Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Edmonton, AB

Photo of Lisa Najdziak, MEd, RPsych, (AB), Psychologist
Lisa Najdziak
Psychologist, MEd, RPsych, (AB)
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6C
I work with teens and adults, individuals and couples presenting with anxiety addiction, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties, and age and stage challenges throughout the life cycle.
Feeling stuck? Over it? Ready to focus on wellness and well-being in your life? If you are looking for a safe, compassionate, accepting space to explore historical and present day troubles and concerns this could be it. I have had the honour of accompanying people on their journey to wellness for over 30 years, and am always inspired by the strength and resilience of the human spirit. My work has taken me to a number of different settings, including residential treatment centers for behavioural and emotional difficulties in children and addictions in young adults, First Nations communities, schools and private practice.
I work with teens and adults, individuals and couples presenting with anxiety addiction, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties, and age and stage challenges throughout the life cycle.
Feeling stuck? Over it? Ready to focus on wellness and well-being in your life? If you are looking for a safe, compassionate, accepting space to explore historical and present day troubles and concerns this could be it. I have had the honour of accompanying people on their journey to wellness for over 30 years, and am always inspired by the strength and resilience of the human spirit. My work has taken me to a number of different settings, including residential treatment centers for behavioural and emotional difficulties in children and addictions in young adults, First Nations communities, schools and private practice.
(825) 250-3789 View (825) 250-3789
Photo of Ryan Busko, MEd, Psychologist
Ryan Busko
Psychologist, MEd
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T5N
I work with clients around anxiety, depression, grief and loss, anger management, self-esteem issues, stress management, marital distress and communication concerns, as well as emotional regulation, mindfulness skills training, distress tolerance, and trauma.
I am a Registered Psychologist with a Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology from the University of Alberta. My approach to therapy emphasizes the importance of confronting our painful emotions and experiences from a place of safety, curiosity, and honesty. I work with individuals and couples as well as teens and youth. I also have a special interest in working with men. I believe that men are often under resourced when it comes to accessing, expressing, and understanding their emotions, often leading to painful, yet avoidable, experiences.
I work with clients around anxiety, depression, grief and loss, anger management, self-esteem issues, stress management, marital distress and communication concerns, as well as emotional regulation, mindfulness skills training, distress tolerance, and trauma.
I am a Registered Psychologist with a Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology from the University of Alberta. My approach to therapy emphasizes the importance of confronting our painful emotions and experiences from a place of safety, curiosity, and honesty. I work with individuals and couples as well as teens and youth. I also have a special interest in working with men. I believe that men are often under resourced when it comes to accessing, expressing, and understanding their emotions, often leading to painful, yet avoidable, experiences.
(587) 874-0781 View (587) 874-0781
Photo of Maddalena Genovese, MEd, RPsych, Psychologist
Maddalena Genovese
Psychologist, MEd, RPsych
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6G  (Online Only)
As a registered psychologist specializing in the treatment of PTSD, I am certified and possess advanced training in the top three evidence-based treatments to recover from trauma and PTSD (EMDR, Prolonged Exposure and Cognitive Processing Therapy).
Stress can impact the whole person and trauma can turn one’s world upside down. Sexual and physical assault, combat, medical traumas or serious accidents are all examples of traumatic events that can cause an array of distressing symptoms. Anxiety, depression, flashbacks, nightmares along with nausea, and chronic fatigue are common and can wreak havoc on relationships. Sometimes feelings of horror, anger, sadness can seem to come out of nowhere making people feel like they are going “crazy.” But they are not. These are symptoms of trauma, and specialized evidence base treatment can help.
As a registered psychologist specializing in the treatment of PTSD, I am certified and possess advanced training in the top three evidence-based treatments to recover from trauma and PTSD (EMDR, Prolonged Exposure and Cognitive Processing Therapy).
