Trauma and PTSD Therapists in North Vancouver, BC

Photo of Nadia Neely, MCP, RCC, Counsellor
Nadia Neely
Counsellor, MCP, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Vancouver, BC V7P
Through my work and life experiences, I have gained knowledge and experience in supporting my clients through anxiety, depression, attachment injuries, grief, trauma, family/relationship discord, parenting, and life transition.
I firmly believe that cultivating self-awareness and gaining insight is a crucial first step in bringing about change and facilitating healing. By fostering introspection and mindfulness, we can cultivate a deeper sense of presence in our daily lives. My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, warmth, respect, and flexibility, creating a safe and non-judgmental environment where clients can freely explore their challenges. With authenticity, I strive to build a collaborative relationship with my clients to empower them to tap into their inner strengths and resilience as they navigate their unique paths toward healing and growth.
Through my work and life experiences, I have gained knowledge and experience in supporting my clients through anxiety, depression, attachment injuries, grief, trauma, family/relationship discord, parenting, and life transition.
I firmly believe that cultivating self-awareness and gaining insight is a crucial first step in bringing about change and facilitating healing. By fostering introspection and mindfulness, we can cultivate a deeper sense of presence in our daily lives. My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, warmth, respect, and flexibility, creating a safe and non-judgmental environment where clients can freely explore their challenges. With authenticity, I strive to build a collaborative relationship with my clients to empower them to tap into their inner strengths and resilience as they navigate their unique paths toward healing and growth.
(438) 901-8084 View (438) 901-8084
Photo of Allison Cordner, MA, RCC, RTC, TRA, Counsellor
Allison Cordner
Counsellor, MA, RCC, RTC, TRA
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
North Vancouver, BC V7M  (Online Only)
We treat trauma & emotional disturbances using somatic experiencing techniques, Inner Child Work & AEDP.
We are a team of clinicians that are trained to work with students, individuals, couples and families. That excel at helping you expand your emotional tolerance, reactions & communication skills. Too many of us suffer in silence with anxiety, low self-esteem, unprocessed trauma and anger. You are not alone and we are here to encourage you to let those experiences be felt in a safe & non-judgmental environment. We know how hard it can be for most people to do therapy & our goal is to make it engaging, insightful & rewarding. To be vulnerable means not having our deepest feelings and secrets shot down. We use an integrative approach.
We treat trauma & emotional disturbances using somatic experiencing techniques, Inner Child Work & AEDP.
We are a team of clinicians that are trained to work with students, individuals, couples and families. That excel at helping you expand your emotional tolerance, reactions & communication skills. Too many of us suffer in silence with anxiety, low self-esteem, unprocessed trauma and anger. You are not alone and we are here to encourage you to let those experiences be felt in a safe & non-judgmental environment. We know how hard it can be for most people to do therapy & our goal is to make it engaging, insightful & rewarding. To be vulnerable means not having our deepest feelings and secrets shot down. We use an integrative approach.
(514) 612-2875 View (514) 612-2875
Photo of Shereen Khan, PhD MA, RCC NCC, BC-TMH, Counsellor
Shereen Khan
Counsellor, PhD MA, RCC NCC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North Vancouver, BC V7J
I have a passion for supporting people in working through complex trauma, anxiety, and family of origin wounds.
Are you struggling? Or have felt numb, on auto-pilot too long? I work with individuals, couples, and families to transform life challenges into opportunities for growth and connection. My experiences include working with a variety of age-groups and mental health concerns. Some of my areas of specialty include relationships, infidelity, sex, divorce and family difficulties. As well, overcoming symptoms of trauma and recovery from abuse (sexual, physical, spiritual) and grief. My aims are to help clients to feel empowered, heal from trauma, and have more understanding of themselves and others.
I have a passion for supporting people in working through complex trauma, anxiety, and family of origin wounds.
