Photo of Anne Litsey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in The Woodlands, TX
Anne Litsey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380
Waitlist for new clients
Request an appointment online at www.FPCCportal.com! Looking for a safe place where you can share your unique situation, sort things out and develop a roadmap towards a happier and healthier life? I specialize in the areas of trauma and resilience building. Additionally, my professional experience includes extensive experience working closely with clients within the LGBTQ community as well as those experiencing complicated grief, long battles with health and mental health issues, and difficulties adjusting to life’s transition - adulting, retirement, caregiving, career changes, just to name a few.
Request an appointment online at www.FPCCportal.com! Looking for a safe place where you can share your unique situation, sort things out and develop a roadmap towards a happier and healthier life? I specialize in the areas of trauma and resilience building. Additionally, my professional experience includes extensive experience working closely with clients within the LGBTQ community as well as those experiencing complicated grief, long battles with health and mental health issues, and difficulties adjusting to life’s transition - adulting, retirement, caregiving, career changes, just to name a few.
(936) 391-8368 View (936) 391-8368
Photo of Haley Pettigrew, Marriage & Family Therapist in The Woodlands, TX
Haley Pettigrew
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LCDC
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77380
Did you go to bed last night feeling angry or hopeless from the same continued fight with your partner or child? Has the anxiety, depression, conflict, or trauma become unbearable? Do you want to improve your personal relationships but don’t know how? I am a licensed marriage and family therapist with 10 years of experience and understand those thoughts all too well. We all have the capacity for growth and healing, and I would be honored to partner with you and your family towards finding your happier and more fulfilling life.
Did you go to bed last night feeling angry or hopeless from the same continued fight with your partner or child? Has the anxiety, depression, conflict, or trauma become unbearable? Do you want to improve your personal relationships but don’t know how? I am a licensed marriage and family therapist with 10 years of experience and understand those thoughts all too well. We all have the capacity for growth and healing, and I would be honored to partner with you and your family towards finding your happier and more fulfilling life.
(832) 905-8285 View (832) 905-8285
Photo of Sarah L. Evans, Licensed Professional Counselor in The Woodlands, TX
Sarah L. Evans
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, NCC, LPC, CCTP, BC-TMHP
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77380
I am also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) who provides research effective trauma therapy techniques.
An ideal client is any individual open to the counseling process. The counseling process is a team effort between the client and counselor; thus, success for every outcome depends on the willingness and effort from each team member. I believe in continuous professional and personal growth in order to always be prepared and up to date for the purpose of serving my clients. It is my pleasure to use my empathic and positive counseling skills and knowledge to help those in need of effective therapeutic counseling treatments.
I am also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) who provides research effective trauma therapy techniques.
An ideal client is any individual open to the counseling process. The counseling process is a team effort between the client and counselor; thus, success for every outcome depends on the willingness and effort from each team member. I believe in continuous professional and personal growth in order to always be prepared and up to date for the purpose of serving my clients. It is my pleasure to use my empathic and positive counseling skills and knowledge to help those in need of effective therapeutic counseling treatments.
(281) 377-3181 View (281) 377-3181
Photo of Trish D. Gonzalez, Licensed Professional Counselor in The Woodlands, TX
Trish D. Gonzalez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77381
I am an LPC, Certified Trauma Professional, and Certified Grief Counselor with experience providing child, adult, couples, family, and group counseling.
I consider being a counselor my highest calling and simply love what I do. My passion is to help people reach their goals in a meaningful way, and I aim to create a safe and inviting environment for my clients to open up and share their worlds. The bravery and courage of my clients continue to inspire me as they work to mend broken pieces. I work to guide couples and individuals of all ages toward healing, clarity, and greater life meaning. With a holistic perspective, I approach counseling with an amalgam of cognitive behavioral therapy, schema therapy, and EMDR.
I am an LPC, Certified Trauma Professional, and Certified Grief Counselor with experience providing child, adult, couples, family, and group counseling.
I consider being a counselor my highest calling and simply love what I do. My passion is to help people reach their goals in a meaningful way, and I aim to create a safe and inviting environment for my clients to open up and share their worlds. The bravery and courage of my clients continue to inspire me as they work to mend broken pieces. I work to guide couples and individuals of all ages toward healing, clarity, and greater life meaning. With a holistic perspective, I approach counseling with an amalgam of cognitive behavioral therapy, schema therapy, and EMDR.
