Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Brantford, ON

Photo of Lori Dawn McDonell - The Couch Counselling and Support Services, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
The Couch Counselling and Support Services
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
Brantford, ON N3S
The Couch have clinicians with their own specialities such as EMDR, CBT, SFT, Play therapy and trauma informed.
Registered Psychotherapist who specialises in Sanitary Therapy for both young and old, CBT, and SFT. Lori has been working with the First Nations community for the past seven years and has been supervising clinical workers for the last four years. The Couch Counselling also offers many psychotherapist to help suit the needs and availability of all clients. Please call to find the perfect fit or look online at thecouchcounselling.com and see the many professionals. Here to help you make the changes in your life so you can live a healthier and productive life.
The Couch have clinicians with their own specialities such as EMDR, CBT, SFT, Play therapy and trauma informed.
Registered Psychotherapist who specialises in Sanitary Therapy for both young and old, CBT, and SFT. Lori has been working with the First Nations community for the past seven years and has been supervising clinical workers for the last four years. The Couch Counselling also offers many psychotherapist to help suit the needs and availability of all clients. Please call to find the perfect fit or look online at thecouchcounselling.com and see the many professionals. Here to help you make the changes in your life so you can live a healthier and productive life.
(226) 778-4615 View (226) 778-4615
Photo of River Page, MA, BA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
River Page
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, BA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brantford, ON N3T
Let's cut the bullshit. Here in Canada, most of us are suffering from institutional and/or relational trauma. Reach out if you're looking to have down to earth conversations with your therapist about the real struggles of your life. Honestly, I don't have any answers for you. But I will work to help you see yourself more clearly and support you in your journey. I promise that it will be hard. But, I will be right there with you. Some populations of folks I love to work with: men who want to challenge their patriarchal socialization, gender-diverse, queer, ADHD and autism, religious trauma, and polyamorous people.
Let's cut the bullshit. Here in Canada, most of us are suffering from institutional and/or relational trauma. Reach out if you're looking to have down to earth conversations with your therapist about the real struggles of your life. Honestly, I don't have any answers for you. But I will work to help you see yourself more clearly and support you in your journey. I promise that it will be hard. But, I will be right there with you. Some populations of folks I love to work with: men who want to challenge their patriarchal socialization, gender-diverse, queer, ADHD and autism, religious trauma, and polyamorous people.
(226) 784-2307 View (226) 784-2307
Photo of Amanda McFadyen, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Amanda McFadyen
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Brantford, ON N3R
Evening and weekend appointments- Have you been feeling more stressed and anxious? Are you feeling disconnected from yourself and the people that are important to you? If this sounds familiar, then you have found the right therapist! Amanda is an insightful and compassionate therapist that has over 15 years of experience providing therapy to children (10+), teens and adults for trauma, relationships (including couples counselling), attachment, addiction, anxiety, and depression. Amanda’s wealth of knowledge is supplemented by her warm and inviting presence that quickly puts her clients at ease.
Evening and weekend appointments- Have you been feeling more stressed and anxious? Are you feeling disconnected from yourself and the people that are important to you? If this sounds familiar, then you have found the right therapist! Amanda is an insightful and compassionate therapist that has over 15 years of experience providing therapy to children (10+), teens and adults for trauma, relationships (including couples counselling), attachment, addiction, anxiety, and depression. Amanda’s wealth of knowledge is supplemented by her warm and inviting presence that quickly puts her clients at ease.
(548) 708-6622 View (548) 708-6622
Photo of Julia Telford, MA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Julia Telford
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brantford, ON N3R
My aim is that you look forward to our sessions and leave feeling lighter! I love working with anxiety, BPD, trauma, low self-esteem, and anything within that realm!.
Negative thinking, procrastination, self-sabotage, trauma, not feeling good enough, masking of emotions, consistently feeling like you’re hanging on by a thread. If any of these, or even a few of these resonated with you, you are in the right place. I take a trauma-informed, and validating approach to psychotherapy in order to hold a compassion space for you to vent and process your thoughts and emotions. Whether you feel like it’s events from the past that are keeping you stuck, or a fear of failure in the future, I want to work with you to help connect the dots and get you living a more meaningful, connected, and authentic life.
My aim is that you look forward to our sessions and leave feeling lighter! I love working with anxiety, BPD, trauma, low self-esteem, and anything within that realm!.
Negative thinking, procrastination, self-sabotage, trauma, not feeling good enough, masking of emotions, consistently feeling like you’re hanging on by a thread. If any of these, or even a few of these resonated with you, you are in the right place. I take a trauma-informed, and validating approach to psychotherapy in order to hold a compassion space for you to vent and process your thoughts and emotions. Whether you feel like it’s events from the past that are keeping you stuck, or a fear of failure in the future, I want to work with you to help connect the dots and get you living a more meaningful, connected, and authentic life.
