Trauma and PTSD Counselling in Greater Melbourne (Metropolitan), VIC

Photo of Jaya Narayan, MA, ACA-L4, Psychotherapist
Jaya Narayan
Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Preston, VIC 3072
I am a body-oriented and neurobiology-affirming based trauma therapist. I specialise in trauma-informed somatic expressive modalities to support you as you navigate the impact of complex trauma, chronic stress/ pain, anxiety and burnout. I relationally attune and intersect the wisdom of expressive art(s), Psychodrama, somatics and group processes, allowing a whole body/ brain approach to therapeutic engagement. My focus is on resourcing you to become aware of what you need and how to listen to your emotions. If you are looking at sustainable somatic ways in service of ease, acceptance and validation, you are at the right place.
I am a body-oriented and neurobiology-affirming based trauma therapist. I specialise in trauma-informed somatic expressive modalities to support you as you navigate the impact of complex trauma, chronic stress/ pain, anxiety and burnout. I relationally attune and intersect the wisdom of expressive art(s), Psychodrama, somatics and group processes, allowing a whole body/ brain approach to therapeutic engagement. My focus is on resourcing you to become aware of what you need and how to listen to your emotions. If you are looking at sustainable somatic ways in service of ease, acceptance and validation, you are at the right place.
(03) 8338 1858 View (03) 8338 1858
Photo of Marcus O'Shea, MSc, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Marcus O'Shea
Counsellor, MSc, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Preston, VIC 3072  (Online Only)
I'm Marcus O'Shea, and I'm a counsellor and psychotherapist specialising in anxiety, depression, trauma (including C-PTSD), ADHD, Autism, neurodivergent, disability, and LGBT issues. I also offer a free introductory meeting so you can find out if I'm the right fit for you. I work in a collaborative and flexible manner, with understanding my client's stories and experiences as my priority. Integrating a variety of approaches and tools, I aim to work together with you to learn about your unique experience and how to best foster healing and growth.
I'm Marcus O'Shea, and I'm a counsellor and psychotherapist specialising in anxiety, depression, trauma (including C-PTSD), ADHD, Autism, neurodivergent, disability, and LGBT issues. I also offer a free introductory meeting so you can find out if I'm the right fit for you. I work in a collaborative and flexible manner, with understanding my client's stories and experiences as my priority. Integrating a variety of approaches and tools, I aim to work together with you to learn about your unique experience and how to best foster healing and growth.
(03) 8338 4334 View (03) 8338 4334
Photo of Dimitri Hawa, MA, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Dimitri Hawa
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Spotswood, VIC 3015
Dimitri has significant experience providing psychotherapy with adults. Areas of expertise include relationship issues, grief, depression, anxiety, anger management, neurodiverse challenges (ADHD/ASD), and, facilitating the process of psychological recovery from trauma and complex trauma (i., e childhood/adult abuse issues, domestic violence, family dysfunction, childhood neglect). Dimitri has worked as a private practice over several years, school psychologist, Victims of Crime, Transport Accident Commission (TAC), NDIS disability work, along with previous experience in the provision of psychological support in prison settings.
Dimitri has significant experience providing psychotherapy with adults. Areas of expertise include relationship issues, grief, depression, anxiety, anger management, neurodiverse challenges (ADHD/ASD), and, facilitating the process of psychological recovery from trauma and complex trauma (i., e childhood/adult abuse issues, domestic violence, family dysfunction, childhood neglect). Dimitri has worked as a private practice over several years, school psychologist, Victims of Crime, Transport Accident Commission (TAC), NDIS disability work, along with previous experience in the provision of psychological support in prison settings.
(03) 9007 2339 View (03) 9007 2339
Photo of Sarah Elliott, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Elliott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Specialising in high risk children, adolescents and young adults. Self harm, suicidality, complex trauma, relational trauma. Clinical family assessment and therapy. Anxiety and mood disorders, personality disorder, parenting challenges, online issues, separated families. Covid related anxiety.
Specialising in high risk children, adolescents and young adults. Self harm, suicidality, complex trauma, relational trauma. Clinical family assessment and therapy. Anxiety and mood disorders, personality disorder, parenting challenges, online issues, separated families. Covid related anxiety.
(03) 8771 4151 View (03) 8771 4151
Photo of Christine Harris, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Christine Harris
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Spotswood, VIC 3015
A recent study found that Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is one of the most cost effective treatments for trauma.
