Photo of Paddy Freeman, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Paddy Freeman
Counselor, MA, OD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98109  (Online Only)
I use my training, especially Sensorimotor Psychotherapy (SP), to work with people who have experienced trauma (both Big Trauma & Attachment Wounding).
Greetings. I believe a calm, congruent, and genuine approach in psychotherapy is essential and that your sense of safety in the therapeutic relationship is crucial. I take a respectful and affirming stance toward my clients, and believe that therapy is a collaborative process. My goal is to create a deeply supportive environment of trust and acceptance where we can safely discover and explore.
I use my training, especially Sensorimotor Psychotherapy (SP), to work with people who have experienced trauma (both Big Trauma & Attachment Wounding).
Greetings. I believe a calm, congruent, and genuine approach in psychotherapy is essential and that your sense of safety in the therapeutic relationship is crucial. I take a respectful and affirming stance toward my clients, and believe that therapy is a collaborative process. My goal is to create a deeply supportive environment of trust and acceptance where we can safely discover and explore.
(206) 823-2386 View (206) 823-2386
Photo of Spira Counseling, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Spira Counseling
Counselor, MA, LMHC, ATR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98115  (Online Only)
my work is informed by a variety of models including: Trauma informed care, CBT, Existential Therapy, Art Therapy, Psycho-physiology, Mindfulness, and Motivational Person-Centered work.
I believe the beauty in each of us is contained in both light and shadow, and strive to hold compassionate loving-kindness for all aspects of the paradoxical nature of being human. Together we will explore existing strengths, while encouraging growth, and holistic wellness. I am currently providing tele-mental health only, which means we will meet via a HIPAA compliant teleconferencing platform. Tele-mental health has benefits and draw backs; please visit my website, or contact me, for questions and additional information. www.spiracounseling.com
my work is informed by a variety of models including: Trauma informed care, CBT, Existential Therapy, Art Therapy, Psycho-physiology, Mindfulness, and Motivational Person-Centered work.
I believe the beauty in each of us is contained in both light and shadow, and strive to hold compassionate loving-kindness for all aspects of the paradoxical nature of being human. Together we will explore existing strengths, while encouraging growth, and holistic wellness. I am currently providing tele-mental health only, which means we will meet via a HIPAA compliant teleconferencing platform. Tele-mental health has benefits and draw backs; please visit my website, or contact me, for questions and additional information. www.spiracounseling.com
(206) 426-0374 View (206) 426-0374
Photo of Jessie Rees, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Jessie Rees
Counselor, LMHCA, MHP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119  (Online Only)
If you have experienced childhood trauma or have PTSD, I will work with you to face the past and to reframe the beliefs that trauma causes.
Wherever you are in your life’s journey, I will meet you there and companion you as you move through the obstacles that have kept you from living fully. Life circumstances, trauma and sometimes simply trying to please others can influence how we live and the choices we make. We find that we are not living authentically. I believe that the goals in therapy are to return to our authentic selves and to make life choices that give us meaning, purpose and joy.
If you have experienced childhood trauma or have PTSD, I will work with you to face the past and to reframe the beliefs that trauma causes.
Wherever you are in your life’s journey, I will meet you there and companion you as you move through the obstacles that have kept you from living fully. Life circumstances, trauma and sometimes simply trying to please others can influence how we live and the choices we make. We find that we are not living authentically. I believe that the goals in therapy are to return to our authentic selves and to make life choices that give us meaning, purpose and joy.
(206) 207-2176 View (206) 207-2176
Photo of Claudia Correa, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Claudia Correa
Counselor, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107  (Online Only)
As your therapist, I will explore your concerns and assist you in uncovering deeper issues that might be hindering or influencing your relationships and your worldview. “Forces beyond your control can take away everything you possess except one thing, your freedom to choose how you will respond to the situation.” -- Dr. Viktor Frankl, Holocaust survivor, existentialist, and founder of Logotherapy (concept based on the premise that the primary motivational force of an individual is to find a meaning in life).
As your therapist, I will explore your concerns and assist you in uncovering deeper issues that might be hindering or influencing your relationships and your worldview. “Forces beyond your control can take away everything you possess except one thing, your freedom to choose how you will respond to the situation.” -- Dr. Viktor Frankl, Holocaust survivor, existentialist, and founder of Logotherapy (concept based on the premise that the primary motivational force of an individual is to find a meaning in life).
(206) 350-2239 View (206) 350-2239
Photo of Jen Hutchinson, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Jen Hutchinson
Counselor, PsyD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115  (Online Only)
I have counseled those with diagnoses such as Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Adjustment Disorders, Attachment Disorders, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, Psychosis and Eating Disorders.
