Photo of Christie D. Brown, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christie D. Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Desoto, TX 75115  (Online Only)
Cracked by life? Don't stay shattered. Life simply sucks sometimes. We've all been there, battered by hardships that leave us feeling defeated, down-trodden, and drowning in insecurity. We question everything, from our choices to our very ability to cope. But here's the good news: you're not alone, and the solutions exist. That's where I come in. As a licensed professional with years of experience in both inpatient and outpatient counseling, I believe therapy is the ultimate toolbox for navigating life's messy challenges. No problem is too big, no pain too deep. Your story deserves a triumphant rewrite.
Cracked by life? Don't stay shattered. Life simply sucks sometimes. We've all been there, battered by hardships that leave us feeling defeated, down-trodden, and drowning in insecurity. We question everything, from our choices to our very ability to cope. But here's the good news: you're not alone, and the solutions exist. That's where I come in. As a licensed professional with years of experience in both inpatient and outpatient counseling, I believe therapy is the ultimate toolbox for navigating life's messy challenges. No problem is too big, no pain too deep. Your story deserves a triumphant rewrite.
(214) 833-7621 View (214) 833-7621
Photo of undefined - Divine Interventions, CIP, CATC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Divine Interventions
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CIP, CATC
Verified Verified
Desoto, TX 75115
Kathy is a nationally certified drug and alcohol interventionist. She is a board registered Interventionist, and a Certified drug and alcohol counselor. She has been working in the field of addiction recovery for over 20 years. Her hands-on experience with SUD has given her the clinical comprehension of what to expect and how to assist you and your loved one through the transition into recovery. Kathy recognizes that substance use disorder is a debilitating disease that attacks an individual and families on all Ievels: physically, emotionally & spiritually. Her goal is to restore hope with care, honesty, and professionalism.
Kathy is a nationally certified drug and alcohol interventionist. She is a board registered Interventionist, and a Certified drug and alcohol counselor. She has been working in the field of addiction recovery for over 20 years. Her hands-on experience with SUD has given her the clinical comprehension of what to expect and how to assist you and your loved one through the transition into recovery. Kathy recognizes that substance use disorder is a debilitating disease that attacks an individual and families on all Ievels: physically, emotionally & spiritually. Her goal is to restore hope with care, honesty, and professionalism.
(866) 688-2415 View (866) 688-2415

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of undefined - Anomaly Therapy Services , LCSW, LCDC, C-DBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anomaly Therapy Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCDC, C-DBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lancaster, TX 75134  (Online Only)
My focus is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space to explore your foundations, current experiences, and potential. I am currently practicing with children, adolescents, adults, parents, and families. I have worked extensively with people of all ages who have experienced trauma/significant stress, and those who live with anxiety, anger, substance abuse, and depression. I also enjoy supporting people who are experiencing life transitions (grief/loss, becoming parents, divorce, job changes, etc.), and those who struggle with perfectionism, shame, and guilt.
My focus is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space to explore your foundations, current experiences, and potential. I am currently practicing with children, adolescents, adults, parents, and families. I have worked extensively with people of all ages who have experienced trauma/significant stress, and those who live with anxiety, anger, substance abuse, and depression. I also enjoy supporting people who are experiencing life transitions (grief/loss, becoming parents, divorce, job changes, etc.), and those who struggle with perfectionism, shame, and guilt.
(972) 430-7675 View (972) 430-7675
Photo of Christi Shortes, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christi Shortes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Red Oak, TX 75154
Play can be the most comfortable place for a child to process their trauma, feelings and emotions.
Both children and adults have the ability to learn, grow and heal. It's my honor to hear your story through verbal communication, art or play therapy. My goal is to come along side of you and/or your child to facilitate the healing process through creative methods.
Play can be the most comfortable place for a child to process their trauma, feelings and emotions.
Both children and adults have the ability to learn, grow and heal. It's my honor to hear your story through verbal communication, art or play therapy. My goal is to come along side of you and/or your child to facilitate the healing process through creative methods.
(214) 239-4094 View (214) 239-4094
Photo of Nancy M Miller, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nancy M Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lancaster, TX 75134  (Online Only)
Each person has inherent worth and the capacity to grow toward personal fulfillment. There comes a time when help is needed from a certified professional to cope with many of life's challenges. I recognize the unique challenges of each individual and systems that may exist, and seek to integrate emotions, thoughts, and actions to enable fuller, happier lives.
