their own practice!
My experience treating complex trauma allows me to navigate the brain's natural defenses around processing trauma.
I am an empathic therapist with 18 years therapy experience. Clients often come to me with an impaired sense of self, difficulties in relationships, and feeling unsafe in the world due to trauma/hardships in their lives. I assist my clients in transforming their deepest pain into their greatest strengths, finding passion in life, and confidence in themselves. They learn to have deep and meaningful relationships. Ideally, clients will move from a limited set of beliefs to an expansive perspective on what is possible in this life. I also love working with therapists; their personal work enhances their own practice!
(512) 559-3784 View (512) 559-3784
Photo of Ryan Authier, Counselor in Austin, TX
Ryan Authier
Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78721
I specialize in treating trauma, attachment wounds, shame, insecurity and other issues through a variety of traditional and experiential modalities.
I have over a decade of experience in the mental health field in Austin, working with an immensely diverse range of clients in an equally diverse range of environments—from public elementary schools to trails and pastures. I began my career as a campus-based therapist and case manager working in schools providing trauma therapy to children deemed at-risk. From there, I switched from the school setting to working on a horse ranch providing trauma-focused equine therapy to children and families. Prior to opening my own private practice, I was the clinical director of a group practice in Austin focused on inclusive mental healthcare.
I specialize in treating trauma, attachment wounds, shame, insecurity and other issues through a variety of traditional and experiential modalities.
I have over a decade of experience in the mental health field in Austin, working with an immensely diverse range of clients in an equally diverse range of environments—from public elementary schools to trails and pastures. I began my career as a campus-based therapist and case manager working in schools providing trauma therapy to children deemed at-risk. From there, I switched from the school setting to working on a horse ranch providing trauma-focused equine therapy to children and families. Prior to opening my own private practice, I was the clinical director of a group practice in Austin focused on inclusive mental healthcare.
(512) 886-8320 View (512) 886-8320
Photo of Amber Lundell, LPC Associate in Austin, TX
Amber Lundell
LPC Associate, M Ed, LPC-A
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78723
Have you experienced childhood trauma or a traumatic event? Or are you looking for a therapist who can help you develop stronger emotional regulation and mind-body connection? I understand the trying times we live in, and how painful life can be at times. My somatic, secular therapy style is laid-back, encouraging, and non-pathologizing. I like to create an atmosphere where you can feel challenged and yet comfortable. I aim to help you identify and feel emotions as they show up in the body, and I use parts work as a way to identify root causes and effectively make manage your inner critic.
Have you experienced childhood trauma or a traumatic event? Or are you looking for a therapist who can help you develop stronger emotional regulation and mind-body connection? I understand the trying times we live in, and how painful life can be at times. My somatic, secular therapy style is laid-back, encouraging, and non-pathologizing. I like to create an atmosphere where you can feel challenged and yet comfortable. I aim to help you identify and feel emotions as they show up in the body, and I use parts work as a way to identify root causes and effectively make manage your inner critic.
(512) 812-7405 x4 View (512) 812-7405 x4
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.