Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Luray, VA

Photo of Deveney Elizabeth Quinney, Resident in Counseling in Luray, VA
Deveney Elizabeth Quinney
Resident in Counseling, MA
Verified Verified
Luray, VA 22835
Not accepting new clients
I employ a Humanistic approach to counseling and specialize in trauma, SUD, personality disorders, OCD, anxiety and mood disorders.
I enjoy working with a wide variety of individuals and believe that the therapeutic relationship can be a catalyst for an array of life affirming changes. Every individual has the right to find peace, joy and satisfaction in life. Often our inner dialogues, messages we've received from others, as well as traumatic and painful life experiences can interfere with our ability to find peace. In our work together, my goal will be to assist you in reaching whatever it is that you define as the best life for you.
I employ a Humanistic approach to counseling and specialize in trauma, SUD, personality disorders, OCD, anxiety and mood disorders.
I enjoy working with a wide variety of individuals and believe that the therapeutic relationship can be a catalyst for an array of life affirming changes. Every individual has the right to find peace, joy and satisfaction in life. Often our inner dialogues, messages we've received from others, as well as traumatic and painful life experiences can interfere with our ability to find peace. In our work together, my goal will be to assist you in reaching whatever it is that you define as the best life for you.
(540) 534-0313 View (540) 534-0313
Photo of Jeff Lown, Licensed Professional Counselor in Luray, VA
Jeff Lown
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, EdS, LPC
Verified Verified
Luray, VA 22835
Not accepting new clients
I provide individual counseling for adolescents and adults, with experience treating depression, anxiety, trauma, as well as helping individuals cope with bipolar, personality, and schizophrenia spectrum disorders.
There is never a wrong time to start therapy, nor is there a right one. We won’t worry about right or wrong, but instead we’ll accept where you are - as we work together to discover where you want to go and how to get there. I spend a lot of my free time hiking, seeking out new and interesting terrain. The growth you will hopefully experience during our work together may be much like a challenging hike, with some gentle slopes and triumphant summits, but also with trips, stumbles, and strenuous climbs. I cannot climb your mountains for you, but I will climb them with you and help to show you the way forward.
I provide individual counseling for adolescents and adults, with experience treating depression, anxiety, trauma, as well as helping individuals cope with bipolar, personality, and schizophrenia spectrum disorders.
There is never a wrong time to start therapy, nor is there a right one. We won’t worry about right or wrong, but instead we’ll accept where you are - as we work together to discover where you want to go and how to get there. I spend a lot of my free time hiking, seeking out new and interesting terrain. The growth you will hopefully experience during our work together may be much like a challenging hike, with some gentle slopes and triumphant summits, but also with trips, stumbles, and strenuous climbs. I cannot climb your mountains for you, but I will climb them with you and help to show you the way forward.
(540) 534-4438 View (540) 534-4438

Online Therapists

Photo of Tonia Gregory, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Luray, VA
Tonia Gregory
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314
My expertise includes alcohol and substance use disorders, adjustment disorders, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, chronic illness and interpersonal challenges.
My belief in the therapeutic relationship as foundational for personal growth and change in individual psychotherapy motivates me to ensure a therapeutic environment that is both safe and validating. My style is collaborative and non-judgmental as I work in partnership with individuals to promote healing, foster strengths and move toward positive change.
My expertise includes alcohol and substance use disorders, adjustment disorders, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, chronic illness and interpersonal challenges.
My belief in the therapeutic relationship as foundational for personal growth and change in individual psychotherapy motivates me to ensure a therapeutic environment that is both safe and validating. My style is collaborative and non-judgmental as I work in partnership with individuals to promote healing, foster strengths and move toward positive change.
(703) 596-2793 View (703) 596-2793
Photo of Leah Brown, Licensed Professional Counselor in Luray, VA
Leah Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LSCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fredericksburg, VA 22401
Need help yesterday? I assist motivated clients to make significant therapy progress through intensive therapy appointments and personal retreat packages. The one session every week or two model is not the best for everyone. Intensive sessions create sustained focus on specific objectives, ensuring more efficient results. If your schedule makes weekly appointments difficult or you need to get significant relief from your trauma triggers quickly, keep reading to see if I may be a good fit for you.
Need help yesterday? I assist motivated clients to make significant therapy progress through intensive therapy appointments and personal retreat packages. The one session every week or two model is not the best for everyone. Intensive sessions create sustained focus on specific objectives, ensuring more efficient results. If your schedule makes weekly appointments difficult or you need to get significant relief from your trauma triggers quickly, keep reading to see if I may be a good fit for you.