Christine is a Clinical Psychologist who has a special interest in supporting clients to process and understand past trauma and move beyond issues that have held them back. She also has a special interest in supporting clients who are experiencing fertility issues and undertaking ART, as well as those who are experiencing general adjustment issues, depression and anxiety. Christine believes that everyone has the ability to change and lead a more fulfilling and content life. She works collaboratively with clients to develop goals and strategies and finds that therapy works best when clients are able to play an active role.
A recent study found that Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is one of the most cost effective treatments for trauma.
Christine is a Clinical Psychologist who has a special interest in supporting clients to process and understand past trauma and move beyond issues that have held them back. She also has a special interest in supporting clients who are experiencing fertility issues and undertaking ART, as well as those who are experiencing general adjustment issues, depression and anxiety. Christine believes that everyone has the ability to change and lead a more fulfilling and content life. She works collaboratively with clients to develop goals and strategies and finds that therapy works best when clients are able to play an active role.
(03) 9111 5326 View (03) 9111 5326
Photo of Kelly Breen, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Kelly Breen
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Ascot Vale, VIC 3032  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with those impacted by trauma (c/PTSD), addiction, self-harm, and eating disorders. I also help people navigate the challenges associated with relationships, life transitions, depression, and anxiety. My therapy style is integrative, utilising evidence-based modalities like EMDR, Schema, IFS, psychodynamic approaches, Mindfulness, and ACT. As a trained yoga teacher, I weave these practices along with somatic work into therapy. Additionally, I am appropriately trained to provide psychedelic integration & preperation support.
I have extensive experience working with those impacted by trauma (c/PTSD), addiction, self-harm, and eating disorders. I also help people navigate the challenges associated with relationships, life transitions, depression, and anxiety. My therapy style is integrative, utilising evidence-based modalities like EMDR, Schema, IFS, psychodynamic approaches, Mindfulness, and ACT. As a trained yoga teacher, I weave these practices along with somatic work into therapy. Additionally, I am appropriately trained to provide psychedelic integration & preperation support.
(03) 9007 2718 View (03) 9007 2718
Photo of Julia McCarthy, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed, Psychologist
Julia McCarthy
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
Verified Verified
Ivanhoe East, VIC 3079
Clinical Psychologist- Julia has over 15 years of experience in the mental health sector including community, clinical and juvenile forensic settings. Julia enjoys working with a range of psychological issues that young people and adults may be experiencing. These may include: trauma, gender dysphoria, personality disorders, self-harm, voices, psychotic illnesses, relationship difficulties, loss and grief, anxiety and depression. Julia also undertakes WPATH assessments for Gender-Diverse people seeking gender-affirming surgery. In addition, board approved Clinical Supervision. Visit us at www.ivanhoepsychologicalservices.com
Clinical Psychologist- Julia has over 15 years of experience in the mental health sector including community, clinical and juvenile forensic settings. Julia enjoys working with a range of psychological issues that young people and adults may be experiencing. These may include: trauma, gender dysphoria, personality disorders, self-harm, voices, psychotic illnesses, relationship difficulties, loss and grief, anxiety and depression. Julia also undertakes WPATH assessments for Gender-Diverse people seeking gender-affirming surgery. In addition, board approved Clinical Supervision. Visit us at www.ivanhoepsychologicalservices.com
0421 400 682 View 0421 400 682
Photo of Meghan Lp - Melbourne Therapy and Counselling Centre , ACA-L2, Counsellor
Melbourne Therapy and Counselling Centre
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Murrumbeena, VIC 3163
We are a specialist Anxiety, Stress and Trauma Counselling Clinic providing Neuropsychotherapy and Counselling services to meet the unique needs of our clients. Our services are affordable & accessible via tele health & in person at our clinic in Murrumbeena and we offer counselling for women, men, young adults, families & couples. Our registered and experienced team are trained in integrative evidence-based therapies including CBT, ACT, CPT, EMDR & Trauma care. If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, PTSD, relationship or family difficulties, societal pressures or just need support please reach out for help.
We are a specialist Anxiety, Stress and Trauma Counselling Clinic providing Neuropsychotherapy and Counselling services to meet the unique needs of our clients. Our services are affordable & accessible via tele health & in person at our clinic in Murrumbeena and we offer counselling for women, men, young adults, families & couples. Our registered and experienced team are trained in integrative evidence-based therapies including CBT, ACT, CPT, EMDR & Trauma care. If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, PTSD, relationship or family difficulties, societal pressures or just need support please reach out for help.
