Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Gainesville, VA

Photo of Susan Patricia Miller, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gainesville, VA
Susan Patricia Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Gainesville, VA 20155
In my practice, I work with adults, adolescents and couples. My primary interests include: treatments for trauma and PTSD, life changes and transitions, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, stress management, grief and loss and LGBTQ issues and concerns. I enjoy working with a variety of techniques to assist others in controlling and reducing the effects of daily stress. I provide supervision for students working on their LPC licensure credentials and am an approved provider with the Board of Counseling in VA.
In my practice, I work with adults, adolescents and couples. My primary interests include: treatments for trauma and PTSD, life changes and transitions, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, stress management, grief and loss and LGBTQ issues and concerns. I enjoy working with a variety of techniques to assist others in controlling and reducing the effects of daily stress. I provide supervision for students working on their LPC licensure credentials and am an approved provider with the Board of Counseling in VA.
(703) 845-0666 View (703) 845-0666
Photo of Lora Delos Reyes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Gainesville, VA
Lora Delos Reyes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gainesville, VA 20155  (Online Only)
I enjoy bringing my love for nostalgic activities, Disney/Pixar, pop culture and music/musicals into the therapy room as relatable analogies/metaphors to process various issues including intergenerational family trauma, complex trauma, anxiety, depression and disenfranchised grief.
When we look back at our lives, there are often identifiable moments that shape the direction life takes next. Sometimes these moments come as an opportunity - a person who genuinely sees and unconditionally accepts you - or a choice. These moments can often alter the path of life. Too often people are mislabeled, overlooked, and forgotten, and their behaviors reflect as much. I hope to create a place for people to see and be seen as they wish themselves to be. My goal is to create a safe haven for you to Overcome barriers, Nurture relationships, and Empower yourself to take ownership and control of your life.
I enjoy bringing my love for nostalgic activities, Disney/Pixar, pop culture and music/musicals into the therapy room as relatable analogies/metaphors to process various issues including intergenerational family trauma, complex trauma, anxiety, depression and disenfranchised grief.
When we look back at our lives, there are often identifiable moments that shape the direction life takes next. Sometimes these moments come as an opportunity - a person who genuinely sees and unconditionally accepts you - or a choice. These moments can often alter the path of life. Too often people are mislabeled, overlooked, and forgotten, and their behaviors reflect as much. I hope to create a place for people to see and be seen as they wish themselves to be. My goal is to create a safe haven for you to Overcome barriers, Nurture relationships, and Empower yourself to take ownership and control of your life.
(571) 445-5195 View (571) 445-5195
Photo of Kaitlin Westerman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gainesville, VA
Kaitlin Westerman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gainesville, VA 20155
I work with adults who experience trauma,anxiety/depression, mood disorders, personality changes, life transitions, and dissociation.
YOU can heal you! It’s not about what's wrong with you, it’s about what happened to you. Finding a safe space that encourages healing can be difficult to find and asking for help can be an intimidating prospect. I aim to help create a space where you can begin to reconnect with yourself, empowering all parts of you to choose the path YOU want. I want to help you approach emotions with curiosity and gentleness. Viewing behavior, thoughts, and feelings as techniques adapted to help us survive, we begin to move towards a place of acceptance. I want you to live a life free from emotional suffering, feeling stable in all areas of life.
I work with adults who experience trauma,anxiety/depression, mood disorders, personality changes, life transitions, and dissociation.
YOU can heal you! It’s not about what's wrong with you, it’s about what happened to you. Finding a safe space that encourages healing can be difficult to find and asking for help can be an intimidating prospect. I aim to help create a space where you can begin to reconnect with yourself, empowering all parts of you to choose the path YOU want. I want to help you approach emotions with curiosity and gentleness. Viewing behavior, thoughts, and feelings as techniques adapted to help us survive, we begin to move towards a place of acceptance. I want you to live a life free from emotional suffering, feeling stable in all areas of life.
(571) 554-5246 View (571) 554-5246
Photo of Olivia Sweetnam, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gainesville, VA
Olivia Sweetnam
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gainesville, VA 20155  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My background is in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD.
Accepting residents for LPC supervision. I believe that every individual has the ability to reach their full potential no matter what stressful experiences they may encounter. Everyone has their own story which is why I tailor treatment by taking a person-centered approach incorporating evidence-based therapies to create a safe and supportive therapeutic environment where clients are able to develop skills that promote positive change.