(540) 551-7891 View (540) 551-7891
Photo of Jaime Bosserman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Luray, VA
Jaime Bosserman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LPC
Verified Verified
Ashburn, VA 20147
Jaime believes in creating a safe and non-judgmental space for people to heal from past trauma, overcome adversity and work on living your best, most authentic life.
Jaime uses an integrative approach using techniques from multiple modalities including TF-CBT, DBT, IFS and EMDR. Jaime has previous experience working in both residential and intensive outpatient settings where she gained experience and expertise treating high risk populations (those with suicidal ideation and self injurious behavior). She has a special love for working with LGBT-Q+ populations. Jaime specializes in working with trauma, mood/anxiety disorders, pregnancy/postpartum mental health and working with people who are ethically non-monogamous.
Jaime believes in creating a safe and non-judgmental space for people to heal from past trauma, overcome adversity and work on living your best, most authentic life.
Jaime uses an integrative approach using techniques from multiple modalities including TF-CBT, DBT, IFS and EMDR. Jaime has previous experience working in both residential and intensive outpatient settings where she gained experience and expertise treating high risk populations (those with suicidal ideation and self injurious behavior). She has a special love for working with LGBT-Q+ populations. Jaime specializes in working with trauma, mood/anxiety disorders, pregnancy/postpartum mental health and working with people who are ethically non-monogamous.
(703) 457-9409 View (703) 457-9409
Photo of Lisa Zager, LPC, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Luray, VA
Lisa Zager, LPC, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22203  (Online Only)
Training as a trauma therapist allows me to understand the instinctive trauma response and appreciate what may feel like micromovements toward recovery.
My purpose in each therapeutic relationship is to create a safe environment where compassion and curiosity rule. I respect the courage it takes to explore vulnerability. I have just as much respect for protective strategies that are employed,no matter how constructive or destructive they may seem. In our time together we will focus on bringing clarity to both internal and external or relational distress. My education, training and experience have prepared me to address issues of grief, trauma and transition from many angles.
Training as a trauma therapist allows me to understand the instinctive trauma response and appreciate what may feel like micromovements toward recovery.
My purpose in each therapeutic relationship is to create a safe environment where compassion and curiosity rule. I respect the courage it takes to explore vulnerability. I have just as much respect for protective strategies that are employed,no matter how constructive or destructive they may seem. In our time together we will focus on bringing clarity to both internal and external or relational distress. My education, training and experience have prepared me to address issues of grief, trauma and transition from many angles.
(703) 935-5801 View (703) 935-5801
Photo of Ellie Mental Health of Woodbridge, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Luray, VA
Ellie Mental Health of Woodbridge
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, VA 22192
We work with moods, anxiety, depression, transitions, hyperactivity, emotions and trauma.
Ellie Mental Health of Woodbridge isn’t your average therapy clinic. We will help you wherever you are located. We have Immediate Availability for Tele-Health Therapy and evening hours for those in school or who work. Whether telehealth or in person, we want you to feel safe, relaxed and real. Anyone, from 5 to 99, children, teens and adults can be authentic where you’re at in your mental health. Has it been a tough week with family and friends? Are you struggling at work? Are your kids overwhelmed at school? Do you feel STUCK? Call us, Let us know, we can help! We are filling the gap between surviving and thriving.
We work with moods, anxiety, depression, transitions, hyperactivity, emotions and trauma.
Ellie Mental Health of Woodbridge isn’t your average therapy clinic. We will help you wherever you are located. We have Immediate Availability for Tele-Health Therapy and evening hours for those in school or who work. Whether telehealth or in person, we want you to feel safe, relaxed and real. Anyone, from 5 to 99, children, teens and adults can be authentic where you’re at in your mental health. Has it been a tough week with family and friends? Are you struggling at work? Are your kids overwhelmed at school? Do you feel STUCK? Call us, Let us know, we can help! We are filling the gap between surviving and thriving.
(703) 215-1831 View (703) 215-1831
Photo of Brandy Suchyta, Licensed Professional Counselor in Luray, VA
Brandy Suchyta
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22304
My passion lies in working with individuals who are facing issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, relational conflict, behavioral issues, and self-esteem, among other areas.
I provide a safe and supportive environment where clients can be heard and empowered to explore, discover, understand, and transform their lives. Many of my clients come seeking clarity on why they feel the way they feel, why their actions aren’t aligning with the person they know they are, what’s getting in the way of their goals, and how they have established relationship patterns that do not serve them. I work with clients to create a space that invites creativity and curiosity to solve problems, alleviate symptoms, and look inward at how our ways of thinking, feeling and behaving may be constricting our freedom to achieve.
