Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Brockville, ON

Photo of Bailey Pakenham, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist
Bailey Pakenham
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brockville, ON K6V
I bring a sense of genuineness and authenticity to my work with you, using a trauma informed lens with an integrated approach of attachment therapy, somatic practices, and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).
Choosing yourself can be a struggle. Especially if you’ve been conditioned to choose others since your younger years. It’s never too late to start now and begin to prioritize your own needs. If you are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or disconnected from yourself or others you are not alone. Therapy is a safe space to restore your mental, emotional, and relational health. I have a deep passion for helping people grieve their losses, process their traumas, celebrate their wins, take their power back, and learn to love and trust themselves after trauma.
I bring a sense of genuineness and authenticity to my work with you, using a trauma informed lens with an integrated approach of attachment therapy, somatic practices, and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).
Choosing yourself can be a struggle. Especially if you’ve been conditioned to choose others since your younger years. It’s never too late to start now and begin to prioritize your own needs. If you are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or disconnected from yourself or others you are not alone. Therapy is a safe space to restore your mental, emotional, and relational health. I have a deep passion for helping people grieve their losses, process their traumas, celebrate their wins, take their power back, and learn to love and trust themselves after trauma.
(343) 309-5700 View (343) 309-5700
Photo of Catherine Sullivan - Virtual CBT Psychotherapy, RSW, EMDR, Registered Social Worker
Virtual CBT Psychotherapy
Registered Social Worker, RSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brockville, ON K6V  (Online Only)
We can't erase the trauma memory, but we can re-write your story of what happened.
We help you process past trauma. With personalized therapy, you can regain control of your emotions and move forward with your life. We understand how a past trauma can shatter your sense of being. It can lead to self-blame and intense feelings of guilt and shame - making it feel like you are stuck in a dark hole. We work with people who have had many types of trauma. These include intimate partner violence (IPV), physical or sexual trauma, relationship traumas, and childhood abuse.
We can't erase the trauma memory, but we can re-write your story of what happened.
We help you process past trauma. With personalized therapy, you can regain control of your emotions and move forward with your life. We understand how a past trauma can shatter your sense of being. It can lead to self-blame and intense feelings of guilt and shame - making it feel like you are stuck in a dark hole. We work with people who have had many types of trauma. These include intimate partner violence (IPV), physical or sexual trauma, relationship traumas, and childhood abuse.
(343) 342-2340 View (343) 342-2340
Photo of Kate Mason, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Kate Mason
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brockville, ON K6V
I provide trauma-informed psychotherapy.
Welcome! I am glad you are here. Reaching out for support is courageous. Whether you are dealing with stress, trauma, or other mental health concerns, I would be happy to work with you to identify the goals and concerns you would like to address. I offer a warm and supportive environment as l walk alongside your journey. I will bring forth my clinical training and experience, collaboratively work with you, and embrace your unique individuality to tailor a treatment plan based on your needs.
I provide trauma-informed psychotherapy.
Welcome! I am glad you are here. Reaching out for support is courageous. Whether you are dealing with stress, trauma, or other mental health concerns, I would be happy to work with you to identify the goals and concerns you would like to address. I offer a warm and supportive environment as l walk alongside your journey. I will bring forth my clinical training and experience, collaboratively work with you, and embrace your unique individuality to tailor a treatment plan based on your needs.
(343) 306-0367 View (343) 306-0367
Photo of Courtney Vezina - Courtney James Counselling and Psychotherapy, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Courtney James Counselling and Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brockville, ON K6V
We specialize in EMDR, trauma treatment, perinatal mental health and relational difficulties. We offer in-person and virtual therapy sessions to support you; your ability to feel safe and connected is our main priority.
We specialize in EMDR, trauma treatment, perinatal mental health and relational difficulties. We offer in-person and virtual therapy sessions to support you; your ability to feel safe and connected is our main priority.
(343) 314-0028 View (343) 314-0028
Photo of Steven B Healey, RP, RN, Registered Psychotherapist
Steven B Healey
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, RN
Verified Verified
Brockville, ON K6V  (Online Only)
You're not alone, many, many, many people suffer from the same or similar issues you do, but people don't always talk about it, as they may feel shame or embarrassment, which is very unfortunate, as nobody should ever feel this way as a result of trauma.
Most of my clients want to enjoy life more, they are tired of constantly feeling the strain, the stress that sucks the life out of them, or the constant nightmares caused from various types of Trauma.
You're not alone, many, many, many people suffer from the same or similar issues you do, but people don't always talk about it, as they may feel shame or embarrassment, which is very unfortunate, as nobody should ever feel this way as a result of trauma.