(548) 490-5380 View (548) 490-5380
Photo of Ryanna Barban, MSW, BSW, RSW, BA, Registered Social Worker
Ryanna Barban
Registered Social Worker, MSW, BSW, RSW, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brantford, ON N3S
Our lives are not entirely defined by what has happened to us but rather by how we choose to make sense of it and who we choose to be as a result. My vocation and commitment to supporting individuals to overcome adversity, trauma, and problems in living are rooted in the Ubuntu philosophy. Providing support across all age groups, I promote inner self-discovery and self-mastery. I offer unique individual-specific approaches to empower self-actualization by challenging unhelpful beliefs, improving self-concept, working through painful experiences, accessing resources, and changing unhealthy habits to live more authentically.
Our lives are not entirely defined by what has happened to us but rather by how we choose to make sense of it and who we choose to be as a result. My vocation and commitment to supporting individuals to overcome adversity, trauma, and problems in living are rooted in the Ubuntu philosophy. Providing support across all age groups, I promote inner self-discovery and self-mastery. I offer unique individual-specific approaches to empower self-actualization by challenging unhelpful beliefs, improving self-concept, working through painful experiences, accessing resources, and changing unhealthy habits to live more authentically.
(226) 917-9248 View (226) 917-9248
Photo of Rebecca Brown - Rebecca Brown Psychotherapy, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Rebecca Brown Psychotherapy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brantford, ON N3T
Much of my experience includes working with children, teens and families; however, I also work with adults with complex trauma/ PTSD.
If you’re a parent looking for the right service for your child/youth, then look no further! My compassionate, playful nature works well with children as I integrate evidenced based therapies through their language of play and curiosity. These skills also translate in my work with adults through a trauma and attachment treatment lens. Between my experience working with children, teens, and adults, my skill set is diverse and can be best used to support you or your loved one in the therapeutic journey. My skills range from trauma processing and identity work to cognitive and behavioural interventions (i.e. CBT, DBT, ACT).
Much of my experience includes working with children, teens and families; however, I also work with adults with complex trauma/ PTSD.
If you’re a parent looking for the right service for your child/youth, then look no further! My compassionate, playful nature works well with children as I integrate evidenced based therapies through their language of play and curiosity. These skills also translate in my work with adults through a trauma and attachment treatment lens. Between my experience working with children, teens, and adults, my skill set is diverse and can be best used to support you or your loved one in the therapeutic journey. My skills range from trauma processing and identity work to cognitive and behavioural interventions (i.e. CBT, DBT, ACT).
(226) 702-8411 View (226) 702-8411
Photo of Alecia Lillee, BA, MA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Alecia Lillee
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Brantford, ON N3T
I offer an inclusive, trauma-informed approach to care and am intentional about understanding how I can walk beside you on your path towards healing in a way that meets your needs.
You are not defined by the challenges you face, and you do not deserve to navigate them alone. I work predominantly with teens and young adults who are seeking a safe, non-judgemental outlet to explore their internal worlds as they navigate their unique lived experiences. I am passionate about supporting individuals in making sense of their emotions, overcoming their challenges, and achieving their therapeutic goals.
I offer an inclusive, trauma-informed approach to care and am intentional about understanding how I can walk beside you on your path towards healing in a way that meets your needs.
You are not defined by the challenges you face, and you do not deserve to navigate them alone. I work predominantly with teens and young adults who are seeking a safe, non-judgemental outlet to explore their internal worlds as they navigate their unique lived experiences. I am passionate about supporting individuals in making sense of their emotions, overcoming their challenges, and achieving their therapeutic goals.
(226) 407-4089 View (226) 407-4089
Photo of Jessica Cleeve, MSW, RSW, HBA, Registered Social Worker
Jessica Cleeve
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, HBA
Verified Verified
Brantford, ON N3S  (Online Only)
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy (EMDR), Trauma-Informed Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, and hold a Trauma Counselling Certificate.
I have over ten years of experience working with dynamic populations who have come to therapy to heal from a wide spectrum of traumatic experiences. I specialize in perinatal therapy with specific experience working with perinatal loss and birth trauma that considers shifts in identity that can accompany pregnancy, birth and perinatal loss. I have also worked closely with survivors of violence and childhood trauma, addiction and mental health survivors, as well as LGBTQIA+ youth and their families. I am passionate about helping trauma survivors honour their experiences as they move toward a place of self-discovery and healing.