My passion lies in working with individuals who are facing issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, relational conflict, behavioral issues, and self-esteem, among other areas.
I provide a safe and supportive environment where clients can be heard and empowered to explore, discover, understand, and transform their lives. Many of my clients come seeking clarity on why they feel the way they feel, why their actions aren’t aligning with the person they know they are, what’s getting in the way of their goals, and how they have established relationship patterns that do not serve them. I work with clients to create a space that invites creativity and curiosity to solve problems, alleviate symptoms, and look inward at how our ways of thinking, feeling and behaving may be constricting our freedom to achieve.
(703) 639-4122 View (703) 639-4122
Photo of Kaitlyn Steel, Marriage & Family Therapist in Luray, VA
Kaitlyn Steel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Virginia and New York. I earned my Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy/Counseling from Capella University and my Bachelor’s in Psychology from Christopher Newport University. I am also a member of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy. I work with couples and individuals on a multitude of issues including transition, communication, addiction, life-events, and more. I practice from an attachment-based, trauma informed, Emotionally Focused Therapy model.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Virginia and New York. I earned my Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy/Counseling from Capella University and my Bachelor’s in Psychology from Christopher Newport University. I am also a member of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy. I work with couples and individuals on a multitude of issues including transition, communication, addiction, life-events, and more. I practice from an attachment-based, trauma informed, Emotionally Focused Therapy model.
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Photo of Lourdes San Pedro, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Luray, VA
Lourdes San Pedro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
My role as a therapist is to provide a safe, judgment-free and compassionate environment for clients to be understood and supported in their personal growth. I enjoy working with clients from all walks of life. Whether you are interested in moving forward from the past, feel overwhelmed by the stress of the day-to-day, worry about the future, or ir you are struggling with effects of trauma, depression, anxiety or stress, I am here for you.
My role as a therapist is to provide a safe, judgment-free and compassionate environment for clients to be understood and supported in their personal growth. I enjoy working with clients from all walks of life. Whether you are interested in moving forward from the past, feel overwhelmed by the stress of the day-to-day, worry about the future, or ir you are struggling with effects of trauma, depression, anxiety or stress, I am here for you.
(571) 554-5091 View (571) 554-5091
Photo of Toni Davis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Luray, VA
Toni Davis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23230
Toni Davis is a Nationally Certified Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC-NC) with over 10 years of experience treating adults and couples who are suffering from concerns or conditions related to anxiety, depression, grief, loss, relationship dysfunction, low self-esteem, divorce, trauma, PTSD, and more.
Toni Davis is a Nationally Certified Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC-NC) with over 10 years of experience treating adults and couples who are suffering from concerns or conditions related to anxiety, depression, grief, loss, relationship dysfunction, low self-esteem, divorce, trauma, PTSD, and more.
(804) 361-9064 View (804) 361-9064
Photo of Renewal Christian Counseling, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Luray, VA
Renewal Christian Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Chester, VA 23831  (Online Only)
My counseling experience includes working with individuals who have experienced a variety of reasons for seeking help to include but not limited to trauma, grief/loss, substance abuse, self-worth/self-esteem issues, stress management, relationship challenges, symptom management, spiritual conflicts, effective/assertive communication, depression and anxiety. Additionally, I have facilitated support and counseling groups for the geriatric population and their adult caregivers. I am also a Certified PREPARE/ENRICH facilitator. I specialize in Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and anxiety.
My counseling experience includes working with individuals who have experienced a variety of reasons for seeking help to include but not limited to trauma, grief/loss, substance abuse, self-worth/self-esteem issues, stress management, relationship challenges, symptom management, spiritual conflicts, effective/assertive communication, depression and anxiety. Additionally, I have facilitated support and counseling groups for the geriatric population and their adult caregivers. I am also a Certified PREPARE/ENRICH facilitator. I specialize in Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and anxiety.
(804) 207-5721 View (804) 207-5721
Photo of Ashlea Hopkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Luray, VA
Ashlea Hopkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Warrenton, VA 20187
I have a history of working with those who have experienced trauma and have a passion for helping people integrate their experiences for happier more functional lives.
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. Video Counseling! Do you feel overwhelmed or stressed? Do you feel sad or alone? Therapy can help. Finding a therapist you can talk can bring hope. Are you an athlete that needs help improving performance, managing athletic stress, or overcoming fear? I specialize in working with athletes and athletic organizations. I offer on site and online services so that it fits into your busy practice and competition schedule. You don't have to figure it out alone. I will be accepting the listed insurances in April 2022.
