Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Seattle, WA

Photo of Emily Preston, MA, LMHC, PLLC, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Emily Preston, MA, LMHC, PLLC
Counselor, MA, LMHC, PLLC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98136  (Online Only)
Your uncomfortable symptoms may be what send you to therapy, but they can also serve you. You may feel overwhelmed or confused, and yet this is also an invitation for hope, curiosity, insight, and self-compassion. It is an opportunity to be able to access some of the deepest realms of yourself, to heal, and to move forward with greater confidence in your life. I work with individuals of all ages, and provide support for people experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, adoption, trauma, body image and eating disorders, life transitions, individuation, co-dependence, overall work and family stress, and multicultural issues.
Your uncomfortable symptoms may be what send you to therapy, but they can also serve you. You may feel overwhelmed or confused, and yet this is also an invitation for hope, curiosity, insight, and self-compassion. It is an opportunity to be able to access some of the deepest realms of yourself, to heal, and to move forward with greater confidence in your life. I work with individuals of all ages, and provide support for people experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, adoption, trauma, body image and eating disorders, life transitions, individuation, co-dependence, overall work and family stress, and multicultural issues.
(425) 276-7073 View (425) 276-7073
Photo of Kat Allen, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Kat Allen
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98136
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in relationships, emotional regulation, anxiety-depression, trauma, and addiction.
Experienced and insightful, I help clients find their way back to themselves and their relationships by increasing curiosity, compassion, and insight through the ability to self-reflect. Employing mindfulness, emotionally-focused and body-awareness therapies along with traditional talk therapy, I share ways to recognize ineffective patterns, increase somatic and emotional intelligence, understand and develop new coping skills, and enhance empathy and positivity.
I specialize in relationships, emotional regulation, anxiety-depression, trauma, and addiction.
Experienced and insightful, I help clients find their way back to themselves and their relationships by increasing curiosity, compassion, and insight through the ability to self-reflect. Employing mindfulness, emotionally-focused and body-awareness therapies along with traditional talk therapy, I share ways to recognize ineffective patterns, increase somatic and emotional intelligence, understand and develop new coping skills, and enhance empathy and positivity.
(206) 745-6322 View (206) 745-6322
Photo of Laura Takacs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Laura Takacs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MPH
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98109
Since 2004, I have been providing therapeutic support to those in the wake of trauma, loss and grief.
After a sudden, traumatic death such as through suicide, death due to drug use, homicide or COVID, those bereaving are often left with both the heavy burden of grief, and images that may feel haunting and overwhelming. Other feelings, such as guilt, anger, and profound sorrow accompany other distressing experiences, including, feeling alone, increased agitation, depression and anxiety. When put together, these feelings can feel unbearable to hold alone.
Since 2004, I have been providing therapeutic support to those in the wake of trauma, loss and grief.
After a sudden, traumatic death such as through suicide, death due to drug use, homicide or COVID, those bereaving are often left with both the heavy burden of grief, and images that may feel haunting and overwhelming. Other feelings, such as guilt, anger, and profound sorrow accompany other distressing experiences, including, feeling alone, increased agitation, depression and anxiety. When put together, these feelings can feel unbearable to hold alone.
(360) 858-9428 View (360) 858-9428
Photo of Alex Mack - Therapy For Trauma And Anxiety, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Alex Mack - Therapy For Trauma And Anxiety
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98108  (Online Only)
Are you longing for healthier, more satisfying relationships? Does it feel like your true, happier self is buried beneath layers of anxiety or perfectionism? Are you ready to move beyond doom scrolling about attachment styles and actually do the work? As a therapist, I specialize in working through issues around relationships, anxiety, and past trauma. Most of my clients are women aged 30 to 50 but I also work with men and younger adults.
Are you longing for healthier, more satisfying relationships? Does it feel like your true, happier self is buried beneath layers of anxiety or perfectionism? Are you ready to move beyond doom scrolling about attachment styles and actually do the work? As a therapist, I specialize in working through issues around relationships, anxiety, and past trauma. Most of my clients are women aged 30 to 50 but I also work with men and younger adults.
(206) 737-1862 View (206) 737-1862
Photo of Andrea Wetterau, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Andrea Wetterau
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LMHC, RYT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102  (Online Only)
If you are: wanting recovery from trauma, disordered eating, anxiety, depression, etc. before (or after) becoming a parent; trying to conceive; pregnant; hoping to heal from birth trauma; in your postpartum; struggling with perinatal mental health; or a parent who wants to put an end to abusive generational cycles with your own children. - and looking for an empathetic and supportive space for recovery - then you are in the right place. My training and experience over the past 10+ years has led to the creation of Wetterau Wellness, a private practice dedicated to the healing and personal growth of parents and parents-to-be.