(936) 226-3087 View (936) 226-3087
Photo of Paula McDonald-Neely, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in The Woodlands, TX
Paula McDonald-Neely, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PLLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380
Waitlist for new clients
My professional experience includes work in the following areas: Depression, Anxiety and PTSD; Teen/Adolescent Mental Health; Family Therapy including Marriage Counseling, Divorce Recovery and Co-Parenting strategies; Anger Management; Substance Abuse/Recovery, Domestic Violence Intervention and Life Changes/Transition Counseling.
Paula McDonald-Neely, LCSW, PLLC provides individual, couples and family therapy. My approach is client-centered and utilizes a variety of techniques and intervention strategies personalized to meet your individual needs. Whether you have been struggling for several years or have only recently encountered obstacles in your life, I am ready to work together to pave a path to help you not only overcome, but to thrive. Are you ready to begin your journey to live your best life now?
My professional experience includes work in the following areas: Depression, Anxiety and PTSD; Teen/Adolescent Mental Health; Family Therapy including Marriage Counseling, Divorce Recovery and Co-Parenting strategies; Anger Management; Substance Abuse/Recovery, Domestic Violence Intervention and Life Changes/Transition Counseling.
Paula McDonald-Neely, LCSW, PLLC provides individual, couples and family therapy. My approach is client-centered and utilizes a variety of techniques and intervention strategies personalized to meet your individual needs. Whether you have been struggling for several years or have only recently encountered obstacles in your life, I am ready to work together to pave a path to help you not only overcome, but to thrive. Are you ready to begin your journey to live your best life now?
(281) 712-6418 View (281) 712-6418
Photo of Andrew Trujillo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in The Woodlands, TX
Andrew Trujillo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77382  (Online Only)
I specialize in proven treatments for Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Anger and Suicidality.
It is often said that, "time heals all wounds". Well,..NOT if that wound is infected! Find a place of True Healing. We live in stressful times. Many people are tired of pushing through life wearing the mask/facade that "everything is fine", when underneath it isn't. It would be an honor for me to be invited to walk alongside you in your journey to restoring joy in life and getting closer to being the person you want to be. I encourage you to take the step of caring for yourself by starting therapy. Instead of continuing the facade, put on your "oxygen mask" FIRST, so you can continue to help and care for the people in your life.
I specialize in proven treatments for Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Anger and Suicidality.
It is often said that, "time heals all wounds". Well,..NOT if that wound is infected! Find a place of True Healing. We live in stressful times. Many people are tired of pushing through life wearing the mask/facade that "everything is fine", when underneath it isn't. It would be an honor for me to be invited to walk alongside you in your journey to restoring joy in life and getting closer to being the person you want to be. I encourage you to take the step of caring for yourself by starting therapy. Instead of continuing the facade, put on your "oxygen mask" FIRST, so you can continue to help and care for the people in your life.
(281) 918-4081 View (281) 918-4081
Photo of Bethany Sznajder, Licensed Professional Counselor in The Woodlands, TX
Bethany Sznajder
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC-S, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77381  (Online Only)
Our daily lives can be hectic and challenging. They can even lead to feelings of overwhelm and exhaustion. Trauma, poor self-image, depression, and anxiety can make maneuvering life's circumstances overwhelming. Even more so when attempting to face the battle all alone. Together, we can find your sense of purpose, repair past hurts, develop successful & authentic relationships, and create a life that is more of what you want it to be. Together, we can work to help you find healing, wholeness, and meet your full potential.
Our daily lives can be hectic and challenging. They can even lead to feelings of overwhelm and exhaustion. Trauma, poor self-image, depression, and anxiety can make maneuvering life's circumstances overwhelming. Even more so when attempting to face the battle all alone. Together, we can find your sense of purpose, repair past hurts, develop successful & authentic relationships, and create a life that is more of what you want it to be. Together, we can work to help you find healing, wholeness, and meet your full potential.
(281) 984-6765 View (281) 984-6765
Photo of Pam Dimmick in The Woodlands, TX
Pam Dimmick
LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380
My background includes working with survivors of sexual trauma and intimate partner violence.
Therapy is a personal and often difficult journey. I provide a warm, compassionate and empathic setting. Together we will effectively navigate through life stressors while finding purpose and meaning.
My background includes working with survivors of sexual trauma and intimate partner violence.
Therapy is a personal and often difficult journey. I provide a warm, compassionate and empathic setting. Together we will effectively navigate through life stressors while finding purpose and meaning.