I believe that therapy can greatly encourage us to make healthy choices and better navigate life's obstacles. I specialize in working with teens, college age individuals and adults of all ages. In one on one sessions, I strive to help individuals define their thoughts, identify important emotions, and express themselves in meaningful ways that bring about change. I view therapy as a collaborative process in which the client and the counselor work as a team to identify and define problems, develop future goals, and work toward achieving those goals. I utilize Humanistic, Psychodynamic, Narrative Therapy and Mindfulness approaches.
I have counseled those with diagnoses such as Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Adjustment Disorders, Attachment Disorders, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, Psychosis and Eating Disorders.
I believe that therapy can greatly encourage us to make healthy choices and better navigate life's obstacles. I specialize in working with teens, college age individuals and adults of all ages. In one on one sessions, I strive to help individuals define their thoughts, identify important emotions, and express themselves in meaningful ways that bring about change. I view therapy as a collaborative process in which the client and the counselor work as a team to identify and define problems, develop future goals, and work toward achieving those goals. I utilize Humanistic, Psychodynamic, Narrative Therapy and Mindfulness approaches.
(425) 728-2522 View (425) 728-2522
Photo of Kelsey Gordon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Kelsey Gordon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My practice focuses on youth & young adults ages 12-35. I'm especially passionate about working with BIPOC individuals. As a member of the BIPOC community, ensuring a safe, supportive space & practices that are culturally competent is a priority for me. I have several years of experience working with individuals who’ve struggled with acute & complex trauma, mood disorders, anxiety, neurodevelopmental disorders such as ADHD & ASD, and gender/sexuality exploration. My clinical skills are rooted in trauma-informed practices utilizing evidence-based principles from CBT, CPT, PE, Motivational Interviewing & Collaborative Problem Solving.
My practice focuses on youth & young adults ages 12-35. I'm especially passionate about working with BIPOC individuals. As a member of the BIPOC community, ensuring a safe, supportive space & practices that are culturally competent is a priority for me. I have several years of experience working with individuals who’ve struggled with acute & complex trauma, mood disorders, anxiety, neurodevelopmental disorders such as ADHD & ASD, and gender/sexuality exploration. My clinical skills are rooted in trauma-informed practices utilizing evidence-based principles from CBT, CPT, PE, Motivational Interviewing & Collaborative Problem Solving.
(206) 752-3472 View (206) 752-3472
Photo of Jessica Hoekstra, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Jessica Hoekstra
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103
At its core, I believe therapy to be about creating space for change. People come to therapy for a variety of reasons—seeking support and healing, desiring change, looking for relief from pain. With a relational and trauma-informed lens, we’ll look at how you landed here, in an effort to find new ways of being that may be kinder to yourself and more congruent with a whole and healthy life. I work with teens, adults, and couples on issues of trauma, anxiety, grief, relationships, life transitions, and identity formation. I have focused much of my work supporting women recovering from trauma.
At its core, I believe therapy to be about creating space for change. People come to therapy for a variety of reasons—seeking support and healing, desiring change, looking for relief from pain. With a relational and trauma-informed lens, we’ll look at how you landed here, in an effort to find new ways of being that may be kinder to yourself and more congruent with a whole and healthy life. I work with teens, adults, and couples on issues of trauma, anxiety, grief, relationships, life transitions, and identity formation. I have focused much of my work supporting women recovering from trauma.
(206) 207-9372 View (206) 207-9372
Photo of Thomas K Brown, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Thomas K Brown
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98109  (Online Only)
I focus on trauma and abuse and practice psychodynamically, which means that I will focus on learning who you are in relation to yourself and others.
When too much is too much and nothing seems to be working, therapy is an excellent place to start. We all respond to stress differently. Some common ways are lethargy, persistent thoughts, impulsive actions, body aches, or insomnia. You may apply words like depression, anxiety, or trauma to those symptoms which can feel big and scary. Therapy is where you can fully show up with any of it. Therapy contains the things that feel out of control and once a week or more you have a safe place to bring yourself authentically.
I focus on trauma and abuse and practice psychodynamically, which means that I will focus on learning who you are in relation to yourself and others.
When too much is too much and nothing seems to be working, therapy is an excellent place to start. We all respond to stress differently. Some common ways are lethargy, persistent thoughts, impulsive actions, body aches, or insomnia. You may apply words like depression, anxiety, or trauma to those symptoms which can feel big and scary. Therapy is where you can fully show up with any of it. Therapy contains the things that feel out of control and once a week or more you have a safe place to bring yourself authentically.