(03) 7500 5117 View (03) 7500 5117
Photo of Mona Taouk, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Mona Taouk
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
I have worked with a variety of presenting problems and a diverse range of clients across public and private mental health settings. I tailor my therapeutic approach to clients’ needs and draw from various evidence-based approaches including CBT, ACT, and trauma-focused therapies. I bring warmth and acceptance to the therapy room and focus on building a safe and transparent relationship with my clients through which change can occur. I am passionate about supporting clients to understand early attachment patterns in adult relationships and process emotional experiences to gain agency of their choices and relationships.
I have worked with a variety of presenting problems and a diverse range of clients across public and private mental health settings. I tailor my therapeutic approach to clients’ needs and draw from various evidence-based approaches including CBT, ACT, and trauma-focused therapies. I bring warmth and acceptance to the therapy room and focus on building a safe and transparent relationship with my clients through which change can occur. I am passionate about supporting clients to understand early attachment patterns in adult relationships and process emotional experiences to gain agency of their choices and relationships.
(03) 7003 2739 View (03) 7003 2739
Photo of Dr Ahona Guha, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Dr Ahona Guha
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Brunswick, VIC 3056
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in a range of therapies, including EMDR, CPT (for PTSD), schema therapy, ACT, CBT, and DBT.
Sometimes life can just feel hard, and you might not be quite sure why. Perhaps you feel like stress is mounting, or find yourself anxious, or often feel depressed. Maybe you have difficulties with relationships, or know that you have a history of trauma, but have never explored it in depth. You might be starting to think about making some changes, but might be unsure where to start. Using a warm, collaborative approach and a range of evidence-based therapies, together we will explore and understand the difficulties you bring to the therapy room, change long-standing patterns, and help you build new ways of coping and being.
I am trained in a range of therapies, including EMDR, CPT (for PTSD), schema therapy, ACT, CBT, and DBT.
Sometimes life can just feel hard, and you might not be quite sure why. Perhaps you feel like stress is mounting, or find yourself anxious, or often feel depressed. Maybe you have difficulties with relationships, or know that you have a history of trauma, but have never explored it in depth. You might be starting to think about making some changes, but might be unsure where to start. Using a warm, collaborative approach and a range of evidence-based therapies, together we will explore and understand the difficulties you bring to the therapy room, change long-standing patterns, and help you build new ways of coping and being.
(03) 7003 2832 View (03) 7003 2832
Photo of Toula Filiadis, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Toula Filiadis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
Highett, VIC 3190
Toula's areas of expertise include relationship and interpersonal issues; anxiety/depression management; conflict resolution; body esteem and eating disorders; self esteem/ assertiveness training; stress management; school/work based issues; gender/sexuality issues; trauma/ptsd; adjusting to transitions and life changes, grief and loss; parenting issues.
For 20 years, Toula has had the opportunity of working with people who have maintained a commitment to their wellbeing by addressing challenging issues in their lives. Toula has had extensive experience in working with children, adolescents, adults and families across a range of settings including public mental health, school setting, Relationships Australia and private practice. Toula maintains a wholistic approach and believes that individuals and families are the experts of their own lives and values their contribution in counselling.
Toula's areas of expertise include relationship and interpersonal issues; anxiety/depression management; conflict resolution; body esteem and eating disorders; self esteem/ assertiveness training; stress management; school/work based issues; gender/sexuality issues; trauma/ptsd; adjusting to transitions and life changes, grief and loss; parenting issues.
For 20 years, Toula has had the opportunity of working with people who have maintained a commitment to their wellbeing by addressing challenging issues in their lives. Toula has had extensive experience in working with children, adolescents, adults and families across a range of settings including public mental health, school setting, Relationships Australia and private practice. Toula maintains a wholistic approach and believes that individuals and families are the experts of their own lives and values their contribution in counselling.
(03) 6146 1713 View (03) 6146 1713
Photo of Rachel O'meara, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Rachel O'meara
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Rachel is a compassionate Psychologist dedicated to providing support to individuals across the lifespan, from children to adolescents and adults, who are navigating a variety of challenges. With experience in Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Trauma and Stressor Related Disorders, family violence and physical disabilities, Rachel brings a comprehensive approach to her practice. She believes in the power of strengths-based intervention plans tailored to each person’s unique needs, fostering a sense of empowerment and agency.
Rachel is a compassionate Psychologist dedicated to providing support to individuals across the lifespan, from children to adolescents and adults, who are navigating a variety of challenges. With experience in Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Trauma and Stressor Related Disorders, family violence and physical disabilities, Rachel brings a comprehensive approach to her practice. She believes in the power of strengths-based intervention plans tailored to each person’s unique needs, fostering a sense of empowerment and agency.