(936) 282-5413 View (936) 282-5413
Photo of Sandy Gaston, Marriage & Family Therapist in The Woodlands, TX
Sandy Gaston
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77389  (Online Only)
Does anxiety, depression, or trauma interfere with living the life you imagined for yourself? Do you feel overwhelmed with competing priorities, struggling to fit it all in? Are you too focused on the needs of others while neglecting your own? Life is messy, full of ups and downs, often complicated by stressful experiences, deteriorating relationships, and major life transitions. Amid the chaos, you may have lost your sense of identity, your purpose, your confidence, your support system.
Does anxiety, depression, or trauma interfere with living the life you imagined for yourself? Do you feel overwhelmed with competing priorities, struggling to fit it all in? Are you too focused on the needs of others while neglecting your own? Life is messy, full of ups and downs, often complicated by stressful experiences, deteriorating relationships, and major life transitions. Amid the chaos, you may have lost your sense of identity, your purpose, your confidence, your support system.
(281) 760-3459 View (281) 760-3459
Photo of Ashby J. Simons, Licensed Professional Counselor in The Woodlands, TX
Ashby J. Simons
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77381
I am certified in CBT and CPT, have experience with 12-Step programs, and utilize Trauma Informed Care, Solution-Focused therapy, and Person-Centered therapy.
Mental and emotional well-being is crucial to achieving success and living a full life with purpose and meaning. As a therapist, I am an objective person to talk to who will give you my undivided attention. We will work toward healing from distressing situations and the identification and attainment of your goals. I hope to help you become your best self through non-judgmental support and encouragement.
I am certified in CBT and CPT, have experience with 12-Step programs, and utilize Trauma Informed Care, Solution-Focused therapy, and Person-Centered therapy.
Mental and emotional well-being is crucial to achieving success and living a full life with purpose and meaning. As a therapist, I am an objective person to talk to who will give you my undivided attention. We will work toward healing from distressing situations and the identification and attainment of your goals. I hope to help you become your best self through non-judgmental support and encouragement.
(936) 284-3877 View (936) 284-3877
Photo of Darya Ross, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in The Woodlands, TX
Darya Ross
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380
My experience includes working with clients coping with anxiety, self-harming behaviors, anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, post-traumatic stress disorder, LGBTQ+, and behavioral issues.
Congratulations on taking a big step towards a more fulfilling life. Are you unmotivated, hopeless, depressed, anxious, stuck, or feel disconnected? Have you experienced trauma or emotional distress through a life experience? My goal is to provide you with knowledge and individualized appropriate treatment. Most importantly, I will commit to supporting you as you walk the path towards experiencing a better quality of life. Together, we will work through challenging events, while rebuilding your confidence and empowerment.
My experience includes working with clients coping with anxiety, self-harming behaviors, anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, post-traumatic stress disorder, LGBTQ+, and behavioral issues.
Congratulations on taking a big step towards a more fulfilling life. Are you unmotivated, hopeless, depressed, anxious, stuck, or feel disconnected? Have you experienced trauma or emotional distress through a life experience? My goal is to provide you with knowledge and individualized appropriate treatment. Most importantly, I will commit to supporting you as you walk the path towards experiencing a better quality of life. Together, we will work through challenging events, while rebuilding your confidence and empowerment.
(281) 801-1347 View (281) 801-1347
Photo of Felix Vara, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in The Woodlands, TX
Felix Vara
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380
If life's challenges are taking a toll on your mental well-being, know that help is available. If you get the feeling things aren't quite right or notice a shift from your usual, more positive self, there is support. When the little things pile up and become overwhelming, rest assured that I understand, and you're not alone. My knowledge covers areas like anxiety, infidelity, trauma, PTSD, and cumulative PTSD. Specifically, if you're a first responder or someone making decisions that impacts others, I have expertise in these realms and can offer personalized support.
If life's challenges are taking a toll on your mental well-being, know that help is available. If you get the feeling things aren't quite right or notice a shift from your usual, more positive self, there is support. When the little things pile up and become overwhelming, rest assured that I understand, and you're not alone. My knowledge covers areas like anxiety, infidelity, trauma, PTSD, and cumulative PTSD. Specifically, if you're a first responder or someone making decisions that impacts others, I have expertise in these realms and can offer personalized support.
(936) 262-6816 View (936) 262-6816
Photo of Sabrina Stone, Licensed Professional Counselor in The Woodlands, TX
Sabrina Stone
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77380
I am certified in trauma care and trained through the Allender Center for narrative trauma care.
