Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Altavista, VA

Photo of Courtney Cooper, Pre-Licensed Professional in Altavista, VA
Courtney Cooper
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Altavista, VA 24517  (Online Only)
If you've found yourself in the midst of trauma or past traumatic memories, I empathize with you and know how hard that can be. I encourage you to try something you may not have tried before: EMDR treatment. Clients on my caseload are frequently referred to me because of their need for a different type of therapy... something in addition to talk therapy with great scientific success rates. That's where EMDR comes in. It’s most renowned for addressing Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, however, its applications extend to many other mental concerns as well.
If you've found yourself in the midst of trauma or past traumatic memories, I empathize with you and know how hard that can be. I encourage you to try something you may not have tried before: EMDR treatment. Clients on my caseload are frequently referred to me because of their need for a different type of therapy... something in addition to talk therapy with great scientific success rates. That's where EMDR comes in. It’s most renowned for addressing Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, however, its applications extend to many other mental concerns as well.
(434) 432-6328 View (434) 432-6328

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Somatic Spiritual Counseling - Chris Cannon MA CAS, Registered Psychotherapist in Altavista, VA
Somatic Spiritual Counseling - Chris Cannon MA CAS
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, CAS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lynch Station, VA 24571
I especially enjoy doing this work with couples and those struggling with trauma or addiction.
Our world, our relationships, and our minds often present us with challenges too difficult to work out on our own. These challenges can bar us from intimate contact with ourselves and others. They often take over our life, or makes certain parts of it unbearable. And if you are seeking out ways to work with them, I whole-heartedly salute you. My counseling is client-centered, mindfulness-based, and attachment-informed. This means that you choose what we work on, I help you to explore it in the present moment, and we use the power of relationship and care in that exploration.
I especially enjoy doing this work with couples and those struggling with trauma or addiction.
Our world, our relationships, and our minds often present us with challenges too difficult to work out on our own. These challenges can bar us from intimate contact with ourselves and others. They often take over our life, or makes certain parts of it unbearable. And if you are seeking out ways to work with them, I whole-heartedly salute you. My counseling is client-centered, mindfulness-based, and attachment-informed. This means that you choose what we work on, I help you to explore it in the present moment, and we use the power of relationship and care in that exploration.
(406) 313-8831 View (406) 313-8831

Online Therapists

Photo of Alliance Family Counseling, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Altavista, VA
Alliance Family Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
North Chesterfield, VA 23236
My professional experience includes the provision of clinical services in both residential (milieu) therapy and outpatient practice clinical specialties include Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Borderline Personality, Schizoaffective Disorder, PTSD, Attachment, Anger Management and Grief and loss, etc. I have expertise in trauma recovery, specifically healing from childhood physical, emotional and sexual abuse. I accept and work with patients of all age ranges and work with clients who are over the age of 65.
My professional experience includes the provision of clinical services in both residential (milieu) therapy and outpatient practice clinical specialties include Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Borderline Personality, Schizoaffective Disorder, PTSD, Attachment, Anger Management and Grief and loss, etc. I have expertise in trauma recovery, specifically healing from childhood physical, emotional and sexual abuse. I accept and work with patients of all age ranges and work with clients who are over the age of 65.
(804) 207-7220 View (804) 207-7220
Photo of Courtney Lotto, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Altavista, VA
Courtney Lotto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Midlothian, VA 23112
Specialties: tools for performance enhancement or increased control, improving connections with others, mindfulness and balance, holistic mental health such as alternatives to medication, trauma work, emotional regulation skills, education on how the body and mind connect through the nervous system, and identity work for those who feel lost.
Hey there! Come challenge yourself and get to know oneself better, and why not with a modern therapist who gets the challenges that come with an ever changing world! I will coach you through tools that I will believe will help you develop into the human you'd like to be, as well as forming a meaningful relationship with a continuous advocate on your side! Here are some values of the therapeutic process that are important to what I do with clients. Active, transparent, direct, fun, goal -oriented, educational, ethical, progressive, productive, and holistic.
Specialties: tools for performance enhancement or increased control, improving connections with others, mindfulness and balance, holistic mental health such as alternatives to medication, trauma work, emotional regulation skills, education on how the body and mind connect through the nervous system, and identity work for those who feel lost.
Hey there! Come challenge yourself and get to know oneself better, and why not with a modern therapist who gets the challenges that come with an ever changing world! I will coach you through tools that I will believe will help you develop into the human you'd like to be, as well as forming a meaningful relationship with a continuous advocate on your side! Here are some values of the therapeutic process that are important to what I do with clients. Active, transparent, direct, fun, goal -oriented, educational, ethical, progressive, productive, and holistic.