Stress can impact the whole person and trauma can turn one’s world upside down. Sexual and physical assault, combat, medical traumas or serious accidents are all examples of traumatic events that can cause an array of distressing symptoms. Anxiety, depression, flashbacks, nightmares along with nausea, and chronic fatigue are common and can wreak havoc on relationships. Sometimes feelings of horror, anger, sadness can seem to come out of nowhere making people feel like they are going “crazy.” But they are not. These are symptoms of trauma, and specialized evidence base treatment can help.
(587) 609-8204 View (587) 609-8204
Photo of Vanessa Fingland - Vanessa Fingland Counselling , CCPCPRc, RPC-C, Counsellor
Vanessa Fingland Counselling
Counsellor, CCPCPRc, RPC-C
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T5M  (Online Only)
One of my specialties is helping Highly Sensitive Women heal from abuse and trauma.
Counselling for Emotional and Narcissistic Abuse. Whether its family or your partner who have toxic traits, you are noticing the anxiety this relationship is causing you and the cycle never ends of being sucked in with love bombing just to be hurt again with put downs and humiliation. I know how painfully lonely and isolating it can be to make that decision to step away from the abuse. There is a lot of shame that comes up, as well as self doubt. You may even question if YOU are narcissistic. I help support and empower women to find the courage in their journey to go from surviving to thriving and turn guilt into confidence!
One of my specialties is helping Highly Sensitive Women heal from abuse and trauma.
Counselling for Emotional and Narcissistic Abuse. Whether its family or your partner who have toxic traits, you are noticing the anxiety this relationship is causing you and the cycle never ends of being sucked in with love bombing just to be hurt again with put downs and humiliation. I know how painfully lonely and isolating it can be to make that decision to step away from the abuse. There is a lot of shame that comes up, as well as self doubt. You may even question if YOU are narcissistic. I help support and empower women to find the courage in their journey to go from surviving to thriving and turn guilt into confidence!
(587) 816-0407 View (587) 816-0407
Photo of Margot Crane, MC, RSW, RPsych, Psychologist
Margot Crane
Psychologist, MC, RSW, RPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5K
You may be faced with stress, navigating boundaries and relationships, grief/loss, life transitions/adjustment, trauma, perfectionism and/or emotional overwhelm. Perhaps you have been juggling responsibilities, and wearing so many hats, you feel like you have lost some of your sparkle along the way. You are ready to journey into healing and rediscovery.
You may be faced with stress, navigating boundaries and relationships, grief/loss, life transitions/adjustment, trauma, perfectionism and/or emotional overwhelm. Perhaps you have been juggling responsibilities, and wearing so many hats, you feel like you have lost some of your sparkle along the way. You are ready to journey into healing and rediscovery.
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Photo of Bo Popovic, MSW, RSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bo Popovic
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6W  (Online Only)
My specialty is working with individuals who have been victims of trauma, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse.
Appointment available within 24 hours. Do you feel like you have lost meaning in your life? Are you feeling lost, depressed, or anxious? I aim to help you find your purpose, fulfillment and meaning again. In working with you, I aim to help you recover from your present challenges as we find a path toward happiness. In doing so, this approach requires sensitivity, patience, and time while we work through these difficulties you are facing.
My specialty is working with individuals who have been victims of trauma, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse.
Appointment available within 24 hours. Do you feel like you have lost meaning in your life? Are you feeling lost, depressed, or anxious? I aim to help you find your purpose, fulfillment and meaning again. In working with you, I aim to help you recover from your present challenges as we find a path toward happiness. In doing so, this approach requires sensitivity, patience, and time while we work through these difficulties you are facing.
(825) 535-3754 View (825) 535-3754
Photo of Tasnim Hasan, MSW, BSW, RSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tasnim Hasan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6X  (Online Only)
I'm specialized in trauma informed care, and can provide coping strategies that get you back on track.
Whether it's mental health or neurodivergency, relationship challenges or family conflicts that are adding to your struggles, I can be of therapeutic support to you. My hope is to help you begin to fill your cup before spilling out, or gently wipe up the mess if it already has. I'll provide you the education to understand why you're feeling the way you do and a safe space to express it. I also support you to communicate with those in your life who are struggling to understand how to help. In working with me, you'll finally let out a breath that's been stuck in your chest for far too long.
