Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Pasadena, TX

Photo of Heather Lambert, LPC, MA, EAS-C, CSC, CTP-C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heather Lambert
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, EAS-C, CSC, CTP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pasadena, TX 77505
Master's degree from Liberty University in Professional Counseling, Trainer for The National Institute for Trauma and Loss in Children (TLC), Traumatic Event Crisis Intervention Plan (TECIP©) trained, Independent facilitator for the Love and Logic Institute, helping adults achieve respectful, healthy relationships with their children, EAS-C, Employee Assistance Specialist.
HOPE has been defined as grounds for believing that something good may happen. It is the want for something to happen or be the case, and to intend to do something. HOPE often needs help to have life, to take flight, and to posses courage. Clearhope Counseling intends to provide the support needed to discover and strengthen HOPE! Whether it is preparation for a new season of life, adapting to changes as you learn a new normal, dealing with a traumatic event, or learning strategies to obtain wellness, my desire is to humbly serve as your partner on this journey.
Master's degree from Liberty University in Professional Counseling, Trainer for The National Institute for Trauma and Loss in Children (TLC), Traumatic Event Crisis Intervention Plan (TECIP©) trained, Independent facilitator for the Love and Logic Institute, helping adults achieve respectful, healthy relationships with their children, EAS-C, Employee Assistance Specialist.
HOPE has been defined as grounds for believing that something good may happen. It is the want for something to happen or be the case, and to intend to do something. HOPE often needs help to have life, to take flight, and to posses courage. Clearhope Counseling intends to provide the support needed to discover and strengthen HOPE! Whether it is preparation for a new season of life, adapting to changes as you learn a new normal, dealing with a traumatic event, or learning strategies to obtain wellness, my desire is to humbly serve as your partner on this journey.
(281) 612-7808 View (281) 612-7808
Photo of Melanie Murphey, MSSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melanie Murphey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, TX 77505
Waitlist for new clients
EMDR can reduce the emotional distress, fear, and anxiety associated with disturbing life experiences or traumatic events.
There is a season in everyone's journey when you need an objective listener to affirm your strengths and identify any self-defeating patterns preventing you from being your best self. Over the past 20 years, I have valued collaborating with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, life transitions, women's issues, career struggles, spirituality, overcoming abuse, healing relationships, coping with chronic/acute medical conditions, preparing/coping for retirement, care-giving, and terminal illness. Grieving is a natural response to any significant loss. I see adults 23 yrs and up. No children, teens, or couples.
EMDR can reduce the emotional distress, fear, and anxiety associated with disturbing life experiences or traumatic events.
There is a season in everyone's journey when you need an objective listener to affirm your strengths and identify any self-defeating patterns preventing you from being your best self. Over the past 20 years, I have valued collaborating with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, life transitions, women's issues, career struggles, spirituality, overcoming abuse, healing relationships, coping with chronic/acute medical conditions, preparing/coping for retirement, care-giving, and terminal illness. Grieving is a natural response to any significant loss. I see adults 23 yrs and up. No children, teens, or couples.
(832) 612-3710 x500 View (832) 612-3710 x500
Photo of Dawn Hebert, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dawn Hebert
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, TX 77505
Waitlist for new clients
I am a LPC in Texas and Louisiana with 25+ years’ experience including supporting children, adolescents, adult’s and families. My experience as an individual and group therapist includes settings in private and outpatient therapy, therapeutic foster care, psychiatric hospitalization, an academic boarding program, a Christian private school, a residential program for survivors of sex trafficking, substance abuse treatment and prison release/re-entry programs. Areas of specialized training include Trauma/ PTSD, sexual abuse, ADHD, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, relationships, anger/stress management and communication.
I am a LPC in Texas and Louisiana with 25+ years’ experience including supporting children, adolescents, adult’s and families. My experience as an individual and group therapist includes settings in private and outpatient therapy, therapeutic foster care, psychiatric hospitalization, an academic boarding program, a Christian private school, a residential program for survivors of sex trafficking, substance abuse treatment and prison release/re-entry programs. Areas of specialized training include Trauma/ PTSD, sexual abuse, ADHD, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, relationships, anger/stress management and communication.