(804) 409-0182 View (804) 409-0182
Photo of Debbie Anderson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Altavista, VA
Debbie Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23235
Hi! My name is Debbie and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been practicing in the field for over 13 years. I specialize primarily in the treatment of trauma, depression, and anxiety, but have also helped individuals diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder, Schizoaffective Disorder, and Schizophrenia. I am trained in CBT, DBT, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and EMDR, and have spent the majority of my adult life developing and authenticating my skills to help those in need. I am very passionate about the work I do, and believe that all have the power within them to heal and recover, whatever that might look like.
Hi! My name is Debbie and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been practicing in the field for over 13 years. I specialize primarily in the treatment of trauma, depression, and anxiety, but have also helped individuals diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder, Schizoaffective Disorder, and Schizophrenia. I am trained in CBT, DBT, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and EMDR, and have spent the majority of my adult life developing and authenticating my skills to help those in need. I am very passionate about the work I do, and believe that all have the power within them to heal and recover, whatever that might look like.
(804) 593-0535 View (804) 593-0535
Photo of Cathy Juanita Collins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Altavista, VA
Cathy Juanita Collins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSOTP
Verified Verified
Chesterfield, VA 23832
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Sex Offender Treatment Provider. I am committed to assist individuals in healing from childhood and adulthood trauma. My goal is to provide individuals with a healthier perspective about life, the resources and support to make decisions and behavioral changes. I work with children, adolescents, adults, families and groups who have challenges managing symptoms of ADHD, Anxiety, Anger management, Bipolar Disorder, Depression and PTSD. Individuals are assisted in developing treatment plans to develop coping and social skills to enhance their quality of life.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Sex Offender Treatment Provider. I am committed to assist individuals in healing from childhood and adulthood trauma. My goal is to provide individuals with a healthier perspective about life, the resources and support to make decisions and behavioral changes. I work with children, adolescents, adults, families and groups who have challenges managing symptoms of ADHD, Anxiety, Anger management, Bipolar Disorder, Depression and PTSD. Individuals are assisted in developing treatment plans to develop coping and social skills to enhance their quality of life.
(804) 655-5095 View (804) 655-5095
Photo of Serena Matuk, Licensed Professional Counselor in Altavista, VA
Serena Matuk
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlottesville, VA 22911
I used a trauma-informed, eclectic approach to tailor treatment for each client.
"I hope you are blessed with a heart like a wildflower. Strong enough to rise again after being trampled upon, tough enough to weather the worst of summer storms, and able to grow and flourish even in the most broken places." -Nikita Gill The impact of trauma, anxiety, or depression in your life can lead you to feel isolated, stuck, or disempowered. As a licensed counselor, I believe that no one should have to manage those feelings on their own. Through developing a strong therapeutic alliance, I assist my clients with identifying their goals for themselves and walk alongside them on their journey towards growth and healing.
I used a trauma-informed, eclectic approach to tailor treatment for each client.
"I hope you are blessed with a heart like a wildflower. Strong enough to rise again after being trampled upon, tough enough to weather the worst of summer storms, and able to grow and flourish even in the most broken places." -Nikita Gill The impact of trauma, anxiety, or depression in your life can lead you to feel isolated, stuck, or disempowered. As a licensed counselor, I believe that no one should have to manage those feelings on their own. Through developing a strong therapeutic alliance, I assist my clients with identifying their goals for themselves and walk alongside them on their journey towards growth and healing.
(434) 201-7651 View (434) 201-7651
Photo of Laura M. Van Waardenburg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Altavista, VA
Laura M. Van Waardenburg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22902
I currently have a few openings for new clients. There is a way to feel better and get your life back. The key to making lasting improvements is to have a skilled, trained therapist help guide you with compassion. I have the experience and training to help people suffering from depression, anxiety and trauma. I work with adults to assist them in overcoming challenges that impact their lives and relationships. Sometimes memories can be so terrifying, overwhelming and painful its hard to live the life you want with out help. I enjoy helping my clients meet their goals so they can live more fully.
I currently have a few openings for new clients. There is a way to feel better and get your life back. The key to making lasting improvements is to have a skilled, trained therapist help guide you with compassion. I have the experience and training to help people suffering from depression, anxiety and trauma. I work with adults to assist them in overcoming challenges that impact their lives and relationships. Sometimes memories can be so terrifying, overwhelming and painful its hard to live the life you want with out help. I enjoy helping my clients meet their goals so they can live more fully.