I'm specialized in trauma informed care, and can provide coping strategies that get you back on track.
Whether it's mental health or neurodivergency, relationship challenges or family conflicts that are adding to your struggles, I can be of therapeutic support to you. My hope is to help you begin to fill your cup before spilling out, or gently wipe up the mess if it already has. I'll provide you the education to understand why you're feeling the way you do and a safe space to express it. I also support you to communicate with those in your life who are struggling to understand how to help. In working with me, you'll finally let out a breath that's been stuck in your chest for far too long.
(587) 415-0591 View (587) 415-0591
Photo of Candace Hamilton - The Integrative Trauma and PTSD Recovery Centre, MSc, Psychologist
The Integrative Trauma and PTSD Recovery Centre
Psychologist, MSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6E
At The Integrative Trauma and PTSD Recovery Centre, we understand that trauma can touch every aspect of life. We are a dedicated team of therapists specializing in treating trauma and PTSD in adults, children, and families. Whether you have experienced a single life-altering event, the ongoing effects of complex PTSD, the wounds of relational trauma, or are an adult survivor of childhood trauma or sexual abuse, we are here to support you on your journey towards healing.
At The Integrative Trauma and PTSD Recovery Centre, we understand that trauma can touch every aspect of life. We are a dedicated team of therapists specializing in treating trauma and PTSD in adults, children, and families. Whether you have experienced a single life-altering event, the ongoing effects of complex PTSD, the wounds of relational trauma, or are an adult survivor of childhood trauma or sexual abuse, we are here to support you on your journey towards healing.
(587) 407-2819 View (587) 407-2819
Photo of Felicia Anderson, MEd, Psychologist
Felicia Anderson
Psychologist, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5M
I work with adults in AB and NB (virtual only for NB residents) who experience symptoms of anxiety, depression, stress, grief, PTSD, driving anxiety, as well as relationship issues. I also support people who have been impacted by chronic illnesses, such as cancer, long-haul COVID19, chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, and other chronic pain conditions.
I work with adults in AB and NB (virtual only for NB residents) who experience symptoms of anxiety, depression, stress, grief, PTSD, driving anxiety, as well as relationship issues. I also support people who have been impacted by chronic illnesses, such as cancer, long-haul COVID19, chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, and other chronic pain conditions.
(587) 418-4895 View (587) 418-4895
Photo of Komal Kumar, BSC, BEd, MC, Psychologist
Komal Kumar
Psychologist, BSC, BEd, MC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5G
Hello! I am passionate and dedicated to navigating life's challenges together, I specialize in anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, relationship issues, newcomer transitions to Canada, blended family dynamics, and the unique experiences of bi/multicultural individuals. With a foundation in CBT, ACT, EMDR, and SFBT, we create a custom treatment plan. My background as a former grade 6-12 teacher and experience in post-secondary settings for 9 years enhances my capacity to create and deliver impactful psychoeducational workshops and programs, providing you with comprehensive support and guidance on your journey to well-being.
Hello! I am passionate and dedicated to navigating life's challenges together, I specialize in anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, relationship issues, newcomer transitions to Canada, blended family dynamics, and the unique experiences of bi/multicultural individuals. With a foundation in CBT, ACT, EMDR, and SFBT, we create a custom treatment plan. My background as a former grade 6-12 teacher and experience in post-secondary settings for 9 years enhances my capacity to create and deliver impactful psychoeducational workshops and programs, providing you with comprehensive support and guidance on your journey to well-being.
(587) 600-7965 View (587) 600-7965
Photo of Coltan Thompson, RPsych, MEd, MSc, Psychologist
Coltan Thompson
Psychologist, RPsych, MEd, MSc
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T5K
I work with anxiety, depression and mood problems, trauma and PTSD, religious trauma, relationship issues, regulating emotions, existential issues (life direction, purpose, meaning), and LGBTQ+ issues (see also the issues listed below).