Are you struggling? Or have felt numb, on auto-pilot too long? I work with individuals, couples, and families to transform life challenges into opportunities for growth and connection. My experiences include working with a variety of age-groups and mental health concerns. Some of my areas of specialty include relationships, infidelity, sex, divorce and family difficulties. As well, overcoming symptoms of trauma and recovery from abuse (sexual, physical, spiritual) and grief. My aims are to help clients to feel empowered, heal from trauma, and have more understanding of themselves and others.
(249) 486-6809 View (249) 486-6809
Photo of Melissa Jordache - Melissa Jordache Counselling, MC, RCC, Counsellor
Melissa Jordache Counselling
Counsellor, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Vancouver, BC V7M
I aim to help you slowly unravel the different threads in your life, to develop a more compassionate view towards the self, all while gently working with your attachment system and historical traumas.
There are many reasons you may seek counselling. You may be feeling on edge, or be struggling to connect in your relationships. Perhaps, you feel worthless or have low self-esteem. It may even be that you find yourself experiencing heightened emotional reactions, without knowing why. Sometimes, we can also have deep fears of being left, without being able to point to a specific "cause". Many of us can struggle with people pleasing, and struggle to set boundaries with those in our life. Maybe you can't seem to pull yourself out of a "funk", despite practicing self-care. If any of the above resonates with you, I can help.
I aim to help you slowly unravel the different threads in your life, to develop a more compassionate view towards the self, all while gently working with your attachment system and historical traumas.
There are many reasons you may seek counselling. You may be feeling on edge, or be struggling to connect in your relationships. Perhaps, you feel worthless or have low self-esteem. It may even be that you find yourself experiencing heightened emotional reactions, without knowing why. Sometimes, we can also have deep fears of being left, without being able to point to a specific "cause". Many of us can struggle with people pleasing, and struggle to set boundaries with those in our life. Maybe you can't seem to pull yourself out of a "funk", despite practicing self-care. If any of the above resonates with you, I can help.
(343) 801-3467 View (343) 801-3467
Photo of Joelle Prevost, BSc, BEd, MCP, RCC, Counsellor
Joelle Prevost
Counsellor, BSc, BEd, MCP, RCC
Verified Verified
North Vancouver, BC V7R  (Online Only)
TIR - Traumatic Incident Reduction.
Hello! I offer online counselling in the following areas:  - Trauma (all types), Anxiety (social anxiety, specific phobias, death anxiety, health anxiety, general anxiety), Chronic illness (emotional, personal, social management), Communication Skills and Boundary Setting. I have written two books, which you can find on Amazon: "Managing Personal, Emotional, and Social Aspects of Chronic Illness: A Workbook" and "The Conversation Guide" I also have a YouTube channel, Scintillatherapy. Accepting new clients August 2024. Contact for a free 15-min consultation
TIR - Traumatic Incident Reduction.
Hello! I offer online counselling in the following areas:  - Trauma (all types), Anxiety (social anxiety, specific phobias, death anxiety, health anxiety, general anxiety), Chronic illness (emotional, personal, social management), Communication Skills and Boundary Setting. I have written two books, which you can find on Amazon: "Managing Personal, Emotional, and Social Aspects of Chronic Illness: A Workbook" and "The Conversation Guide" I also have a YouTube channel, Scintillatherapy. Accepting new clients August 2024. Contact for a free 15-min consultation
(778) 766-3949 View (778) 766-3949
Photo of Liselotte Carlsen, RN
Liselotte Carlsen
RN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North Vancouver, BC V7M
I can teach you effective skills to manage and over come symptoms of anxiety, depression, PTSD as well as explore and help you heal some of the underlying issues.
If you are experiencing Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Low Self Esteem or Relationship Problems, I can help you. I have over 25 years experience in working with psychotherapy and counselling. Being an RN, a Certified Gestalt Therapist and having a Certificate in Counselling Science, I also have extensive training in CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) as well as trauma focused treatment.
I can teach you effective skills to manage and over come symptoms of anxiety, depression, PTSD as well as explore and help you heal some of the underlying issues.