Most of my clients want to enjoy life more, they are tired of constantly feeling the strain, the stress that sucks the life out of them, or the constant nightmares caused from various types of Trauma.
(343) 307-6784 View (343) 307-6784
Photo of Simon Erlich, MA, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Simon Erlich
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, MACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brockville, ON K6V
I deeply value safety, non-judgement, and the courage it takes to be open with another. That’s why it is important to me that therapy proceeds at the pace of trust. In therapy, I endeavour to get to know the person that you are and understand the diversity of life experiences that have led you here. All humans, identities, and experiences are welcome. Of late, I have become specifically curious to understand and support those who experience stress, pain, substance use and conflict. I am also deeply curious about trauma and the impact it has on us as individuals, as a species, and in relation to those with whom we share our planet.
I deeply value safety, non-judgement, and the courage it takes to be open with another. That’s why it is important to me that therapy proceeds at the pace of trust. In therapy, I endeavour to get to know the person that you are and understand the diversity of life experiences that have led you here. All humans, identities, and experiences are welcome. Of late, I have become specifically curious to understand and support those who experience stress, pain, substance use and conflict. I am also deeply curious about trauma and the impact it has on us as individuals, as a species, and in relation to those with whom we share our planet.
(343) 321-1795 View (343) 321-1795
Photo of Kulsoom Jawaid Malik Phd | Trauma And High Achievers, ClnPsyD, Registered Psychotherapist
Kulsoom Jawaid Malik Phd | Trauma And High Achievers
Registered Psychotherapist, ClnPsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brockville, ON K6V
I understand that most likely you have been trying your best and pretending that life is OKAY, but now the heaviness of putting on a brave face is getting you down. You have tried a few things ( reading books, maybe attending therapy) but you find yourself repeating the same old habits of ignoring and pushing down your feelings. Your unresolved TRAUMA is making all your decisions right now. Most likely, most of the time, your trauma leaves you feeling quite unsafe in your body ( panic attacks, low mood, etc). You DO NOT want to feel like this anymore but you are also a little nervous about whether therapy can "really work"?
I understand that most likely you have been trying your best and pretending that life is OKAY, but now the heaviness of putting on a brave face is getting you down. You have tried a few things ( reading books, maybe attending therapy) but you find yourself repeating the same old habits of ignoring and pushing down your feelings. Your unresolved TRAUMA is making all your decisions right now. Most likely, most of the time, your trauma leaves you feeling quite unsafe in your body ( panic attacks, low mood, etc). You DO NOT want to feel like this anymore but you are also a little nervous about whether therapy can "really work"?
(343) 308-2877 View (343) 308-2877
Photo of Ashley MacLellan, MEd, RP, SEP-T, Registered Psychotherapist
Ashley MacLellan
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP, SEP-T
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brockville, ON K6V
I am certified in Complex Trauma and Child Sexual Abuse Intervention in addition to a Masters degree in Counselling.
"Although the world is full of suffering, it is also full of the overcoming of it" (H. Keller) is a statement which motivates me to be versatile and adaptive so I may best meet my client's needs in an integrated practice, to facilitate empowerment and holistic well-being. I utilize strength-based, somatic, creative and expressive modes of therapy tailored to suit the unique needs of individuals from various walks of life.
I am certified in Complex Trauma and Child Sexual Abuse Intervention in addition to a Masters degree in Counselling.
"Although the world is full of suffering, it is also full of the overcoming of it" (H. Keller) is a statement which motivates me to be versatile and adaptive so I may best meet my client's needs in an integrated practice, to facilitate empowerment and holistic well-being. I utilize strength-based, somatic, creative and expressive modes of therapy tailored to suit the unique needs of individuals from various walks of life.
(855) 976-4252 View (855) 976-4252
Photo of Kathryn Irene Thompson, RP, MA, BA, BST, Registered Psychotherapist
Kathryn Irene Thompson
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MA, BA, BST
Verified Verified
Brockville, ON K6V
After two decades of working with individuals who have faced developmental, relational, and situational trauma, I have found that when we can confront and heal from the emotional and psychological pain, we are better equipped to handle repetitive and unavoidable stressful circumstances.
Currently Full. After two decades of working with individuals who have faced developmental, as a trauma therapist, I understand that the impact of invalidation, abuse, and neglect can profoundly affect your well-being and your ability to connect with others. You may be surprised at the tools you are already using; together, we will uncover them and use those existing tools to get you closer to who you want to be and where you want to be in your life. I am here to help you explore these challenges and find solutions. I utilize a range of therapeutic approaches, including narrative therapy, behavioral therapy, and somatic techniques.