If you are: wanting recovery from trauma, disordered eating, anxiety, depression, etc. before (or after) becoming a parent; trying to conceive; pregnant; hoping to heal from birth trauma; in your postpartum; struggling with perinatal mental health; or a parent who wants to put an end to abusive generational cycles with your own children. - and looking for an empathetic and supportive space for recovery - then you are in the right place. My training and experience over the past 10+ years has led to the creation of Wetterau Wellness, a private practice dedicated to the healing and personal growth of parents and parents-to-be.
(206) 312-2181 View (206) 312-2181
Photo of James Knowlton Of Light Path Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Seattle, WA
James Knowlton Of Light Path Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104
My healing work emphasizes mind, heart, and body balance. I can assist you in the understanding of your own complex internal worlds, relational dynamics, work sagas, or developmental and inter-generational trauma. You can disrupt unwanted patterns and improve communication in your relationships and expressions via diverse interventions from a synthesis of modalities and practices, we will practice these skills together. You are the expert of your experience, I will support you in trusting and loving yourself. With curiosity and compassion, therapy can empower you and help you gain more from life.
My healing work emphasizes mind, heart, and body balance. I can assist you in the understanding of your own complex internal worlds, relational dynamics, work sagas, or developmental and inter-generational trauma. You can disrupt unwanted patterns and improve communication in your relationships and expressions via diverse interventions from a synthesis of modalities and practices, we will practice these skills together. You are the expert of your experience, I will support you in trusting and loving yourself. With curiosity and compassion, therapy can empower you and help you gain more from life.
(206) 539-0707 View (206) 539-0707
Photo of Milo M Orr, Pre-Licensed Professional in Seattle, WA
Milo M Orr
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107  (Online Only)
Using a blend of trauma-informed, evidence-based practices such as EMDR, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and Internal Family Systems, I focus on creating a therapy experience that is as unique as you are.
Do you ever worry that you're 'too much' or 'not enough'? Would you be happier if you were different? Those feelings are common, especially for people of marginalized identity. In the therapy space, my goal is to deconstruct narratives about what you're 'supposed' to be and instead, help you love who you are right now. I specialize in supporting individuals as they navigate the complexities of LGBTQ+ identities, trauma, alternative relationship dynamics, and intersectionality.
Using a blend of trauma-informed, evidence-based practices such as EMDR, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and Internal Family Systems, I focus on creating a therapy experience that is as unique as you are.
Do you ever worry that you're 'too much' or 'not enough'? Would you be happier if you were different? Those feelings are common, especially for people of marginalized identity. In the therapy space, my goal is to deconstruct narratives about what you're 'supposed' to be and instead, help you love who you are right now. I specialize in supporting individuals as they navigate the complexities of LGBTQ+ identities, trauma, alternative relationship dynamics, and intersectionality.
(814) 343-1388 View (814) 343-1388
Photo of Tereza Jelenova, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Tereza Jelenova
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98117  (Online Only)
That may include: healing from unresolved trauma, processing grief, finding comfort within their body, or addressing symptoms of depression.
Have you been feeling detached from your life? Are you ready to feel more connected but unsure how to get there? Perhaps I can be of service. Contact me so that we can start exploring patterns that are no longer serving you. Whether it is learning to sit with uncomfortable emotions, processing grief and loss, or developing tools to handle depression and anxiety, my goal is to support you in your process. I am licensed in both Washington a Oregon and work via Telehealth (virtual counseling). Please know that I currently see clients via secure online portal and do not offer in office sessions.
That may include: healing from unresolved trauma, processing grief, finding comfort within their body, or addressing symptoms of depression.
Have you been feeling detached from your life? Are you ready to feel more connected but unsure how to get there? Perhaps I can be of service. Contact me so that we can start exploring patterns that are no longer serving you. Whether it is learning to sit with uncomfortable emotions, processing grief and loss, or developing tools to handle depression and anxiety, my goal is to support you in your process. I am licensed in both Washington a Oregon and work via Telehealth (virtual counseling). Please know that I currently see clients via secure online portal and do not offer in office sessions.