Are you ready to move beyond coping and toward change and healing? I help clients achieve their goals by introducing practical strategies/skills, while simultaneously working through the causes of issues so that symptoms reduce in the long term. This may involve re-evaluating your thinking, improving awareness and regulation of emotions, getting in tune with your values, identifying parts of yourself that are in conflict, or making peace with past experiences. Everyone's' needs are different, so I will work with you to create a personalized treatment approach.
I work with anxiety, depression and mood problems, trauma and PTSD, religious trauma, relationship issues, regulating emotions, existential issues (life direction, purpose, meaning), and LGBTQ+ issues (see also the issues listed below).
Are you ready to move beyond coping and toward change and healing? I help clients achieve their goals by introducing practical strategies/skills, while simultaneously working through the causes of issues so that symptoms reduce in the long term. This may involve re-evaluating your thinking, improving awareness and regulation of emotions, getting in tune with your values, identifying parts of yourself that are in conflict, or making peace with past experiences. Everyone's' needs are different, so I will work with you to create a personalized treatment approach.
(587) 802-3617 View (587) 802-3617
Photo of Davis P Tharayil, PhD, MA, MEd, CCC, Registered Provisional Psychologist
Davis P Tharayil
Registered Provisional Psychologist, PhD, MA, MEd, CCC
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T5K
I provide treatment for various issues, including trauma, depression, anxiety, chronic pain, addictions, anger, marital conflict, grief, burnout, self-esteem, and personality challenges.
I am a compassionate and non-judgmental Registered Provisional Psychologist with over 12 years of experience. In therapy, clients are able to set achievable goals by discussing their personal issues along with the challenging and complex circumstances they are struggling with. Together, we work towards these goals using an integrative approach that combines Cognitive-Behavioural, Acceptance & Commitment, Dialectical Behavioural Therapies, and Clinical Hypnotherapy.
I provide treatment for various issues, including trauma, depression, anxiety, chronic pain, addictions, anger, marital conflict, grief, burnout, self-esteem, and personality challenges.
I am a compassionate and non-judgmental Registered Provisional Psychologist with over 12 years of experience. In therapy, clients are able to set achievable goals by discussing their personal issues along with the challenging and complex circumstances they are struggling with. Together, we work towards these goals using an integrative approach that combines Cognitive-Behavioural, Acceptance & Commitment, Dialectical Behavioural Therapies, and Clinical Hypnotherapy.
(587) 803-4359 View (587) 803-4359
Photo of Pinar Bereketoglu, MC, RPsych, Psychologist
Pinar Bereketoglu
Psychologist, MC, RPsych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5H
I am passionate about the areas of grief and loss, trauma, anxiety, depression, attachment-related challenges, emotional regulation, and developmental disorders.
Welcome! You’re taking one of the first steps towards healing: finding a therapist! I am a registered psychologist, Certified Grief Recovery Specialist, EMDR clinician, and have almost a decade of experience supporting autistic children. I would be honoured to walk alongside you in your journey toward healing. There are many things in life that can negatively impact our well-being. I believe everyone is worthy of healing and growth and I work from a culturally sensitive and trauma-informed lens to help you get there. I also strive to create a nonjudgmental space where you can feel safe, heard, and accepted.
I am passionate about the areas of grief and loss, trauma, anxiety, depression, attachment-related challenges, emotional regulation, and developmental disorders.
Welcome! You’re taking one of the first steps towards healing: finding a therapist! I am a registered psychologist, Certified Grief Recovery Specialist, EMDR clinician, and have almost a decade of experience supporting autistic children. I would be honoured to walk alongside you in your journey toward healing. There are many things in life that can negatively impact our well-being. I believe everyone is worthy of healing and growth and I work from a culturally sensitive and trauma-informed lens to help you get there. I also strive to create a nonjudgmental space where you can feel safe, heard, and accepted.