(03) 7003 2714 View (03) 7003 2714
Photo of Jaz Forrester - Core Trauma Therapy, PACFA, Counsellor
Core Trauma Therapy
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Brunswick East, VIC 3057  (Online Only)
I invite adults of all gender and cultural diversities living in Australia to reach out for support. My areas of focus include substance use, mental health, complex trauma, victims of crime, sexual assault, domestic violence, grief & loss, compassion fatigue, burnout, sexuality, and gender. In your therapy sessions my goal is to help you lead a life aligned with your values by integrating clinical evidence-based practices with practical knowledge. I take a personable approach, tailoring each session to your individual strengths and unique goals.
I invite adults of all gender and cultural diversities living in Australia to reach out for support. My areas of focus include substance use, mental health, complex trauma, victims of crime, sexual assault, domestic violence, grief & loss, compassion fatigue, burnout, sexuality, and gender. In your therapy sessions my goal is to help you lead a life aligned with your values by integrating clinical evidence-based practices with practical knowledge. I take a personable approach, tailoring each session to your individual strengths and unique goals.
(03) 7003 2361 View (03) 7003 2361
Photo of Melanie Colhoun - Melanie Colhoun - Integrated Psychology Centre, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Melanie Colhoun - Integrated Psychology Centre
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Bentleigh, VIC 3204
Melanie has extensive experience working with people experiencing depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, complex trauma, self-esteem and confidence issues, stress management, interpersonal and relationship dificulties and adjustment disorders such as separation, grief and loss.
Melanie is the Principal Clinical Psychologist at Integrated Psychology Centre, a group private practice including Clinical, Counselling. Health, Educational & Developmental registered psychologists. A Graduate of Monash University, Melanie has over eighteen years experience in private practice and other clinical settings including; university counselling, employee assistance programmes, employment services, asylum seeker detention centres and educational settings. Melanie works with adolescents and adults.
Melanie has extensive experience working with people experiencing depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, complex trauma, self-esteem and confidence issues, stress management, interpersonal and relationship dificulties and adjustment disorders such as separation, grief and loss.
Melanie is the Principal Clinical Psychologist at Integrated Psychology Centre, a group private practice including Clinical, Counselling. Health, Educational & Developmental registered psychologists. A Graduate of Monash University, Melanie has over eighteen years experience in private practice and other clinical settings including; university counselling, employee assistance programmes, employment services, asylum seeker detention centres and educational settings. Melanie works with adolescents and adults.
(03) 7500 5942 View (03) 7500 5942
Photo of Melanie Knight, MA, AThR, Psychotherapist
Melanie Knight
Psychotherapist, MA, AThR
Verified Verified
Mordialloc, VIC 3195
As a Masters qualified Arts Therapist, Counsellor and Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (lvl 2) I work with a collaborative and curious approach. I specialise in life transitions, complicated grief and loss, emotional challenges, relationships and trauma healing. Together we will explore your experience of the world, your emotions, relationships and patterns using somatic interventions alongside creative expression, supported by narrative and talk therapy. I have experience working across all ages with extensive experience with grief and trauma. I strive for an open hearted, inclusive practice towards positive transformation.
As a Masters qualified Arts Therapist, Counsellor and Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (lvl 2) I work with a collaborative and curious approach. I specialise in life transitions, complicated grief and loss, emotional challenges, relationships and trauma healing. Together we will explore your experience of the world, your emotions, relationships and patterns using somatic interventions alongside creative expression, supported by narrative and talk therapy. I have experience working across all ages with extensive experience with grief and trauma. I strive for an open hearted, inclusive practice towards positive transformation.
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Photo of Nathan Smith, MC, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Nathan Smith
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Footscray, VIC 3011
I have experience and interest in supporting clients with AOD issues, trauma, and auditory, visual, and somatic hallucinations.
I have a passion for working with young people to empower and support them with their challenges. I also work with people of all ages and gender identities. Whether you are looking for support with anxiety, depression, AOD, relationship issues, or any thing else I'd be happy to help.
I have experience and interest in supporting clients with AOD issues, trauma, and auditory, visual, and somatic hallucinations.
I have a passion for working with young people to empower and support them with their challenges. I also work with people of all ages and gender identities. Whether you are looking for support with anxiety, depression, AOD, relationship issues, or any thing else I'd be happy to help.