My background is in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD.
Accepting residents for LPC supervision. I believe that every individual has the ability to reach their full potential no matter what stressful experiences they may encounter. Everyone has their own story which is why I tailor treatment by taking a person-centered approach incorporating evidence-based therapies to create a safe and supportive therapeutic environment where clients are able to develop skills that promote positive change.
(571) 470-5527 View (571) 470-5527
Photo of Talifa Bailey, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gainesville, VA
Talifa Bailey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS
Verified Verified
Gainesville, VA 20155  (Online Only)
Are you suffering from trauma, depression or anxiety that has left you feeling hopeless, unmotivated and in despair? Have you ever wondered how the closest relationship(s) in your life shifted from being your source of pure joy to causing you to feel overwhelmed? Maybe your relationship/marriage feels like it's falling apart, or you're unable to spend quality time with your child(ren) without arguments/conflict. Could it be that divorce has taken a toll on your entire family and what you thought would finally bring peace appears to have destroyed everyone’s lives? Are you have difficulty seeing a path forward? This is a safe space!
Are you suffering from trauma, depression or anxiety that has left you feeling hopeless, unmotivated and in despair? Have you ever wondered how the closest relationship(s) in your life shifted from being your source of pure joy to causing you to feel overwhelmed? Maybe your relationship/marriage feels like it's falling apart, or you're unable to spend quality time with your child(ren) without arguments/conflict. Could it be that divorce has taken a toll on your entire family and what you thought would finally bring peace appears to have destroyed everyone’s lives? Are you have difficulty seeing a path forward? This is a safe space!
(571) 570-3470 View (571) 570-3470
Photo of Ceres Artico Ph. D., Licensed Professional Counselor in Gainesville, VA
Ceres Artico Ph. D.
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Gainesville, VA 20155
Artico's areas of expertise include treatment of trauma, depression, anxiety (including performance anxiety), and relationship difficulties.
All of us have the ability and desire to heal and lead meaningful, fulfilling, lives. However, at times we need professional help to overcome devastating feelings and life events. Dr. Artico has over 20 years of experience helping couples, adults and teens become who they were meant to be. She is the director of Gainesville Family Counseling, has taught at George Mason University, and is the author of the book Latino Families Broken by Immigration. She is certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), has advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples (EFT), clinical supervision, and sandtray therapy.
Artico's areas of expertise include treatment of trauma, depression, anxiety (including performance anxiety), and relationship difficulties.
All of us have the ability and desire to heal and lead meaningful, fulfilling, lives. However, at times we need professional help to overcome devastating feelings and life events. Dr. Artico has over 20 years of experience helping couples, adults and teens become who they were meant to be. She is the director of Gainesville Family Counseling, has taught at George Mason University, and is the author of the book Latino Families Broken by Immigration. She is certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), has advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples (EFT), clinical supervision, and sandtray therapy.
(703) 947-0838 View (703) 947-0838
Photo of Mary Kirkpatrick, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gainesville, VA
Mary Kirkpatrick
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CCMHC, CATP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gainesville, VA 20155
We have a few openings for adults at this time. We especially have availability for morning appointments. I am an existential therapist dedicated to helping adults and children cope better with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, life events, loss, trauma, and more. My goal is to help individuals, children, teens, adults, and couples solve their problems. I also help people of all ages manage their trauma, relieving bad memories with EMDR and parts work.
We have a few openings for adults at this time. We especially have availability for morning appointments. I am an existential therapist dedicated to helping adults and children cope better with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, life events, loss, trauma, and more. My goal is to help individuals, children, teens, adults, and couples solve their problems. I also help people of all ages manage their trauma, relieving bad memories with EMDR and parts work.
(540) 351-9685 View (540) 351-9685
Photo of Clarity Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gainesville, VA
Clarity Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEDS-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gainesville, VA 20155
I have been working in the field of eating disorders & trauma since 2008 and I am committed to help client’s understand and fully overcome their illness so that they have peace within their mind, body, and spirit. I earned her Bachelors of Arts at Rutgers University and Masters of Science at Columbia University. In 2017 I became a certified eating disorder specialist and supervisor and currently hold a leadership role in that organization. I am energetic, passionate, and dedicated to empowering individuals and families who are impacted by eating disorders and mental health and hope to walk along side you in your recovery process.
