Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Gerrardstown, WV

There are no results for therapists in Gerrardstown

Check out therapists located nearby or offering teletherapy in West Virginia below.

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Jyotsna Milbourne, Psychologist in Gerrardstown, WV
Dr. Jyotsna Milbourne
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Martinsburg, WV 25401
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder with various populations.
I believe in a collaborative approach to therapy. My goals are to assist you with problem areas of your life. I offer a safe and judgement free space for you to explore your issues.
I specialize in Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder with various populations.
I believe in a collaborative approach to therapy. My goals are to assist you with problem areas of your life. I offer a safe and judgement free space for you to explore your issues.
(304) 318-7996 View (304) 318-7996
Photo of Starling Hathcock, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gerrardstown, WV
Starling Hathcock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, CCTP-ll
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Martinsburg, WV 25401
Waitlist for new clients
Do you feel sad or have no energy or oomph? Life is too short to surrender to bad relationships, let trauma control us, or be anxious/angry all the time. I want you to be free of emotional pain and find meaning and purpose in family, friendships, spirituality, work, and all other life areas. I am a Licensed Certified Social Worker-Clinical (LCSW-C). I work with teens and adults of all ages, couples/partners, and families. My area of expertise is working with individuals who have experienced trauma and those struggling with anxiety, depression, self-harm, suicidal ideation, and self-esteem issues.
Do you feel sad or have no energy or oomph? Life is too short to surrender to bad relationships, let trauma control us, or be anxious/angry all the time. I want you to be free of emotional pain and find meaning and purpose in family, friendships, spirituality, work, and all other life areas. I am a Licensed Certified Social Worker-Clinical (LCSW-C). I work with teens and adults of all ages, couples/partners, and families. My area of expertise is working with individuals who have experienced trauma and those struggling with anxiety, depression, self-harm, suicidal ideation, and self-esteem issues.
(240) 219-5583 View (240) 219-5583
Photo of Erica D. Graham, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gerrardstown, WV
Erica D. Graham
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, AADC, CCTP, ALPS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Martinsburg, WV 25401
I have experience in helping with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, and abuse, & motivation, self-esteem, and confidence.
Hi! I'm Erica! Beginning therapy means different things to different people, but it is often an action of courage, hope, self-care, and self-determination. You may or may not have been to a therapist before. If this is your first experience with therapy, you might feel a bit nervous or apprehensive. That's normal! Therapy is a process that allows you the freedom and privacy to discuss issues that are often painful or difficult to discuss with family and/or friends. I believe that in the process of our work together, you can begin to feel more at home within yourself and with your relationships.
I have experience in helping with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, and abuse, & motivation, self-esteem, and confidence.
Hi! I'm Erica! Beginning therapy means different things to different people, but it is often an action of courage, hope, self-care, and self-determination. You may or may not have been to a therapist before. If this is your first experience with therapy, you might feel a bit nervous or apprehensive. That's normal! Therapy is a process that allows you the freedom and privacy to discuss issues that are often painful or difficult to discuss with family and/or friends. I believe that in the process of our work together, you can begin to feel more at home within yourself and with your relationships.
(304) 244-2413 View (304) 244-2413
Photo of Carpe Diem Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gerrardstown, WV
Carpe Diem Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Martinsburg, WV 25403
As a Veteran myself I have extensive experience in Military Culture, Children & Families, Substance Abuse, & Trauma.
I am compassionate and nonjudgmental and will offer the support you need to overcome life's difficulties. We are all different in the way we experience and manage life. I have always been interested in the wellness of others and have been blessed to watch many people find recovery. If you are feeling discouraged, overwhelmed, worried or sad, then together we can discover or revisit your healthy options to navigate those feelings. You have taken a step in the right direction to navigate those feelings and to reach out for help. Connection to others allows us to find peace and improved quality of life.
As a Veteran myself I have extensive experience in Military Culture, Children & Families, Substance Abuse, & Trauma.
I am compassionate and nonjudgmental and will offer the support you need to overcome life's difficulties. We are all different in the way we experience and manage life. I have always been interested in the wellness of others and have been blessed to watch many people find recovery. If you are feeling discouraged, overwhelmed, worried or sad, then together we can discover or revisit your healthy options to navigate those feelings. You have taken a step in the right direction to navigate those feelings and to reach out for help. Connection to others allows us to find peace and improved quality of life.
