Trauma and PTSD Psychiatrists in Chicago, IL

Photo of Monica Samelson, MD, Psychiatrist
Monica Samelson
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I have particular experience, skill, and interest in helping people with issues related to or including trauma, pregnancy, the postpartum phase, parenting, and the menstrual cycle.
Our minds are a complex interrelation between our brain, other somatic systems, our social context, and much else about our environment. Improving mental health calls for a creative and adaptive approach that takes all these factors into account. Treatment works by building together a safe environment so that you can investigate the way your life experiences have led to certain ways of being in regards to yourself, relationships, and our sociocultural environment. Once you recognize these patterns, you can move forward with agency in order to live life in accordance with your desires, values, and sense of an authentic self.
I have particular experience, skill, and interest in helping people with issues related to or including trauma, pregnancy, the postpartum phase, parenting, and the menstrual cycle.
Our minds are a complex interrelation between our brain, other somatic systems, our social context, and much else about our environment. Improving mental health calls for a creative and adaptive approach that takes all these factors into account. Treatment works by building together a safe environment so that you can investigate the way your life experiences have led to certain ways of being in regards to yourself, relationships, and our sociocultural environment. Once you recognize these patterns, you can move forward with agency in order to live life in accordance with your desires, values, and sense of an authentic self.
(773) 207-2986 View (773) 207-2986
Photo of Kiran Maharaja, MD, Psychiatrist
Kiran Maharaja
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611
I am a friendly and insightful psychiatrist who provides compassionate, empathetic care that is tailored to your concerns. I am trained in the use of both psychotherapy and medication management to treat a variety of psychiatric disorders. I have developed expertise in anxiety, trauma, personality disorders and mood disorders including depression and bipolar disorder.
I am a friendly and insightful psychiatrist who provides compassionate, empathetic care that is tailored to your concerns. I am trained in the use of both psychotherapy and medication management to treat a variety of psychiatric disorders. I have developed expertise in anxiety, trauma, personality disorders and mood disorders including depression and bipolar disorder.
(312) 548-8970 View (312) 548-8970
Photo of Alfreda Shields, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alfreda Shields
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
To schedule an appointment, please book a call with our Client Care Coordinator here: www.calendly.com/adminccbh I am dedicated to providing the evidence-based care that patients deserve, and I desire to establish long-lasting relationships with clients. I have an interest in treating anxiety, depression, insomnia, OCD, and PTSD.
To schedule an appointment, please book a call with our Client Care Coordinator here: www.calendly.com/adminccbh I am dedicated to providing the evidence-based care that patients deserve, and I desire to establish long-lasting relationships with clients. I have an interest in treating anxiety, depression, insomnia, OCD, and PTSD.
(312) 564-5830 View (312) 564-5830
Photo of Crystal Turner - Inspire1Wellness LLC, APN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Inspire1Wellness LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
I diagnose and treat adults with an array of conditions including trauma, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and psychosis.
Hi! I’m Crystal Turner, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have learned that, though the complexities that come with mental health are various, the commonality is the desire to be heard, seen, and treated as human and to attain the highest level of functioning in life.
I diagnose and treat adults with an array of conditions including trauma, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and psychosis.
Hi! I’m Crystal Turner, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have learned that, though the complexities that come with mental health are various, the commonality is the desire to be heard, seen, and treated as human and to attain the highest level of functioning in life.
(312) 778-5571 View (312) 778-5571
Photo of Alexander E. Obolsky, MD, Psychiatrist
Alexander E. Obolsky
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602
From time to time, our lives take an unexpected turn for the worse. We may suffer injury; succumb to physical or emotional illness, or experience conflict, loss, misfortune. Trauma and chronic disability may affect our loved ones or us. Life adversities may temporarily overwhelm our ability to carry on. We may turn pessimistic, doubtful, and hopeless. Feel demoralized, worried, and anxious. Suffer sadness, distress, and anguish. Become angry and resentful. Feel distrustful and quarrel with others. Recognize our isolation and loneliness. At such times, we could benefit from a psychiatric evaluation and treatment, including psychotherapy and prescription medicine.
