Photo of Dr. Riggins Psychological Services, PLLC, Psychologist in Bellaire, TX
Dr. Riggins Psychological Services, PLLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bellaire, TX 77402  (Online Only)
Over the past decade I have treated those suffering from trauma, depression, anxiety, addiction, and marital problems using evidenced-based approaches.
Hello! I am Dr. Reginald K. Riggins. I am licensed clinical psychologist based in Texas. I am originally from the south side of Chicago with over ten years of experience in the mental health space. Participating in therapy is the greatest investment you can ever make for yourself. When you learn how to improve your thinking, behavior and emotional well-being you create a better version of yourself. The process of healing is not easy but it is so worth it once you reach the mountain top, stare down and see how far you've come. It would be an honor to take that journey with you.
Over the past decade I have treated those suffering from trauma, depression, anxiety, addiction, and marital problems using evidenced-based approaches.
Hello! I am Dr. Reginald K. Riggins. I am licensed clinical psychologist based in Texas. I am originally from the south side of Chicago with over ten years of experience in the mental health space. Participating in therapy is the greatest investment you can ever make for yourself. When you learn how to improve your thinking, behavior and emotional well-being you create a better version of yourself. The process of healing is not easy but it is so worth it once you reach the mountain top, stare down and see how far you've come. It would be an honor to take that journey with you.
(713) 808-1841 View (713) 808-1841
Photo of Tatiana Martinez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bellaire, TX
Tatiana Martinez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, RYT
Verified Verified
Bellaire, TX 77401
I specialize in helping individuals that have survived adverse childhood experiences and/or who have experienced traumatic events throughout their lifetime. Often, individuals who have trauma may also experience fear, stress, low self-esteem, difficulty forming safe attachments, and emotional pain. I help resource individuals by providing a nonjudgmental and compassionate stance that helps clients make steps towards acceptance and change. Through the process of therapy, clients can expect to be resourced with therapeutic tools and mind-body applications that will help them gain greater self-esteem, security and confidence.
I specialize in helping individuals that have survived adverse childhood experiences and/or who have experienced traumatic events throughout their lifetime. Often, individuals who have trauma may also experience fear, stress, low self-esteem, difficulty forming safe attachments, and emotional pain. I help resource individuals by providing a nonjudgmental and compassionate stance that helps clients make steps towards acceptance and change. Through the process of therapy, clients can expect to be resourced with therapeutic tools and mind-body applications that will help them gain greater self-esteem, security and confidence.
(346) 567-7681 View (346) 567-7681
Photo of Amy Fuller PhD, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bellaire, TX
Amy Fuller PhD
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT-S, LPC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bellaire, TX 77401
I have the honor of walking alongside brave and courageous individuals and couples as they strive to become better than they are, overcome what they feel overwhelmed by, become who they dare dream of becoming, and love beyond themselves through the transformative power of love and forgiveness. I hold both a doctorate and masters degree in marriage and family therapy and have a private marriage and family therapy practice in Houston Texas specializing in marriage and sex therapy, trauma and depression. I also serve as the clinical director for a non-profit counseling organization providing affordable therapy to the community.
I have the honor of walking alongside brave and courageous individuals and couples as they strive to become better than they are, overcome what they feel overwhelmed by, become who they dare dream of becoming, and love beyond themselves through the transformative power of love and forgiveness. I hold both a doctorate and masters degree in marriage and family therapy and have a private marriage and family therapy practice in Houston Texas specializing in marriage and sex therapy, trauma and depression. I also serve as the clinical director for a non-profit counseling organization providing affordable therapy to the community.
(281) 915-2853 View (281) 915-2853
Photo of Jennifer L Lancaster, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bellaire, TX
Jennifer L Lancaster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bellaire, TX 77401
Together, we'll work to understand the roots of your struggles, heal from past trauma, & build a stronger sense of self.
Do you struggle with perfectionism, anxiety, or self-doubt? Are you facing challenges navigating food, exercise or body image? Are past traumas or patterns playing out in your present-day relationships with loved ones? Maybe you've tried therapy before but didn't feel understood, still feel stuck, and need a new, creative approach that's designed uniquely for you—not a one-size-fits-all. If you've been weighed down by past experiences and are struggling to find clarity, purpose, direction, or confidence in life, you've found a place where your struggles are understood and your bravery in seeking help is deeply respected.
Together, we'll work to understand the roots of your struggles, heal from past trauma, & build a stronger sense of self.