After two decades of working with individuals who have faced developmental, relational, and situational trauma, I have found that when we can confront and heal from the emotional and psychological pain, we are better equipped to handle repetitive and unavoidable stressful circumstances.
Currently Full. After two decades of working with individuals who have faced developmental, as a trauma therapist, I understand that the impact of invalidation, abuse, and neglect can profoundly affect your well-being and your ability to connect with others. You may be surprised at the tools you are already using; together, we will uncover them and use those existing tools to get you closer to who you want to be and where you want to be in your life. I am here to help you explore these challenges and find solutions. I utilize a range of therapeutic approaches, including narrative therapy, behavioral therapy, and somatic techniques.
(613) 707-3834 View (613) 707-3834
Photo of Bethany Smith, MA, RP, PMH-C, Registered Psychotherapist
Bethany Smith
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brockville, ON K6V
Waitlist for new clients
My specializations include trauma therapy, perinatal mental health and care for helping professionals.
Welcoming new clients - Please reach out through my website. You are exhausted from trying SO hard and never feeling like enough. Sometimes you feel ok but when you pause, you realize your thoughts are racing, your muscles are tense, and you are utterly depleted. Anxiety, self-doubt and your inner critic do not need to rule your mind and body. You are worthy of support and deserve to feel more at peace with yourself. I love to help clients strengthen inner resources, cultivate self-compassion, create healthy boundaries and find more ease and joy.
My specializations include trauma therapy, perinatal mental health and care for helping professionals.
Welcoming new clients - Please reach out through my website. You are exhausted from trying SO hard and never feeling like enough. Sometimes you feel ok but when you pause, you realize your thoughts are racing, your muscles are tense, and you are utterly depleted. Anxiety, self-doubt and your inner critic do not need to rule your mind and body. You are worthy of support and deserve to feel more at peace with yourself. I love to help clients strengthen inner resources, cultivate self-compassion, create healthy boundaries and find more ease and joy.
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Photo of Paula J Bell - Paula Bell, Reg'd Psychotherapist/ social worker, MACP, RP, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Paula Bell, Reg'd Psychotherapist/ social worker
Registered Social Worker, MACP, RP, RSW
Verified Verified
Brockville, ON K6V
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in PTSD and complex trauma, but also work with anxiety, depression, chronic pain or life stressors in general.
Reg'd Psychotherapist/ social worker with 20+ years of mental health training/experience. I offer psychotherapy for a range of issues including PTSD for both veterans and their spouses, complex trauma, anxiety and depression. A variety of strategies may be incorporated into treatment such as CBT, DBT, and EMDR or Emotion Focused Therapy strategies where applicable. LGBTQ friendly practice. Wait list 4-6 months.
I specialize in PTSD and complex trauma, but also work with anxiety, depression, chronic pain or life stressors in general.
Reg'd Psychotherapist/ social worker with 20+ years of mental health training/experience. I offer psychotherapy for a range of issues including PTSD for both veterans and their spouses, complex trauma, anxiety and depression. A variety of strategies may be incorporated into treatment such as CBT, DBT, and EMDR or Emotion Focused Therapy strategies where applicable. LGBTQ friendly practice. Wait list 4-6 months.
(613) 900-5879 View (613) 900-5879
Photo of Roberta Abbott, MA, MC, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Roberta Abbott
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MC, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brockville, ON K6V
I specialize in abuse and trauma therapy, for youth and adults. I have experience in working with victims of child abuse, bullying, and intimate partner violence. As a military spouse and former defence analyst, I have the knowledge and lived experience to assist military members, veterans and first responders with issues related to operational stress and their specific workplace and family culture. I am also trained in couples therapy, using the Gottman Method (Level II Training) - a positive approach to restoring happy partnerships.
I specialize in abuse and trauma therapy, for youth and adults. I have experience in working with victims of child abuse, bullying, and intimate partner violence. As a military spouse and former defence analyst, I have the knowledge and lived experience to assist military members, veterans and first responders with issues related to operational stress and their specific workplace and family culture. I am also trained in couples therapy, using the Gottman Method (Level II Training) - a positive approach to restoring happy partnerships.
(343) 340-5564 View (343) 340-5564
Photo of Judeline Salomon Phd, BN, MScN, PhD, RN, Psychiatric Nurse
Judeline Salomon Phd
Psychiatric Nurse, BN, MScN, PhD, RN
Verified Verified
Brockville, ON K6T
I can help when your mental and physical health are affecting your wellbeing. I will help young and mature adults navigate some of the most significant life challenges such as addiction, anxiety, chronic illness, depression, grief, loss, post-traumatic stress, racial trauma and other challenges associated with life, school, and the workplace that may affect your mental health.