If you are experiencing Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Low Self Esteem or Relationship Problems, I can help you. I have over 25 years experience in working with psychotherapy and counselling. Being an RN, a Certified Gestalt Therapist and having a Certificate in Counselling Science, I also have extensive training in CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) as well as trauma focused treatment.
(778) 765-3253 View (778) 765-3253
Photo of Jenny Fang, MS, RCC, MFT, Counsellor
Jenny Fang
Counsellor, MS, RCC, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Vancouver, BC V7M
As a trained EMDR trauma specialist and MFT for 20 years, I am on a mission to restore wounded connection, be it with yourself, parents, pre(teens), or spouse/partner.
To the wonderfully courageous you who are reading this: My name is Jenny Fang, a doctoral-level quadrilingual (English, Mandarin, Japanese & Taiwanese) Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) in the province of British Columbia & Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) in California who are often referred by psychiatrists, psychologists, and mental health professionals as a result of my specialties and effectiveness in treating trauma (sexual/spiritual/verbal/mental/physical) and (re)building identity and resilience. In this challenging season in your life journey, know that you are thought of and have support even when you don’t know it.
As a trained EMDR trauma specialist and MFT for 20 years, I am on a mission to restore wounded connection, be it with yourself, parents, pre(teens), or spouse/partner.
To the wonderfully courageous you who are reading this: My name is Jenny Fang, a doctoral-level quadrilingual (English, Mandarin, Japanese & Taiwanese) Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) in the province of British Columbia & Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) in California who are often referred by psychiatrists, psychologists, and mental health professionals as a result of my specialties and effectiveness in treating trauma (sexual/spiritual/verbal/mental/physical) and (re)building identity and resilience. In this challenging season in your life journey, know that you are thought of and have support even when you don’t know it.
(778) 743-5466 View (778) 743-5466
Photo of Dina Amouzgar, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Dina Amouzgar
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
North Vancouver, BC V7P
We can learn to use past or present hurts and traumas as opportunities to grow as wiser, stronger, and gentler versions of ourselves.
I work with adolescents, adults , couples, and families. In addition to in person counselling , I also provide secure video counselling .
We can learn to use past or present hurts and traumas as opportunities to grow as wiser, stronger, and gentler versions of ourselves.
I work with adolescents, adults , couples, and families. In addition to in person counselling , I also provide secure video counselling .
(778) 764-1931 View (778) 764-1931
Photo of Anna H Park, MSc, BSc, Pre-Licensed Professional
Anna H Park
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSc, BSc
Verified Verified
North Vancouver, BC V7M
I specialize in Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT for PTSD).
My therapeutic approach is more than just clinical—it's warm, compassionate, and genuine. Rooted in evidence-based practice, my collaborative spirit ensures you're an active participant in your journey toward healing and personal growth. I provide evidence-based assessment and treatment of anxiety, depression, stress, and trauma-related concerns, among others. I support individuals who often experience symptoms of PTSD, generalized anxiety, social anxiety, illness/health anxiety, panic disorder, agoraphobia, OCD, specific phobias, and other stress-related concerns.
I specialize in Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT for PTSD).
My therapeutic approach is more than just clinical—it's warm, compassionate, and genuine. Rooted in evidence-based practice, my collaborative spirit ensures you're an active participant in your journey toward healing and personal growth. I provide evidence-based assessment and treatment of anxiety, depression, stress, and trauma-related concerns, among others. I support individuals who often experience symptoms of PTSD, generalized anxiety, social anxiety, illness/health anxiety, panic disorder, agoraphobia, OCD, specific phobias, and other stress-related concerns.
(365) 600-5037 View (365) 600-5037
Photo of Stephenie Torpey, MC, RPsych, Psychologist
Stephenie Torpey
Psychologist, MC, RPsych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North Vancouver, BC V7L  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
RCMP and police officers, paramedics, correctional officers, firefighters) and frontline workers struggling with trauma and stress.