Do you struggle with perfectionism, anxiety, or self-doubt? Are you facing challenges navigating food, exercise or body image? Are past traumas or patterns playing out in your present-day relationships with loved ones? Maybe you've tried therapy before but didn't feel understood, still feel stuck, and need a new, creative approach that's designed uniquely for you—not a one-size-fits-all. If you've been weighed down by past experiences and are struggling to find clarity, purpose, direction, or confidence in life, you've found a place where your struggles are understood and your bravery in seeking help is deeply respected.
(346) 261-0702 View (346) 261-0702
Photo of Edna Lee, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bellaire, TX
Edna Lee
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Bellaire, TX 77401
Since 2003, I have specialized in counseling women struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, grief, burnout, relationships, faith and other life adjustments. I offer a compassionate and action-oriented approach to therapy. Clients are empowered with insights and practical tools for genuine transformation. I am also a corporate speaker on mental health topics to Fortune 500 companies through Modern Health.
Since 2003, I have specialized in counseling women struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, grief, burnout, relationships, faith and other life adjustments. I offer a compassionate and action-oriented approach to therapy. Clients are empowered with insights and practical tools for genuine transformation. I am also a corporate speaker on mental health topics to Fortune 500 companies through Modern Health.
(281) 377-9577 View (281) 377-9577
Photo of Shacolby Dedmond, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bellaire, TX
Shacolby Dedmond
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, QMHP, LPC
Verified Verified
Bellaire, TX 77401
Welcome! I enjoy working with individuals, couples, adolescents and members of the LGBTQ+ community in areas such as stress, depression, anxiety, multicultural issues, transitions, self-esteem, relationship issues general mental health, problem-solving, eating disorders and trauma/PTSD. As a therapist, I am passionate about building a trusting therapeutic relationship with my clients and guiding them through the challenges they face. You are the creator of your story and I would be honored to help support you through your journey!
Welcome! I enjoy working with individuals, couples, adolescents and members of the LGBTQ+ community in areas such as stress, depression, anxiety, multicultural issues, transitions, self-esteem, relationship issues general mental health, problem-solving, eating disorders and trauma/PTSD. As a therapist, I am passionate about building a trusting therapeutic relationship with my clients and guiding them through the challenges they face. You are the creator of your story and I would be honored to help support you through your journey!
(832) 937-7677 View (832) 937-7677
Photo of Mary Ann Johnston, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bellaire, TX
Mary Ann Johnston
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd
Verified Verified
Bellaire, TX 77401
I also do EMDR for trauma resolution involving life threatening situations, sexual and physical abuse, anxiety and depression.
I am a psychotherapist who has been in private practice for 30 years. Because of the longevity of my work, I have encountered a wide variety of people of all ages and problems. I believe in the dignity and value of each individual person and treat people with empathy, compassion, warmth, and kindness. I give sustained attention during a session and believe that people can solve their own problems with some objective structure and feedback. For my clients' convenience I maintain two offices. Weekend and evening appointments are available.
I also do EMDR for trauma resolution involving life threatening situations, sexual and physical abuse, anxiety and depression.
I am a psychotherapist who has been in private practice for 30 years. Because of the longevity of my work, I have encountered a wide variety of people of all ages and problems. I believe in the dignity and value of each individual person and treat people with empathy, compassion, warmth, and kindness. I give sustained attention during a session and believe that people can solve their own problems with some objective structure and feedback. For my clients' convenience I maintain two offices. Weekend and evening appointments are available.
(713) 667-5659 View (713) 667-5659
Photo of Lisa Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bellaire, TX
Lisa Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bellaire, TX 77401
Are you beaten down by life and unsure of where to go next? Welcome! I strive to create a safe and comfortable environment for clients to do the necessary and at times challenging work of healing. Clients would note my ability to meet them where they are and offer gentle nudges toward growth of their stated goals. I value the mind/body connection and enjoys teaching clients about their brains and bodies in a trauma informed and easy to understand way. Trauma healing is my hearts work and I would be honored to help you on your journey.
Are you beaten down by life and unsure of where to go next? Welcome! I strive to create a safe and comfortable environment for clients to do the necessary and at times challenging work of healing. Clients would note my ability to meet them where they are and offer gentle nudges toward growth of their stated goals. I value the mind/body connection and enjoys teaching clients about their brains and bodies in a trauma informed and easy to understand way. Trauma healing is my hearts work and I would be honored to help you on your journey.
(346) 666-7736 View (346) 666-7736
Photo of Raquel Angelica Ducote, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bellaire, TX
Raquel Angelica Ducote
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Bellaire, TX 77401
My professional experience is working with individuals, families and couples who may be coping with relational issues, stress, depression, anxiety, past trauma, suicidal ideation and family dysfunction.