(03) 8594 4097 View (03) 8594 4097
Photo of Thea Baker - Thea Baker Wellbeing, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Thea Baker Wellbeing
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Camberwell, VIC 3124
I am a counsellor and body-based psychotherapist with special interests in all aspects women’s health, trauma and couples therapy. I work collaboratively with clients to find a place of healing and recovery and I'm not the kind of therapist that is ok with “feeling better” if better is still a long way off being truly well. That’s why I feel such an affinity with the word ‘wellbeing’. as it is much more than the absence of disease or illness. Wellbeing is a multidimensional mix of getting your physical, mental and social health in balance, and I have a team of Counsellors working at the practice to support you in your healing.
I am a counsellor and body-based psychotherapist with special interests in all aspects women’s health, trauma and couples therapy. I work collaboratively with clients to find a place of healing and recovery and I'm not the kind of therapist that is ok with “feeling better” if better is still a long way off being truly well. That’s why I feel such an affinity with the word ‘wellbeing’. as it is much more than the absence of disease or illness. Wellbeing is a multidimensional mix of getting your physical, mental and social health in balance, and I have a team of Counsellors working at the practice to support you in your healing.
(03) 9008 1971 View (03) 9008 1971
Photo of Dr Alex Kelemen, PsychD, AMHSW, Psychotherapist
Dr Alex Kelemen
Psychotherapist, PsychD, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Brighton East, VIC 3187
Prior to this, I contributed to the creation of a national mental health media platform in Germany and Australia and worked with military veterans suffering post-traumatic stress.
I truly believe that the essence of emotional wellbeing lies in the freedom to be yourself. This is why I advocate for living a life in which you are fully present. My approach is open-minded and supportive, but also level-headed, linking therapy and consulting. This space is designed for you to find the right therapist to explore the facets of your life and navigate through experiences with - a trustful companion, giving you honest feedback when needed. If you are searching for the happy medium between change and acceptance, or a deeper sense of meaning and self-actualization, then book a session, take the leap to come into being.
Prior to this, I contributed to the creation of a national mental health media platform in Germany and Australia and worked with military veterans suffering post-traumatic stress.
I truly believe that the essence of emotional wellbeing lies in the freedom to be yourself. This is why I advocate for living a life in which you are fully present. My approach is open-minded and supportive, but also level-headed, linking therapy and consulting. This space is designed for you to find the right therapist to explore the facets of your life and navigate through experiences with - a trustful companion, giving you honest feedback when needed. If you are searching for the happy medium between change and acceptance, or a deeper sense of meaning and self-actualization, then book a session, take the leap to come into being.
(03) 7003 2628 View (03) 7003 2628
Photo of Vicky Bablas, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Vicky Bablas
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Altona North, VIC 3025  (Online Only)
I am a registered clinical psychologist experienced in the assessment and treatment of a variety of mental health concerns and clinical conditions, such as depression, anxiety, panic, specific phobias, chronic pain conditions, stress and adjustment issues, sleep disturbance & insomnia, anger issues, grief & loss, relationship issues, self-esteem issues as well as trauma & PTSD. I work primarily with adults and adolescents and am committed to creating a warm and welcoming environment for you to feel safe to explore your concerns fully, and work together to develop a plan to suit you.
I am a registered clinical psychologist experienced in the assessment and treatment of a variety of mental health concerns and clinical conditions, such as depression, anxiety, panic, specific phobias, chronic pain conditions, stress and adjustment issues, sleep disturbance & insomnia, anger issues, grief & loss, relationship issues, self-esteem issues as well as trauma & PTSD. I work primarily with adults and adolescents and am committed to creating a warm and welcoming environment for you to feel safe to explore your concerns fully, and work together to develop a plan to suit you.
(02) 4504 0213 View (02) 4504 0213
Photo of Maria Andreadis, MA, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Maria Andreadis
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Mary is a psychologist with experience treating a wide range of mental health issues, ranging from anxiety and depression, to trauma, personality disorders, and attachment injury. Mary has particular interest in supporting people in navigating difficulties within the context of childhood experiences and trauma. Mary's ethos is centred on the fact that our minds are intertwined with our everyday lives. By working with our inner world we can begin taking steps toward creating positive change. Mary offers a warm, compassionate approach and will support you in gaining a deeper understanding of your issues and how to manage them.
Mary is a psychologist with experience treating a wide range of mental health issues, ranging from anxiety and depression, to trauma, personality disorders, and attachment injury. Mary has particular interest in supporting people in navigating difficulties within the context of childhood experiences and trauma. Mary's ethos is centred on the fact that our minds are intertwined with our everyday lives. By working with our inner world we can begin taking steps toward creating positive change. Mary offers a warm, compassionate approach and will support you in gaining a deeper understanding of your issues and how to manage them.
(03) 8338 4336 View (03) 8338 4336
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Trauma and PTSD Counsellors

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.