Trauma and PTSD Therapists in 60661

Photo of Jenni Sickler, MA, LCPC, ATR-BC, Counselor
Jenni Sickler
Counselor, MA, LCPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60661  (Online Only)
I work with young adults/collage aged individuals as well as adults (25+) and specialize in various trauma related symptoms, anxiety/depression, life transitions, self esteem, body image, identity development, and the LGBTQIA+ community.
My hope is to cultivate a therapeutic environment that is authentic, empathetic, non-judgmental and filled with compassionate curiosity. I view therapy as a collaborative process that encourages personal growth, self-compassion, and empowerment in the areas that are important to you. As an art therapist, if interested, I can incorporate the art making process as a restorative tool to increase insight in nonverbal forms of expression while expanding your own imaginative capabilities. My desire is to provide a safe space to explore past experiences and traumas while creatively working towards healing and growth.
I work with young adults/collage aged individuals as well as adults (25+) and specialize in various trauma related symptoms, anxiety/depression, life transitions, self esteem, body image, identity development, and the LGBTQIA+ community.
My hope is to cultivate a therapeutic environment that is authentic, empathetic, non-judgmental and filled with compassionate curiosity. I view therapy as a collaborative process that encourages personal growth, self-compassion, and empowerment in the areas that are important to you. As an art therapist, if interested, I can incorporate the art making process as a restorative tool to increase insight in nonverbal forms of expression while expanding your own imaginative capabilities. My desire is to provide a safe space to explore past experiences and traumas while creatively working towards healing and growth.
(312) 564-4952 View (312) 564-4952
Photo of Anne Gamache, LCPC, CADC, Counselor
Anne Gamache
Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60661
There are few places where we can be fully understood and make sense of our experiences. Life can take us in directions we did not anticipate and we may need a reflective and accepting environment to reconnect to our true selves. I work primarily with adolescents and adults around topics such as single-incident and complex trauma, relationships, addiction recovery, mood disorders, and life transition.
There are few places where we can be fully understood and make sense of our experiences. Life can take us in directions we did not anticipate and we may need a reflective and accepting environment to reconnect to our true selves. I work primarily with adolescents and adults around topics such as single-incident and complex trauma, relationships, addiction recovery, mood disorders, and life transition.
(224) 479-1565 View (224) 479-1565
Photo of Dian Medrano, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dian Medrano
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60661
If you are experiencing hardships in anxiety, depression, trauma, imposter syndrome, work-life balance, marital issues, communication, and emotional regulation, I work to find both practical and insightful tools to handle an array of conflicts. I will help you navigate your patterns, from a holistic lens, utilize your strengths, and find meaning in the desired change you seek. In each session, You will be provided with a comfortable atmosphere where you can freely feel openness, honesty, and the trust to convey what ails you while receiving guidance and tools.
If you are experiencing hardships in anxiety, depression, trauma, imposter syndrome, work-life balance, marital issues, communication, and emotional regulation, I work to find both practical and insightful tools to handle an array of conflicts. I will help you navigate your patterns, from a holistic lens, utilize your strengths, and find meaning in the desired change you seek. In each session, You will be provided with a comfortable atmosphere where you can freely feel openness, honesty, and the trust to convey what ails you while receiving guidance and tools.
(630) 931-8008 View (630) 931-8008
Photo of Theodore E Stripling, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Theodore E Stripling
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60661
Waitlist for new clients
I frequently work around topics including trauma, ADHD, identity work, anxiety, peer conflict, and relationships.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and school counselor, working in private practice since 2022. I bring 10 years of experience with children and adolescents in schools and work with adults and families too. I aim to help clients explore themselves and how they relate to their environment, being work, home, or social areas. My role is to help you explore core aspects of yourself and how to get what you need from your world. Please checkout my website to learn more about my counseling approach: www.present-mind.org.
I frequently work around topics including trauma, ADHD, identity work, anxiety, peer conflict, and relationships.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and school counselor, working in private practice since 2022. I bring 10 years of experience with children and adolescents in schools and work with adults and families too. I aim to help clients explore themselves and how they relate to their environment, being work, home, or social areas. My role is to help you explore core aspects of yourself and how to get what you need from your world. Please checkout my website to learn more about my counseling approach: www.present-mind.org.