(281) 502-8977 x505 View (281) 502-8977 x505
Photo of Vincincia Wright, CSC, LPC-A
Vincincia Wright
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, CSC, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Pasadena, TX 77505
Asking for help can be scary, and it’s my job to help guide and encourage you to take the steps necessary for change in your life….at your own pace based on your own needs. Trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, and even grief can take root in our everyday lives without us even knowing it. They can manifest and effect our well being in negative ways. Once we realize they are there, it takes a lot of courage to seek change. I am very passionate about guiding individuals from ages 12 and beyond through transitions of life that may encompass dealing with these issues and more.
Asking for help can be scary, and it’s my job to help guide and encourage you to take the steps necessary for change in your life….at your own pace based on your own needs. Trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, and even grief can take root in our everyday lives without us even knowing it. They can manifest and effect our well being in negative ways. Once we realize they are there, it takes a lot of courage to seek change. I am very passionate about guiding individuals from ages 12 and beyond through transitions of life that may encompass dealing with these issues and more.
(832) 736-7847 View (832) 736-7847
Photo of Andrea Arjón, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andrea Arjón
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Pasadena, TX 77505
My experience includes helping clients who have struggled with issues such as anxiety, depression, self-esteem, shame, grief and loss, relationship issues, and post-traumatic stress.
My name is Andrea Arjon and I am a bilingual Licensed Professional Counselor (License 73800) in the State of Texas. My goal as a therapist is to help you find meaning and healing through a deep exploration of what makes you YOU. I believe in holding a safe space that welcomes all parts of you and integrates the multiple identities and values you hold.
My experience includes helping clients who have struggled with issues such as anxiety, depression, self-esteem, shame, grief and loss, relationship issues, and post-traumatic stress.
My name is Andrea Arjon and I am a bilingual Licensed Professional Counselor (License 73800) in the State of Texas. My goal as a therapist is to help you find meaning and healing through a deep exploration of what makes you YOU. I believe in holding a safe space that welcomes all parts of you and integrates the multiple identities and values you hold.
(346) 536-8741 View (346) 536-8741
Photo of Joy Gayle, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joy Gayle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pasadena, TX 77505
As a Trauma-Informed practitioner, I am known for my powerful, direct approach to the solutions my clients seek.
As a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ, I consider it an honor to help you navigate the storms of life with an approach that builds confidence, trust and hope using time-proven techniques. My counsel is based on the combination of both my Christian faith and my psychodynamic understanding of how people heal and mature. My goal is to build with you a trustworthy, empathetic and clarifying relationship, and to rejoice with you in the healing process. With God’s good help, for over 33 years, I have walked alongside individuals seeking resolution to a wide range of life challenges and psychological issues.
As a Trauma-Informed practitioner, I am known for my powerful, direct approach to the solutions my clients seek.
As a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ, I consider it an honor to help you navigate the storms of life with an approach that builds confidence, trust and hope using time-proven techniques. My counsel is based on the combination of both my Christian faith and my psychodynamic understanding of how people heal and mature. My goal is to build with you a trustworthy, empathetic and clarifying relationship, and to rejoice with you in the healing process. With God’s good help, for over 33 years, I have walked alongside individuals seeking resolution to a wide range of life challenges and psychological issues.
(713) 360-0992 View (713) 360-0992
Photo of Paola Gonzalez Fusilier - Pasadena Counseling Center , MA, LPC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pasadena Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, TX 77505
I believe in the therapeutic power of play and trauma focused therapy.
Hola! My name is Paola Gonzalez Fusilier. I am a trauma therapist with years of experience working with children, adults, and families from diverse backgrounds. I work with little clients as young as 2 years old, parents, adults of any age, and families. Immigration evaluations available immediately. Soy terapeuta de trauma con años de experiencia trabajando con niños, adultos y familias de diversos orígenes. Trabajo con pequeños clientes desde los 2 años, padres, adultos de cualquier edad y familias. Evaluaciones de inmigración disponibles de inmediato.
I believe in the therapeutic power of play and trauma focused therapy.
Hola! My name is Paola Gonzalez Fusilier. I am a trauma therapist with years of experience working with children, adults, and families from diverse backgrounds. I work with little clients as young as 2 years old, parents, adults of any age, and families. Immigration evaluations available immediately. Soy terapeuta de trauma con años de experiencia trabajando con niños, adultos y familias de diversos orígenes. Trabajo con pequeños clientes desde los 2 años, padres, adultos de cualquier edad y familias. Evaluaciones de inmigración disponibles de inmediato.