I have been working in the field of eating disorders & trauma since 2008 and I am committed to help client’s understand and fully overcome their illness so that they have peace within their mind, body, and spirit. I earned her Bachelors of Arts at Rutgers University and Masters of Science at Columbia University. In 2017 I became a certified eating disorder specialist and supervisor and currently hold a leadership role in that organization. I am energetic, passionate, and dedicated to empowering individuals and families who are impacted by eating disorders and mental health and hope to walk along side you in your recovery process.
(571) 520-6408 View (571) 520-6408
Photo of Rebecca Cottle-Makhene, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gainesville, VA
Rebecca Cottle-Makhene
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT-S, CATP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gainesville, VA 20155
I have been a child protective services worker, a court ordered trauma therapist, and a school counselor.
My goal is to meet clients where they are and take them where they want to be. My varied experiences allows me to utilize differing psychotherapy techniques based on what the client needs. I have a focus on trauma related issues and victim advocacy. I believe that by empowering clients with resilience and helping them to find their strength they can use those tools no matter what adversities they may face. My clinical expertise encompasses a range of problems, including mood and anxiety disorders, child and parental adjustment to divorce, child and adolescent behavior management problems, social skills, and parenting.
I have been a child protective services worker, a court ordered trauma therapist, and a school counselor.
My goal is to meet clients where they are and take them where they want to be. My varied experiences allows me to utilize differing psychotherapy techniques based on what the client needs. I have a focus on trauma related issues and victim advocacy. I believe that by empowering clients with resilience and helping them to find their strength they can use those tools no matter what adversities they may face. My clinical expertise encompasses a range of problems, including mood and anxiety disorders, child and parental adjustment to divorce, child and adolescent behavior management problems, social skills, and parenting.
(703) 997-4916 View (703) 997-4916
Photo of Michelle Gorden- NOVA Clinical Counseling,LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gainesville, VA
Michelle Gorden- NOVA Clinical Counseling,LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Gainesville, VA 20155  (Online Only)
I'm Michelle Gorden, a counselor with dual credentials as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Virginia and a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC). With 20 years in the field, my expertise spans a range of areas, particularly mood disorders, trauma, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). I especially enjoy working with people dealing with life transitions, career-related stress, and goal setting.
I'm Michelle Gorden, a counselor with dual credentials as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Virginia and a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC). With 20 years in the field, my expertise spans a range of areas, particularly mood disorders, trauma, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). I especially enjoy working with people dealing with life transitions, career-related stress, and goal setting.
(571) 568-8212 View (571) 568-8212
Photo of Lauren Fabrizio, Art Therapist in Gainesville, VA
Lauren Fabrizio
Art Therapist, MPS, ATR-BC, LCAT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Gainesville, VA 20155
Lauren Fabrizio is a Creative Arts Therapist and intuitive healer. Her specialties include treating eating disorders, trauma, and anxiety. In addition, she focuses on relational issues, career coaching and financial empowerment. She received a Bachelors of Fine Arts from New York University and her Masters degree in Art Therapy from the School of Visual Arts. Lauren has led art therapy groups and coordinated programs at several treatment centers.
Lauren Fabrizio is a Creative Arts Therapist and intuitive healer. Her specialties include treating eating disorders, trauma, and anxiety. In addition, she focuses on relational issues, career coaching and financial empowerment. She received a Bachelors of Fine Arts from New York University and her Masters degree in Art Therapy from the School of Visual Arts. Lauren has led art therapy groups and coordinated programs at several treatment centers.
(631) 240-0672 View (631) 240-0672
Photo of Vanessa Quiroz, Pre-Licensed Professional in Gainesville, VA
Vanessa Quiroz
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Gainesville, VA 20155
As a counselor, I firmly believe a collaborative, trauma informed approach helps empower the client and is the best route towards successful outcomes.
Life is inherently uncertain, marked by constant change—relocation, new diagnoses, parenthood—each evoking a spectrum of emotions. Navigating these challenges without the right knowledge or tools can feel overwhelming. This is where therapy serves as a guiding light. My objective is to cultivate emotional well-being and personal growth, considering all facets of life through a person-centered, multicultural approach. Acknowledging the uniqueness of each client, I tailor my approach to their individual strengths and abilities, rejecting the notion of a one-size-fits-all solution.
As a counselor, I firmly believe a collaborative, trauma informed approach helps empower the client and is the best route towards successful outcomes.