(773) 207-8856 View (773) 207-8856
Photo of Seema Shah, LCSW, TFCBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Seema Shah
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, TFCBT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60661  (Online Only)
Certified in TF-CBT and Mediation, have experience working with complex trauma, and have over 7 years of experience working with adolescents, college students / emerging adults, and adults.
Life is a work in progress, and progress isn't always a linear path. It's inevitable to have hurdles along the way, and we sometimes need support to better cope with these hurdles. I'm a firm believer in You being the most important person in Your life. You matter most, you know yourself best, and are the star of your life story. I want to be able to offer an empathetic, nonjudgmental, and safe space for you to process your thoughts and feelings, adding a bit of humor along the way. I want to be along side with you, to help you see your own strength, and work collaboratively with you to help cope with the daily hurdles of life.
Certified in TF-CBT and Mediation, have experience working with complex trauma, and have over 7 years of experience working with adolescents, college students / emerging adults, and adults.
Life is a work in progress, and progress isn't always a linear path. It's inevitable to have hurdles along the way, and we sometimes need support to better cope with these hurdles. I'm a firm believer in You being the most important person in Your life. You matter most, you know yourself best, and are the star of your life story. I want to be able to offer an empathetic, nonjudgmental, and safe space for you to process your thoughts and feelings, adding a bit of humor along the way. I want to be along side with you, to help you see your own strength, and work collaboratively with you to help cope with the daily hurdles of life.
(312) 818-3220 View (312) 818-3220
Photo of Heather Miller, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60661  (Online Only)
My approach to therapy is integrative, drawing from cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, anti-oppressive, trauma-informed, and systems theories.
Seeking therapy is an important decision that shows personal strength and motivation. Therapy can be a reflective, confidential space to explore issues that are important to you, and to pursue goals you have for yourself and your life. I have a deep respect for the strengths you bring to the therapeutic work, and my approach to therapy involves building on these strengths to support you in reaching your goals. I believe strongly in a non-judgmental approach to therapy, and I strive to build emotional safety in our time together to allow space for you to explore important life issues in an authentic way.
My approach to therapy is integrative, drawing from cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, anti-oppressive, trauma-informed, and systems theories.
Seeking therapy is an important decision that shows personal strength and motivation. Therapy can be a reflective, confidential space to explore issues that are important to you, and to pursue goals you have for yourself and your life. I have a deep respect for the strengths you bring to the therapeutic work, and my approach to therapy involves building on these strengths to support you in reaching your goals. I believe strongly in a non-judgmental approach to therapy, and I strive to build emotional safety in our time together to allow space for you to explore important life issues in an authentic way.
(312) 647-2007 View (312) 647-2007
Photo of Nicole Chirillo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Chirillo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60661  (Online Only)
Nicole has over a decade of experience providing affirming care to QTBIPOC living with depression, anxiety, complex trauma, grief and loss.
Nicole's therapeutic approach is rooted in an eclectic framework, which includes elements of attachment-based therapy, somatic experiencing therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and EMDR. She tailors her approach to each client's unique needs, prioritizing the therapeutic alliance with an emphasis on a non-pathologizing perspective. Nicole prioritizes helping individuals navigate multi-systemic oppression while embracing their intersecting identities. She remains client-centered, but also embraces the opportunity to incorporate humor and insights when beneficial, fostering authenticity and connection.
Nicole has over a decade of experience providing affirming care to QTBIPOC living with depression, anxiety, complex trauma, grief and loss.
Nicole's therapeutic approach is rooted in an eclectic framework, which includes elements of attachment-based therapy, somatic experiencing therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and EMDR. She tailors her approach to each client's unique needs, prioritizing the therapeutic alliance with an emphasis on a non-pathologizing perspective. Nicole prioritizes helping individuals navigate multi-systemic oppression while embracing their intersecting identities. She remains client-centered, but also embraces the opportunity to incorporate humor and insights when beneficial, fostering authenticity and connection.