I can help when your mental and physical health are affecting your wellbeing. I will help young and mature adults navigate some of the most significant life challenges such as addiction, anxiety, chronic illness, depression, grief, loss, post-traumatic stress, racial trauma and other challenges associated with life, school, and the workplace that may affect your mental health.
(613) 777-5038 View (613) 777-5038
Photo of Trisha Nelson, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Trisha Nelson
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brockville, ON K6T
My areas of focus include trauma, grief and self-esteem/self-worth, especially concerning body image and challenges with disordered eating.
I am presently taking new clients and offer the flexibility of evening appointments. From the big questions in life to small challenges, therapy can be an empowering process. I work with clients experiencing various presenting concerns, including issues with relationships ( struggling with boundary setting and or gaslighting), emotion regulation, self-esteem and body image, trauma, and life changes. I take an integrative approach with my clients, as the therapy techniques or theories employed should be flexible and unique to the person. I believe that vulnerability and openness are at the heart of therapeutic change.
My areas of focus include trauma, grief and self-esteem/self-worth, especially concerning body image and challenges with disordered eating.
I am presently taking new clients and offer the flexibility of evening appointments. From the big questions in life to small challenges, therapy can be an empowering process. I work with clients experiencing various presenting concerns, including issues with relationships ( struggling with boundary setting and or gaslighting), emotion regulation, self-esteem and body image, trauma, and life changes. I take an integrative approach with my clients, as the therapy techniques or theories employed should be flexible and unique to the person. I believe that vulnerability and openness are at the heart of therapeutic change.
(343) 633-1753 View (343) 633-1753
Photo of Victoria Elaine Howarth, MACP, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Victoria Elaine Howarth
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brockville, ON K6V
I have extensive training and experience with using CBT for anxiety and mood problems and EMDR for trauma ( including PTSD and C PTSD).
How is fear impacting your life? From problems that make you feel paralyzed, to uncomfortable feelings that are difficult to identify, trying to figure it out on your own can be confusing and scary. These feelings can hinder your enjoyment of daily life and future plans. By learning to understand how ADHD, anxiety, or trauma is affecting you, you can begin to see your life in a new way. I offer a nonjudgmental therapeutic lens where you can feel safe to explore your patterns and past. I created Dune Psychotherapy to be a collaborative practice, where we work together to move towards an authentic version of yourself.
I have extensive training and experience with using CBT for anxiety and mood problems and EMDR for trauma ( including PTSD and C PTSD).
How is fear impacting your life? From problems that make you feel paralyzed, to uncomfortable feelings that are difficult to identify, trying to figure it out on your own can be confusing and scary. These feelings can hinder your enjoyment of daily life and future plans. By learning to understand how ADHD, anxiety, or trauma is affecting you, you can begin to see your life in a new way. I offer a nonjudgmental therapeutic lens where you can feel safe to explore your patterns and past. I created Dune Psychotherapy to be a collaborative practice, where we work together to move towards an authentic version of yourself.
(343) 305-1081 View (343) 305-1081
Natasha Penny
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, CCC, TITC-CT, MA, BA
Verified Verified
Brockville, ON K6V
I offer a safe space for clients to explore emotions and challenges openly, using CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and trauma-informed care. I welcome diverse clients including military, indigenous, LGBTQ2S+, and students, aiming to minimize barriers to growth. My approach focuses on empowering individuals to navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, or personal development, fostering resilience and authenticity in their journey towards emotional healing and well-being.
I offer a safe space for clients to explore emotions and challenges openly, using CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and trauma-informed care. I welcome diverse clients including military, indigenous, LGBTQ2S+, and students, aiming to minimize barriers to growth. My approach focuses on empowering individuals to navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, or personal development, fostering resilience and authenticity in their journey towards emotional healing and well-being.
(343) 304-6185 View (343) 304-6185
Photo of Laura Notton - Online & In-person Talk, Somatic and Sound Therapy, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Online & In-person Talk, Somatic and Sound Therapy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Brockville, ON K6V
My approach includes traditional talk therapy, mindfulness, Emotion Focused Therapy, Parts Work, Interpersonal Neurobiology, & Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, which addresses somatic symptoms of unresolved trauma.
I have 24 years of experience. Clients work with me because they have a goal they want to reach, a pattern they wish to change, a relationship to discuss, or something to heal from the past. My role is to guide you on a transformative journey with unwavering support & provide powerful tools to help you feel better. During treatment, clients learn to trust themselves more & feel less anxious, sad, reactive, or self-critical. Listening to your feelings, thoughts, body, and needs is a skill. When this is personal practice, confidence increases, decision-making is easier, boundaries are clearer, & relationships are less stressful.