Life is inherently uncertain, marked by constant change—relocation, new diagnoses, parenthood—each evoking a spectrum of emotions. Navigating these challenges without the right knowledge or tools can feel overwhelming. This is where therapy serves as a guiding light. My objective is to cultivate emotional well-being and personal growth, considering all facets of life through a person-centered, multicultural approach. Acknowledging the uniqueness of each client, I tailor my approach to their individual strengths and abilities, rejecting the notion of a one-size-fits-all solution.
(571) 378-5793 View (571) 378-5793
Photo of A New Day is Dawning Therapy, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gainesville, VA
A New Day is Dawning Therapy, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP, IFS, IFIO
Verified Verified
Gainesville, VA 20155
I believe in treating the whole person, mind, body and spirit, as well as taking into account the past when working with you toward helping improve your future. I believe that true healing is possible and I am here to help you achieve your goals. Over my 18 year career as a therapist I have worked with a variety of populations, including but not limited to those with Depression, Bipolar and other Affective Disorders, PTSD, Dissociative Identity Disorder and other trauma-related disorders, Eating Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Personality Disorders, Substance Abuse issues, and domestic violence.
I believe in treating the whole person, mind, body and spirit, as well as taking into account the past when working with you toward helping improve your future. I believe that true healing is possible and I am here to help you achieve your goals. Over my 18 year career as a therapist I have worked with a variety of populations, including but not limited to those with Depression, Bipolar and other Affective Disorders, PTSD, Dissociative Identity Disorder and other trauma-related disorders, Eating Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Personality Disorders, Substance Abuse issues, and domestic violence.
(571) 748-5495 View (571) 748-5495
Photo of Bridge to Balance LLC | Kristi Gibney MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gainesville, VA
Bridge to Balance LLC | Kristi Gibney MA, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Gainesville, VA 20155
I believe that balance is essential to living life to the fullest. My experience includes helping individuals overcome trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief/loss, relationship issues, self-growth and stress management. In addition, myself and our providers at Bridge to Balance LLC are all trained in Christian counseling services which can be incorporated into your sessions when requested. I enjoy using creative approaches and skill-based learning with a variety of age groups including children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples.
I believe that balance is essential to living life to the fullest. My experience includes helping individuals overcome trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief/loss, relationship issues, self-growth and stress management. In addition, myself and our providers at Bridge to Balance LLC are all trained in Christian counseling services which can be incorporated into your sessions when requested. I enjoy using creative approaches and skill-based learning with a variety of age groups including children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples.
(540) 699-1768 View (540) 699-1768
Photo of Erica L. Herrera, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gainesville, VA
Erica L. Herrera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP-II, C-MI
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gainesville, VA 20155  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Therapy offers a supportive environment for you to delve into your emotions and vulnerabilities without fear of judgment, helping you uncover and overcome the obstacles hindering your progress towards personal growth. I firmly believe that cultivating a strong therapeutic bond with your therapist is essential, as it provides the foundation to address your challenges effectively and safely. Whether you're contending with anxiety, depression, trauma, or life's stressors, I would be honored to collaborate with you, as you embark on self-discovery and develop the tools necessary for your well-being.
Therapy offers a supportive environment for you to delve into your emotions and vulnerabilities without fear of judgment, helping you uncover and overcome the obstacles hindering your progress towards personal growth. I firmly believe that cultivating a strong therapeutic bond with your therapist is essential, as it provides the foundation to address your challenges effectively and safely. Whether you're contending with anxiety, depression, trauma, or life's stressors, I would be honored to collaborate with you, as you embark on self-discovery and develop the tools necessary for your well-being.
(571) 200-5552 View (571) 200-5552
Photo of JoAnna Macias, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gainesville, VA
JoAnna Macias
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gainesville, VA 20155
JoAnna Macias is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 30 years of experience working with clients ages 6-65+ who are struggling with ADHD, trauma, depression, and anxiety. She also enjoys working with adults who are struggling with divorce, infidelity, depression, substance abuse, and life transitional issues.
JoAnna Macias is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 30 years of experience working with clients ages 6-65+ who are struggling with ADHD, trauma, depression, and anxiety. She also enjoys working with adults who are struggling with divorce, infidelity, depression, substance abuse, and life transitional issues.