(206) 339-3844 View (206) 339-3844
Photo of Zee Andrignis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Zee Andrignis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, SUDP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103  (Online Only)
I have been trained in Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD, and have worked with individuals with mental health struggles since 2008.
I work with individuals who are struggling to recover from traumatic situations or have found themselves having a rough time. I am especially interested in working with first responders and LGBTQ+ individuals. If you are trying to feel more comfortable in your everyday life, I'd love to help you find a way to make it happen.
I have been trained in Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD, and have worked with individuals with mental health struggles since 2008.
I work with individuals who are struggling to recover from traumatic situations or have found themselves having a rough time. I am especially interested in working with first responders and LGBTQ+ individuals. If you are trying to feel more comfortable in your everyday life, I'd love to help you find a way to make it happen.
(206) 761-0930 View (206) 761-0930
Photo of Nicole Barquist, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Nicole Barquist
Counselor, MA, LMHCA, AT
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104
I have a particular interest in working with children and adults who are experiencing or experienced sexual trauma, and attachment injury resulting in a personality disorder.
I am a Seattle based Art and Psycho-Therapist, serving Adults through a means of verbal and visual expression. I work to explore each clients experiences through creative expression, not only as an emotional outlet but also as a window into other parts of the self and a way to create meaningful and lasting change. I work to conduct therapy in a means which makes the client feel heard and safe to explore their inner experience. Diving into memories and behaviors which no longer serve us can be uncomfortable work. Knowing this, I find the therapeutic relationship to be imperative to the foundation of making change.
I have a particular interest in working with children and adults who are experiencing or experienced sexual trauma, and attachment injury resulting in a personality disorder.
I am a Seattle based Art and Psycho-Therapist, serving Adults through a means of verbal and visual expression. I work to explore each clients experiences through creative expression, not only as an emotional outlet but also as a window into other parts of the self and a way to create meaningful and lasting change. I work to conduct therapy in a means which makes the client feel heard and safe to explore their inner experience. Diving into memories and behaviors which no longer serve us can be uncomfortable work. Knowing this, I find the therapeutic relationship to be imperative to the foundation of making change.
(503) 308-1973 View (503) 308-1973
Photo of Relational Psych, Psychologist in Seattle, WA
Relational Psych
Psychologist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98119
We are trauma focused and are eager to be with the difficult feelings and hard-to-name experiences.
Our clients are high achieving millennials, identity-developing gen-zers, people in transition, and people who think deeply about themselves and their growth. Our clients are asking: Why do my emotions feel so out of hand? How do I understand my relational patterns? How is my experience of trauma showing up in my every day life? Do I have ADHD? Do I have bipolar? Am I on the right medication? Should I take a break from work? How do I manage difficult relationships?
We are trauma focused and are eager to be with the difficult feelings and hard-to-name experiences.
Our clients are high achieving millennials, identity-developing gen-zers, people in transition, and people who think deeply about themselves and their growth. Our clients are asking: Why do my emotions feel so out of hand? How do I understand my relational patterns? How is my experience of trauma showing up in my every day life? Do I have ADHD? Do I have bipolar? Am I on the right medication? Should I take a break from work? How do I manage difficult relationships?
(206) 202-0064 View (206) 202-0064
Photo of Joe Vr Gobunquin, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Joe Vr Gobunquin
Counselor, MA LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98188  (Online Only)
My work with clients include: Trauma, Anxiety, Phobia, ADHD in adults, coping with disabilities, coping with chronic illness, cultural adjustment, bereavement, discrimination, anti-oppression issues, immigrant and refugee issues, aging issues.
You don’t have to be alone. Today, your journey to healing begins. I aim to know my client. This allows me to undertand their issues, their needs and their goals. Growing up with disability provided an opportunity for me to rise above discrimination, bullying, racism, oppression, marginalization, anxiety, depression, and face life’s unending challenges. I am fluent and can provide therapy in three languages fluently, English, Ilokano, Tagalog. I am trained in Eastern and Western approaches. I use evidenced based treatment interventions including but not limited to EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness Approach.
My work with clients include: Trauma, Anxiety, Phobia, ADHD in adults, coping with disabilities, coping with chronic illness, cultural adjustment, bereavement, discrimination, anti-oppression issues, immigrant and refugee issues, aging issues.
You don’t have to be alone. Today, your journey to healing begins. I aim to know my client. This allows me to undertand their issues, their needs and their goals. Growing up with disability provided an opportunity for me to rise above discrimination, bullying, racism, oppression, marginalization, anxiety, depression, and face life’s unending challenges. I am fluent and can provide therapy in three languages fluently, English, Ilokano, Tagalog. I am trained in Eastern and Western approaches. I use evidenced based treatment interventions including but not limited to EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness Approach.