My approach includes traditional talk therapy, mindfulness, Emotion Focused Therapy, Parts Work, Interpersonal Neurobiology, & Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, which addresses somatic symptoms of unresolved trauma.
I have 24 years of experience. Clients work with me because they have a goal they want to reach, a pattern they wish to change, a relationship to discuss, or something to heal from the past. My role is to guide you on a transformative journey with unwavering support & provide powerful tools to help you feel better. During treatment, clients learn to trust themselves more & feel less anxious, sad, reactive, or self-critical. Listening to your feelings, thoughts, body, and needs is a skill. When this is personal practice, confidence increases, decision-making is easier, boundaries are clearer, & relationships are less stressful.
(647) 493-3365 View (647) 493-3365
Photo of Katelind Biccum, BA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Katelind Biccum
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Brockville, ON K6T  (Online Only)
My approach uses a holistic and trauma-informed lens.
Have you ever felt like you do not belong, that you are gravely misunderstood? What about striving for perfection in all aspects of your life? Or constantly feeling like a stranger in your own body? Does any of this sound familiar to you? I can assure you that you are not alone in these struggles. We might try to put on a brave face for the world; however, cracks begin forming in our façade, and self-doubt creeps in and eats away at our sense of self. I am here to normalize these feelings and empower you to become the best version of yourself, whatever that might look like. Everyone deserves kindness on their healing journey.
My approach uses a holistic and trauma-informed lens.
Have you ever felt like you do not belong, that you are gravely misunderstood? What about striving for perfection in all aspects of your life? Or constantly feeling like a stranger in your own body? Does any of this sound familiar to you? I can assure you that you are not alone in these struggles. We might try to put on a brave face for the world; however, cracks begin forming in our façade, and self-doubt creeps in and eats away at our sense of self. I am here to normalize these feelings and empower you to become the best version of yourself, whatever that might look like. Everyone deserves kindness on their healing journey.
(343) 505-0163 View (343) 505-0163
Photo of Michelle Aziz, SSW, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Michelle Aziz
Registered Social Worker, SSW, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Brockville, ON K6V
We additionally offer training and support in the specialties listed on this page as well as in Vicarious Trauma/Compassion Fatigue.
As a registered Social Worker, Psychotherapist and Clinical Director, I strive to deliver compassionate and empathetic support in working with the client in finding their inner strength and abilities and expanding on those for success. I believe every individual is capable to succeed and breakthrough their past current and future challenges/struggles, whatever they might be. With the focus of the client as the expert and the clinician as supportive expert, you will have the opportunity to be guided through your own strengths and abilities in moving forward and finding happiness/success through the life course.
We additionally offer training and support in the specialties listed on this page as well as in Vicarious Trauma/Compassion Fatigue.
As a registered Social Worker, Psychotherapist and Clinical Director, I strive to deliver compassionate and empathetic support in working with the client in finding their inner strength and abilities and expanding on those for success. I believe every individual is capable to succeed and breakthrough their past current and future challenges/struggles, whatever they might be. With the focus of the client as the expert and the clinician as supportive expert, you will have the opportunity to be guided through your own strengths and abilities in moving forward and finding happiness/success through the life course.
(613) 703-0662 View (613) 703-0662
Photo of Megan Robertson, MACP, RP (Q), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Megan Robertson
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, RP (Q)
Verified Verified
Brockville, ON K6V  (Online Only)
I work from a Narrative and multi-faceted approach that prioritizes trauma-informed, strengths-based, and culturally sensitive methods.
Are you neurodivergent, a member of the LGBTQ+ community, or a trauma survivor looking for a therapist with shared lived experience? Are you looking for support on your healing journey with trauma, abuse, chronic stress, or mental illness? Have those around you struggled to empathize or understand, often leading to feelings of self-doubt and invalidation? Are you ready for the next stage of healing? I'd like to be part of your journey.
I work from a Narrative and multi-faceted approach that prioritizes trauma-informed, strengths-based, and culturally sensitive methods.
Are you neurodivergent, a member of the LGBTQ+ community, or a trauma survivor looking for a therapist with shared lived experience? Are you looking for support on your healing journey with trauma, abuse, chronic stress, or mental illness? Have those around you struggled to empathize or understand, often leading to feelings of self-doubt and invalidation? Are you ready for the next stage of healing? I'd like to be part of your journey.
(343) 338-3510 View (343) 338-3510
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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.