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Photo of Tara Thomason, JD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tara Thomason
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60661
Waitlist for new clients
My approach to therapy is reflective, authentic and insight oriented, with an emphasis on creating a trusting and collaborative relationship. With more than 20 years experience working with individuals, couples and families, my practice is informed by clinical expertise in treating symptoms of trauma, depression, and anxiety. I also counsel for issues related to life transitions, complex relationships, intimacy, parenting, identity, grief and loss. I greet clients with openness and curiosity, engaging a process that best fits their individual needs.
My approach to therapy is reflective, authentic and insight oriented, with an emphasis on creating a trusting and collaborative relationship. With more than 20 years experience working with individuals, couples and families, my practice is informed by clinical expertise in treating symptoms of trauma, depression, and anxiety. I also counsel for issues related to life transitions, complex relationships, intimacy, parenting, identity, grief and loss. I greet clients with openness and curiosity, engaging a process that best fits their individual needs.
(773) 696-1331 View (773) 696-1331
Photo of Julianna Wesolowski, LCPC
Julianna Wesolowski
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60661
I have extensive training on attachment, trauma, and the mind-body connection, and utilize a variety of evidenced-based treatments in my practice.
People seek therapy for many different reasons, often on the heels or in the midst of navigating life transitions and important relationships. Those who work with me tend to be seeking ways to better tolerate & manage the full range and intensity of their experiences, while honoring their genuine selves. In my 18 years of clinical work, I’ve focused on helping individuals & families find and practice ways to live regulated, connected, and meaningful lives amidst all the ups and downs of life. I enjoy working with people of all ages and specialize in anxiety, identity issues, complex trauma, and supporting child-parent relationships.
I have extensive training on attachment, trauma, and the mind-body connection, and utilize a variety of evidenced-based treatments in my practice.
People seek therapy for many different reasons, often on the heels or in the midst of navigating life transitions and important relationships. Those who work with me tend to be seeking ways to better tolerate & manage the full range and intensity of their experiences, while honoring their genuine selves. In my 18 years of clinical work, I’ve focused on helping individuals & families find and practice ways to live regulated, connected, and meaningful lives amidst all the ups and downs of life. I enjoy working with people of all ages and specialize in anxiety, identity issues, complex trauma, and supporting child-parent relationships.
(773) 207-9465 View (773) 207-9465
Photo of Georgia Samantha Boxer, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Georgia Samantha Boxer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60661
I work from attachment and person-centered lenses, specializing in trauma and PTSD, identity (i.
I believe that, given adequate time, space, and resources, all individuals are capable of self-directed change regardless of their presenting problem. I also believe that therapy can often be the missing factor for those who seek but are unable to successfully make positive life changes on our own. As a counselor, I facilitate change by working with and through the client. As client and counselor, we work together, as a team, to best meet the client’s needs by setting, and then pursuing, realistic, attainable treatment goals.
I work from attachment and person-centered lenses, specializing in trauma and PTSD, identity (i.
I believe that, given adequate time, space, and resources, all individuals are capable of self-directed change regardless of their presenting problem. I also believe that therapy can often be the missing factor for those who seek but are unable to successfully make positive life changes on our own. As a counselor, I facilitate change by working with and through the client. As client and counselor, we work together, as a team, to best meet the client’s needs by setting, and then pursuing, realistic, attainable treatment goals.
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Photo of Nick Rudauskas, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nick Rudauskas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60661
I am particularly passionate about helping clients address trauma-related concerns.
Have you been struggling with difficult thoughts or emotions in the aftermath of being neglected by a parent or other caregiver, being threatened, or being actively harmed by another person? Experiences such as these can contribute to a wide range of challenging responses, including – though, certainly far from limited to – difficulties with relationships, self-critical thoughts, disrupted connection with oneself, and feelings of shame. Whatever your particular obstacles may look like, you do not need to tackle them alone.
I am particularly passionate about helping clients address trauma-related concerns.
Have you been struggling with difficult thoughts or emotions in the aftermath of being neglected by a parent or other caregiver, being threatened, or being actively harmed by another person? Experiences such as these can contribute to a wide range of challenging responses, including – though, certainly far from limited to – difficulties with relationships, self-critical thoughts, disrupted connection with oneself, and feelings of shame. Whatever your particular obstacles may look like, you do not need to tackle them alone.