I have a history of working with those who have experienced trauma and have a passion for helping people integrate their experiences for happier more functional lives.
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. Video Counseling! Do you feel overwhelmed or stressed? Do you feel sad or alone? Therapy can help. Finding a therapist you can talk can bring hope. Are you an athlete that needs help improving performance, managing athletic stress, or overcoming fear? I specialize in working with athletes and athletic organizations. I offer on site and online services so that it fits into your busy practice and competition schedule. You don't have to figure it out alone. I will be accepting the listed insurances in April 2022.
(540) 217-4270 View (540) 217-4270
Photo of Adrienne Loker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Luray, VA
Adrienne Loker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR, SE
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Henrico, VA 23238
Cutting edge trauma therapy that uproots symptoms at the source - our clients come to us after years of therapy that didn't get them to where they wanted to go. They're exhausted, fed up, and sometimes feel like they're broken. This is because their treatment only addressed 20% of the brain - and not even the part where mental health symptoms are born. Our trauma treatment specialists use innovative modalities to work directly with the brainstem to renegotiate our nervous system responses. Join our free site membership to receive weekly guided videos and educational resources.
Cutting edge trauma therapy that uproots symptoms at the source - our clients come to us after years of therapy that didn't get them to where they wanted to go. They're exhausted, fed up, and sometimes feel like they're broken. This is because their treatment only addressed 20% of the brain - and not even the part where mental health symptoms are born. Our trauma treatment specialists use innovative modalities to work directly with the brainstem to renegotiate our nervous system responses. Join our free site membership to receive weekly guided videos and educational resources.
(804) 636-3224 View (804) 636-3224
Photo of Samantha Shifflett, Resident in Counseling in Luray, VA
Samantha Shifflett
Resident in Counseling, MS
Verified Verified
Rochelle, VA 22738
I typically work with pre-teens, teens, and young adults with a focus on therapeutic modalities in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (Tf-CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and relationship/ family therapy.
As both a therapist and a dog trainer, it would be my honor to guide you in your journey towards healing and self-discovery. I work with clients who feel lost and are unsure of who they really are. Many of dog lovers. Our journey together includes a focus on self-discovery and inner healing, incorporating the positive influence and unconditional love of the bond between humans and dogs. We'll explore your unique strengths, values, and aspirations, fostering a sense of self-love and authenticity with the support of this special connection.
I typically work with pre-teens, teens, and young adults with a focus on therapeutic modalities in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (Tf-CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and relationship/ family therapy.
As both a therapist and a dog trainer, it would be my honor to guide you in your journey towards healing and self-discovery. I work with clients who feel lost and are unsure of who they really are. Many of dog lovers. Our journey together includes a focus on self-discovery and inner healing, incorporating the positive influence and unconditional love of the bond between humans and dogs. We'll explore your unique strengths, values, and aspirations, fostering a sense of self-love and authenticity with the support of this special connection.
(540) 579-5503 View (540) 579-5503
Photo of Ashley Elliott, Pre-Licensed Professional in Luray, VA
Ashley Elliott
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22201
Clinical interests include but aren't limited to, community mental health, client psycho-education/health education, substance abuse treatment, group therapy, severe mental illness, urban trauma, LBGTQ+ issues, chronic mental illness, innovative approaches to individual therapy, the integration of non-traditional approaches & artistic expression in therapy.
“I’m here to encourage people in their moments of hurt, confusion, and disorder. I work to enlighten them on how to use tools to begin healing and growing. I focus on empowering them as they embark on these journeys with me, so they are equipped to thrive when they are ready to navigate without me.”
Clinical interests include but aren't limited to, community mental health, client psycho-education/health education, substance abuse treatment, group therapy, severe mental illness, urban trauma, LBGTQ+ issues, chronic mental illness, innovative approaches to individual therapy, the integration of non-traditional approaches & artistic expression in therapy.
“I’m here to encourage people in their moments of hurt, confusion, and disorder. I work to enlighten them on how to use tools to begin healing and growing. I focus on empowering them as they embark on these journeys with me, so they are equipped to thrive when they are ready to navigate without me.”