(360) 979-1069 View (360) 979-1069
Photo of Virginia Alcalde, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Virginia Alcalde
Counselor, MA, LMHC, RDN, CD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115  (Online Only)
Hello, I am Virginia (Gigi) a psychotherapist, registered dietitian, yoga and mindfulness teacher. I enjoy working with clients who are interested in deepening self-exploration, looking to improve their relationship with themselves and others, and navigate diverse mental health challenges such as developmental and adult trauma, post traumatic stress, depression, and anxiety. I also specialize and enjoy working with individuals that are challenged with disordered eating/eating disorders and who desire to improve and heal their relationship with food and body.
Hello, I am Virginia (Gigi) a psychotherapist, registered dietitian, yoga and mindfulness teacher. I enjoy working with clients who are interested in deepening self-exploration, looking to improve their relationship with themselves and others, and navigate diverse mental health challenges such as developmental and adult trauma, post traumatic stress, depression, and anxiety. I also specialize and enjoy working with individuals that are challenged with disordered eating/eating disorders and who desire to improve and heal their relationship with food and body.
(206) 590-6266 View (206) 590-6266
Photo of Caroline Mullins, Mental Health Counselor in Seattle, WA
Caroline Mullins
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98115  (Online Only)
I enjoy working from an individualized approach by integrating evidence-based and trauma-informed practices, such as EMDR, CBT, Psychodynamic, Person-Centered, and ACT, so that your therapy experience is based on your needs.
As a mental health counselor, I strive to create a safe and inclusive environment so we can explore what is bringing you into therapy. I am passionate about helping people navigate life stressors and heal from trauma so that they can be their truest, most authentic self. I work with teens and adults (13 years old and older) who are experiencing lasting effects of trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, and more. In particular, much of my experience has centered around helping those who have experienced sexual, physical, verbal, and emotional abuse.
I enjoy working from an individualized approach by integrating evidence-based and trauma-informed practices, such as EMDR, CBT, Psychodynamic, Person-Centered, and ACT, so that your therapy experience is based on your needs.
As a mental health counselor, I strive to create a safe and inclusive environment so we can explore what is bringing you into therapy. I am passionate about helping people navigate life stressors and heal from trauma so that they can be their truest, most authentic self. I work with teens and adults (13 years old and older) who are experiencing lasting effects of trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, and more. In particular, much of my experience has centered around helping those who have experienced sexual, physical, verbal, and emotional abuse.
(206) 203-2528 x703 View (206) 203-2528 x703
Photo of Zakia Ovington, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Zakia Ovington
Counselor, LMHCA, CCC, RCC, MACP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107  (Online Only)
I am a clinical counselor with a profound dedication to guiding clients on their unique paths of healing and self-discovery. Specializing in trauma recovery, emotional well-being, and authentic self-leadership, my approach is deeply rooted in compassion and professional clinical expertise. I provide a nurturing and safe environment where individuals can freely explore and overcome their personal challenges. My commitment extends beyond mere coping strategies, aiming to empower each client with resilience, self-awareness, and a deeper understanding of their own journey.
I am a clinical counselor with a profound dedication to guiding clients on their unique paths of healing and self-discovery. Specializing in trauma recovery, emotional well-being, and authentic self-leadership, my approach is deeply rooted in compassion and professional clinical expertise. I provide a nurturing and safe environment where individuals can freely explore and overcome their personal challenges. My commitment extends beyond mere coping strategies, aiming to empower each client with resilience, self-awareness, and a deeper understanding of their own journey.
(206) 208-2924 View (206) 208-2924
Photo of Sarah Dailey, Marriage & Family Therapist in Seattle, WA
Sarah Dailey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98118  (Online Only)
I have an extensive background in working with BIPOC supervisees and mentees addressing a variety of clinical issues with particular specialties in working with individuals, children, and families in the LGBTQIA2S+ community, marginalized and underserved communities, and those who have experienced trauma.
I love to work with supervisees and mentees (supervision of supervision) as we grow, laugh, and learn together. The process of deepening knowledge, experience, and wisdom can be rewarding for both the supervisor and supervisee. I approach supervision and mentorship from a structural supervision perspective as I believe we all thrive with the right balance of structure and support. I use a good amount of humor and curiosity in my approach, as I believe the elements of fun, delight, and joy are important parts of the professional growth process. If we work together, you will be challenged and you will be uplifted.
I have an extensive background in working with BIPOC supervisees and mentees addressing a variety of clinical issues with particular specialties in working with individuals, children, and families in the LGBTQIA2S+ community, marginalized and underserved communities, and those who have experienced trauma.
I love to work with supervisees and mentees (supervision of supervision) as we grow, laugh, and learn together. The process of deepening knowledge, experience, and wisdom can be rewarding for both the supervisor and supervisee. I approach supervision and mentorship from a structural supervision perspective as I believe we all thrive with the right balance of structure and support. I use a good amount of humor and curiosity in my approach, as I believe the elements of fun, delight, and joy are important parts of the professional growth process. If we work together, you will be challenged and you will be uplifted.