(571) 568-8621 View (571) 568-8621
Photo of Heidi Graybill, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gainesville, VA
Heidi Graybill
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Gainesville, VA 20155
I'm passionate about walking alongside those facing unique personal battles. Without help, it may seem crippling to endure these challenges. I've worked with students, adults, military, first responders, LGBTQ+, families and individuals confronted by anxiety, depression, obsessive behaviors, trauma, PTSD, abuse and more. I have been honored to work with diverse populations, including first responders and military. Additionally, throughout the COVID pandemic adolescent distress has escalated; consequently, I am devoted to offer safe clinical support that encourages self-discovery while recognizing personal value.
I'm passionate about walking alongside those facing unique personal battles. Without help, it may seem crippling to endure these challenges. I've worked with students, adults, military, first responders, LGBTQ+, families and individuals confronted by anxiety, depression, obsessive behaviors, trauma, PTSD, abuse and more. I have been honored to work with diverse populations, including first responders and military. Additionally, throughout the COVID pandemic adolescent distress has escalated; consequently, I am devoted to offer safe clinical support that encourages self-discovery while recognizing personal value.
(571) 470-5470 View (571) 470-5470
Photo of Daniel M Kimonyi, Resident in Counseling in Gainesville, VA
Daniel M Kimonyi
Resident in Counseling, LPC-R
Verified Verified
Gainesville, VA 20155
When grappling with life's relentless challenges, like grief, loss, trauma, depression, and anxiety, we can feel trapped in a seemingly unchangeable reality. In these moments, Viktor Frankl's poignant words ring true: "When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves." As your therapist, I am committed to walking alongside you and igniting this inherent transformative power within you. Together, we'll journey through these difficult times, building resilience and strength, and carving out fresh perspectives to light your way forward.
When grappling with life's relentless challenges, like grief, loss, trauma, depression, and anxiety, we can feel trapped in a seemingly unchangeable reality. In these moments, Viktor Frankl's poignant words ring true: "When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves." As your therapist, I am committed to walking alongside you and igniting this inherent transformative power within you. Together, we'll journey through these difficult times, building resilience and strength, and carving out fresh perspectives to light your way forward.
(434) 216-3704 View (434) 216-3704
Photo of Jay Farris, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gainesville, VA
Jay Farris
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, MA, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Gainesville, VA 20155
He has also received training from the Beck Institute in CBT for emotional and personality disorders, and those with PTSD.
Following 26 years of military service Jay Farris works with individuals and couples. Jay has a tremendous amount of experience in leadership, arbitration and mediation, mentoring, team building, crisis management, marriage and family therapy, as well as CBT. God has uniquely prepared Jay through his extensive life, work, ministry and educational experiences to provide support and guidance to those working toward reconciliation, healing, and the development of life skills that free them to experience and share the hope, love, joy, peace and purpose that God intends for them.
He has also received training from the Beck Institute in CBT for emotional and personality disorders, and those with PTSD.
Following 26 years of military service Jay Farris works with individuals and couples. Jay has a tremendous amount of experience in leadership, arbitration and mediation, mentoring, team building, crisis management, marriage and family therapy, as well as CBT. God has uniquely prepared Jay through his extensive life, work, ministry and educational experiences to provide support and guidance to those working toward reconciliation, healing, and the development of life skills that free them to experience and share the hope, love, joy, peace and purpose that God intends for them.
(540) 905-8894 View (540) 905-8894
Photo of In Luck Counseling | Melissa Crooks, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gainesville, VA
In Luck Counseling | Melissa Crooks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gainesville, VA 20155
I am a Christian counselor with experience in various treatment settings (inpatient psychiatric, foster care, medical and school systems) that have afforded me a unique versatility to help others going through trauma, mental health issues, life transitions and challenging situations.
My clients are seeking support going through normative change or in crisis. Drawing upon my holistic therapeutic approach and many years of experience, l will partner alongside them helping to overcome obstacles and unlock their innate strengths and full potential. Working together, my clients will set achievable goals, reach objectives and build a better future.
I am a Christian counselor with experience in various treatment settings (inpatient psychiatric, foster care, medical and school systems) that have afforded me a unique versatility to help others going through trauma, mental health issues, life transitions and challenging situations.
My clients are seeking support going through normative change or in crisis. Drawing upon my holistic therapeutic approach and many years of experience, l will partner alongside them helping to overcome obstacles and unlock their innate strengths and full potential. Working together, my clients will set achievable goals, reach objectives and build a better future.
(571) 410-3657 View (571) 410-3657

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.