(281) 801-6609 View (281) 801-6609
Photo of Dr. Angela K Waggoner, PhD, LPC-S, LCDC, CSC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Angela K Waggoner
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, LCDC, CSC, NCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Pasadena, TX 77505
Dr. Waggoner has a passion for working with individuals and couples who struggle with trauma, crisis, suicidal ideation, self-harm, abuse (physical, emotional, mental, sexual, spiritual), and complex trauma. She also works with the grief, loss, depression, and anxiety that stems from these issues.
Dr. Waggoner has a passion for working with individuals and couples who struggle with trauma, crisis, suicidal ideation, self-harm, abuse (physical, emotional, mental, sexual, spiritual), and complex trauma. She also works with the grief, loss, depression, and anxiety that stems from these issues.
(281) 712-2967 View (281) 712-2967
Photo of Heather Lambert - Clearhope Counseling & Wellness Center, Pasadena, LPC, LCSW, LMFT, LMT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Clearhope Counseling & Wellness Center, Pasadena
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCSW, LMFT, LMT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Pasadena, TX 77505
We have therapists who specialize in trauma, EMDR, DBT, couples, depression, anxiety, OCD, eating disorders, relationship issues, parenting, school behavioral challenges, underperformance, anger management and many other unique needs concerning individuals and their relationships.
Clearhope Counseling & Wellness Center Pasadena exists to remove access barriers to high-quality mental health services. We are a team of experts eager to partner with clients from all backgrounds, needs, and experiences in their journey to hope and healing.
We have therapists who specialize in trauma, EMDR, DBT, couples, depression, anxiety, OCD, eating disorders, relationship issues, parenting, school behavioral challenges, underperformance, anger management and many other unique needs concerning individuals and their relationships.
Clearhope Counseling & Wellness Center Pasadena exists to remove access barriers to high-quality mental health services. We are a team of experts eager to partner with clients from all backgrounds, needs, and experiences in their journey to hope and healing.
(281) 549-8208 x500 View (281) 549-8208 x500
Photo of Stephanie R Rodriguez, MSW, LCSW-S, CSAT , SEP, CDWF, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie R Rodriguez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-S, CSAT , SEP, CDWF
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Pasadena, TX 77504
Your brain is an amazing system that can process and heal from trauma.
That painful event keeps replaying over and over in your head. You can’t stop seeing the images of it. Thoughts of what you could have done differently play on repeat. They force their way into your mind, leaving you overwhelmed, panicked, and burnt out. The triggers are everywhere and anxiety and depression feel like they’re constantly looming over you. If you could just let it go maybe you could move on with your life. You no longer want to carry the weight of what happened but to enjoy the things you once loved.
Your brain is an amazing system that can process and heal from trauma.
That painful event keeps replaying over and over in your head. You can’t stop seeing the images of it. Thoughts of what you could have done differently play on repeat. They force their way into your mind, leaving you overwhelmed, panicked, and burnt out. The triggers are everywhere and anxiety and depression feel like they’re constantly looming over you. If you could just let it go maybe you could move on with your life. You no longer want to carry the weight of what happened but to enjoy the things you once loved.
(281) 810-3613 View (281) 810-3613
Photo of Chris J Fowles, MAMFC, LPC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chris J Fowles
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAMFC, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Pasadena, TX 77501
Also, helping those who have experienced trauma, sexual, physical, emotional, or neglect, at all levels.
There are many people struggling with the difficult issues of trauma-related issues, difficult or confusing mental health diagnoses, and/or differing types of addiction. My goal and focus is to help those who have a hard time finding lasting help in their struggles. Living a restored, manageable and fulfilling life is possible through skilled professional counseling. I have seen tremendous growth in these areas and would like to more people experience the freedom others have gained.
Also, helping those who have experienced trauma, sexual, physical, emotional, or neglect, at all levels.
There are many people struggling with the difficult issues of trauma-related issues, difficult or confusing mental health diagnoses, and/or differing types of addiction. My goal and focus is to help those who have a hard time finding lasting help in their struggles. Living a restored, manageable and fulfilling life is possible through skilled professional counseling. I have seen tremendous growth in these areas and would like to more people experience the freedom others have gained.
(832) 956-0271 View (832) 956-0271
Photo of Janet Close Martinez, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Janet Close Martinez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, TX 77502
Recently my focus has been on trauma and trauma-informed counseling.
We all face challenges in our lives. None of us are perfect parents, perfect children or perfect spouses. It is okay to seek out help and perspective from another person, especially a professional. I have been a Licensed Professional Counselor since 2001. I have worked with children, adolescents and families since being an intern in 1999. I love helping people get through challenges and helping them get to the next level of their lives.