I am a Registered Psychologist with over a decade of experience working in diverse mental health and community treatment settings. I specialize in trauma/ PTSD, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, substance use and addictions. My approach is caring, non-judgemental, and empathetic. I draw on evidence-based therapeutic approaches to help you overcome difficult experiences and work towards your treatment goals. My goal is to help you find happiness and fulfillment in your life through working to reduce unpleasant symptoms, build on resilience and strength, and develop new ways of coping. I aim to help you leave with tools and confidence!
RCMP and police officers, paramedics, correctional officers, firefighters) and frontline workers struggling with trauma and stress.
I am a Registered Psychologist with over a decade of experience working in diverse mental health and community treatment settings. I specialize in trauma/ PTSD, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, substance use and addictions. My approach is caring, non-judgemental, and empathetic. I draw on evidence-based therapeutic approaches to help you overcome difficult experiences and work towards your treatment goals. My goal is to help you find happiness and fulfillment in your life through working to reduce unpleasant symptoms, build on resilience and strength, and develop new ways of coping. I aim to help you leave with tools and confidence!
(431) 533-0180 View (431) 533-0180
Photo of Vanessa Rouzier - My Life Counselling, MSc, Counsellor
My Life Counselling
Counsellor, MSc
Verified Verified
North Vancouver, BC V7M
Specialized in treating anxiety, eating disorders -binge eating, bulimia, obesity-, adult ADHD, intense emotions, relationship issues & childhood trauma. Offering counselling in French and English.
Specialized in treating anxiety, eating disorders -binge eating, bulimia, obesity-, adult ADHD, intense emotions, relationship issues & childhood trauma. Offering counselling in French and English.
(548) 490-7421 View (548) 490-7421
Photo of Victoria Bae, RCC, MEd, Counsellor
Victoria Bae
Counsellor, RCC, MEd
Verified Verified
North Vancouver, BC V7M
I help clients deal with various mood issues while navigating through major life changes, trauma, grief, relationship issues, work stress etc.
Hello My name is Victoria. My aim as a therapist is to create a safe and non-judgemental environment in which you feel comfortable talking about any thoughts, feelings, or experiences and be met with acceptance, warmth, and respect. I place utmost importance on building strong, authentic and trusting relationships with the people I work with.
I help clients deal with various mood issues while navigating through major life changes, trauma, grief, relationship issues, work stress etc.
Hello My name is Victoria. My aim as a therapist is to create a safe and non-judgemental environment in which you feel comfortable talking about any thoughts, feelings, or experiences and be met with acceptance, warmth, and respect. I place utmost importance on building strong, authentic and trusting relationships with the people I work with.
(587) 801-5098 View (587) 801-5098
Photo of Keisha Virago - Wise Body Counselling: Keisha Virago
Wise Body Counselling: Keisha Virago
Registered Professional Counsellor - Candidate
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Vancouver, BC V7L  (Online Only)
If you're struggling with repressed trauma, substance abuse, anxiety, depression, grief, relationships, or life transitions, these are areas we can work through together.
I help people learn to forgive themselves for the things they had to do in order to survive. I believe that when we feel safe in our body and free from the shackles of our past, we can create our dream reality. By honouring our sensitive nature, and creating a safe space to explore, we can set our inner child free - inviting playfulness, humour, and curiosity to the healing process. We are not what has happened to us, we are who we choose to become. I'm here to help you discover who you truly are on a soul level.
If you're struggling with repressed trauma, substance abuse, anxiety, depression, grief, relationships, or life transitions, these are areas we can work through together.
I help people learn to forgive themselves for the things they had to do in order to survive. I believe that when we feel safe in our body and free from the shackles of our past, we can create our dream reality. By honouring our sensitive nature, and creating a safe space to explore, we can set our inner child free - inviting playfulness, humour, and curiosity to the healing process. We are not what has happened to us, we are who we choose to become. I'm here to help you discover who you truly are on a soul level.