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy (EMDR), Trauma-Informed Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, and hold a Trauma Counselling Certificate.
I have over ten years of experience working with dynamic populations who have come to therapy to heal from a wide spectrum of traumatic experiences. I specialize in perinatal therapy with specific experience working with perinatal loss and birth trauma that considers shifts in identity that can accompany pregnancy, birth and perinatal loss. I have also worked closely with survivors of violence and childhood trauma, addiction and mental health survivors, as well as LGBTQIA+ youth and their families. I am passionate about helping trauma survivors honour their experiences as they move toward a place of self-discovery and healing.
(289) 207-6266 View (289) 207-6266
Photo of Joelle Laroche, RP, MA, Registered Psychotherapist
Joelle Laroche
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brantford, ON N3R
For the majority of my career I have worked with trauma and almost exclusively with Indigenous people.
I believe that people have the strength to find meaningful happiness for themselves, even when that strength feels hard to believe in or to find. I work with people to empower themselves in living a life according to their values and what they find important.
For the majority of my career I have worked with trauma and almost exclusively with Indigenous people.
I believe that people have the strength to find meaningful happiness for themselves, even when that strength feels hard to believe in or to find. I work with people to empower themselves in living a life according to their values and what they find important.
(226) 910-1264 View (226) 910-1264
Photo of Melanie Stiller, RP(Q), MACP, BSW, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Melanie Stiller
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q), MACP, BSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brantford, ON N3T
I also have additional training in trauma and attachment issues.
My goal is to support and encourage clients to utilize skills and characteristics they already possess to cope with the difficulties and challenges of life and to embrace new perspectives, new skills, and understanding that can help them move forward in their journey. I believe that therapy is a team effort, where both the client and the therapist have a lot to contribute to the process. My passion in life is helping and supporting people, so if you would like counselling or have any questions about the process, I would be happy to talk with you.
I also have additional training in trauma and attachment issues.
My goal is to support and encourage clients to utilize skills and characteristics they already possess to cope with the difficulties and challenges of life and to embrace new perspectives, new skills, and understanding that can help them move forward in their journey. I believe that therapy is a team effort, where both the client and the therapist have a lot to contribute to the process. My passion in life is helping and supporting people, so if you would like counselling or have any questions about the process, I would be happy to talk with you.
(226) 458-8459 View (226) 458-8459
Photo of Ashley Davenport, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Ashley Davenport
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brantford, ON N3P
I have extensive experience in working with trauma and family conflict, in addition to general problems in living.
With over 20 years' experience in working with a variety of clients and concerns regarding mental health and problems in living, I have learned that it is most important to provide a space in which clients can feel safe and able to reflect upon and evaluate their circumstances. I will work with you to determine the best treatment approach and together we will walk toward understanding and healing. I have found deep joy in walking with clients through the struggles of life.
I have extensive experience in working with trauma and family conflict, in addition to general problems in living.
With over 20 years' experience in working with a variety of clients and concerns regarding mental health and problems in living, I have learned that it is most important to provide a space in which clients can feel safe and able to reflect upon and evaluate their circumstances. I will work with you to determine the best treatment approach and together we will walk toward understanding and healing. I have found deep joy in walking with clients through the struggles of life.
(226) 400-6342 View (226) 400-6342
Photo of Jenny Jonker, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Jenny Jonker
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brantford, ON N3R
I'm a trauma therapist and with wide range of modalities including EMDR & CBT.
I believe seeking supports through counselling is an act of bravery and courage and as such I consider it an honour for anyone to confide in me their struggles, hopes and aspirations. My intention is to simply be human with individuals and help guide them along their journey. Therapy is not a fix it all solution, it takes time, practice and most importantly a genuine human connection.
I'm a trauma therapist and with wide range of modalities including EMDR & CBT.
I believe seeking supports through counselling is an act of bravery and courage and as such I consider it an honour for anyone to confide in me their struggles, hopes and aspirations. My intention is to simply be human with individuals and help guide them along their journey. Therapy is not a fix it all solution, it takes time, practice and most importantly a genuine human connection.
(226) 271-3383 View (226) 271-3383
Photo of Lori Broughton, MACP, CDP, BASc, Registered Psychotherapist
Lori Broughton
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, CDP, BASc
Verified Verified
Brantford, ON N3S
My area of focus includes those who have experienced trauma.
Our lives are very complex and often we are faced with many challenges that overwhelm us. If you have decided that now is the right time to talk it through, you have found a therapist that will provide a safe and nonjudgmental space to begin the conversation. My priority is to provide a supportive environment for you to work through your experiences, thoughts and fears. My training in EMDR allows us to work through trauma and personal stressors that you may be living with.