(540) 340-5771 View (540) 340-5771
Photo of Begin Counseling, PLLC , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gerrardstown, WV
Begin Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Martinsburg, WV 25401
Begin Counseling exists to expand trauma-specialized services in our community and surrounding areas. It is a place for individuals, families, and children affected by trauma to receive treatment and thrive in their roles and responsibilities. We welcome all clients from our community regardless of career background. We value those who protect, serve, and care for our community. Begin increases access to culturally competent trauma treatment for first responders. We understand the unique challenges first responders face at work and at home.
Begin Counseling exists to expand trauma-specialized services in our community and surrounding areas. It is a place for individuals, families, and children affected by trauma to receive treatment and thrive in their roles and responsibilities. We welcome all clients from our community regardless of career background. We value those who protect, serve, and care for our community. Begin increases access to culturally competent trauma treatment for first responders. We understand the unique challenges first responders face at work and at home.
(304) 403-7778 View (304) 403-7778
Photo of Michael Monsma, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gerrardstown, WV
Michael Monsma
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Martinsburg, WV 25405
LENS has helped: PTSD, Anxiety, Sleep, Mental Fog, Concussion, Fatigue, Depression, Seizures, Fibromyalgia, Headaches/Migraines, Memory/Learning, Motivation, OCD, Pain, Strokes, TBI, Addiction, ADHD, Autism.
Time for a new approach? An integrated approach of LENS Neurotherapy, EMDR and "talk" therapy has resulted in rapid improvements for client mood & overall health. LENS (Low Energy Neurofeedback System) "reboots" suppressed areas of the brain impacted by emotional trauma, concussion, illness, toxins/meds... with applications typically lasting seconds to a few minutes. Michael has offered EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) therapy since 2001, effective for resolving emotional trauma & targeting "stuck" thinking patterns. Changes occur through the "safe space" of the therapeutic relationship & brain-based interventions.
LENS has helped: PTSD, Anxiety, Sleep, Mental Fog, Concussion, Fatigue, Depression, Seizures, Fibromyalgia, Headaches/Migraines, Memory/Learning, Motivation, OCD, Pain, Strokes, TBI, Addiction, ADHD, Autism.
Time for a new approach? An integrated approach of LENS Neurotherapy, EMDR and "talk" therapy has resulted in rapid improvements for client mood & overall health. LENS (Low Energy Neurofeedback System) "reboots" suppressed areas of the brain impacted by emotional trauma, concussion, illness, toxins/meds... with applications typically lasting seconds to a few minutes. Michael has offered EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) therapy since 2001, effective for resolving emotional trauma & targeting "stuck" thinking patterns. Changes occur through the "safe space" of the therapeutic relationship & brain-based interventions.
(304) 986-4488 View (304) 986-4488
Photo of Jessica F. Cole, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gerrardstown, WV
Jessica F. Cole
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, DSW
Verified Verified
Martinsburg, WV 25401
Waitlist for new clients
My training and therapeutic experience includes practice with the following modalities: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused, Solution Focused, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, providing individual therapy to adolescents, adults, and families. I strive to provide a safe, confidential, and supportive environment in which healing and restoration is fostered. With a decade of post-graduate experience, I am passionate about providing a holistic approach to treatment, including mind, body, and spirit in the treatment process. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults dealing with a variety of issues.
My training and therapeutic experience includes practice with the following modalities: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused, Solution Focused, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, providing individual therapy to adolescents, adults, and families. I strive to provide a safe, confidential, and supportive environment in which healing and restoration is fostered. With a decade of post-graduate experience, I am passionate about providing a holistic approach to treatment, including mind, body, and spirit in the treatment process. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults dealing with a variety of issues.
View
Photo of Carissa Sietsema, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gerrardstown, WV
Carissa Sietsema
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Martinsburg, WV 25401  (Online Only)
As a therapist that treats anxiety, ocd, depression, and trauma it is my goal to help individuals have a better understanding of themselves, process past pain, and feel confident in moving through life.
Sometimes life keeps throwing curve balls at us, causing us to wonder how many more we can dodge. Dodging these curve balls can cause us to struggle with anxiety, OCD, depression and trauma. Feelings of guilt, future tripping, or needing things a certain way may become a large part of our world. These thoughts can take up space rent free in our minds making us act or behave a certain way to feel better. Or the tiring upkeep can make it feel like we're dragging through life, losing our motivation, or that we're wearing a mask. In moments like these a helping hand is sometimes all we need to regain control over our lives.