The goal of therapy is to empower you with insight, strength, knowledge and healing to make a difference in your own life! We all have the power to heal and with guidance and direction, it is possible. I want to offer hope to every person who comes through my door because that's what I believe! I utilize a variety of proven psychological techniques and have over 15 years of experience! In a calm and peaceful atmosphere, I will offer the insight and wisdom you need to find your way to a place of inner calm and serenity.
My professional experience is working with individuals, families and couples who may be coping with relational issues, stress, depression, anxiety, past trauma, suicidal ideation and family dysfunction.
The goal of therapy is to empower you with insight, strength, knowledge and healing to make a difference in your own life! We all have the power to heal and with guidance and direction, it is possible. I want to offer hope to every person who comes through my door because that's what I believe! I utilize a variety of proven psychological techniques and have over 15 years of experience! In a calm and peaceful atmosphere, I will offer the insight and wisdom you need to find your way to a place of inner calm and serenity.
(832) 924-5551 View (832) 924-5551
Photo of Shanna J. Evering, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bellaire, TX
Shanna J. Evering
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Bellaire, TX 77401
I am a certified clinical trauma professional with EMDR training.
Have you ever just wanted to sit down to off-load something that’s been eating away at you for too long? Recognizing the need for help and seeking professional therapy is a sign of strength and determination to live a productive and meaningful life. As a part of living our lives, we may encounter situations that are difficult to manage alone. Some seek support due to a situational crisis. Others seek treatment as a necessary aspect of managing a medical disorder, commonly known as a mental illness. Whether you are experiencing a life adjustment or more complex medical conditions, it is a well known fact that therapy helps.
I am a certified clinical trauma professional with EMDR training.
Have you ever just wanted to sit down to off-load something that’s been eating away at you for too long? Recognizing the need for help and seeking professional therapy is a sign of strength and determination to live a productive and meaningful life. As a part of living our lives, we may encounter situations that are difficult to manage alone. Some seek support due to a situational crisis. Others seek treatment as a necessary aspect of managing a medical disorder, commonly known as a mental illness. Whether you are experiencing a life adjustment or more complex medical conditions, it is a well known fact that therapy helps.
(832) 346-8025 View (832) 346-8025
Photo of Steven E. Bailley, Psychologist in Bellaire, TX
Steven E. Bailley
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bellaire, TX 77401
If you are in a stressful or traumatic situation (e.g. loss of a loved one, coping with sudden life changes), therapy can help. I am a licensed psychologist with 20+ years of clinical experience helping people deal effectively with adversity, stress and trauma. We will work in a respectful, collaborative manner. I utilize an integrative psychotherapeutic approach with proven methods, through which you will gain insight and learn skills to help you heal and successfully manage the complexities of your situation. In learning to deal more effectively with your difficulties, you will feel better and your situation will improve.
If you are in a stressful or traumatic situation (e.g. loss of a loved one, coping with sudden life changes), therapy can help. I am a licensed psychologist with 20+ years of clinical experience helping people deal effectively with adversity, stress and trauma. We will work in a respectful, collaborative manner. I utilize an integrative psychotherapeutic approach with proven methods, through which you will gain insight and learn skills to help you heal and successfully manage the complexities of your situation. In learning to deal more effectively with your difficulties, you will feel better and your situation will improve.
(713) 338-9281 View (713) 338-9281
Photo of Rosalie W Hyde, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bellaire, TX
Rosalie W Hyde
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellaire, TX 77401
I've been in practice for 30 years and am co-founder/faculty member of the Houston-Galveston Trauma Institute whose mission is to train mental health professionals.
In this time of crisis and fear that the whole world is experiencing, I think that I must first address how any person who comes to me is coping, how she/he is managing safety and fears for her/himself and his/her family. We cannot dissociate what is happening to all of us now because that replicates what may have happened to many of us in some distant past traumatic experience: Not to talk about what happened. My clients often have struggled with similar problems for years, often working hard in therapy, but not fully understanding the link between their struggles and their experiences in the past.
I've been in practice for 30 years and am co-founder/faculty member of the Houston-Galveston Trauma Institute whose mission is to train mental health professionals.
In this time of crisis and fear that the whole world is experiencing, I think that I must first address how any person who comes to me is coping, how she/he is managing safety and fears for her/himself and his/her family. We cannot dissociate what is happening to all of us now because that replicates what may have happened to many of us in some distant past traumatic experience: Not to talk about what happened. My clients often have struggled with similar problems for years, often working hard in therapy, but not fully understanding the link between their struggles and their experiences in the past.