(206) 984-2859 View (206) 984-2859
Photo of Jeanne M Reina, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Jeanne M Reina
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98118
I work with clients ages 18 and older from a variety of diverse backgrounds. I specialize in working with past trauma, emotional neglect, grief, anxiety, depression, sexual abuse, and everyday stressors, secondary trauma (especially for caregivers). In addition if you find that you have become stuck and need a boost to get back to enjoying life again, I can assist you in overcoming these challenges and discovering your own untapped inner resilience, strength, and authenticity in a way that is deeply meaningful.
I work with clients ages 18 and older from a variety of diverse backgrounds. I specialize in working with past trauma, emotional neglect, grief, anxiety, depression, sexual abuse, and everyday stressors, secondary trauma (especially for caregivers). In addition if you find that you have become stuck and need a boost to get back to enjoying life again, I can assist you in overcoming these challenges and discovering your own untapped inner resilience, strength, and authenticity in a way that is deeply meaningful.
(425) 903-3193 View (425) 903-3193
Photo of Mark R Hoagland, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Mark R Hoagland
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CHT, MHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98115
I have extensive experience helping veterans, families of veterans, PTSD, military sexual trauma, war trauma, and couples counseling.
I provide therapy to people who wish to make lasting positive changes in their lives in a warm, safe environment. I have extensive experience working with people who have loved ones who have completed suicide and/or are working through other complicated grief issues. I am a certified hypnotherapist and EMDR trained for PTSD and trauma. I am experienced helping with self-esteem, personal development, marriage or premarital counseling, depression, anxiety and divorce recovery. Other areas I work with are Crisis Management, Anger Management, Traumas, Adult ADD/ADHD, Sleep Disturbance, Career Counseling, Social Discomfort and cultural issues.
I have extensive experience helping veterans, families of veterans, PTSD, military sexual trauma, war trauma, and couples counseling.
I provide therapy to people who wish to make lasting positive changes in their lives in a warm, safe environment. I have extensive experience working with people who have loved ones who have completed suicide and/or are working through other complicated grief issues. I am a certified hypnotherapist and EMDR trained for PTSD and trauma. I am experienced helping with self-esteem, personal development, marriage or premarital counseling, depression, anxiety and divorce recovery. Other areas I work with are Crisis Management, Anger Management, Traumas, Adult ADD/ADHD, Sleep Disturbance, Career Counseling, Social Discomfort and cultural issues.
(206) 922-8236 View (206) 922-8236
Photo of Yu-An Wang, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Yu-An Wang
Counselor, LMHC, LCPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98119  (Online Only)
I am a clinician focused on both deep emotions and practical coping. My therapy style is to collaborate with Clients to find out what works for you the best. It usually arises naturally from our body as body is the container for whatever we've been through. I believe psychotherapy can foster our personal growth and empower us to reclaim our capability to nurture and take care ourselves. I am specialized to work on perfectionism, professionalism, depression, anxiety, panic attack, trauma, stress, autistic spectrum, emotional regulation, relationship, family of origin, and cultural/racial issues.
I am a clinician focused on both deep emotions and practical coping. My therapy style is to collaborate with Clients to find out what works for you the best. It usually arises naturally from our body as body is the container for whatever we've been through. I believe psychotherapy can foster our personal growth and empower us to reclaim our capability to nurture and take care ourselves. I am specialized to work on perfectionism, professionalism, depression, anxiety, panic attack, trauma, stress, autistic spectrum, emotional regulation, relationship, family of origin, and cultural/racial issues.
(425) 409-5873 View (425) 409-5873
Photo of Laura Lee Matthews, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Laura Lee Matthews
Counselor, MA, LMHC, ATR-P
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with navigating feelings of anxiety, depression, suicidality, substance abuse, attachment trauma, or self-harm? I am passionate about supporting people of all ages to heal from difficult or traumatic past experiences as well as supporting clients navigating life’s unpredictable challenges. I enjoy working with helping clients navigate emotional regulation, and becoming more self-aware and empowered.
Are you struggling with navigating feelings of anxiety, depression, suicidality, substance abuse, attachment trauma, or self-harm? I am passionate about supporting people of all ages to heal from difficult or traumatic past experiences as well as supporting clients navigating life’s unpredictable challenges. I enjoy working with helping clients navigate emotional regulation, and becoming more self-aware and empowered.
(206) 855-6842 View (206) 855-6842
Photo of Stephanie Gray, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Stephanie Gray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, MHP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98122  (Online Only)
I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, and issues affecting female-identifying clients.