Each person has inherent worth and the capacity to grow toward personal fulfillment. There comes a time when help is needed from a certified professional to cope with many of life's challenges. I recognize the unique challenges of each individual and systems that may exist, and seek to integrate emotions, thoughts, and actions to enable fuller, happier lives.
(214) 273-4710 View (214) 273-4710

Online Therapists

Photo of Jennifer K Smith, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer K Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Sunnyvale, TX 75182  (Online Only)
All people go through difficult times in life. It is my desire to walk alongside you through those challenges as we work together to pursue healing. My primary area of focus is in working with teens and adults struggling with eating disorders, addiction, trauma, and difficulty with adjustment during times of transition. I also work with the families of those struggling with these issues in order to assist you in knowing how to best support your loved one.
All people go through difficult times in life. It is my desire to walk alongside you through those challenges as we work together to pursue healing. My primary area of focus is in working with teens and adults struggling with eating disorders, addiction, trauma, and difficulty with adjustment during times of transition. I also work with the families of those struggling with these issues in order to assist you in knowing how to best support your loved one.
(469) 256-7797 View (469) 256-7797
Photo of Dr. Megan McMillan Rowling, PsyD, MA, Psychologist
Dr. Megan McMillan Rowling
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75206
Dr. Rowling has extensive experience in successfully treating the following: • Issues relating to celebrity, power and success. • Attachment issues. • Chronic interpersonal and relational trauma. • Issues relating to extreme stress. • Work, creativity and career issues. • Relational dynamics and conflicts. Personality disorders including narcissism, dependent and obsessive compulsive personality disorders. • Substance abuse including alcohol abuse, prescription medication dependence, and sexual compulsivity. • Mood disorders including depression and bipolar disorder. •
Dr. Rowling has extensive experience in successfully treating the following: • Issues relating to celebrity, power and success. • Attachment issues. • Chronic interpersonal and relational trauma. • Issues relating to extreme stress. • Work, creativity and career issues. • Relational dynamics and conflicts. Personality disorders including narcissism, dependent and obsessive compulsive personality disorders. • Substance abuse including alcohol abuse, prescription medication dependence, and sexual compulsivity. • Mood disorders including depression and bipolar disorder. •
(872) 231-3318 View (872) 231-3318
Photo of Pam Mesker Pierce, MA, MS, LMSW
Pam Mesker Pierce
MA, MS, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75218
Experience includes 12-Step programs, addiction recovery, marital, grief, boundaries, divorce, codependency, inner child, psychodrama, sex and love addiction, trauma, time management, coaching, career, financial and pastoral counseling.
The clients that work best with me are ready to identify obstacles that are preventing them from living a juicy and fulfilling life. I guide my clients to empower themselves and be survivors, not victims. I assign frequent homework and will not work harder than you. I will most often tell you what you don't want to hear, in a loving, kind way. I use a variety of treatment modalities in any given session. I also have extensive knowlege and resources regarding the 12 steps. If requested, I can counsel from a Christian perspective.
Experience includes 12-Step programs, addiction recovery, marital, grief, boundaries, divorce, codependency, inner child, psychodrama, sex and love addiction, trauma, time management, coaching, career, financial and pastoral counseling.
The clients that work best with me are ready to identify obstacles that are preventing them from living a juicy and fulfilling life. I guide my clients to empower themselves and be survivors, not victims. I assign frequent homework and will not work harder than you. I will most often tell you what you don't want to hear, in a loving, kind way. I use a variety of treatment modalities in any given session. I also have extensive knowlege and resources regarding the 12 steps. If requested, I can counsel from a Christian perspective.
(469) 208-6767 View (469) 208-6767
Photo of undefined - Ashley Klein at Verus Counseling, LPC, LCDC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashley Klein at Verus Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC, NCC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75231
Hi there! I'm Ashley. I'm a therapist in Texas offering individual and couples counseling to adults and teens. I am passionate about providing trauma-focused, culturally competent mental health care to clients of all identities. I specialize in treating trauma, PTSD/complex PTSD, dissociative disorders, addiction and first responder trauma. Often my clients feel stuck in their symptoms, which hold them back from enjoying comfort in their daily lives. These symptoms could include panic attacks, dissociative episodes, feeling disconnected from others, or waves of sadness, all of which can lead to unhealthy self-medication.
Hi there! I'm Ashley. I'm a therapist in Texas offering individual and couples counseling to adults and teens. I am passionate about providing trauma-focused, culturally competent mental health care to clients of all identities. I specialize in treating trauma, PTSD/complex PTSD, dissociative disorders, addiction and first responder trauma. Often my clients feel stuck in their symptoms, which hold them back from enjoying comfort in their daily lives. These symptoms could include panic attacks, dissociative episodes, feeling disconnected from others, or waves of sadness, all of which can lead to unhealthy self-medication.
