Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Saint Croix County, WI

Photo of Kayla Johnson in Saint Croix County, WI
Kayla Johnson
MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Hudson, WI 54016
Waitlist for new clients
I am formally trained in EMDR therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy+ (CBT+) for anxiety and depression, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
I strive to put clients at ease with a warm, empathic, down-to-earth style. Clients with panic attacks, trauma histories, and social anxiety will especially feel at ease. Many people who come to see me also struggle with negative self-talk, perfectionism, or co-dependent people-pleasing. I love to help clients increase emotion regulation, more readily attune to their own needs, process core beliefs about self, and build an understanding of the relationship between one’s history and how they navigate the world in the present moment.
I am formally trained in EMDR therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy+ (CBT+) for anxiety and depression, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
I strive to put clients at ease with a warm, empathic, down-to-earth style. Clients with panic attacks, trauma histories, and social anxiety will especially feel at ease. Many people who come to see me also struggle with negative self-talk, perfectionism, or co-dependent people-pleasing. I love to help clients increase emotion regulation, more readily attune to their own needs, process core beliefs about self, and build an understanding of the relationship between one’s history and how they navigate the world in the present moment.
(715) 800-8266 View (715) 800-8266
Photo of Dr. Steven Charpentier, Psychologist in Saint Croix County, WI
Dr. Steven Charpentier
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
New Richmond, WI 54017
Waitlist for new clients
In addition to traditional talk therapy, I offer EMDR which can have powerful results for trauma disorders.
I am a Licensed Psychologist who provides therapy and psychological assessment/testing. In therapy, I use a variety of techniques that I tailor to the client and the issue being treated. However, research shows that the quality of the therapeutic relationship, not the technique used, has more to do with successful outcomes. This is why I prioritize establishing and maintaining a healthy connection and trust. I am passionate about treating veterans and first responders (and their families), those with trauma, OCD, anxiety, and depression. Regardless of the issue, I try to help clients find more meaning and connection in their life.
In addition to traditional talk therapy, I offer EMDR which can have powerful results for trauma disorders.
I am a Licensed Psychologist who provides therapy and psychological assessment/testing. In therapy, I use a variety of techniques that I tailor to the client and the issue being treated. However, research shows that the quality of the therapeutic relationship, not the technique used, has more to do with successful outcomes. This is why I prioritize establishing and maintaining a healthy connection and trust. I am passionate about treating veterans and first responders (and their families), those with trauma, OCD, anxiety, and depression. Regardless of the issue, I try to help clients find more meaning and connection in their life.
(715) 602-8506 View (715) 602-8506
Photo of Kristin J Eitland, Counselor in Saint Croix County, WI
Kristin J Eitland
Counselor, MS, PC
Not Verified Not Verified
Hudson, WI 54016
I have a passion for helping individuals to process and improve their mental health. Whether you are adjusting to challenging life changes or feeling weighed down by your mental well being, I am here to listen and partner with you to develop a strategic and realistic treatment plan that best suits you and your needs. Your feelings are valid. I came into this field firmly believing that mental health is of the utmost importance. I utilize a strength-based, collaborative and client centered approach. I have experience in depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, substance use, BPD, marriage, divorce, and faith/spirituality.
I have a passion for helping individuals to process and improve their mental health. Whether you are adjusting to challenging life changes or feeling weighed down by your mental well being, I am here to listen and partner with you to develop a strategic and realistic treatment plan that best suits you and your needs. Your feelings are valid. I came into this field firmly believing that mental health is of the utmost importance. I utilize a strength-based, collaborative and client centered approach. I have experience in depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, substance use, BPD, marriage, divorce, and faith/spirituality.
(715) 260-3162 View (715) 260-3162
Photo of Leah Hoffman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Croix County, WI
Leah Hoffman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Hudson, WI 54016
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker here to help you feel more connected, confident, and excited about who you are and the relationships around you. I enjoy working with adults and couples and am passionate about helping clients reach their goals. Special areas of interest include trauma, life transitions, relationship conflict, premarital counseling, and couples contemplating separation or divorce. I have found that a genuine and compassionate therapeutic style can assist clients in finding courage within themselves to navigate their life journey with confidence.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker here to help you feel more connected, confident, and excited about who you are and the relationships around you. I enjoy working with adults and couples and am passionate about helping clients reach their goals. Special areas of interest include trauma, life transitions, relationship conflict, premarital counseling, and couples contemplating separation or divorce. I have found that a genuine and compassionate therapeutic style can assist clients in finding courage within themselves to navigate their life journey with confidence.