I am known for my unapologetically fierce and compassionate anti-stigma approach and take pride in my east coast empathy, humor, and drive. I have worked in Washington on the front lines in mental health throughout the pandemic. I’m thrilled to incorporate my west coast love of the great outdoors, inclusivity, mindfulness, and culture into my practice for a well-rounded and empowering client experience. I deeply believe in the power of therapy, vulnerability, and validation. I provide safe space where you may speak your truth without fear, expect to be truly heard and seen, and know that you are valued.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, and issues affecting female-identifying clients.
I am known for my unapologetically fierce and compassionate anti-stigma approach and take pride in my east coast empathy, humor, and drive. I have worked in Washington on the front lines in mental health throughout the pandemic. I’m thrilled to incorporate my west coast love of the great outdoors, inclusivity, mindfulness, and culture into my practice for a well-rounded and empowering client experience. I deeply believe in the power of therapy, vulnerability, and validation. I provide safe space where you may speak your truth without fear, expect to be truly heard and seen, and know that you are valued.
(206) 278-3324 View (206) 278-3324
Photo of Jeanine Davis, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Jeanine Davis
Counselor, MS, LMHCA, SBFC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98112  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating survivors of trauma, abuse and adverse childhood experiences; teens and adolescents experiencing anxiety and depression; self-harm; addiction; substance abuse; parents of emotionally affected teens; adults and teens struggling with attachment and abandonment trauma; and perinatal anxiety and depression.
I believe that the past is the central supporting pillar of your mental health. By embracing and accepting the past, you will find new strength and courage to face a rich and bountiful future. Through exploration and self discovery you will begin to realize that your past experiences have become an enduring source of growth and resilience.
I specialize in treating survivors of trauma, abuse and adverse childhood experiences; teens and adolescents experiencing anxiety and depression; self-harm; addiction; substance abuse; parents of emotionally affected teens; adults and teens struggling with attachment and abandonment trauma; and perinatal anxiety and depression.
I believe that the past is the central supporting pillar of your mental health. By embracing and accepting the past, you will find new strength and courage to face a rich and bountiful future. Through exploration and self discovery you will begin to realize that your past experiences have become an enduring source of growth and resilience.
(206) 309-4013 View (206) 309-4013
Photo of Sara Ramos-Amador, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Sara Ramos-Amador
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98188
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in trauma and creative art therapies.
I am an artist/poet turned therapist. My method is to slowly build a therapeutic relationship, uncover strengths, and move toward client-identified treatment goals. I support clients to externalize problematic narratives or inner states they are stuck in through creative mediums. Once clients are resourced and can see, and then interact with their patterns and parts they make changes. Together we discover and incorporate parts of the self that had to go underground due to trauma or oppression. Clients emerge from their work, whole and empowered.
I specialize in trauma and creative art therapies.
I am an artist/poet turned therapist. My method is to slowly build a therapeutic relationship, uncover strengths, and move toward client-identified treatment goals. I support clients to externalize problematic narratives or inner states they are stuck in through creative mediums. Once clients are resourced and can see, and then interact with their patterns and parts they make changes. Together we discover and incorporate parts of the self that had to go underground due to trauma or oppression. Clients emerge from their work, whole and empowered.
(206) 678-0215 View (206) 678-0215
Photo of Deanza J Spaulding, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Deanza J Spaulding
Counselor, PhD, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98118
I am a trauma aware therapist which understands the multi-faceted components of trauma exposure.
In a success driven society the demands on one's life can feel endless. Most people are experiencing the necessity to juggle several competing roles and responsibilities simultaneously. The human capacity to grow, expand, adapt and thrive is amazing and inspiring. However, there is no human on this earth who is perfect and not effected by prolonged states of stress & pressure. This pressure leads to depression, anxiety, disconnection, isolation and many other ailments. Compassion focused therapy is a central component to my therapeutic approach. Treatment incorporates empowering your voice to optimize your path towards healing. Change is within reach.
I am a trauma aware therapist which understands the multi-faceted components of trauma exposure.
In a success driven society the demands on one's life can feel endless. Most people are experiencing the necessity to juggle several competing roles and responsibilities simultaneously. The human capacity to grow, expand, adapt and thrive is amazing and inspiring. However, there is no human on this earth who is perfect and not effected by prolonged states of stress & pressure. This pressure leads to depression, anxiety, disconnection, isolation and many other ailments. Compassion focused therapy is a central component to my therapeutic approach. Treatment incorporates empowering your voice to optimize your path towards healing. Change is within reach.
(206) 535-1756 View (206) 535-1756
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.