(713) 338-9049 View (713) 338-9049
Photo of Doug Sorensen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bellaire, TX
Doug Sorensen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAT-S, CCF-C
Verified Verified
Bellaire, TX 77401
Doug is a certified training supervisor for clinicians seeking certification as sexual addiction therapists by the International Institute for Trauma and Addiction Professionals (IITAP).
Doug Sorensen is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist. He began his private practice in 1989 after working several years with individuals and families at an intensive outpatient chemical dependency program. His clinical experience includes extensive work with men seeking to rebuild their lives and their relationships from the devastating consequences of childhood trauma and addiction.
Doug is a certified training supervisor for clinicians seeking certification as sexual addiction therapists by the International Institute for Trauma and Addiction Professionals (IITAP).
Doug Sorensen is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist. He began his private practice in 1989 after working several years with individuals and families at an intensive outpatient chemical dependency program. His clinical experience includes extensive work with men seeking to rebuild their lives and their relationships from the devastating consequences of childhood trauma and addiction.
(713) 489-7239 View (713) 489-7239
Photo of Johanna Pule, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bellaire, TX
Johanna Pule
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bellaire, TX 77401
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have over 20 years of experience working with with children, adolescents and adults in a variety of settings. I have a special interest in working with children and adolecents. I take an individualized, holistic approach with each of my clients, using a mind-body-spirit approach along with the creative arts, symbolism and narrative techniques to encourage the expression of feelings. I am especially skilled at working with children and adolescents who have a history of complex trauma, adoption or are having difficulty adjusting following a significant life event such as divorce.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have over 20 years of experience working with with children, adolescents and adults in a variety of settings. I have a special interest in working with children and adolecents. I take an individualized, holistic approach with each of my clients, using a mind-body-spirit approach along with the creative arts, symbolism and narrative techniques to encourage the expression of feelings. I am especially skilled at working with children and adolescents who have a history of complex trauma, adoption or are having difficulty adjusting following a significant life event such as divorce.
(469) 609-1362 View (469) 609-1362
Photo of Jennifer L. Gardner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bellaire, TX
Jennifer L. Gardner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MMT, CDWF
Verified Verified
Bellaire, TX 77401
In my work with adults I specialize in family of origin issues, attachment trauma, PTSD, phase of life problems, relationships struggles, and personality disorders.
Therapy is a powerful way of changing unhelpful patterns in our life and engaging in the process can help ease the dilemma of feeling stuck. In my work with clients I practice from a humanistic approach to understanding the person seeking treatment. My aim is to create connection through understanding and safety within the parameters of a secure therapeutic relationship to help stabilize crisis and facilitate emotional growth. I work with teens and adults, at different stages of development to help gain skills and insight into how internal conflicts may be playing out in life and relationships.
In my work with adults I specialize in family of origin issues, attachment trauma, PTSD, phase of life problems, relationships struggles, and personality disorders.
Therapy is a powerful way of changing unhelpful patterns in our life and engaging in the process can help ease the dilemma of feeling stuck. In my work with clients I practice from a humanistic approach to understanding the person seeking treatment. My aim is to create connection through understanding and safety within the parameters of a secure therapeutic relationship to help stabilize crisis and facilitate emotional growth. I work with teens and adults, at different stages of development to help gain skills and insight into how internal conflicts may be playing out in life and relationships.
(713) 589-7204 View (713) 589-7204
Photo of Kristen A. Berglund, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bellaire, TX
Kristen A. Berglund
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bellaire, TX 77401  (Online Only)
I have experience treating general depression, anxiety and stress and I have specialized training in several areas, including sexual abuse/assault, complex PTSD and general trauma recovery and sexual and gender identity.
Everyone can use guidance at some point. It’s not my job to judge or be the expert on your life. I’m here to listen, affirm, challenge and educate you about your psychological health, so that you can make the best choices for YOU. I find people to be fascinating and love to learn what motivates our behavior and thinking. My ideal client is curious, motivated and open to making changes, if needed. I offer a safe space to explore new ways to find peace, manage mental health and enjoy life. I particularly enjoy helping teens and adults explore gender and sexual identity.
I have experience treating general depression, anxiety and stress and I have specialized training in several areas, including sexual abuse/assault, complex PTSD and general trauma recovery and sexual and gender identity.
Everyone can use guidance at some point. It’s not my job to judge or be the expert on your life. I’m here to listen, affirm, challenge and educate you about your psychological health, so that you can make the best choices for YOU. I find people to be fascinating and love to learn what motivates our behavior and thinking. My ideal client is curious, motivated and open to making changes, if needed. I offer a safe space to explore new ways to find peace, manage mental health and enjoy life. I particularly enjoy helping teens and adults explore gender and sexual identity.