(206) 823-2930 View (206) 823-2930
Photo of Anne Clemente, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Anne Clemente
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115  (Online Only)
My specialties include Complicated Relationships, Divorce, Trauma/PTSD/Anxiety, EMDR Therapy & EMDR Intensives.
Accepting New Clients. Therapy for Healing from Complicated Pasts, Presents & Relationships. Other people view your life as a success. But there’s stuff you need to process. You’re managing but you’d like to feel like you're doing more than just getting by in life. And to be honest, you know that all that stuff is affecting your personal & professional relationships.You want support for the difficult times and relationships in your life. Whether it’s stuff from childhood that is holding you back, a current difficulty with a partner or spouse, a divorce, or a trauma that you don’t want to keep stuffed down anymore, I am here for you.
My specialties include Complicated Relationships, Divorce, Trauma/PTSD/Anxiety, EMDR Therapy & EMDR Intensives.
Accepting New Clients. Therapy for Healing from Complicated Pasts, Presents & Relationships. Other people view your life as a success. But there’s stuff you need to process. You’re managing but you’d like to feel like you're doing more than just getting by in life. And to be honest, you know that all that stuff is affecting your personal & professional relationships.You want support for the difficult times and relationships in your life. Whether it’s stuff from childhood that is holding you back, a current difficulty with a partner or spouse, a divorce, or a trauma that you don’t want to keep stuffed down anymore, I am here for you.
(206) 454-8382 View (206) 454-8382
Photo of Kristen Moss, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Kristen Moss
Counselor, DMin, LMHC, CPC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115  (Online Only)
Whether you would like to: process trauma or burdens and possibly release them; grow towards less shame and more self-love; increase understanding of next steps that are most congruent and life-giving for your personal and or professional life; or discuss tools to support the most effective communication and relating in your relationships; all are welcome. I draw from more than 14 years in psychotherapy, education and spirituality; and I bring respect for all identities, histories, heritages and overall social locations including the path of immigrants, individuals with H-1B visas, refugees and asylum seekers.
Whether you would like to: process trauma or burdens and possibly release them; grow towards less shame and more self-love; increase understanding of next steps that are most congruent and life-giving for your personal and or professional life; or discuss tools to support the most effective communication and relating in your relationships; all are welcome. I draw from more than 14 years in psychotherapy, education and spirituality; and I bring respect for all identities, histories, heritages and overall social locations including the path of immigrants, individuals with H-1B visas, refugees and asylum seekers.
(206) 203-0871 View (206) 203-0871
Photo of Kaela Koepke, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Kaela Koepke
Counselor, MS, LMHCA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98177
I specialize in PTSD, Bipolar, depression, anxiety, grief, life transitions, relationship struggles, boundaries, attachment styles, and identity development.
Taking new clients with immediate openings. Come home to yourself. If you want to find safety in your body, become your true self, shed your armor, release blocked energy, understand your emotions, break patterns, heal old wounds, and make space for joy, I might be a good fit for your healing journey. I work with adult women via Telehealth and outdoors for nature therapy sessions. My goal is to help you connect with yourself and nature for healing and growth.
I specialize in PTSD, Bipolar, depression, anxiety, grief, life transitions, relationship struggles, boundaries, attachment styles, and identity development.
Taking new clients with immediate openings. Come home to yourself. If you want to find safety in your body, become your true self, shed your armor, release blocked energy, understand your emotions, break patterns, heal old wounds, and make space for joy, I might be a good fit for your healing journey. I work with adult women via Telehealth and outdoors for nature therapy sessions. My goal is to help you connect with yourself and nature for healing and growth.
(425) 428-6282 View (425) 428-6282
Photo of Cassandra Elrod, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Cassandra Elrod
Counselor, MSNCHP, LMHC, CN
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98108  (Online Only)
If you've been feeling disconnected because of an eating disorder, body rejection, trauma, and/or old, limiting stories I'm here to tell you it is never too late to come back home to yourself.
How often do you feel disconnected from yourself: from your body, your wisdom, your light? We are quick to disconnect when we feel overwhelmed, when we've lost our sense of safety, and when we aren't listening to or honoring our needs. When we're disconnected, we're not fully present and it can feel like life is passing us by. Joy, contentment, and wonder might seem like only a distant mirage--but I believe that becoming more aligned in ourselves is always possible. It's an important part of finding meaningful connection with others, realizing our purpose, and trusting ourselves so we can move through life with more ease.