I work with individuals in many areas of care including trauma, dissociation, anxiety, grief, depression, and life transitions. I have extensive training in area of developmental trauma, including physical, sexual, and emotional abuse. Living a life free of the debris from the past in kindness towards themselves and others is my ultimate goal for my clients.
I am certified in trauma care and trained through the Allender Center for narrative trauma care.
I work with individuals in many areas of care including trauma, dissociation, anxiety, grief, depression, and life transitions. I have extensive training in area of developmental trauma, including physical, sexual, and emotional abuse. Living a life free of the debris from the past in kindness towards themselves and others is my ultimate goal for my clients.
(281) 519-3982 View (281) 519-3982
Photo of Amber L. Martin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in The Woodlands, TX
Amber L. Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77381
I use CBT to help clients make changes in their lives and ways of thinking and use EMDR to assist with processing trauma.
Life in today’s world can be very challenging, even for the most resourceful people. There may be times where we struggle, feel extremely overwhelmed, and may not know where to go or what to do. I strive to provide a client centered experience when working with my clients. I was drawn to therapy because I’ve always enjoyed helping people live their lives to the fullest. Whether it is finding your way through a new path in life or working through a traumatic event, change can be healing. It can be hard to work through these issues, but we will collaborate to find the right therapy approach to fit your needs.
I use CBT to help clients make changes in their lives and ways of thinking and use EMDR to assist with processing trauma.
Life in today’s world can be very challenging, even for the most resourceful people. There may be times where we struggle, feel extremely overwhelmed, and may not know where to go or what to do. I strive to provide a client centered experience when working with my clients. I was drawn to therapy because I’ve always enjoyed helping people live their lives to the fullest. Whether it is finding your way through a new path in life or working through a traumatic event, change can be healing. It can be hard to work through these issues, but we will collaborate to find the right therapy approach to fit your needs.
(936) 209-7414 View (936) 209-7414
Photo of Kristin Lahey, Marriage & Family Therapist in The Woodlands, TX
Kristin Lahey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77380
In addition to relationship issues, I work with a range of emotional and behavioral issues, including trauma and mood disorders.
Want to be happier in your most important relationships. Do you want to stop struggling with the small stuff and explore what is really holding you back from having a more loving and meaningful connection. Sustaining healthy relationships is hard work. It takes time and effort to make them the best they can be. Learn how to communicate with your partner, child, parent, friend or coworker. It's my job to provide a safe, neutral space for couples and individuals to learn how to better communicate to get your needs and wants met with others.
In addition to relationship issues, I work with a range of emotional and behavioral issues, including trauma and mood disorders.
Want to be happier in your most important relationships. Do you want to stop struggling with the small stuff and explore what is really holding you back from having a more loving and meaningful connection. Sustaining healthy relationships is hard work. It takes time and effort to make them the best they can be. Learn how to communicate with your partner, child, parent, friend or coworker. It's my job to provide a safe, neutral space for couples and individuals to learn how to better communicate to get your needs and wants met with others.
(936) 315-3375 View (936) 315-3375
Photo of Asha Johnson, Licensed Professional Counselor in The Woodlands, TX
Asha Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77381  (Online Only)
Asha Johnson is a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (LPC-S) and Certified First Responder Counselor (CFRC). Asha has over 10 years of providing therapy with a diverse client population. She has successfully counseled adolescents, adults, and elder adults with issues such as anxiety, depression, anger, dysfunctional relationships, poor coping skills, divorce, military and veteran's issues, low self-esteem, chronic stress, trauma, and PTSD. She earned a Master’s degree in Psychology from Houston Baptist University and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Miami.
Asha Johnson is a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (LPC-S) and Certified First Responder Counselor (CFRC). Asha has over 10 years of providing therapy with a diverse client population. She has successfully counseled adolescents, adults, and elder adults with issues such as anxiety, depression, anger, dysfunctional relationships, poor coping skills, divorce, military and veteran's issues, low self-esteem, chronic stress, trauma, and PTSD. She earned a Master’s degree in Psychology from Houston Baptist University and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Miami.
(281) 214-6254 View (281) 214-6254
Photo of Brandi Large, Licensed Professional Counselor in The Woodlands, TX
Brandi Large
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77389
Brandi is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Western Illinois University and her Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from Sam Houston State University. Her diverse experience includes therapy with children, adolescents, and adults. Her clinical experience with clients includes anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, and survivors of sexual assault. She provides a safe, relaxed, and nonjudgmental space for you to heal emotionally and learn coping skills.