(434) 771-3489 View (434) 771-3489
Photo of Tesa Mullins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Altavista, VA
Tesa Mullins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Midlothian, VA 23113  (Online Only)
Welcome to a space where your mental health takes center stage. I am dedicated in guiding you on your journey to emotional well-being. With a warm and empathetic approach, I provide a safe haven for self-exploration and growth. As a licensed clinical social worker, I bring a wealth of experience and a genuine passion for helping individuals navigate life's challenges. My therapeutic style is rooted in compassion, respect, and collaboration. Together, we'll explore your thoughts and feelings, working towards empowering you to grow and make changes in your life.
Welcome to a space where your mental health takes center stage. I am dedicated in guiding you on your journey to emotional well-being. With a warm and empathetic approach, I provide a safe haven for self-exploration and growth. As a licensed clinical social worker, I bring a wealth of experience and a genuine passion for helping individuals navigate life's challenges. My therapeutic style is rooted in compassion, respect, and collaboration. Together, we'll explore your thoughts and feelings, working towards empowering you to grow and make changes in your life.
(757) 854-9409 View (757) 854-9409
Photo of Riley Koren, Licensed Professional Counselor in Altavista, VA
Riley Koren
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMT
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22902
Through 15 years of work as a massage therapist, I have seen a variety of ways in which emotional trauma lodges itself in the physical body. I feel passionate about supporting people through exploration of this potent mind-body-spirit system toward healing and resolution.
Through 15 years of work as a massage therapist, I have seen a variety of ways in which emotional trauma lodges itself in the physical body. I feel passionate about supporting people through exploration of this potent mind-body-spirit system toward healing and resolution.
(434) 215-0243 View (434) 215-0243
Photo of Jennie Brogan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Altavista, VA
Jennie Brogan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Blacksburg, VA 24060
Jennie Brogan (pronouns she/her/they) is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 8 years of experience working with individuals in various counseling arenas. Jennie specializes in topics related to sex and sexuality, sex therapy, couples/relationship therapy, LGBTQ+ issues, "alternative lifestyles," religion & faith, and the intersection of sex and faith. She has been successful in treating clients with depression, anxiety disorders, trauma, grief and loss, adjustment disorders, and self-esteem issues. She has helped individuals develop healthy relationships, confidence, assertiveness, and communication skills.
Jennie Brogan (pronouns she/her/they) is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 8 years of experience working with individuals in various counseling arenas. Jennie specializes in topics related to sex and sexuality, sex therapy, couples/relationship therapy, LGBTQ+ issues, "alternative lifestyles," religion & faith, and the intersection of sex and faith. She has been successful in treating clients with depression, anxiety disorders, trauma, grief and loss, adjustment disorders, and self-esteem issues. She has helped individuals develop healthy relationships, confidence, assertiveness, and communication skills.
(540) 210-1550 View (540) 210-1550
Photo of Will Datta, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Altavista, VA
Will Datta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, C-SOTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Midlothian, VA 23112
I utilize a person-centered approach and therapeutic techniques rooted in CBT, Solution Focused, and Trauma-informed interventions.
If you find it hard to talk or even think about the past, if you find yourself in unhealthy cycles or often ask yourself “Why am I continuing to have this problem?”, if you find yourself becoming overwhelmed easier than you have in the past, if you are experiencing a difficult time through life changes, or if you just need someone to listen, then I am here.
I utilize a person-centered approach and therapeutic techniques rooted in CBT, Solution Focused, and Trauma-informed interventions.
If you find it hard to talk or even think about the past, if you find yourself in unhealthy cycles or often ask yourself “Why am I continuing to have this problem?”, if you find yourself becoming overwhelmed easier than you have in the past, if you are experiencing a difficult time through life changes, or if you just need someone to listen, then I am here.
(804) 315-3627 x2 View (804) 315-3627 x2
Photo of Mehr Niazi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Altavista, VA
Mehr Niazi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23229  (Online Only)
I work from a trauma informed perspective and believe in meeting the clients where they are in their journey.
Are you struggling in a relationship? Dealing with stress at work? Trying to bridge the gap between two cultures or struggling to find your identity? Feeling overwhelmed or just not like yourself? Maybe it feels like nothing is going your way or there is too much on your plate. The fact that you are here means you have already taken the first step towards feeling better. You no longer need to be stuck in a place of anxiety, anger, trauma or stress. Let's work together to find a healthier place to be, a better understanding of yourself and how to deal with the stress in your life.