(867) 292-8817 View (867) 292-8817
Photo of Mica Avery, RTC, Counsellor
Mica Avery
Counsellor, RTC
Verified Verified
North Vancouver, BC V7M  (Online Only)
Whether you're dealing with past trauma, difficult family dynamics, or are stuck in frustrating patterns, feelings of disconnection and anxiety can easily become your day-to-day. In a world that can be challenging to navigate at the best of times, the struggles we face can sometimes feel insurmountable. It is my belief that we all need support and connection in order to process our experiences and to feel safe and secure in our own skin. With the tools somatic therapy brings we can support the body to complete it’s natural healing processes, helping us find the freedom to live our lives to the fullest.
Whether you're dealing with past trauma, difficult family dynamics, or are stuck in frustrating patterns, feelings of disconnection and anxiety can easily become your day-to-day. In a world that can be challenging to navigate at the best of times, the struggles we face can sometimes feel insurmountable. It is my belief that we all need support and connection in order to process our experiences and to feel safe and secure in our own skin. With the tools somatic therapy brings we can support the body to complete it’s natural healing processes, helping us find the freedom to live our lives to the fullest.
(672) 202-5936 View (672) 202-5936
Photo of Helen Whitehead - Helen Whitehead Counselling, MC, RCC, Counsellor
Helen Whitehead Counselling
Counsellor, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
North Vancouver, BC V7J
Hello and welcome :) I specialize in working with folks who have experienced trauma, grief, and/or challenging family dynamics. Perhaps you've been noticing that the past is showing up in your present day romantic relationships/friendships or perhaps family relationships are still causing pain for you. I am an experienced Registered Clinical Counsellor accepting clients for online video therapy and telephone counselling throughout BC and limited in-person sessions in North Vancouver and West Kelowna.
Hello and welcome :) I specialize in working with folks who have experienced trauma, grief, and/or challenging family dynamics. Perhaps you've been noticing that the past is showing up in your present day romantic relationships/friendships or perhaps family relationships are still causing pain for you. I am an experienced Registered Clinical Counsellor accepting clients for online video therapy and telephone counselling throughout BC and limited in-person sessions in North Vancouver and West Kelowna.
(778) 766-4872 View (778) 766-4872
Photo of Brianne Leah Bury, RTC, Counsellor
Brianne Leah Bury
Counsellor, RTC
Verified Verified
North Vancouver, BC V7L
As a person who has experienced multiple adversities through out my childhood and adult life, and not someone who is simply educated on the matter, the area of trauma and abuse recovery holds an incredibly special place in my heart for those who struggle to heal.
Welcome to my profile! I am a Registered Therapeutic Counsellor (RTC), dedicated and trained in various modalities of therapy. My primary focus is working as a trauma therapist with a passion for helping individuals navigate the complexities of trauma and find their path to healing. My goal is to provide a safe and supportive space where you can embark on a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and growth. My primary focus is childhood trauma, C PTSD, narcissistic abuse recovery and eating disorders.
As a person who has experienced multiple adversities through out my childhood and adult life, and not someone who is simply educated on the matter, the area of trauma and abuse recovery holds an incredibly special place in my heart for those who struggle to heal.
Welcome to my profile! I am a Registered Therapeutic Counsellor (RTC), dedicated and trained in various modalities of therapy. My primary focus is working as a trauma therapist with a passion for helping individuals navigate the complexities of trauma and find their path to healing. My goal is to provide a safe and supportive space where you can embark on a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and growth. My primary focus is childhood trauma, C PTSD, narcissistic abuse recovery and eating disorders.
(236) 705-5043 View (236) 705-5043
Photo of Tracy Joy, MBA, MaNLP, RPC, MPCC, CCPCPR, Counsellor
Tracy Joy
Counsellor, MBA, MaNLP, RPC, MPCC, CCPCPR
Verified Verified
North Vancouver, BC V7M
Most of my clients haven't found relief. They may have been unsuccessful in previous therapy ventures like CBT. They are not interested in using medication to resolve their PTSD, Complex PTSD, anxiety, depression, stress, or self-esteem issues. They may have considered suicide or used other control behaviors to help them self-regulate their emotions. They typically have experienced childhood trauma through verbal, sexual, neglect and/or physical abuse that has invaded their adult lives. Or, they may have had entirely normal childhoods, not feeling their experience was different from others, yet still have the above side effects.