As a therapist that treats anxiety, ocd, depression, and trauma it is my goal to help individuals have a better understanding of themselves, process past pain, and feel confident in moving through life.
Sometimes life keeps throwing curve balls at us, causing us to wonder how many more we can dodge. Dodging these curve balls can cause us to struggle with anxiety, OCD, depression and trauma. Feelings of guilt, future tripping, or needing things a certain way may become a large part of our world. These thoughts can take up space rent free in our minds making us act or behave a certain way to feel better. Or the tiring upkeep can make it feel like we're dragging through life, losing our motivation, or that we're wearing a mask. In moments like these a helping hand is sometimes all we need to regain control over our lives.
(304) 924-4790 View (304) 924-4790
Photo of Restoring Hope Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gerrardstown, WV
Restoring Hope Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Inwood, WV 25428  (Online Only)
I have 18+ years of experience with a wide range of populations and needs. I have helped clients of all ages however, work with only adults at this time. The needs and issues have ranged from at risk/early intervention, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/loss, self esteem, crisis counseling, and many more. The goals of my clients have been to develop effective copings skills and to get help with their own personal mental health journey. Everyone wants to feel supported, not judged, and heard in order to gain back their hope and assurance in their future.
I have 18+ years of experience with a wide range of populations and needs. I have helped clients of all ages however, work with only adults at this time. The needs and issues have ranged from at risk/early intervention, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/loss, self esteem, crisis counseling, and many more. The goals of my clients have been to develop effective copings skills and to get help with their own personal mental health journey. Everyone wants to feel supported, not judged, and heard in order to gain back their hope and assurance in their future.
(540) 235-5073 View (540) 235-5073
Photo of Melba Natasha Sanchez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gerrardstown, WV
Melba Natasha Sanchez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LIMHP, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Martinsburg, WV 25401  (Online Only)
She has also completed specialized training in Trauma-Focused CBT, Motivational Interviewing, EMDR, Mind-Body Techniques, Acudetox, and Functional Family Therapy.
M. Natasha Sanchez, MSW, LIMHP, LICSW, is a community based therapist providing services to those seeking to improve their relationships with others, change or eliminate troubling behaviors and habits, improve their control over mood and anxiety, perform better at school or work, adjust to difficult life events/transitions, and those who simply wish to gain insight into their personal past in order to welcome a bright and more honest future. Natasha's orientation to counseling is relationship based (collaborative), flexible, respectful and confidential.
She has also completed specialized training in Trauma-Focused CBT, Motivational Interviewing, EMDR, Mind-Body Techniques, Acudetox, and Functional Family Therapy.
M. Natasha Sanchez, MSW, LIMHP, LICSW, is a community based therapist providing services to those seeking to improve their relationships with others, change or eliminate troubling behaviors and habits, improve their control over mood and anxiety, perform better at school or work, adjust to difficult life events/transitions, and those who simply wish to gain insight into their personal past in order to welcome a bright and more honest future. Natasha's orientation to counseling is relationship based (collaborative), flexible, respectful and confidential.
(402) 307-6101 View (402) 307-6101
Photo of EAS Winchester, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gerrardstown, WV
EAS Winchester, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Martinsburg, WV 25401
Children, At-Risk-youth, criminally involved juveniles and adults, children and adults with a history of trauma (physical abuse, sexual abuse, neglect), depression, anxiety.
Children, At-Risk-youth, criminally involved juveniles and adults, children and adults with a history of trauma (physical abuse, sexual abuse, neglect), depression, anxiety.
(540) 390-1471 View (540) 390-1471
Photo of Leeann Randow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gerrardstown, WV
Leeann Randow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Martinsburg, WV 25403  (Online Only)
Whether that be learning to set boundaries, process trauma or other life transitions, we will collaborate to establish mutually-agreed upon goals and I will be here as your guide, giving insight, feedback and suggestions for change.
Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Do you put your needs at the bottom of the to-do list? Do you often wonder if life can feel better in some way? That you could be more content? We know life can throw complex challenges our way that can change the way we view the world, our relationships and, at times, ourselves. Not taking time for yourself, and pushing away your own needs, can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body. I believe these experiences can be transformed to serve as sources of empowerment and growth.
Whether that be learning to set boundaries, process trauma or other life transitions, we will collaborate to establish mutually-agreed upon goals and I will be here as your guide, giving insight, feedback and suggestions for change.
Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Do you put your needs at the bottom of the to-do list? Do you often wonder if life can feel better in some way? That you could be more content? We know life can throw complex challenges our way that can change the way we view the world, our relationships and, at times, ourselves. Not taking time for yourself, and pushing away your own needs, can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body. I believe these experiences can be transformed to serve as sources of empowerment and growth.
(240) 448-4814 View (240) 448-4814
Photo of Kayla Grogg Meador, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gerrardstown, WV
Kayla Grogg Meador
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Martinsburg, WV 25401
Waitlist for new clients
Seeking help takes courage. Therapy can provide a space to learn more about yourself and find new ways to navigate life’s challenges. I work with individuals who experience military-related concerns; boundary setting, imposter syndrome, family of origin issues, family-related trauma, or attachment ruptures, anxiety, depression, and trauma. I am also prior service military and have some insight regarding this culture.
Seeking help takes courage. Therapy can provide a space to learn more about yourself and find new ways to navigate life’s challenges. I work with individuals who experience military-related concerns; boundary setting, imposter syndrome, family of origin issues, family-related trauma, or attachment ruptures, anxiety, depression, and trauma. I am also prior service military and have some insight regarding this culture.
(681) 201-3677 View (681) 201-3677
Photo of Whitney Bender, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gerrardstown, WV
Whitney Bender
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Martinsburg, WV 25401
Through supportive connection and partnership, I believe recovery is possible; and I am enthusiastic about being a part of that process. Having graduated from Shippensburg University with a BA in Psychology, I obtained my Masters in Social Work after working in the mental health field for over a decade. My experience includes working through symptoms of trauma, anxiety, schizophrenia, depression, bipolar, and other mood disorders. I passionately serve folks on the autism spectrum, and in the LGBTQ+ and aging populations. I also recognize and enjoy the challenges that come with working with diverse populations.
Through supportive connection and partnership, I believe recovery is possible; and I am enthusiastic about being a part of that process. Having graduated from Shippensburg University with a BA in Psychology, I obtained my Masters in Social Work after working in the mental health field for over a decade. My experience includes working through symptoms of trauma, anxiety, schizophrenia, depression, bipolar, and other mood disorders. I passionately serve folks on the autism spectrum, and in the LGBTQ+ and aging populations. I also recognize and enjoy the challenges that come with working with diverse populations.
(304) 317-3019 View (304) 317-3019
Photo of Kacey D Arnold-Nowlin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gerrardstown, WV
Kacey D Arnold-Nowlin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Martinsburg, WV 25401  (Online Only)
I've had the pleasure in working with many resilient people along my journey of helping others since 2006. Those drawn to me seek help with social anxiety, depressive disorders, addiction, childhood trauma or emotional neglect, and codependency issues. I also have a passion for helping people move on from abusive relationships and to go through the very difficult task of rebuilding their lives. Am I the right fit for you? I offer introduction calls, so let's talk.
I've had the pleasure in working with many resilient people along my journey of helping others since 2006. Those drawn to me seek help with social anxiety, depressive disorders, addiction, childhood trauma or emotional neglect, and codependency issues. I also have a passion for helping people move on from abusive relationships and to go through the very difficult task of rebuilding their lives. Am I the right fit for you? I offer introduction calls, so let's talk.
(304) 315-7083 View (304) 315-7083
Photo of Amy Taddeo, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gerrardstown, WV
Amy Taddeo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Martinsburg, WV 25401  (Online Only)
In addition to my specialization in eating disorders, I enjoy supporting clients working through struggles with self-esteem, life transitions, trauma, relationship concerns, and mood disorders.
I enjoy working with individuals of all genders and ages, though I particularly enjoy working with older adolescents (14+) and young adults as they navigate the more transitional stages of life. I use a person-centered approach to therapy that allows my clients to be their own experts, and to use their own understanding of their experiences as a baseline for their healing. I also integrate relational therapy techniques, supporting clients in building their sense of self and autonomy, while also developing patience with and trust in their relationships with others.
In addition to my specialization in eating disorders, I enjoy supporting clients working through struggles with self-esteem, life transitions, trauma, relationship concerns, and mood disorders.
I enjoy working with individuals of all genders and ages, though I particularly enjoy working with older adolescents (14+) and young adults as they navigate the more transitional stages of life. I use a person-centered approach to therapy that allows my clients to be their own experts, and to use their own understanding of their experiences as a baseline for their healing. I also integrate relational therapy techniques, supporting clients in building their sense of self and autonomy, while also developing patience with and trust in their relationships with others.