(825) 250-8546 View (825) 250-8546
Photo of Alanna Willms, Registered Provisional Psychologist
Alanna Willms
Registered Provisional Psychologist
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6X
I also utilizes EMDR to help individuals in the reprocess trauma.
Hello! I believe it is my privilege to walk alongside individuals as they pursue growth and change in their lives. My work is built on the belief that every person holds an inherent worth and dignity that should be respected and honored. My background is in the non-profit field, working with a variety of marginalized populations. I am passionate about connection and authentic relationships and values a sincere, empathetic, and honest therapeutic relationship.
I also utilizes EMDR to help individuals in the reprocess trauma.
Hello! I believe it is my privilege to walk alongside individuals as they pursue growth and change in their lives. My work is built on the belief that every person holds an inherent worth and dignity that should be respected and honored. My background is in the non-profit field, working with a variety of marginalized populations. I am passionate about connection and authentic relationships and values a sincere, empathetic, and honest therapeutic relationship.
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Photo of Robert Valela, Registered Provisional Psychologist
Robert Valela
Registered Provisional Psychologist
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6H
I offer personalized therapy that works. I'm committed to helping you feel better, achieve your goals, and overcome any challenge, be it intrusive thoughts, painful and intense emotions, or posttraumatic stress from issues like combat or sexual trauma, accidents, abuse, assault, death, or suicide. I work with couples and adults dealing with trauma, posttraumatic stress (PTSD), anxiety, panic, depression, grief, ADHD, and relationship issues. I focus on supporting couples and adults within military, police, correctional, emergency medical, healthcare, and fire rescue services confronting challenges like PTSD, depression, and anxiety.
I offer personalized therapy that works. I'm committed to helping you feel better, achieve your goals, and overcome any challenge, be it intrusive thoughts, painful and intense emotions, or posttraumatic stress from issues like combat or sexual trauma, accidents, abuse, assault, death, or suicide. I work with couples and adults dealing with trauma, posttraumatic stress (PTSD), anxiety, panic, depression, grief, ADHD, and relationship issues. I focus on supporting couples and adults within military, police, correctional, emergency medical, healthcare, and fire rescue services confronting challenges like PTSD, depression, and anxiety.
(587) 801-4629 View (587) 801-4629
Photo of Krister Temme, MC, RPsych, RPT, Psychologist
Krister Temme
Psychologist, MC, RPsych, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6E
Anxiety, depression and other mental illnesses do not need to run or ruin your life, your relationship or the life of the children you care for every day. With specific training in anxiety, trauma and PTSD, parenting, play therapy and couple's counselling I invite you to contact me for an in-person (health permitting) or online session. We can work together to develop confidence, self-esteem, peace, growth and meaning during this time. I work online and/or in person with children, teens and adults, couples, parents and families.
Anxiety, depression and other mental illnesses do not need to run or ruin your life, your relationship or the life of the children you care for every day. With specific training in anxiety, trauma and PTSD, parenting, play therapy and couple's counselling I invite you to contact me for an in-person (health permitting) or online session. We can work together to develop confidence, self-esteem, peace, growth and meaning during this time. I work online and/or in person with children, teens and adults, couples, parents and families.
(587) 800-9802 View (587) 800-9802
Photo of Laura Kennedy, MA, RPsych, Psychologist
Laura Kennedy
Psychologist, MA, RPsych
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6E
I work primarily with a somatic-based, trauma-informed and attachment-centred process: Self-Regulation Therapy (SRT), EMDR Therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), and Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT).
I provide a safe place to process, heal and change, with an open, warm and practical approach to counselling. Sometimes clients jokingly say, 'I have issues'. Well, we all have 'issues'. When these issues become overwhelming, I help you gain the skills necessary to move forward. I think expressing both "negative" and "positive" emotions are important to well-being. I consider therapy a success when you leave with increased clarity about the issues that you are dealing with, feel hopeful about addressing the challenges holding you back, and feel confident practicing new skills that you have added to your personal skill set.