(703) 828-0285 View (703) 828-0285
Photo of Youth For Tomorrow, Licensed Professional Counselor in Luray, VA
Youth For Tomorrow
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, DBTC
Verified Verified
Bristow, VA 20136
We serve children, adolescents and adults with a wide variety of issues including but not limited to: depression, anxiety and panic symptoms, post-traumatic stress, substance abuse, anger issues, grief and loss, self-harm, issues related to attachment, co-occurring disorders, aggression, attention deficits and other behavioral concerns.
We provide behavioral health services with professional excellence, Christian integrity, professional insight, and genuine compassion. Our staff is comprised of therapists with various credentials, backgrounds, trainings, and specialties, so we are able to offer a wide variety of treatment, including play therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma-informed care, and behavioral intervention. Our staff includes psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed clinicians, therapists, and nurses.
We serve children, adolescents and adults with a wide variety of issues including but not limited to: depression, anxiety and panic symptoms, post-traumatic stress, substance abuse, anger issues, grief and loss, self-harm, issues related to attachment, co-occurring disorders, aggression, attention deficits and other behavioral concerns.
We provide behavioral health services with professional excellence, Christian integrity, professional insight, and genuine compassion. Our staff is comprised of therapists with various credentials, backgrounds, trainings, and specialties, so we are able to offer a wide variety of treatment, including play therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma-informed care, and behavioral intervention. Our staff includes psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed clinicians, therapists, and nurses.
(571) 595-3876 View (571) 595-3876
Photo of Cristina S. Daniels, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Luray, VA
Cristina S. Daniels
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Midlothian, VA 23112
I use an integrative style of therapy that is client centered, strengths focused, and trauma formed and blends mindfulness, CBT, and psychodynamic concepts in the work that I do with others.
The clients that I work with have a wide varieties of things that they would like to improve in their lives. I work with children, adolescents, teens, adults, and families to help them live more peaceful lives. My goals is to help my clients better manage whatever is keeping them from having a calm and content existence.
I use an integrative style of therapy that is client centered, strengths focused, and trauma formed and blends mindfulness, CBT, and psychodynamic concepts in the work that I do with others.
The clients that I work with have a wide varieties of things that they would like to improve in their lives. I work with children, adolescents, teens, adults, and families to help them live more peaceful lives. My goals is to help my clients better manage whatever is keeping them from having a calm and content existence.
(804) 575-5660 View (804) 575-5660
Photo of Rashell Gamble, Licensed Professional Counselor in Luray, VA
Rashell Gamble
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23225  (Online Only)
I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and certified grief counselor.
I understand that looking for, and finding, a therapist that you connect with, can feel overwhelming. Trying to manage the things that worry or challenge you can be pushed aside for countless reasons, yet when issues aren't addressed, they can affect every part of your life. Regardless of what led you to seek counseling, I will offer you support, practical feedback, and a little bit of humor, to help you resolve the current or long-standing concerns in your life. Whether you are struggling with a situation, relationship, or change in your life, we will navigate the path of growth and wellness together.
I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and certified grief counselor.
I understand that looking for, and finding, a therapist that you connect with, can feel overwhelming. Trying to manage the things that worry or challenge you can be pushed aside for countless reasons, yet when issues aren't addressed, they can affect every part of your life. Regardless of what led you to seek counseling, I will offer you support, practical feedback, and a little bit of humor, to help you resolve the current or long-standing concerns in your life. Whether you are struggling with a situation, relationship, or change in your life, we will navigate the path of growth and wellness together.
(757) 260-3179 View (757) 260-3179
Photo of Painted Bird Psychotherapy LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Luray, VA
Painted Bird Psychotherapy LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CMCC
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23225  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with something and do not know where to turn? Are current issues with career, relationships, finances keeping you stuck? Perhaps, it’s buried deeper in your past and you need the positive space to process and ultimately heal. Whatever you are having difficulty moving through, we are committed to providing you with the nonjudgmental, empathetic and caring therapeutic intervention that you seek. Highly trained in complex trauma, depression and anxiety disorders. we utilize a humanistic and whole person approach which utilizes a tailored treatment plan dependent on your individual needs. Call for free consultation.
Are you struggling with something and do not know where to turn? Are current issues with career, relationships, finances keeping you stuck? Perhaps, it’s buried deeper in your past and you need the positive space to process and ultimately heal. Whatever you are having difficulty moving through, we are committed to providing you with the nonjudgmental, empathetic and caring therapeutic intervention that you seek. Highly trained in complex trauma, depression and anxiety disorders. we utilize a humanistic and whole person approach which utilizes a tailored treatment plan dependent on your individual needs. Call for free consultation.
(757) 600-6613 View (757) 600-6613
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.