From time to time, our lives take an unexpected turn for the worse. We may suffer injury; succumb to physical or emotional illness, or experience conflict, loss, misfortune. Trauma and chronic disability may affect our loved ones or us. Life adversities may temporarily overwhelm our ability to carry on. We may turn pessimistic, doubtful, and hopeless. Feel demoralized, worried, and anxious. Suffer sadness, distress, and anguish. Become angry and resentful. Feel distrustful and quarrel with others. Recognize our isolation and loneliness. At such times, we could benefit from a psychiatric evaluation and treatment, including psychotherapy and prescription medicine.
(312) 436-1329 View (312) 436-1329
Photo of Robert Lloyd, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist
Robert Lloyd
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
I have trained in multiple clinical environments previously, including a PTSD and brain injury clinic at the VA, women's mental health at Emory, physical rehabilitation center, and assisting patients on medical/ surgical services in the hospital.
My expertise is in treating mood, trauma, anxiety, and attention-related disorders. I take an integrative approach in considering the brain-body connection to treat mental illness, while identifying physical, emotional, and cognitive factors that impact treatment. My background is at the interface of medicine and psychiatry and I support a collaborative, multi-modal approach to helping patients achieve functional improvement and recovery. I am currently accepting new patients and see all patients in person for the initial consultation.
I have trained in multiple clinical environments previously, including a PTSD and brain injury clinic at the VA, women's mental health at Emory, physical rehabilitation center, and assisting patients on medical/ surgical services in the hospital.
My expertise is in treating mood, trauma, anxiety, and attention-related disorders. I take an integrative approach in considering the brain-body connection to treat mental illness, while identifying physical, emotional, and cognitive factors that impact treatment. My background is at the interface of medicine and psychiatry and I support a collaborative, multi-modal approach to helping patients achieve functional improvement and recovery. I am currently accepting new patients and see all patients in person for the initial consultation.
(312) 820-9475 View (312) 820-9475
Photo of Zainab Taiwo, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Zainab Taiwo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60653
As a seasoned psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I bring a wealth of experience to my practice. Throughout my career, I've had the privilege of working with a wide spectrum of patients, each navigating their unique mental health challenges. From depression and PTSD to bipolar disorder, anxiety, ADHD, and beyond, I've cultivated a deep understanding of diverse diagnoses. My approach is firmly rooted in evidence-based medicine, ensuring that every treatment plan I develop is tailored to meet the specific needs of each individual under my care.
As a seasoned psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I bring a wealth of experience to my practice. Throughout my career, I've had the privilege of working with a wide spectrum of patients, each navigating their unique mental health challenges. From depression and PTSD to bipolar disorder, anxiety, ADHD, and beyond, I've cultivated a deep understanding of diverse diagnoses. My approach is firmly rooted in evidence-based medicine, ensuring that every treatment plan I develop is tailored to meet the specific needs of each individual under my care.
(872) 219-0625 View (872) 219-0625
Photo of Krista Saum, MCMSc, PA-C, CAQ-Psy, Physician Assistant
Krista Saum
Physician Assistant, MCMSc, PA-C, CAQ-Psy
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614
I have particular interest and expertise in complex PTSD, ADHD (particularly in women), substance use disorders, normalizing the concept of neurodivergence, and emerging research on psychedelic medicine.
Traditional psychiatric practices can be rigid and often push patients into boxes established by the DSM. While understanding the importance of identifying specific diagnoses, I strive to break apart labels and eliminate associated stigmas. I believe everyone falls on a continuum of multiple diagnoses, most of which are rooted in generational and childhood trauma. I hope to support my patients both pharmacologically and therapeutically on their journey to understanding and accepting themselves fully. I believe in treating the “whole-person” and emphasize the importance of exploring mind-body connection through mindfulness practices.
I have particular interest and expertise in complex PTSD, ADHD (particularly in women), substance use disorders, normalizing the concept of neurodivergence, and emerging research on psychedelic medicine.
Traditional psychiatric practices can be rigid and often push patients into boxes established by the DSM. While understanding the importance of identifying specific diagnoses, I strive to break apart labels and eliminate associated stigmas. I believe everyone falls on a continuum of multiple diagnoses, most of which are rooted in generational and childhood trauma. I hope to support my patients both pharmacologically and therapeutically on their journey to understanding and accepting themselves fully. I believe in treating the “whole-person” and emphasize the importance of exploring mind-body connection through mindfulness practices.