I work from a trauma informed perspective and believe in meeting the clients where they are in their journey.
Are you struggling in a relationship? Dealing with stress at work? Trying to bridge the gap between two cultures or struggling to find your identity? Feeling overwhelmed or just not like yourself? Maybe it feels like nothing is going your way or there is too much on your plate. The fact that you are here means you have already taken the first step towards feeling better. You no longer need to be stuck in a place of anxiety, anger, trauma or stress. Let's work together to find a healthier place to be, a better understanding of yourself and how to deal with the stress in your life.
(804) 596-6547 View (804) 596-6547
Photo of Westmoreland Counseling Services, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Altavista, VA
Westmoreland Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Cave Spring, VA 24018
Areas of special interest and experience: adjustment disorders, trauma/stress (physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, rape, accidents, veterans); depression; bipolar disorder; anxiety disorders (generalized anxiety disorder, panic attacks), life transitions; career issues; grief and loss; self-esteem; chronic pain and stress management.
Counseling and Clinical Supervision: Would you like to improve your overall life satisfaction? Counseling helps people to improve their overall life satisfaction by supporting them in making changes. These changes can improve mood, sleep, relationships, work productivity, physical health and more according to your individual goals. I work with people 18 years old and up to support them in effectively making positive changes in their lives. My focus is on developing a trust-based relationship with clients to support them in reaching their goals that improve their overall life satisfaction and wellbeing.
Areas of special interest and experience: adjustment disorders, trauma/stress (physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, rape, accidents, veterans); depression; bipolar disorder; anxiety disorders (generalized anxiety disorder, panic attacks), life transitions; career issues; grief and loss; self-esteem; chronic pain and stress management.
Counseling and Clinical Supervision: Would you like to improve your overall life satisfaction? Counseling helps people to improve their overall life satisfaction by supporting them in making changes. These changes can improve mood, sleep, relationships, work productivity, physical health and more according to your individual goals. I work with people 18 years old and up to support them in effectively making positive changes in their lives. My focus is on developing a trust-based relationship with clients to support them in reaching their goals that improve their overall life satisfaction and wellbeing.
(540) 709-7530 View (540) 709-7530
Photo of Hollie O'Connor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Altavista, VA
Hollie O'Connor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Blacksburg, VA 24060  (Online Only)
Hollie L. O'Connor is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and substance use professional with 11 years of experience in the field of mental health and addictions. She is passionate about helping adolescents, teens, adults, and couples address their unique challenges and work toward improving their overall quality of life. Hollie specializes in anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, substance use disorders, borderline personality disorder, major life transitions, grief and loss, and relationship issues. She is a veteran of the U.S. Air Force, where she served for 6 years during Desert Shield/Desert Storm 2 years in the Reserves.
Hollie L. O'Connor is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and substance use professional with 11 years of experience in the field of mental health and addictions. She is passionate about helping adolescents, teens, adults, and couples address their unique challenges and work toward improving their overall quality of life. Hollie specializes in anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, substance use disorders, borderline personality disorder, major life transitions, grief and loss, and relationship issues. She is a veteran of the U.S. Air Force, where she served for 6 years during Desert Shield/Desert Storm 2 years in the Reserves.
(540) 579-5359 View (540) 579-5359
Photo of Kimberly Warner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Altavista, VA
Kimberly Warner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAC-S, ADHDCCP, EMDRIA
Verified Verified
Midlothian, VA 23114
Kimberly Warner is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker-Supervisory and a Credentialed Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC)-Supervisory, in the states: Virginia and New York. She has 13+ years of experience as a mental health, trauma, and chemical dependency therapist, and 6 years of Clinical Supervision & Director experience. Kim is credentialed in various evidence based therapeutic modules related to those dealing with trauma/adversities.
Kimberly Warner is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker-Supervisory and a Credentialed Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC)-Supervisory, in the states: Virginia and New York. She has 13+ years of experience as a mental health, trauma, and chemical dependency therapist, and 6 years of Clinical Supervision & Director experience. Kim is credentialed in various evidence based therapeutic modules related to those dealing with trauma/adversities.
(804) 600-4671 View (804) 600-4671
Photo of David Matt Gamble, Pre-Licensed Professional in Altavista, VA
David Matt Gamble
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Midlothian, VA 23113  (Online Only)
Tailored support for trauma, addiction, and mood disorders.