My area of focus includes those who have experienced trauma.
Our lives are very complex and often we are faced with many challenges that overwhelm us. If you have decided that now is the right time to talk it through, you have found a therapist that will provide a safe and nonjudgmental space to begin the conversation. My priority is to provide a supportive environment for you to work through your experiences, thoughts and fears. My training in EMDR allows us to work through trauma and personal stressors that you may be living with.
(226) 243-7257 View (226) 243-7257
Photo of Karisa Haverkamp: Blossoms Counselling, MACP, RP, PMH-C, Registered Psychotherapist
Karisa Haverkamp: Blossoms Counselling
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Brantford, ON N3S
I specialize in trauma and attachment trauma using a bottom up, somatic and parts work approach.
Feeling stuck or struggling and not sure why. Want to break patterns that are effecting your daily life? Find compassionate space for your hurting and wounded places. Maybe you feel so tired of the anxiety having power and control over your life? Maybe you would like to to lay old wounds to rest. If you long to move forward in a different relationship with your trauma, depression or anxiety you have come to the right place. I partner with you to create a safe space so that you can feel heard and understood. You can become aware of your thoughts, emotions and wounds so that true healing and change can happen.
I specialize in trauma and attachment trauma using a bottom up, somatic and parts work approach.
Feeling stuck or struggling and not sure why. Want to break patterns that are effecting your daily life? Find compassionate space for your hurting and wounded places. Maybe you feel so tired of the anxiety having power and control over your life? Maybe you would like to to lay old wounds to rest. If you long to move forward in a different relationship with your trauma, depression or anxiety you have come to the right place. I partner with you to create a safe space so that you can feel heard and understood. You can become aware of your thoughts, emotions and wounds so that true healing and change can happen.
(226) 705-0662 View (226) 705-0662
Photo of Victoria West, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Victoria West
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brantford, ON N3R  (Online Only)
Drawing on CBT, DBT, Narrative therapy, EMDR, mindfulness and self-compassion based approaches we can work together to challenge negative thought patterns, manage emotions, understand your journey, and work through trauma.
Now accepting new clients (virtual sessions only)! Have you been feeling overwhelmed or stressed? Are you struggling with low mood or anxious thoughts? If you are feeling stuck and that things are beyond your control, therapy can help by assisting you to navigate through difficult experiences, understand what contributes to challenges with overthinking, make changes in your behaviours and thoughts patterns, build resilience, and move towards a life of mental health and wellbeing.
Drawing on CBT, DBT, Narrative therapy, EMDR, mindfulness and self-compassion based approaches we can work together to challenge negative thought patterns, manage emotions, understand your journey, and work through trauma.
Now accepting new clients (virtual sessions only)! Have you been feeling overwhelmed or stressed? Are you struggling with low mood or anxious thoughts? If you are feeling stuck and that things are beyond your control, therapy can help by assisting you to navigate through difficult experiences, understand what contributes to challenges with overthinking, make changes in your behaviours and thoughts patterns, build resilience, and move towards a life of mental health and wellbeing.
(226) 270-8170 View (226) 270-8170
Photo of Brandy Weaver, RP-Q, MA, BA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Brandy Weaver
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP-Q, MA, BA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brantford, ON N3T
I have a passion for working with people with BPD, a history of trauma, substance and process addictions, and other emotion dysregulation problems.
It is ok not to be okay. Life is hard. In the words of B. Withers, “sometimes in our lives we all have pain, we all have sorrow; but if we are wise we know that there’s always tomorrow. Lean on me, when you’re not strong… I’ll help you carry on.” Let me support you on your journey towards wellness. I’m a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO), and the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA). I have a master's degree in counselling psychology, and over sixteen years of experience working in mental health.
I have a passion for working with people with BPD, a history of trauma, substance and process addictions, and other emotion dysregulation problems.
It is ok not to be okay. Life is hard. In the words of B. Withers, “sometimes in our lives we all have pain, we all have sorrow; but if we are wise we know that there’s always tomorrow. Lean on me, when you’re not strong… I’ll help you carry on.” Let me support you on your journey towards wellness. I’m a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO), and the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA). I have a master's degree in counselling psychology, and over sixteen years of experience working in mental health.
(226) 457-2315 View (226) 457-2315
Photo of Janine Davies, MA, BA, Registered Psychotherapist
Janine Davies
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, BA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Brantford, ON N3T
I meet people where they are and practice from a trauma-informed lens while pulling from different therapeutic modalities like IFS, CBT, DBT, mindfulness, etc.