(773) 839-7804 View (773) 839-7804
Photo of Theresa Towle, PMHNP, FNP-BC, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Theresa Towle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC, APRN
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611  (Online Only)
Greetings! My name is Dr. Theresa Towle. I have decades of experience providing holistic care to help heal hurt, process trauma, build resilience, and find balance. As a dual-certified family & psychiatric mental-health nurse practitioner, I use evidence-based techniques to treat mind and body, including addressing the role of the gut-brain axis in anxiety, depression, trauma, attention issues, weight loss and a host of other issues. I am dedicated to working with you develop a holistic approach to care.
Greetings! My name is Dr. Theresa Towle. I have decades of experience providing holistic care to help heal hurt, process trauma, build resilience, and find balance. As a dual-certified family & psychiatric mental-health nurse practitioner, I use evidence-based techniques to treat mind and body, including addressing the role of the gut-brain axis in anxiety, depression, trauma, attention issues, weight loss and a host of other issues. I am dedicated to working with you develop a holistic approach to care.
(708) 564-3560 View (708) 564-3560
Photo of Kyle McKinley, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kyle McKinley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
Hi, I am Kyle (he/him/his) and I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have been a mental health nurse for over 20 years and have worked in numerous health care settings. My approach to care is greatly informed by my nursing background and the healing power of an affirming, collaborative relationship. I aim to provide holistic, person-centered care utilizing trauma informed, anti-oppressive, and harm reduction approaches. I offer both psychotherapy and medication management. I believe medication can be a helpful tool to turn down the dial of distress so that we can better access our capacity to heal.
Hi, I am Kyle (he/him/his) and I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have been a mental health nurse for over 20 years and have worked in numerous health care settings. My approach to care is greatly informed by my nursing background and the healing power of an affirming, collaborative relationship. I aim to provide holistic, person-centered care utilizing trauma informed, anti-oppressive, and harm reduction approaches. I offer both psychotherapy and medication management. I believe medication can be a helpful tool to turn down the dial of distress so that we can better access our capacity to heal.
(773) 432-4362 View (773) 432-4362
Photo of Franchesca Hammond, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Franchesca Hammond
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60606  (Online Only)
Whether you are experiences depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder or attention deficit disorder I can help you manage your symptoms and get back to living the life that you desire.
Hello I'm Franchesca Has life been getting increasingly difficult for you? Are you losing hope and feeling defeated about your future? Do you feel alone or that everything is working against you? Have you lost control of your life or feel unworthy? Do you struggle with relationships? Do you have difficulty adjusting to change and making decisions? Do you want to change the dynamics of your life? Are you ready to experience self-empowerment and growth?
Whether you are experiences depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder or attention deficit disorder I can help you manage your symptoms and get back to living the life that you desire.
Hello I'm Franchesca Has life been getting increasingly difficult for you? Are you losing hope and feeling defeated about your future? Do you feel alone or that everything is working against you? Have you lost control of your life or feel unworthy? Do you struggle with relationships? Do you have difficulty adjusting to change and making decisions? Do you want to change the dynamics of your life? Are you ready to experience self-empowerment and growth?
(224) 413-3042 View (224) 413-3042
Photo of Amy Milroy, DNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amy Milroy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60605
Are you ready to heal? Let's work together! You may be experiencing ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar, OCD, substance use, or other concerns, and you are seeking wellness. Appointments with me provide personalized blends of medicine and therapy. I have special expertise in ADHD, PTSD and CPTSD, anxiety, and depression. I offer ketamine-assisted psychotherapy in clinic and retreat settings in California, as well as via telehealth in California and Illinois. I also provide regular medication management and therapy via telehealth in CA, IL, and NM. I'm here for you whether you're wanting progressive or traditional approaches.
Are you ready to heal? Let's work together! You may be experiencing ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar, OCD, substance use, or other concerns, and you are seeking wellness. Appointments with me provide personalized blends of medicine and therapy. I have special expertise in ADHD, PTSD and CPTSD, anxiety, and depression. I offer ketamine-assisted psychotherapy in clinic and retreat settings in California, as well as via telehealth in California and Illinois. I also provide regular medication management and therapy via telehealth in CA, IL, and NM. I'm here for you whether you're wanting progressive or traditional approaches.