Matt is a veteran of the mental health industry with 20+ years of progressive experience. Practicing from a cultural-relational perspective, he believes in everyone's potential for greatness. By building strong therapeutic rapport, Matt facilitates transformative work in therapy. Specializing in trauma, addiction, and mood disorders, he rejects a cookie-cutter approach to mental health. Committed to individualized care, Matt fosters healing and growth through tailored interventions. Ongoing professional development fuels his compassionate and client-centered approach.
Tailored support for trauma, addiction, and mood disorders.
Matt is a veteran of the mental health industry with 20+ years of progressive experience. Practicing from a cultural-relational perspective, he believes in everyone's potential for greatness. By building strong therapeutic rapport, Matt facilitates transformative work in therapy. Specializing in trauma, addiction, and mood disorders, he rejects a cookie-cutter approach to mental health. Committed to individualized care, Matt fosters healing and growth through tailored interventions. Ongoing professional development fuels his compassionate and client-centered approach.
(804) 902-2354 View (804) 902-2354
Photo of Fink Psychological Services, LLC, Psychologist in Altavista, VA
Fink Psychological Services, LLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Blacksburg, VA 24060
I have received specialized training in trauma-focused work, including certification in EMDR, as well as training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
Connections with others who foster growth and nurturance are so important for us as humans to live to our fullest potential. I recognize this truth in my psychotherapy with others and in my own personal relationships. My goal in my work is to empower people through a better understanding of themselves and to help others discover meaning and joy in their own lives. Working with trauma, depression, emotional dysregulation, interpersonal problems, relationship issues, grief, challenges with transitions, and/or challenging behavioral problems are all areas of experience and areas in which I feel honored to explore with individuals.
I have received specialized training in trauma-focused work, including certification in EMDR, as well as training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
Connections with others who foster growth and nurturance are so important for us as humans to live to our fullest potential. I recognize this truth in my psychotherapy with others and in my own personal relationships. My goal in my work is to empower people through a better understanding of themselves and to help others discover meaning and joy in their own lives. Working with trauma, depression, emotional dysregulation, interpersonal problems, relationship issues, grief, challenges with transitions, and/or challenging behavioral problems are all areas of experience and areas in which I feel honored to explore with individuals.
(843) 461-4789 View (843) 461-4789
Photo of Kira Mantell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Altavista, VA
Kira Mantell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Staunton, VA 24401  (Online Only)
As a native New Yorker surviving the collective trauma of COVID19, I am reminded of the collective trauma of 9/11.
I’m Kira, a clinician who is practicing everyday, and learning new things because I’m challenged by the work that we do together. This is a safe place for us to practice, challenge one another, plant seeds and grow anew. Everyone experiences life challenges and changes that can create stress, confusion, discomfort and pain. Because life isn’t perfect, some or many of them cause wounding. Therapy can help you work through these life challenges and changes to create an easier journey.
As a native New Yorker surviving the collective trauma of COVID19, I am reminded of the collective trauma of 9/11.
I’m Kira, a clinician who is practicing everyday, and learning new things because I’m challenged by the work that we do together. This is a safe place for us to practice, challenge one another, plant seeds and grow anew. Everyone experiences life challenges and changes that can create stress, confusion, discomfort and pain. Because life isn’t perfect, some or many of them cause wounding. Therapy can help you work through these life challenges and changes to create an easier journey.
(571) 601-4661 View (571) 601-4661
Photo of Lanz Travers, Licensed Professional Counselor in Altavista, VA
Lanz Travers
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22902
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in providing support to adults (18 yo+) experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, low self worth, relationship challenges, life transitions, and post-traumatic stress.
I support individuals in building a bridge to a place within where they feel a deep sense of connection. I provide a gentle, compassionate presence for you to explore your inner experience—your emotions, thoughts, memories, and physical feelings. We work collaboratively to illuminate and integrate both conscious and unconscious experiences to achieve more congruence. I hold great respect for all aspects of your identity, your beliefs, and the wisdom you have for your own life.
I specialize in providing support to adults (18 yo+) experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, low self worth, relationship challenges, life transitions, and post-traumatic stress.
I support individuals in building a bridge to a place within where they feel a deep sense of connection. I provide a gentle, compassionate presence for you to explore your inner experience—your emotions, thoughts, memories, and physical feelings. We work collaboratively to illuminate and integrate both conscious and unconscious experiences to achieve more congruence. I hold great respect for all aspects of your identity, your beliefs, and the wisdom you have for your own life.
(434) 361-4197 View (434) 361-4197
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.