(571) 520-5917 View (571) 520-5917
Photo of Kathy A Jones, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gerrardstown, WV
Kathy A Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Martinsburg, WV 25401
Kathy Jones earned her Master’s degree in Social Work from West Virginia University. She has over 20 years experience working with children and families as a social worker. Kathy has worked in a variety of therapeutic settings: outpatient, inpatient, and residential treatment, as well as a working with clients ranging from children, adolescents, and adults. She generally treats clients who are seeking to address trauma, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, behavioral issues, life transitions, and/or everyday life challenges.
Kathy Jones earned her Master’s degree in Social Work from West Virginia University. She has over 20 years experience working with children and families as a social worker. Kathy has worked in a variety of therapeutic settings: outpatient, inpatient, and residential treatment, as well as a working with clients ranging from children, adolescents, and adults. She generally treats clients who are seeking to address trauma, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, behavioral issues, life transitions, and/or everyday life challenges.
(681) 539-5292 View (681) 539-5292
Photo of Wendy Young, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gerrardstown, WV
Wendy Young
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Martinsburg, WV 25401
An ideal client would be anyone seeking change, seeking to understand themselves with a goal to live a better quality of life. Clients may struggle with a broad array of challenges including trauma, depression, anxiety, addiction, co-occurring disorders, interpersonal, self-esteem, or other challenges. Clients may want relief, to be heard, to be understood and/or to find possible paths to healing.
An ideal client would be anyone seeking change, seeking to understand themselves with a goal to live a better quality of life. Clients may struggle with a broad array of challenges including trauma, depression, anxiety, addiction, co-occurring disorders, interpersonal, self-esteem, or other challenges. Clients may want relief, to be heard, to be understood and/or to find possible paths to healing.
(304) 600-8085 View (304) 600-8085
Photo of Linda M Parkhill, Counselor in Gerrardstown, WV
Linda M Parkhill
Counselor, MA, LPC, ALPS
Verified Verified
Martinsburg, WV 25401
My professional concentration has been in the areas of: domestic violence, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, sexual abuse, PTSD, OCD, "transitional issues" and problem gambling.
My approach in counseling is somewhat holistic and eclectic. I believe a supportive counseling environment works to help a client achieve awareness, thus leading to healing and personal growth. My role is to help clients explore their emotional needs and provide feedback. Hopefully, the value will be realized in both behavioral and emotional changes. Under all circumstances, my mission is to treat the client with the utmost regard and honor the human condition as it is. Counseling hours are available most days at your convenience. Often clients are able to schedule an appointment with 24 hours of calling my office.
My professional concentration has been in the areas of: domestic violence, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, sexual abuse, PTSD, OCD, "transitional issues" and problem gambling.
My approach in counseling is somewhat holistic and eclectic. I believe a supportive counseling environment works to help a client achieve awareness, thus leading to healing and personal growth. My role is to help clients explore their emotional needs and provide feedback. Hopefully, the value will be realized in both behavioral and emotional changes. Under all circumstances, my mission is to treat the client with the utmost regard and honor the human condition as it is. Counseling hours are available most days at your convenience. Often clients are able to schedule an appointment with 24 hours of calling my office.
(304) 462-9991 View (304) 462-9991
Photo of Dr. Melisa M Carrico, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gerrardstown, WV
Dr. Melisa M Carrico
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Martinsburg, WV 25401  (Online Only)
Are you navigating anxiety, trauma, heightened sensitivity, stress, and/or depression? If you're seeking a holistic approach to therapy you're in the right place. Together, we'll address challenges and stuck places that might be holding you back. Through this process, we'll open the door to deep healing, stress reduction, and creating the transformative change you want in your life. Remember, you're not alone on this path, I will be here to guide you on your path. My approach is personalized and client-centered, focusing on self-discovery and providing solutions. It's all about you.
Are you navigating anxiety, trauma, heightened sensitivity, stress, and/or depression? If you're seeking a holistic approach to therapy you're in the right place. Together, we'll address challenges and stuck places that might be holding you back. Through this process, we'll open the door to deep healing, stress reduction, and creating the transformative change you want in your life. Remember, you're not alone on this path, I will be here to guide you on your path. My approach is personalized and client-centered, focusing on self-discovery and providing solutions. It's all about you.
(304) 318-4881 View (304) 318-4881

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.