(858) 252-0529 View (858) 252-0529
Photo of Arnab Datta, MD, Psychiatrist
Arnab Datta
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60611  (Online Only)
Meditation/EMDR is not only for Trauma survivors, it helps let go of negative habits for positive personality and character development.
Arnab Datta, MD is a general psychiatrist, talk therapist, addiction psychiatrist, couples therapist and meditation/EMDR doctor in one. Dr. Datta was a meditation teacher, singer and artist before becoming an MD. Most of his patients want the truth ie. a great listener who provides real world congruent answers to their specific problems in the fewest sessions. You don’t need to be an addict to see Dr. Datta either. He’s a controlled substance specialist who treats adderall, benzos and suboxone patients. Those who have done ayahuasca and ketamine have come in for analysis. All this is provided under one roof and on video chat
Meditation/EMDR is not only for Trauma survivors, it helps let go of negative habits for positive personality and character development.
Arnab Datta, MD is a general psychiatrist, talk therapist, addiction psychiatrist, couples therapist and meditation/EMDR doctor in one. Dr. Datta was a meditation teacher, singer and artist before becoming an MD. Most of his patients want the truth ie. a great listener who provides real world congruent answers to their specific problems in the fewest sessions. You don’t need to be an addict to see Dr. Datta either. He’s a controlled substance specialist who treats adderall, benzos and suboxone patients. Those who have done ayahuasca and ketamine have come in for analysis. All this is provided under one roof and on video chat
(347) 514-6663 View (347) 514-6663
Photo of Kimberly Lopez, CNP, APRN, ADHDCCS, CCTP-II, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kimberly Lopez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, APRN, ADHDCCS, CCTP-II, DNP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611
Specializing in neurodevelopmental disorders, trauma, women's health, and cultural diversity I bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to each patient.
I am a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist Intensive Training (ASDCS), Certified ADHD Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP), Certified Complex PTSD and Trauma (CCTP-II). I assess, diagnose, and treat all ages of life; from pediatric to geriatric. Each patient is unique in what their needs are, and will be treated to meet those needs.
Specializing in neurodevelopmental disorders, trauma, women's health, and cultural diversity I bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to each patient.
I am a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist Intensive Training (ASDCS), Certified ADHD Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP), Certified Complex PTSD and Trauma (CCTP-II). I assess, diagnose, and treat all ages of life; from pediatric to geriatric. Each patient is unique in what their needs are, and will be treated to meet those needs.
(312) 779-0920 View (312) 779-0920
Photo of Candice Schrodetzki | Anxiety Depression Ptsd | Sgb | Ketamine Therapy, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Candice Schrodetzki | Anxiety Depression Ptsd | Sgb | Ketamine Therapy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at Stella Center with over five years of experience in the field. I offer medical and biopsychosocial assessments to help guide you through your care journey. I specialize in treating mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, and PTSD with biological treatments like the dual sympathetic reset (an advanced stellate ganglion block (SGB), ketamine infusion therapy, and more. I take a holistic approach to treating mental health while incorporating modern-day therapies.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at Stella Center with over five years of experience in the field. I offer medical and biopsychosocial assessments to help guide you through your care journey. I specialize in treating mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, and PTSD with biological treatments like the dual sympathetic reset (an advanced stellate ganglion block (SGB), ketamine infusion therapy, and more. I take a holistic approach to treating mental health while incorporating modern-day therapies.
(708) 627-2613 View (708) 627-2613
Photo of Dr. Karen DeCocker | Anxiety Depression Ptsd | Sgb | Spravato | Ketamine | Tms, PMHNP, DNP, CNM, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Karen DeCocker | Anxiety Depression Ptsd | Sgb | Spravato | Ketamine | Tms
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP, CNM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60606
I'm the Director of Advanced Practice Providers at Stella Center and oversee our assessment team. I became a nurse practitioner in 2007 after 10 years of hospital nursing experience. We specialize in identifying innovative treatments & therapies that can help relieve symptoms of anxiety, depression, PTSD & TBI. After completing a virtual assessment together that accounts for medical, biological, psychological & social factors, I provide individualized treatment recommendations across our protocols: the dual sympathetic reset (an advanced stellate ganglion block), ketamine infusions, TMS therapy, integration therapy, and more.