(612) 441-4760 View (612) 441-4760
Photo of Jonna Phillips, Marriage & Family Therapist in Saint Croix County, WI
Jonna Phillips
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hudson, WI 54016  (Online Only)
For clients with who have experienced a traumatic event or have a trauma history, I find EMDR to be an effective tool to gain resolution.
Hello, I am so glad you are here. I work with both individuals who are interested in being proactive in their own healthy journey. If you are feeling overwhelmed, have ongoing anxiety or depression, struggling with life transitions, grief, or trauma and are interested in using EMDR Therapy I would consider it a privilege to work with you. I believe in creating a safe and comfortable place for you to process your story to create healthy change in your life.
For clients with who have experienced a traumatic event or have a trauma history, I find EMDR to be an effective tool to gain resolution.
Hello, I am so glad you are here. I work with both individuals who are interested in being proactive in their own healthy journey. If you are feeling overwhelmed, have ongoing anxiety or depression, struggling with life transitions, grief, or trauma and are interested in using EMDR Therapy I would consider it a privilege to work with you. I believe in creating a safe and comfortable place for you to process your story to create healthy change in your life.
(715) 200-3446 View (715) 200-3446
Photo of Lindsay K. Sather, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Croix County, WI
Lindsay K. Sather
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hudson, WI 54016
My philosophy of care focuses on achieving genuine, real, and tangible goals for my clients. I strive to do this through a collaborative working relationship with my clients--using their values and ideas as our guide. I obtained my Bachelor's Degree and Master's Degree from the University of Wisconsin-Stout in Mental Health Counseling with concentrations in Eating Disorders and Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse (AODA). I have also completed all education to obtain my Certified Clinical Trauma Professional Certificate.
My philosophy of care focuses on achieving genuine, real, and tangible goals for my clients. I strive to do this through a collaborative working relationship with my clients--using their values and ideas as our guide. I obtained my Bachelor's Degree and Master's Degree from the University of Wisconsin-Stout in Mental Health Counseling with concentrations in Eating Disorders and Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse (AODA). I have also completed all education to obtain my Certified Clinical Trauma Professional Certificate.
(715) 802-2810 View (715) 802-2810
Photo of Jennifer Dombovy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Croix County, WI
Jennifer Dombovy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
New Richmond, WI 54017  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in trauma and the outcomes from that trauma; mood & personality disorders, relationship stressors, etc.
I am a straightforward seasoned therapist that will work to get to know you, where you are at, and provide a safe place for you. I want to get to the bottom of your struggle, but not just that- I'll want you to face your strengths and be empowered. I will challenge you out of a place of compassion and humor. I will be alongside you in this journey for as long as it takes. I'll help you through your trauma, relationships, peer pressure, etc., we all have our stories...
I specialize in trauma and the outcomes from that trauma; mood & personality disorders, relationship stressors, etc.
I am a straightforward seasoned therapist that will work to get to know you, where you are at, and provide a safe place for you. I want to get to the bottom of your struggle, but not just that- I'll want you to face your strengths and be empowered. I will challenge you out of a place of compassion and humor. I will be alongside you in this journey for as long as it takes. I'll help you through your trauma, relationships, peer pressure, etc., we all have our stories...
Photo of Katie Robinson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Croix County, WI
Katie Robinson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Hudson, WI 54016
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in eating disorders, neurodiversity, trauma, disconnection from your authentic self, and difficult life transitions.
When we struggle in life so many of us spend time blaming and shaming ourselves for “not doing better”. In society we've been taught to disconnect from our authentic selves and our bodies. Overtime this can cause us to feel lost, overwhelmed, and detached. As a neurodivergent-affirming therapist my focus is to help you reclaim those lost parts, integrate them, and regain self-trust through your own intuitive abilities. It may not feel like it now, but you are the wisest teacher in your life and I'm honored to assist you in believing so.
I specialize in eating disorders, neurodiversity, trauma, disconnection from your authentic self, and difficult life transitions.
When we struggle in life so many of us spend time blaming and shaming ourselves for “not doing better”. In society we've been taught to disconnect from our authentic selves and our bodies. Overtime this can cause us to feel lost, overwhelmed, and detached. As a neurodivergent-affirming therapist my focus is to help you reclaim those lost parts, integrate them, and regain self-trust through your own intuitive abilities. It may not feel like it now, but you are the wisest teacher in your life and I'm honored to assist you in believing so.