I work primarily with a somatic-based, trauma-informed and attachment-centred process: Self-Regulation Therapy (SRT), EMDR Therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), and Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT).
I provide a safe place to process, heal and change, with an open, warm and practical approach to counselling. Sometimes clients jokingly say, 'I have issues'. Well, we all have 'issues'. When these issues become overwhelming, I help you gain the skills necessary to move forward. I think expressing both "negative" and "positive" emotions are important to well-being. I consider therapy a success when you leave with increased clarity about the issues that you are dealing with, feel hopeful about addressing the challenges holding you back, and feel confident practicing new skills that you have added to your personal skill set.
(866) 688-6528 View (866) 688-6528
Photo of Brittany Li, Pre-Licensed Professional
Brittany Li
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T5N
As an Intern Mental Health Therapist and certified Grief Recovery Specialist, I strive to create a non-judgemental, validating space for individuals to explore their thoughts and emotions. I use an integrative approach to therapy, drawing from therapeutic models that foster strength, acceptance, and change such as Internal Family Systems (IFS), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and EMDR. I have worked with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, emotion dysregulation, Autism, and trauma. The majority of my experience is with adolescents and young adults, but I welcome individuals of all ages and backgrounds.
As an Intern Mental Health Therapist and certified Grief Recovery Specialist, I strive to create a non-judgemental, validating space for individuals to explore their thoughts and emotions. I use an integrative approach to therapy, drawing from therapeutic models that foster strength, acceptance, and change such as Internal Family Systems (IFS), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and EMDR. I have worked with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, emotion dysregulation, Autism, and trauma. The majority of my experience is with adolescents and young adults, but I welcome individuals of all ages and backgrounds.
(587) 802-0944 View (587) 802-0944
Photo of Justine Jacques, MACP, Psychologist
Justine Jacques
Psychologist, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6E
As an attachment focused and trauma informed therapist, I work with individuals and couples to identify how traumatic experiences, grief and loss, experiencing neglect or abuse, and other distressing experiences may be keeping you stuck in a pattern of distress. Unresolved trauma can maintain feelings of depression, anxiety, self criticism, difficulty regulating or expressing your emotions, difficulty in feeling close with others, as well as difficulty in setting boundaries. It can also contribute to PTSD, phobias, disordered eating, and a number of other mental health challenges.
As an attachment focused and trauma informed therapist, I work with individuals and couples to identify how traumatic experiences, grief and loss, experiencing neglect or abuse, and other distressing experiences may be keeping you stuck in a pattern of distress. Unresolved trauma can maintain feelings of depression, anxiety, self criticism, difficulty regulating or expressing your emotions, difficulty in feeling close with others, as well as difficulty in setting boundaries. It can also contribute to PTSD, phobias, disordered eating, and a number of other mental health challenges.
(587) 804-2319 View (587) 804-2319
Photo of Tianna Tenney, MA, Registered Provisional Psychologist
Tianna Tenney
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6V
I focus on clients with trauma, gender issues, relationship and boundaries issues and more.
Are you ready to start a transformative journey toward healing and self-discovery? As a proud Métis citizen, I profoundly respect resilience and believe in individuals' potential to become their most authentic selves. My approach is grounded in truly understanding your unique mental health challenges, celebrating your strengths, and discovering effective growth strategies. Together, we'll work toward uncovering your genuine self while weaving in humour and using body awareness into our journey, making healing engaging and transformative.
I focus on clients with trauma, gender issues, relationship and boundaries issues and more.
Are you ready to start a transformative journey toward healing and self-discovery? As a proud Métis citizen, I profoundly respect resilience and believe in individuals' potential to become their most authentic selves. My approach is grounded in truly understanding your unique mental health challenges, celebrating your strengths, and discovering effective growth strategies. Together, we'll work toward uncovering your genuine self while weaving in humour and using body awareness into our journey, making healing engaging and transformative.
(825) 251-9094 View (825) 251-9094
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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.