I'm the Director of Advanced Practice Providers at Stella Center and oversee our assessment team. I became a nurse practitioner in 2007 after 10 years of hospital nursing experience. We specialize in identifying innovative treatments & therapies that can help relieve symptoms of anxiety, depression, PTSD & TBI. After completing a virtual assessment together that accounts for medical, biological, psychological & social factors, I provide individualized treatment recommendations across our protocols: the dual sympathetic reset (an advanced stellate ganglion block), ketamine infusions, TMS therapy, integration therapy, and more.
(708) 934-8044 View (708) 934-8044
Photo of Semone West, MD, Psychiatrist
Semone West
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
She specializes in treating trauma, substance abuse, self-injury, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, attention deficit disorders, and other co-occurring mental illnesses.
Semone West, MD is board certified in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Adult Psychiatry. She attended medical school at Tufts University School of Medicine in Boston, MA. She completed a psychiatry residency at Duke University in Durham, NC; and a child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine in Chicago, while also serving as an associate professor.
She specializes in treating trauma, substance abuse, self-injury, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, attention deficit disorders, and other co-occurring mental illnesses.
Semone West, MD is board certified in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Adult Psychiatry. She attended medical school at Tufts University School of Medicine in Boston, MA. She completed a psychiatry residency at Duke University in Durham, NC; and a child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine in Chicago, while also serving as an associate professor.
(331) 245-3846 View (331) 245-3846
Photo of Rachel L Thomas - Rachel Thomas Psychiatry, APRN-BC, PMHCNS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rachel Thomas Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC, PMHCNS
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
I specialize in ADHD and PTSD.
"Whatever it Takes!!" is my motto. My practice style is highly dynamic, collaborative and is developed for and based on YOU!! I provide insightful evaluation and understanding of your concerns and we work closely together to quickly implement whatever therapeutic modality is needed to help you perform and live to your potential. My patients are gifted, professional and top performers. It is my joy to be included on your journey. :)
I specialize in ADHD and PTSD.
"Whatever it Takes!!" is my motto. My practice style is highly dynamic, collaborative and is developed for and based on YOU!! I provide insightful evaluation and understanding of your concerns and we work closely together to quickly implement whatever therapeutic modality is needed to help you perform and live to your potential. My patients are gifted, professional and top performers. It is my joy to be included on your journey. :)
(413) 339-3604 View (413) 339-3604
Photo of Sarah Ritter, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sarah Ritter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60647  (Online Only)
I help people who are struggling with neurodivergence and its mood complications as well as depression, anxiety, bipolar II disorder, ADHD, PTSD, and C-PTSD who are open to new and emerging evidenced-based treatments to reduce or resolve their symptoms, feel more confident, and live a healthier life! I am a fully licensed, ANCC board-certified, psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner with over 8 years experience.
I help people who are struggling with neurodivergence and its mood complications as well as depression, anxiety, bipolar II disorder, ADHD, PTSD, and C-PTSD who are open to new and emerging evidenced-based treatments to reduce or resolve their symptoms, feel more confident, and live a healthier life! I am a fully licensed, ANCC board-certified, psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner with over 8 years experience.
(773) 985-1820 View (773) 985-1820
Photo of Abhijit Shinde - Balance Ketamine Clinics, MD, Psychiatrist
Balance Ketamine Clinics
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60622
We provide I.V. Ketamine therapy for treatment-resistant psychiatric disorders. Clinical studies clearly indicate that ketamine provides rapid relief from depressive symptoms and a significant reduction in suicidal thoughts. Ketamine offers hope to those with severe depression, anxiety and PTSD. This includes major depressive disorders, postpartum depression, bipolar depression, OCD and severe anxiety states. No other severe depression treatment offers such rapid and robust results. We believe that personalized care tailored to you is the best way to succeed in helping you.
We provide I.V. Ketamine therapy for treatment-resistant psychiatric disorders. Clinical studies clearly indicate that ketamine provides rapid relief from depressive symptoms and a significant reduction in suicidal thoughts. Ketamine offers hope to those with severe depression, anxiety and PTSD. This includes major depressive disorders, postpartum depression, bipolar depression, OCD and severe anxiety states. No other severe depression treatment offers such rapid and robust results. We believe that personalized care tailored to you is the best way to succeed in helping you.
(872) 219-0212 View (872) 219-0212
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Trauma and PTSD Psychiatrists

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.