(715) 354-0438 View (715) 354-0438
Photo of Lori L Mcdaniel, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Croix County, WI
Lori L Mcdaniel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hudson, WI 54016
My expertise lies in discovering the root cause of issues like trauma, anxiety and depression.
When life is challenging and we find ourselves in unfamiliar and stressful situations it is courageous to reach out for help with these struggles. I can walk you through the process of making changes to improve your approach to the struggle and help you find it’s origins. I work with individual adults struggling with trauma, parenting, divorce, spirituality and spiritual reconstruction. . My goal is that clients leave feeling heard, validated and able to look at their struggle with new eyes. I consider it a privilege to be invited into my clients lives.
My expertise lies in discovering the root cause of issues like trauma, anxiety and depression.
When life is challenging and we find ourselves in unfamiliar and stressful situations it is courageous to reach out for help with these struggles. I can walk you through the process of making changes to improve your approach to the struggle and help you find it’s origins. I work with individual adults struggling with trauma, parenting, divorce, spirituality and spiritual reconstruction. . My goal is that clients leave feeling heard, validated and able to look at their struggle with new eyes. I consider it a privilege to be invited into my clients lives.
(715) 602-0072 View (715) 602-0072
Photo of Amanda Wulke, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Croix County, WI
Amanda Wulke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hudson, WI 54016
Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), and family therapy.
I enjoy working with individuals of all ages, as well as families. I strive to create a therapeutic space that is open, affirming, and without judgement. Together we will work as a team to explore areas for reflection, healing, and growth. I work with individuals to assist in the areas of depression, anxiety, trauma, self-image, relationships, life transitions, and stress. I utilize the tools of trauma-informed care, self-compassion, Dialectical Informed Behavioral Therapy, and ART to assist clients with these challenges. Additional approaches are integrated into sessions to best meet each client’s individual needs.
Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), and family therapy.
I enjoy working with individuals of all ages, as well as families. I strive to create a therapeutic space that is open, affirming, and without judgement. Together we will work as a team to explore areas for reflection, healing, and growth. I work with individuals to assist in the areas of depression, anxiety, trauma, self-image, relationships, life transitions, and stress. I utilize the tools of trauma-informed care, self-compassion, Dialectical Informed Behavioral Therapy, and ART to assist clients with these challenges. Additional approaches are integrated into sessions to best meet each client’s individual needs.
(715) 240-4836 View (715) 240-4836
Photo of Loary Viola Coates, Counselor in Saint Croix County, WI
Loary Viola Coates
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New Richmond, WI 54017  (Online Only)
Marriage/Couples Counseling, Premarital Counseling, Grief and Loss Counseling, Depression/Anxiety Counseling, Conflict Resolution/Communication, Addiction Recovery, and Abuse and Trauma .
I provide professional and clinical counseling. My goal is to promote the beauty of restoration and that healing and transformation are real possibilities. I believe that within a trusting relationship, I will be able to help my clients identify the pain areas that need the most work. As a licensed professional, I am committed to the highest standards of therapeutic practice and adhere to state ethical codes. I draw upon my clinical training and formal education to address each unique need. I am licensed in the State of Florida and the State of Wisconsin.
Marriage/Couples Counseling, Premarital Counseling, Grief and Loss Counseling, Depression/Anxiety Counseling, Conflict Resolution/Communication, Addiction Recovery, and Abuse and Trauma .
I provide professional and clinical counseling. My goal is to promote the beauty of restoration and that healing and transformation are real possibilities. I believe that within a trusting relationship, I will be able to help my clients identify the pain areas that need the most work. As a licensed professional, I am committed to the highest standards of therapeutic practice and adhere to state ethical codes. I draw upon my clinical training and formal education to address each unique need. I am licensed in the State of Florida and the State of Wisconsin.
(715) 243-4753 View (715) 243-4753
Photo of Erin McNiff, Marriage & Family Therapist in Saint Croix County, WI
Erin McNiff
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hudson, WI 54016
Licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist, I come with extensive knowledge regarding interpersonal trauma, youth, and relationship difficulties, and life transitions.
I work with clients to create a custom plan that addresses a variety of issues from the stresses of everyday life to managing specific incidents. I believe in a client-led approach and that you have the knowledge for your success. I like to work collaboratively with each client and family to utilize their unique strengths to foster that success. My goal during therapy is for clients to recognize their barriers through a different perspective so they feel they have the ability to make meaningful changes.
Licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist, I come with extensive knowledge regarding interpersonal trauma, youth, and relationship difficulties, and life transitions.
I work with clients to create a custom plan that addresses a variety of issues from the stresses of everyday life to managing specific incidents. I believe in a client-led approach and that you have the knowledge for your success. I like to work collaboratively with each client and family to utilize their unique strengths to foster that success. My goal during therapy is for clients to recognize their barriers through a different perspective so they feel they have the ability to make meaningful changes.
(844) 821-4558 View (844) 821-4558
Photo of Jeffrey Raich, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Croix County, WI
Jeffrey Raich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hudson, WI 54016
Life is hard. That’s pretty clear. But it’s made all the more difficult for those who are autistic, carry trauma, or are within the LGBTQIA+ community. The difficulty is unique. Whether it’s having an invisible disability, not being able to trust others, or fighting for acceptance, the ability to navigate life can be challenging. There’s hope. And I can help. Together we will work through the stories you’ve been taught, the expectations you’ve had to meet, and the experiences that brought you further and further from yourself.
Life is hard. That’s pretty clear. But it’s made all the more difficult for those who are autistic, carry trauma, or are within the LGBTQIA+ community. The difficulty is unique. Whether it’s having an invisible disability, not being able to trust others, or fighting for acceptance, the ability to navigate life can be challenging. There’s hope. And I can help. Together we will work through the stories you’ve been taught, the expectations you’ve had to meet, and the experiences that brought you further and further from yourself.
(651) 615-4686 View (651) 615-4686
Photo of Kathryn Hector, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Croix County, WI
Kathryn Hector
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT™
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hudson, WI 54016
Immediate in-person openings in River Falls, WI! Hi I'm Kathryn, I am a Registered Play Therapist and believe that therapy should be a safe place to process challenges with creativity and joy. I meet clients where they are and work with them to create positive change through encouragement and harnessing internal creativity. I am honored to be part of your journey towards wellness and support you in finding your way towards a satisfying and fulfilling life. My specialties include working with trauma, Autism, members of the LGBTQAI+ community, and parenting.
Immediate in-person openings in River Falls, WI! Hi I'm Kathryn, I am a Registered Play Therapist and believe that therapy should be a safe place to process challenges with creativity and joy. I meet clients where they are and work with them to create positive change through encouragement and harnessing internal creativity. I am honored to be part of your journey towards wellness and support you in finding your way towards a satisfying and fulfilling life. My specialties include working with trauma, Autism, members of the LGBTQAI+ community, and parenting.
(715) 500-6032 View (715) 500-6032
Photo of Kay Manahan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Saint Croix County, WI
Kay Manahan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CFRC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hudson, WI 54016
Do you struggle with trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, or relational issues? Do you feel overwhelmed, exhausted, and frustrated by the cards you've been dealt? Do you question that your relationships and well-being could be better? Now more than ever, people are feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about how they are supposed to manage their lives, careers, and relationships. Ignoring or avoiding your needs can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body. I don't believe life should be that hard.
Do you struggle with trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, or relational issues? Do you feel overwhelmed, exhausted, and frustrated by the cards you've been dealt? Do you question that your relationships and well-being could be better? Now more than ever, people are feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about how they are supposed to manage their lives, careers, and relationships. Ignoring or avoiding your needs can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body. I don't believe life should be that hard.
(651) 615-3106 View (651) 615-3106
Photo of Cori M. Hildebrandt, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Croix County, WI
Cori M. Hildebrandt
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC WI, LPCC MN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hudson, WI 54016
We may use psychoed, new skills, EMDR, or BRAINspotting to target trauma memories to reprocess and neutralize them.
Getting triggered left and right? Life not playing fair? Worry and anxiety robbing you? Having panic attacks on the regular? Stuck? Exhausted? Someone running or ruining your life? Dissatisfied with yourself, relationships, or career? Unsure of your next steps? Life can be painful, frustrating, and overwhelming when it is not going well. There is a magic that can happen in psychotherapy when you commit to working on yourself, your personal growth, and your healing. We may not all get charmed lives, but we all deserve to feel better. You can feel better if you do the work. You do not need to navigate life alone.
We may use psychoed, new skills, EMDR, or BRAINspotting to target trauma memories to reprocess and neutralize them.