If you've been feeling disconnected because of an eating disorder, body rejection, trauma, and/or old, limiting stories I'm here to tell you it is never too late to come back home to yourself.
How often do you feel disconnected from yourself: from your body, your wisdom, your light? We are quick to disconnect when we feel overwhelmed, when we've lost our sense of safety, and when we aren't listening to or honoring our needs. When we're disconnected, we're not fully present and it can feel like life is passing us by. Joy, contentment, and wonder might seem like only a distant mirage--but I believe that becoming more aligned in ourselves is always possible. It's an important part of finding meaningful connection with others, realizing our purpose, and trusting ourselves so we can move through life with more ease.
(206) 558-8218 View (206) 558-8218
Photo of Cecilia (Cece) Klinger, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Cecilia (Cece) Klinger
Counselor, MFA, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98112
I work with adults who are struggling with depression, a history of trauma, grief and loss. ​ My approach to therapy is strength-based and client-centered. I believe self-discovery and solutions reside within wisdom and are drawn from your own life experiences. .
I work with adults who are struggling with depression, a history of trauma, grief and loss. ​ My approach to therapy is strength-based and client-centered. I believe self-discovery and solutions reside within wisdom and are drawn from your own life experiences. .
(206) 207-3574 View (206) 207-3574
Photo of Dr. Laura Preciado, Psychologist in Seattle, WA
Dr. Laura Preciado
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98109  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients in MAY 2024. Are you looking for a compassionate and socially conscious therapist who provides trauma-informed care? Then we might be a good fit to work together! Sometimes we need guidance to resolve our conflicts and difficulties. Talking through our thoughts and putting words to our deeply held emotions can give us a sense of relief, clarity, and direction. This is what I offer in therapy.
Accepting New Clients in MAY 2024. Are you looking for a compassionate and socially conscious therapist who provides trauma-informed care? Then we might be a good fit to work together! Sometimes we need guidance to resolve our conflicts and difficulties. Talking through our thoughts and putting words to our deeply held emotions can give us a sense of relief, clarity, and direction. This is what I offer in therapy.
(425) 517-2440 View (425) 517-2440
Photo of Devin McCabe, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Devin McCabe
Counselor, LMHC, MHP, CMHS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107
I work with individuals and families who need assistance in processing issues related to trauma, grief and loss, family conflict, mood disorders, and other mental health issues.
I specialize in working with children, teens, and adults who might be struggling to make sense of the complicated world that we live in. Despite our connectivity, it seems that we live in a time in which individuals and families are more isolated than ever before. I truly believe that we all need and desire a village — a network of support and care to help us when needed. It is my aim to be that extra form of support. I am here to help individuals and families navigate the more difficult hurdles and to find ways to work towards creating more peaceful, authentic, and connected lives.
I work with individuals and families who need assistance in processing issues related to trauma, grief and loss, family conflict, mood disorders, and other mental health issues.
I specialize in working with children, teens, and adults who might be struggling to make sense of the complicated world that we live in. Despite our connectivity, it seems that we live in a time in which individuals and families are more isolated than ever before. I truly believe that we all need and desire a village — a network of support and care to help us when needed. It is my aim to be that extra form of support. I am here to help individuals and families navigate the more difficult hurdles and to find ways to work towards creating more peaceful, authentic, and connected lives.
(206) 489-0728 View (206) 489-0728
Photo of Jennifer Sveund, Psychologist in Seattle, WA
Jennifer Sveund
Psychologist, PsyD, LMHC, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98119
Dr. Sveund completed a doctoral degree in clinical psychology at Antioch University Seattle. She is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Art Therapist, and Registered EMDR clinician. Her warm and caring approach focuses on individual strengths, empowerment, and understanding the mind-in-body connection to help navigate trauma, illness, stress, and life transitions for youth and adults. Dr. Sveund has a passion for health psychology and working with survivors of traumatic experiences. She provides guidance towards deeper insight and access to one's full potential using a trauma informed integrative approach.
Dr. Sveund completed a doctoral degree in clinical psychology at Antioch University Seattle. She is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Art Therapist, and Registered EMDR clinician. Her warm and caring approach focuses on individual strengths, empowerment, and understanding the mind-in-body connection to help navigate trauma, illness, stress, and life transitions for youth and adults. Dr. Sveund has a passion for health psychology and working with survivors of traumatic experiences. She provides guidance towards deeper insight and access to one's full potential using a trauma informed integrative approach.
(206) 202-6792 View (206) 202-6792
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.