(214) 441-6283 View (214) 441-6283
Photo of Dana Johnson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dana Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Irving, TX 75063
WE OFFER PHONE AND VIDEO SESSIONS. Able to offer ADHD and personality testing. Trading authenticity for safety leads to sacrifices in your life, resulting in anxiety, depression, anger, addiction, etc. One of my goals is to guide you in a daily practice of letting go of who you feel you are supposed to be and embrace who you are. At the end of the day, I want you to feel heard. Through my work with grief, trauma and abuse, I have discovered how necessary it is to live authentically and be able to trust those around you. It is crucial for clients to feel as though they have a part in their therapeutic process and recovery
WE OFFER PHONE AND VIDEO SESSIONS. Able to offer ADHD and personality testing. Trading authenticity for safety leads to sacrifices in your life, resulting in anxiety, depression, anger, addiction, etc. One of my goals is to guide you in a daily practice of letting go of who you feel you are supposed to be and embrace who you are. At the end of the day, I want you to feel heard. Through my work with grief, trauma and abuse, I have discovered how necessary it is to live authentically and be able to trust those around you. It is crucial for clients to feel as though they have a part in their therapeutic process and recovery
(469) 660-1402 View (469) 660-1402
Photo of undefined - Guided Purpose Counseling, PLLC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Guided Purpose Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Worth, TX 76116
Our expertise encompasses a range of areas, including Trauma (PTSD), Anxiety, Depression, Mood disorders, Substance Use/Addiction Counseling, Parenting, Childhood Behavior/Education Interventions, Anxiety and Depression, Counselor for Marginalized Minorities/Cultural Counseling, Relationship Counseling, Life Transitions, and Grief Counseling.
Group Practice Statement: At our group practice, the guiding themes of "Meaningful Progress" and "Progress is not Perfection" are woven into every session, reflecting not only our professional approach but also our commitment to personal growth. Recognizing the uncertainties and challenges that life presents, we strive to offer focused and customizable treatment to individuals from all walks of life, fostering purposeful progress that may not be perfect but is undeniably meaningful. Here at Guided Purpose Counseling, we believe in making health and helping services accessible to everyone.
Our expertise encompasses a range of areas, including Trauma (PTSD), Anxiety, Depression, Mood disorders, Substance Use/Addiction Counseling, Parenting, Childhood Behavior/Education Interventions, Anxiety and Depression, Counselor for Marginalized Minorities/Cultural Counseling, Relationship Counseling, Life Transitions, and Grief Counseling.
Group Practice Statement: At our group practice, the guiding themes of "Meaningful Progress" and "Progress is not Perfection" are woven into every session, reflecting not only our professional approach but also our commitment to personal growth. Recognizing the uncertainties and challenges that life presents, we strive to offer focused and customizable treatment to individuals from all walks of life, fostering purposeful progress that may not be perfect but is undeniably meaningful. Here at Guided Purpose Counseling, we believe in making health and helping services accessible to everyone.
(817) 755-5824 View (817) 755-5824
Photo of Jill Davis, MMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jill Davis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denton, TX 76205
I help clients in areas such as: ADHD, addiction, recovery from affairs, anger management, anxiety, bipolar, body image and disordered eating, boundary setting, Christian counseling, communication, co-parenting, depression, divorce prevention, divorce recovery, grief, launching, life stage transitions, parent-child relationships, and trauma recovery.
In a time when your hope for peace, emotional relief or relational reconciliation may be lost, I can still see the hope for you. My desire as a therapist is to help you see that hope again yourself. I believe everyone is capable of healing and restoration within his or her relationships and within his or her self. I am honored by the opportunity to serve in my role during times of great difficulty for my clients and I rejoice with them as they begin to see positive change in ways they once thought impossible.
I help clients in areas such as: ADHD, addiction, recovery from affairs, anger management, anxiety, bipolar, body image and disordered eating, boundary setting, Christian counseling, communication, co-parenting, depression, divorce prevention, divorce recovery, grief, launching, life stage transitions, parent-child relationships, and trauma recovery.
In a time when your hope for peace, emotional relief or relational reconciliation may be lost, I can still see the hope for you. My desire as a therapist is to help you see that hope again yourself. I believe everyone is capable of healing and restoration within his or her relationships and within his or her self. I am honored by the opportunity to serve in my role during times of great difficulty for my clients and I rejoice with them as they begin to see positive change in ways they once thought impossible.