Getting triggered left and right? Life not playing fair? Worry and anxiety robbing you? Having panic attacks on the regular? Stuck? Exhausted? Someone running or ruining your life? Dissatisfied with yourself, relationships, or career? Unsure of your next steps? Life can be painful, frustrating, and overwhelming when it is not going well. There is a magic that can happen in psychotherapy when you commit to working on yourself, your personal growth, and your healing. We may not all get charmed lives, but we all deserve to feel better. You can feel better if you do the work. You do not need to navigate life alone.
(651) 504-8466 View (651) 504-8466
Photo of Kelli Howard, Psychologist in Saint Croix County, WI
Kelli Howard
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hudson, WI 54016
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Stillwater-based psychologist who provides individual therapy and psychological testing to teens and adults ages 16 and up. Using a relaxed and non-judgmental style, I help people struggling with mood concerns, relationships, work/school stress, life transitions, and trauma. I provide both traditional talk therapy and more specific trauma therapies, such as Brainspotting and EMDR. I also offer supervision and consultation for pre-licensed counselors and psychologists, as well as psychological testing for ADHD and related concerns.
I am a Stillwater-based psychologist who provides individual therapy and psychological testing to teens and adults ages 16 and up. Using a relaxed and non-judgmental style, I help people struggling with mood concerns, relationships, work/school stress, life transitions, and trauma. I provide both traditional talk therapy and more specific trauma therapies, such as Brainspotting and EMDR. I also offer supervision and consultation for pre-licensed counselors and psychologists, as well as psychological testing for ADHD and related concerns.
(651) 321-5815 View (651) 321-5815
Photo of Ashley Tokuda, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Saint Croix County, WI
Ashley Tokuda
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Hudson, WI 54016
I specialize in working with the LGBT+ community, people who identify as neurodivergent, those with trauma and relationship issues (queer, ENM, Kink etc. I don't work with CIS, straight couples). I have a passion for supporting trans identifying clients as they advocate for their needs within the medical system, supporting clients navigating open relationships, and supporting parents who are navigating the needs of their neurodivergent children. I practice from a sex positive, health at every size, harm reduction lens. I ask my clients to show up as their authentic self and my clients can expect the same from me.
I specialize in working with the LGBT+ community, people who identify as neurodivergent, those with trauma and relationship issues (queer, ENM, Kink etc. I don't work with CIS, straight couples). I have a passion for supporting trans identifying clients as they advocate for their needs within the medical system, supporting clients navigating open relationships, and supporting parents who are navigating the needs of their neurodivergent children. I practice from a sex positive, health at every size, harm reduction lens. I ask my clients to show up as their authentic self and my clients can expect the same from me.
(651) 565-6138 View (651) 565-6138
Photo of Amber Priestley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Saint Croix County, WI
Amber Priestley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hudson, WI 54016
I specialize in providing couples therapy, treatment for trauma related disorders, anxiety, depression, and issues related to major life transitions.
If you're browsing Psychology Today and stumbled upon my profile, I hope this text box leaves a good first impression and you feel empowered to contact me! Reaching out for help can feel super vulnerable, but the results can be life changing and transformational. I am passionate about helping my clients achieve their mental health goals. My current clients would describe me as open, direct, non-judgmental, and REAL.
I specialize in providing couples therapy, treatment for trauma related disorders, anxiety, depression, and issues related to major life transitions.
If you're browsing Psychology Today and stumbled upon my profile, I hope this text box leaves a good first impression and you feel empowered to contact me! Reaching out for help can feel super vulnerable, but the results can be life changing and transformational. I am passionate about helping my clients achieve their mental health goals. My current clients would describe me as open, direct, non-judgmental, and REAL.
(651) 412-7947 View (651) 412-7947
Photo of Neko J Vanevenhoven, Marriage & Family Therapist in Saint Croix County, WI
Neko J Vanevenhoven
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, Supervi
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Hudson, WI 54016
I am trained to view life difficulties through a systemic-trauma lens and I use that lens to work alongside those struggling with difficulties in life.
Hello and welcome to the beginning of your healing journey! In addition, I am dually licensed in MN and WI and an approved supervisor for LMFT and LPCC. My name is Neko and I joined this field because I believe that life is a journey where invitations to heal, grow and prosper are constantly received!
I am trained to view life difficulties through a systemic-trauma lens and I use that lens to work alongside those struggling with difficulties in life.
Hello and welcome to the beginning of your healing journey! In addition, I am dually licensed in MN and WI and an approved supervisor for LMFT and LPCC. My name is Neko and I joined this field because I believe that life is a journey where invitations to heal, grow and prosper are constantly received!
(763) 247-2736 View (763) 247-2736

See more therapy options for Saint Croix County

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.