YOU know YOU best – I'm here to help you make connections you have not been able to, to work through past experiences which may be affecting you today, or maybe to be a sounding board for current life struggles. People from ages 12 to 100 will find a collaborative, nonjudgemental, individualized, and safe space. I work with individuals and couples/relationships. If you are struggling with trauma (however you define it), mental health issues/substance use, support for your relationships, parenting, and more, I can offer a comfy seat, or a virtual location for that. I can accomodate short or longer term therapy - whatever you need.
I meet people where they are and practice from a trauma-informed lens while pulling from different therapeutic modalities like IFS, CBT, DBT, mindfulness, etc.
YOU know YOU best – I'm here to help you make connections you have not been able to, to work through past experiences which may be affecting you today, or maybe to be a sounding board for current life struggles. People from ages 12 to 100 will find a collaborative, nonjudgemental, individualized, and safe space. I work with individuals and couples/relationships. If you are struggling with trauma (however you define it), mental health issues/substance use, support for your relationships, parenting, and more, I can offer a comfy seat, or a virtual location for that. I can accomodate short or longer term therapy - whatever you need.
(226) 702-8412 View (226) 702-8412
Photo of Cassandra Knegt, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Cassandra Knegt
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brantford, ON N3S  (Online Only)
I have training in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Trauma-Informed Therapy, and use a wide range of modalities.
I am an ADHD identified therapist working with youth (12+) and adults. I have Indigenous (Mi'kmaq) and settler Canadian background. I have dedicated much of my career to working with Indigenous peoples and First Nations communities. I welcome clients seeking a therapist with an understanding of Indigenous culture, intergenerational trauma, and cultural identity/disconnection. I have experience working within private practice and community setting. My experience includes facilitating group-based therapy, and working with individuals providing one-on-one therapy for complex mental health and trauma conditions.
I have training in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Trauma-Informed Therapy, and use a wide range of modalities.
I am an ADHD identified therapist working with youth (12+) and adults. I have Indigenous (Mi'kmaq) and settler Canadian background. I have dedicated much of my career to working with Indigenous peoples and First Nations communities. I welcome clients seeking a therapist with an understanding of Indigenous culture, intergenerational trauma, and cultural identity/disconnection. I have experience working within private practice and community setting. My experience includes facilitating group-based therapy, and working with individuals providing one-on-one therapy for complex mental health and trauma conditions.
(226) 785-2968 View (226) 785-2968
Photo of Jonaki Dodum, BA, MA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Jonaki Dodum
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brantford, ON N3T
Jo aspires to specialize in the impact of trauma on the brain, mind, and body.
Jo ( preferred name) has a strong academic foundation in literature and psychology, with undergraduate and graduate studies in these fields. She is currently pursuing a Master’s in Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University and is under the supervision of Jodi Brown. Jo is deeply committed to the person-centered approach, emphasizing empathy, unconditional positive regard, and genuine care in her therapeutic practice. She places a high value on respect, believing in treating every individual with the utmost dignity. Jo focuses on building a therapeutic alliance that honors clients’ autonomy and choices.
Jo aspires to specialize in the impact of trauma on the brain, mind, and body.
Jo ( preferred name) has a strong academic foundation in literature and psychology, with undergraduate and graduate studies in these fields. She is currently pursuing a Master’s in Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University and is under the supervision of Jodi Brown. Jo is deeply committed to the person-centered approach, emphasizing empathy, unconditional positive regard, and genuine care in her therapeutic practice. She places a high value on respect, believing in treating every individual with the utmost dignity. Jo focuses on building a therapeutic alliance that honors clients’ autonomy and choices.
(226) 208-1987 View (226) 208-1987
Photo of Gabriella Iannetti - The Bee Human Space - Gabriella Iannetti, BA, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
The Bee Human Space - Gabriella Iannetti
Registered Social Worker, BA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Brantford, ON N3T
Welcome! It takes courage & strength to reach out and we understand that it can be scary. You have already taken the most difficult step which is reaching out! We are here for you! We provide services to all ages specializing in anxiety, depression, stress, PTSD, & trauma. We want to support you on your journey and help you create connections so you can heal and thrive. We also host community events, workshops, & yoga that are designed to empower & inform.
Welcome! It takes courage & strength to reach out and we understand that it can be scary. You have already taken the most difficult step which is reaching out! We are here for you! We provide services to all ages specializing in anxiety, depression, stress, PTSD, & trauma. We want to support you on your journey and help you create connections so you can heal and thrive. We also host community events, workshops, & yoga that are designed to empower & inform.
(289) 210-4797 View (289) 210-4797
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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.