Recently my focus has been on trauma and trauma-informed counseling.
We all face challenges in our lives. None of us are perfect parents, perfect children or perfect spouses. It is okay to seek out help and perspective from another person, especially a professional. I have been a Licensed Professional Counselor since 2001. I have worked with children, adolescents and families since being an intern in 1999. I love helping people get through challenges and helping them get to the next level of their lives.
(281) 809-9436 View (281) 809-9436
Photo of Flor Aponte, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Flor Aponte
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pasadena, TX 77501
My areas of specialization are Trauma, Suicidality, Crisis Intervention, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Life transitions, Family conflicts, couple therapy; Additional training in SBIRT (Screening, Brief Intervention, and referral to treatment), Motivational Interview training, and Accelerated resolution therapy (ART) trained.
“Your mental health is everything — prioritize it. Make the time like your life depends on it because it does.” — Mel Robbins. I believe that I didn't choose to be a mental health professional, the profession chose me. I remember helping my friends in High school with their traumas and life transition issues. The ability to connect and make people feel comfortable talking to me about their personal stories took me on this professional path. What I love the most about being a mental health professional is having the opportunity and privilege of being a part of people’s journeys.
My areas of specialization are Trauma, Suicidality, Crisis Intervention, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Life transitions, Family conflicts, couple therapy; Additional training in SBIRT (Screening, Brief Intervention, and referral to treatment), Motivational Interview training, and Accelerated resolution therapy (ART) trained.
“Your mental health is everything — prioritize it. Make the time like your life depends on it because it does.” — Mel Robbins. I believe that I didn't choose to be a mental health professional, the profession chose me. I remember helping my friends in High school with their traumas and life transition issues. The ability to connect and make people feel comfortable talking to me about their personal stories took me on this professional path. What I love the most about being a mental health professional is having the opportunity and privilege of being a part of people’s journeys.
(832) 481-7148 View (832) 481-7148
Photo of Donna Shoop, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Donna Shoop
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pasadena, TX 77502  (Online Only)
I am Donna Shoop, a Licensed Professional Counselor with twenty-two years of clinical experience. I have worked with individuals, adolescents, couples, parents, and families with Relationship Issues, Trauma, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, and Adolescent/Teens Issues. I use a combination of approaches which include Person-Centered Therapies, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Client-Centered Therapy, and Solution Focused Brief (SFBT). I will work with anyone who has a need and is willing to try new things to improve their life. I believe in working with a person where they are at the moment and helping them grow towards where they want to be.
I am Donna Shoop, a Licensed Professional Counselor with twenty-two years of clinical experience. I have worked with individuals, adolescents, couples, parents, and families with Relationship Issues, Trauma, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, and Adolescent/Teens Issues. I use a combination of approaches which include Person-Centered Therapies, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Client-Centered Therapy, and Solution Focused Brief (SFBT). I will work with anyone who has a need and is willing to try new things to improve their life. I believe in working with a person where they are at the moment and helping them grow towards where they want to be.
(830) 988-4304 View (830) 988-4304
Photo of Cari Varela, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cari Varela
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pasadena, TX 77506  (Online Only)
Hi, I am Cari Varela, MS LPC-S, LSOTP, and I have been providing therapeutic services since 2007. I have provided individual, family, and group services for adults and children throughout my career. I have provided counseling for treatment concerns such as Adolescents/Teens, Anxiety, Borderline Personality, Codependency, and Coping Skills. In addition, I use a mix of CBT, Client-Centered Therapy, Clinical Supervision, and Licensed, Humanistic, and Trauma Focused therapies. I believe that I enjoy helping others, and I think it's fantastic to see people grow.
Hi, I am Cari Varela, MS LPC-S, LSOTP, and I have been providing therapeutic services since 2007. I have provided individual, family, and group services for adults and children throughout my career. I have provided counseling for treatment concerns such as Adolescents/Teens, Anxiety, Borderline Personality, Codependency, and Coping Skills. In addition, I use a mix of CBT, Client-Centered Therapy, Clinical Supervision, and Licensed, Humanistic, and Trauma Focused therapies. I believe that I enjoy helping others, and I think it's fantastic to see people grow.
(726) 232-1873 View (726) 232-1873
Clearhope Counseling Center, 501 C3
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pasadena, TX 77505
Clearhope exists to remove access barriers to high-quality mental health services. If it is bothering you, we want to help. We deliver trauma-informed, client-centered services to help you friend the strength and hope for healing and wellness.