(940) 202-3706 View (940) 202-3706
Photo of undefined - Counseling Center of North Texas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Counseling Center of North Texas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Wylie, TX 75098
***Now offering telehealth services*** Counseling Center of North Texas has multiple therapists with the education, experience, and desire to help you or a loved one with whatever obstacles you may face including conflict with family, relationships, school, and/or work, depression, anxiety, ADHD and other mental health disorders, grief/trauma, stressful life events, adoptions, domestic violence, child abuse and neglect, and self-harm/other unhealthy coping skills. Christian counseling is available. We see children 3 and up, adolescents, adults, and seniors for individual, marital, family, and group counseling.
***Now offering telehealth services*** Counseling Center of North Texas has multiple therapists with the education, experience, and desire to help you or a loved one with whatever obstacles you may face including conflict with family, relationships, school, and/or work, depression, anxiety, ADHD and other mental health disorders, grief/trauma, stressful life events, adoptions, domestic violence, child abuse and neglect, and self-harm/other unhealthy coping skills. Christian counseling is available. We see children 3 and up, adolescents, adults, and seniors for individual, marital, family, and group counseling.
(469) 275-4107 View (469) 275-4107
Photo of Crystal Chang, MS, CRC, LPC, LCDC, Counselor
Crystal Chang
Counselor, MS, CRC, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Lewisville, TX 75067  (Online Only)
I am Licensed Professional Counselor licensed in Texas with over 10 years of experience working in the mental health field. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns. I have also helped many people who have experienced physical and emotional trauma. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach combines many counseling approaches such as but not limited to cognitive-behavioral, person-centered and rational-emotive counseling. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique needs.
I am Licensed Professional Counselor licensed in Texas with over 10 years of experience working in the mental health field. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns. I have also helped many people who have experienced physical and emotional trauma. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach combines many counseling approaches such as but not limited to cognitive-behavioral, person-centered and rational-emotive counseling. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique needs.
(469) 278-7505 View (469) 278-7505
Photo of Heidi Johanson, MS, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heidi Johanson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75071
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor in the state of Texas. I have a Masters Degree in Counseling from Southern Methodist University. I have experience in treating trauma, PTSD, OCD, depression, anxiety, Bi-polar disorder, addiction, life adjustment issues, personality disorders, gender/identity, family and relationship issues. Throughout my career I've had the opportunity to treat a diversified clientele that has shaped my ability to be understanding and accepting. I believe the therapeutic relationship is the most valuable aspect of the counseling experience.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor in the state of Texas. I have a Masters Degree in Counseling from Southern Methodist University. I have experience in treating trauma, PTSD, OCD, depression, anxiety, Bi-polar disorder, addiction, life adjustment issues, personality disorders, gender/identity, family and relationship issues. Throughout my career I've had the opportunity to treat a diversified clientele that has shaped my ability to be understanding and accepting. I believe the therapeutic relationship is the most valuable aspect of the counseling experience.
(682) 305-2787 View (682) 305-2787
Photo of Brenda Banks, MS, LPC, LCDC, CCHt, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brenda Banks
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC, CCHt
Verified Verified
Euless, TX 76039  (Online Only)
Are you dealing with symptoms associated with trauma, addictions or anxiety? Have you notice that you have little or no memories, trouble sleeping or concentrating? Is there increased stress in your life due to feeling emotionally overwhelm, depression, self destructive behavior, loss of sense of "who you are"? If so, I'd like to help you. I will focus on helping you cope with difficult feelings that can occur when faced with trauma or challenging life changes. Working together, I can help you learn ways to feel more in control, reduce your stress, improve your relationships, and reclaim joy and hope in your life.
Are you dealing with symptoms associated with trauma, addictions or anxiety? Have you notice that you have little or no memories, trouble sleeping or concentrating? Is there increased stress in your life due to feeling emotionally overwhelm, depression, self destructive behavior, loss of sense of "who you are"? If so, I'd like to help you. I will focus on helping you cope with difficult feelings that can occur when faced with trauma or challenging life changes. Working together, I can help you learn ways to feel more in control, reduce your stress, improve your relationships, and reclaim joy and hope in your life.