Most of my clients haven't found relief. They may have been unsuccessful in previous therapy ventures like CBT. They are not interested in using medication to resolve their PTSD, Complex PTSD, anxiety, depression, stress, or self-esteem issues. They may have considered suicide or used other control behaviors to help them self-regulate their emotions. They typically have experienced childhood trauma through verbal, sexual, neglect and/or physical abuse that has invaded their adult lives. Or, they may have had entirely normal childhoods, not feeling their experience was different from others, yet still have the above side effects.
(866) 270-1950 View (866) 270-1950
Photo of Nikta Niazi, MA, Counsellor
Nikta Niazi
Counsellor, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North Vancouver, BC V7M
Being challenged to seek valuable insights, and experiencing illuminating "aha moments" lead to a deeper understanding of yourself, and that's my way of doing therapy. I'm specialised in addressing various issues, namely; immigration dysphoria, relationships, self-esteem, trauma & PTSD and more. I am currently accepting a few new clients and am eager to embark on a transformative journey with you. Book a free 15-minutes consultation with me and start creating the change you always wanted in your life!
Being challenged to seek valuable insights, and experiencing illuminating "aha moments" lead to a deeper understanding of yourself, and that's my way of doing therapy. I'm specialised in addressing various issues, namely; immigration dysphoria, relationships, self-esteem, trauma & PTSD and more. I am currently accepting a few new clients and am eager to embark on a transformative journey with you. Book a free 15-minutes consultation with me and start creating the change you always wanted in your life!
(587) 856-8324 View (587) 856-8324
Photo of Joanne Onerheim - Joanne Onerheim Counselling, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Joanne Onerheim Counselling
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North Vancouver, BC V7M  (Online Only)
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) and have extensive experience helping clients who are navigating a difficult transition in their life. This includes leaving relationships, ending addictive behaviour patterns or grieving a loss. I also work with clients suffering with anxiety disorders, depression and trauma. I use a client-centred approach and work with YOUR goals for therapy. I am trained in Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) I am honoured to be in this profession and strive to help clients understand themselves better.
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) and have extensive experience helping clients who are navigating a difficult transition in their life. This includes leaving relationships, ending addictive behaviour patterns or grieving a loss. I also work with clients suffering with anxiety disorders, depression and trauma. I use a client-centred approach and work with YOUR goals for therapy. I am trained in Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) I am honoured to be in this profession and strive to help clients understand themselves better.
(855) 497-2245 View (855) 497-2245
Photo of Pamela Seraphine | Trauma Therapy | Brain Health, PsyD, MS, CCTP-II, Counsellor
Pamela Seraphine | Trauma Therapy | Brain Health
Counsellor, PsyD, MS, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Vancouver, BC V7J
You can just ask questions and determine whether you feel comfortable my brain-based approach to trauma recovery & success is right for you.
Hello, I'm Dr. Pamela Seraphine. What if trauma therapy was uplifting? What if you could retrain your brain? Contrary to popular belief, both are possible! I’m here to offer you a whole new perspective of what is possible. I use my passion for applied neuroscience to provide quality 1-on-1 neuropsychotherapy, brain-based coaching, and various mental health educational services. My approach is designed to create engaging, interactive experiences that help my clients build sustainable, positive change. I’m also a professional musician, so music-making is not out of the question!
You can just ask questions and determine whether you feel comfortable my brain-based approach to trauma recovery & success is right for you.
Hello, I'm Dr. Pamela Seraphine. What if trauma therapy was uplifting? What if you could retrain your brain? Contrary to popular belief, both are possible! I’m here to offer you a whole new perspective of what is possible. I use my passion for applied neuroscience to provide quality 1-on-1 neuropsychotherapy, brain-based coaching, and various mental health educational services. My approach is designed to create engaging, interactive experiences that help my clients build sustainable, positive change. I’m also a professional musician, so music-making is not out of the question!
(819) 410-9669 View (819) 410-9669
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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.