Clearhope exists to remove access barriers to high-quality mental health services. If it is bothering you, we want to help. We deliver trauma-informed, client-centered services to help you friend the strength and hope for healing and wellness.
(281) 886-0438 View (281) 886-0438
Photo of Caden Huckins, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Caden Huckins
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, TX 77505
Hi, I'm Caden. I’m a LMFT-A (supervised by Bianca Vincent LMFT-S) specializing in trauma, and I work with children, individuals, couples, and families. My experience comes from working extensively with those affected by the foster care system, where I’ve encountered many children and families who have faced trauma, instability, and loss. I’ve worked with children dealing with severe behavioral challenges and have supported families in strengthening their connections. Together, we navigate difficult dynamics and decisions, fostering growth in trust and communication along the way.
Hi, I'm Caden. I’m a LMFT-A (supervised by Bianca Vincent LMFT-S) specializing in trauma, and I work with children, individuals, couples, and families. My experience comes from working extensively with those affected by the foster care system, where I’ve encountered many children and families who have faced trauma, instability, and loss. I’ve worked with children dealing with severe behavioral challenges and have supported families in strengthening their connections. Together, we navigate difficult dynamics and decisions, fostering growth in trust and communication along the way.
(346) 748-8967 View (346) 748-8967
Photo of Sheree Johnson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sheree Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pasadena, TX 77506
I typically work with adult clients who are experiencing mental health issues (depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, etc), and individuals battling with everyday stressors, adjustment issues, and trauma.
Hello, I am Sheree Johnson, LCSW. My passion involves helping individuals meet their healing goals while feeling better about themselves and their future. My hope is that I will encourage/inspire those receiving services to live a fulfilled life through an effective therapeutic approach. I have expertise in a range of therapy modalities but the ones I use most frequently are cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, and person-centered therapy.
I typically work with adult clients who are experiencing mental health issues (depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, etc), and individuals battling with everyday stressors, adjustment issues, and trauma.
Hello, I am Sheree Johnson, LCSW. My passion involves helping individuals meet their healing goals while feeling better about themselves and their future. My hope is that I will encourage/inspire those receiving services to live a fulfilled life through an effective therapeutic approach. I have expertise in a range of therapy modalities but the ones I use most frequently are cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, and person-centered therapy.
(346) 584-2404 View (346) 584-2404
Photo of Phaecia Ward, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Phaecia Ward
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pasadena, TX 77504  (Online Only)
I specialize in anger management, anxiety, adolescent & teen mental/behavioral, health, depression, PTSD (Post traumatic Stress Disorder), stress, family relationships, intimate / romantic relationships and trauma.
Welcome ! My name is Dr. Phaecia Ward and I have over a decade of experience and specializes in supporting African American adults and families.
I specialize in anger management, anxiety, adolescent & teen mental/behavioral, health, depression, PTSD (Post traumatic Stress Disorder), stress, family relationships, intimate / romantic relationships and trauma.
Welcome ! My name is Dr. Phaecia Ward and I have over a decade of experience and specializes in supporting African American adults and families.
(409) 509-7938 View (409) 509-7938
Photo of Julia Douglass Meadows, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Julia Douglass Meadows
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Pasadena, TX 77503
I have experience working with children with a variety of concerns including: behavioral issues, school issues, adjusting to divorce, trauma, anxiety, ADHD and life transitions.
Do you feel stuck? Are you frustrated in your relationships? Do you feel at a loss in helping your child? Do you find that despite your best efforts you make choices that don't always further your goals? Therapy can help you uncover and remove obstacles that may be keeping you from living your best life. I offer a practical solution focused approach aimed at helping my clients find solutions and workable strategies to help achieve their goals. I believe that therapy is not limited to exploring the past, it can also focus on discovering solutions for the present.
I have experience working with children with a variety of concerns including: behavioral issues, school issues, adjusting to divorce, trauma, anxiety, ADHD and life transitions.
Do you feel stuck? Are you frustrated in your relationships? Do you feel at a loss in helping your child? Do you find that despite your best efforts you make choices that don't always further your goals? Therapy can help you uncover and remove obstacles that may be keeping you from living your best life. I offer a practical solution focused approach aimed at helping my clients find solutions and workable strategies to help achieve their goals. I believe that therapy is not limited to exploring the past, it can also focus on discovering solutions for the present.
(832) 924-3883 View (832) 924-3883
1
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.