(817) 508-9080 View (817) 508-9080
Photo of undefined - Living Well Family and Child Institute, PhD, MS LPC, MS Ed,, BS Ed,, Licensed Professional Counselor
Living Well Family and Child Institute
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MS LPC, MS Ed,, BS Ed,
Verified Verified
Irving, TX 75062
Enjoy counseling while experiencing a natural outdoor atmosphere or in-office setting. Dr. Aragon has 20 years of experience in Academic Teaching/Research and 15 years in Educational and Family counseling. My specialty involves court appointed Child Custody Evaluations, Adoptions, weight-loss management, Chronic Pain, and family relationships (e.g., couples, youth/adolescences and young adulthood). Therapy is engaged with a primary focus on generational trauma, anxiety, depression communication styles, Identity/Self-Esteem, and intimate re-engagement after chronic illness (e.g., Alzheimer's, diabetes, erectile dysfunction, etc.)
Enjoy counseling while experiencing a natural outdoor atmosphere or in-office setting. Dr. Aragon has 20 years of experience in Academic Teaching/Research and 15 years in Educational and Family counseling. My specialty involves court appointed Child Custody Evaluations, Adoptions, weight-loss management, Chronic Pain, and family relationships (e.g., couples, youth/adolescences and young adulthood). Therapy is engaged with a primary focus on generational trauma, anxiety, depression communication styles, Identity/Self-Esteem, and intimate re-engagement after chronic illness (e.g., Alzheimer's, diabetes, erectile dysfunction, etc.)
(214) 628-7225 View (214) 628-7225
Photo of Monique M Thompson, MA, LPC, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Monique M Thompson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Frisco, TX 75034
Unlock the best version of yourself. I bring 23 years of experience as a seasoned counselor specializing in psychotherapy and life coaching. If seeking relief from anxiety, depression, or PTSD, or longing to enhance your mental and emotional well-being, I'm here for you. Clients of faith appreciate the inclusion of a spiritual focus in our sessions. Couples navigating the complexities of infidelity or low emotional intimacy report improvements in communication and relationship satisfaction. My ideal clients are mature in age but refuse to settle for mediocrity in any area. They expect results and schedule with me for satisfaction.
Unlock the best version of yourself. I bring 23 years of experience as a seasoned counselor specializing in psychotherapy and life coaching. If seeking relief from anxiety, depression, or PTSD, or longing to enhance your mental and emotional well-being, I'm here for you. Clients of faith appreciate the inclusion of a spiritual focus in our sessions. Couples navigating the complexities of infidelity or low emotional intimacy report improvements in communication and relationship satisfaction. My ideal clients are mature in age but refuse to settle for mediocrity in any area. They expect results and schedule with me for satisfaction.
(972) 820-9965 View (972) 820-9965
Photo of Jennifer Markle, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Markle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75206  (Online Only)
I have a specialization in addressing complex trauma and CPTSD, particularly focusing on attachment trauma. The majority of my clients have encountered abuse, neglect, or significant dysfunction during their upbringing. Complex trauma affects various aspects of life and often results in secondary challenges such as anxiety, depression, maladaptive coping strategies, and relational issues. I am adept at working with individuals committed to engaging in profound healing processes.
I have a specialization in addressing complex trauma and CPTSD, particularly focusing on attachment trauma. The majority of my clients have encountered abuse, neglect, or significant dysfunction during their upbringing. Complex trauma affects various aspects of life and often results in secondary challenges such as anxiety, depression, maladaptive coping strategies, and relational issues. I am adept at working with individuals committed to engaging in profound healing processes.
(469) 707-8099 View (469) 707-8099
Photo of Ana Ferrell, MA, LPC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ana Ferrell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Tyler, TX 75703
I am an EMDR trained therapist and I specialize in trauma, addictions and dual diagnosis.
Seeking help for life’s struggles is not an easy task especially when it requires our emotional exposure. I believe it takes a very courageous person to seek help and be vulnerable. If this is you, I want to congratulate you! I consider it an honor and a big privilege to walk beside my clients who are facing hardships in life. I believe therapy can be extremely helpful when the client is approached with welcoming, comforting and the nonjudgmental heart of a therapist.
I am an EMDR trained therapist and I specialize in trauma, addictions and dual diagnosis.
Seeking help for life’s struggles is not an easy task especially when it requires our emotional exposure. I believe it takes a very courageous person to seek help and be vulnerable. If this is you, I want to congratulate you! I consider it an honor and a big privilege to walk beside my clients who are facing hardships in life. I believe therapy can be extremely helpful when the client is approached with welcoming, comforting and the nonjudgmental heart of a therapist.
(903) 730-6573 View (903) 730-6573

See more therapy options for Desoto

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.