(832) 402-6175 View (832) 402-6175
Photo of Sarah K Howell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bellaire, TX
Sarah K Howell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Bellaire, TX 77401
With an extensive background in serving clients with complex trauma I enjoy working with both internalized and externalized "tough" (acting out, aggressive, defiant) behaviors.
As an adult there comes a time when emotions can defy logic and we exceed our ability to reason through and remedy how we are feeling on our own. Similarly, there are times when even the most supportive parent can reach an impasse and need additional support for their child; especially when children are engaging in difficult, overwhelming and even triggering behaviors.
With an extensive background in serving clients with complex trauma I enjoy working with both internalized and externalized "tough" (acting out, aggressive, defiant) behaviors.
As an adult there comes a time when emotions can defy logic and we exceed our ability to reason through and remedy how we are feeling on our own. Similarly, there are times when even the most supportive parent can reach an impasse and need additional support for their child; especially when children are engaging in difficult, overwhelming and even triggering behaviors.
(281) 916-3713 View (281) 916-3713
Photo of Miranda DiBenedetto, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bellaire, TX
Miranda DiBenedetto
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bellaire, TX 77401
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in: first responders, depression, trauma, substance abuse, domestic/family violence, self harm, relationship issues, suicidal thoughts, and more.
"All you need is twenty seconds of insane courage and I promise you, something great will come of it.” Here you are embracing that terrifying moment of courage. That's all it takes to completely change your life around. I have worked in every field of mental health, from inpatient hospitalization, to prison and jail settings, to community outreach and with experience using many theories as well as being trained in EMDR, I have seen and heard it all. I will help guide you through any challenge or obstacle that you are facing.
I specialize in: first responders, depression, trauma, substance abuse, domestic/family violence, self harm, relationship issues, suicidal thoughts, and more.
"All you need is twenty seconds of insane courage and I promise you, something great will come of it.” Here you are embracing that terrifying moment of courage. That's all it takes to completely change your life around. I have worked in every field of mental health, from inpatient hospitalization, to prison and jail settings, to community outreach and with experience using many theories as well as being trained in EMDR, I have seen and heard it all. I will help guide you through any challenge or obstacle that you are facing.
(346) 205-0990 View (346) 205-0990
Photo of Claudia Sotelo, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bellaire, TX
Claudia Sotelo
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bellaire, TX 77401  (Online Only)
I consider myself a trauma-informed, mindfulness, cognitive-based, person-centered therapist. I strive to provide a safe space for clients to feel comfortable. Using EMDR Therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) the client can identify their negative beliefs and process past traumas. I'm here to help my clients overcome their struggles and better manage their responses to life stressors. Using Mindfulness clients connect to their calm selves. They can tap into being intentional about self-regulating, using grounding, intentional deep breathing, and other self-help tools.
I consider myself a trauma-informed, mindfulness, cognitive-based, person-centered therapist. I strive to provide a safe space for clients to feel comfortable. Using EMDR Therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) the client can identify their negative beliefs and process past traumas. I'm here to help my clients overcome their struggles and better manage their responses to life stressors. Using Mindfulness clients connect to their calm selves. They can tap into being intentional about self-regulating, using grounding, intentional deep breathing, and other self-help tools.
(737) 637-5309 View (737) 637-5309
Photo of Ron Gravis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bellaire, TX
Ron Gravis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC, EMDR, CSAT, CMAT
Verified Verified
Bellaire, TX 77401
I have deep training in numerous trauma/addiction/couples therapies (psychodynamic, CBT, EMDR (EMDRIA trained), addictions, Gestalt) and have learned that amazing progress can be accomplished in/through these areas.
I focus on/value your needs first. As we check-in together, connection, trust and comfort create an honest space for you to share and grow. I approach therapy as a dynamic partnership - where proven technique and deep relational connection yield cognitive, emotional and spiritual integration. Honing technique to fit client needs + personalized connectivity yields clarity and growth. Moving through the process, we target and work toward this result...together.
I have deep training in numerous trauma/addiction/couples therapies (psychodynamic, CBT, EMDR (EMDRIA trained), addictions, Gestalt) and have learned that amazing progress can be accomplished in/through these areas.
I focus on/value your needs first. As we check-in together, connection, trust and comfort create an honest space for you to share and grow. I approach therapy as a dynamic partnership - where proven technique and deep relational connection yield cognitive, emotional and spiritual integration. Honing technique to fit client needs + personalized connectivity yields clarity and growth. Moving through the process, we target and work toward this result...together.
(832) 219-8993 View (832) 219-8993
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.