Brandi is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Western Illinois University and her Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from Sam Houston State University. Her diverse experience includes therapy with children, adolescents, and adults. Her clinical experience with clients includes anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, and survivors of sexual assault. She provides a safe, relaxed, and nonjudgmental space for you to heal emotionally and learn coping skills.
(281) 984-4924 View (281) 984-4924
Photo of Mindful Movements Counseling Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in The Woodlands, TX
Mindful Movements Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380
We are trained in approaches including EMDR, used for trauma & anxiety; Sandtray, using sand and figures that facilitate a deeper level of processing; Play therapy for children; Gottman, Bowen, & EFT to facilitate healthy communication for couples; Adlerian to explore patterns rooted in the past, CBT to help develop strategies for current problems, and more.
I'm Mikayla, and I am the founder of MMCC. We know it's hard to be vulnerable with a new person, not knowing how they’ll react to what you tell them. As your counselor, our role is to meet you where you’re at, take your hand, and walk with you at your own pace. We are passionate for holistic, mindful mental health counseling for kids, teens, couples, and adults in areas including trauma, DV and sexual assault, grief, faith-based counseling, anxiety, depression, codependency, self-esteem, identity, self-harming behaviors, relationships, parenting, and more. With 11 counselors on our team, we aim to have a counselor for everyone.
We are trained in approaches including EMDR, used for trauma & anxiety; Sandtray, using sand and figures that facilitate a deeper level of processing; Play therapy for children; Gottman, Bowen, & EFT to facilitate healthy communication for couples; Adlerian to explore patterns rooted in the past, CBT to help develop strategies for current problems, and more.
I'm Mikayla, and I am the founder of MMCC. We know it's hard to be vulnerable with a new person, not knowing how they’ll react to what you tell them. As your counselor, our role is to meet you where you’re at, take your hand, and walk with you at your own pace. We are passionate for holistic, mindful mental health counseling for kids, teens, couples, and adults in areas including trauma, DV and sexual assault, grief, faith-based counseling, anxiety, depression, codependency, self-esteem, identity, self-harming behaviors, relationships, parenting, and more. With 11 counselors on our team, we aim to have a counselor for everyone.
(713) 804-4955 View (713) 804-4955
Photo of Steven Sizemore, Licensed Professional Counselor in The Woodlands, TX
Steven Sizemore
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77380  (Online Only)
Are you looking for an evidence-based and solution driven approach to therapy delivered securely and conveniently to your home? Are you struggling with symptoms of anxiety, depression, OCD, personality disorders, or trauma and want to make a change? We believe in providing an individualized approach to treatment that focuses on the client's unique clinical needs and cultivating a therapeutic bond build upon mutual trust and respect. Our goal for every client is to graduate therapeutic services with reduced symptoms, increased confidence, and tangible coping skills to manage life stressors.
Are you looking for an evidence-based and solution driven approach to therapy delivered securely and conveniently to your home? Are you struggling with symptoms of anxiety, depression, OCD, personality disorders, or trauma and want to make a change? We believe in providing an individualized approach to treatment that focuses on the client's unique clinical needs and cultivating a therapeutic bond build upon mutual trust and respect. Our goal for every client is to graduate therapeutic services with reduced symptoms, increased confidence, and tangible coping skills to manage life stressors.
(936) 262-6072 View (936) 262-6072
Photo of Debbie Keeney, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in The Woodlands, TX
Debbie Keeney, MFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380
Many of my adult clients come to struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma or loss and are unaware of just how long term the impact is on their lives.
We all hit bumps in the road that we feel unequipped to handle. If you are reading this, you are probably experiencing one of those now. I work with my clients to help them to navigate thorough life's challenges. I do not have a handy manual to offer simplistic answers for your life. What I do offer is to listen to you without judgment, to help you identify the obstacles that keep you from moving forward, to help you find internal resources, and to work with you to help you discover the answers that work for you. I can teach you to be more compassionate with yourself since being human is to struggle.
Many of my adult clients come to struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma or loss and are unaware of just how long term the impact is on their lives.
We all hit bumps in the road that we feel unequipped to handle. If you are reading this, you are probably experiencing one of those now. I work with my clients to help them to navigate thorough life's challenges. I do not have a handy manual to offer simplistic answers for your life. What I do offer is to listen to you without judgment, to help you identify the obstacles that keep you from moving forward, to help you find internal resources, and to work with you to help you discover the answers that work for you. I can teach you to be more compassionate with yourself since being human is to struggle.
(346) 230-5210 View (346) 230-5210

See more therapy options for The Woodlands

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.