(773) 906-4985 View (773) 906-4985
Photo of Shaw Xueqi Xiao, LCPC, ATR, Counselor
Shaw Xueqi Xiao
Counselor, LCPC, ATR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60661  (Online Only)
My approach is deeply rooted in trauma-informed care, emphasizing the role of creativity as a conduit for self-awareness, resilience, and recovery.
I'm a licensed art therapist and licensed clinical professional counselor that is dedicated to nurturing culturally attuned care for the Asian and Asian-American communities. At the core of my practice is an unyielding belief in the transformative and healing power of art, a medium that transcends linguistic and cultural barriers, inviting individuals from all walks of life to engage, express, and heal. I've embraced a diverse array of individuals, particularly championing the needs of people of color, immigrants, and minority groups, guiding them towards self-acceptance, gender affirmation, and a profound sense of self-worth.
My approach is deeply rooted in trauma-informed care, emphasizing the role of creativity as a conduit for self-awareness, resilience, and recovery.
I'm a licensed art therapist and licensed clinical professional counselor that is dedicated to nurturing culturally attuned care for the Asian and Asian-American communities. At the core of my practice is an unyielding belief in the transformative and healing power of art, a medium that transcends linguistic and cultural barriers, inviting individuals from all walks of life to engage, express, and heal. I've embraced a diverse array of individuals, particularly championing the needs of people of color, immigrants, and minority groups, guiding them towards self-acceptance, gender affirmation, and a profound sense of self-worth.
(312) 313-0705 View (312) 313-0705
Photo of Amy Shane, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Shane
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60661  (Online Only)
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and PhD Candidate in Illinois and Montana, and specialize in attachment & relational trauma, eating disorders and anxiety. I am currently a PhD Candidate at the Institute for Clinical Social Work with my dissertation research and study focusing on attachment trauma and eating disorders. For individuals working on improving their relationship with food and body image, I practice solely through a Health At Every Size (HAES) approach.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and PhD Candidate in Illinois and Montana, and specialize in attachment & relational trauma, eating disorders and anxiety. I am currently a PhD Candidate at the Institute for Clinical Social Work with my dissertation research and study focusing on attachment trauma and eating disorders. For individuals working on improving their relationship with food and body image, I practice solely through a Health At Every Size (HAES) approach.
(815) 205-5510 View (815) 205-5510
Photo of Kara Thompson-Miller, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kara Thompson-Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60661
Waitlist for new clients
As a therapist, I integrate a mixture of trauma-informed modalities, often pulling from psychodynamic, IFS-informed, and ACT-based approaches.
There can be such a range of feelings, thoughts, and experiences in the search for a therapist… and, nonetheless, you've made it here. I deeply believe that an authentic, collaborative relationship is key to building and maintaining an empowered therapy space, which, to me, means that bringing "human-ness" into session is so important. I see therapy as somewhere to get curious and explore where we may feel stuck, rather than a space where we work to be "fixed." Relational in my approach with clients, I feel passionate in walking alongside folks in their journey through trauma, relationships, life transitions, and anxiety.
As a therapist, I integrate a mixture of trauma-informed modalities, often pulling from psychodynamic, IFS-informed, and ACT-based approaches.
There can be such a range of feelings, thoughts, and experiences in the search for a therapist… and, nonetheless, you've made it here. I deeply believe that an authentic, collaborative relationship is key to building and maintaining an empowered therapy space, which, to me, means that bringing "human-ness" into session is so important. I see therapy as somewhere to get curious and explore where we may feel stuck, rather than a space where we work to be "fixed." Relational in my approach with clients, I feel passionate in walking alongside folks in their journey through trauma, relationships, life transitions, and anxiety.
(312) 598-0797 View (312) 598-0797
Photo of Sheina Dixon, MA, LCPC, NCC
Sheina Dixon
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60661  (Online Only)
I have worked with a diverse population of clients by factors such as age, socioeconomic status, and ethnic groups that have dealt with varying challenges such as trauma, anxiety, depression, parent/child conflicts, grief, mood & behavior disorders, PTSD, and ADD/ADHD.
My main focus has been to empower clients to reach a higher level of self-sufficiency and healing through supportive practices. Understanding that the world in which we live, how we function, and the resources available to us determines the perspective and navigation in which one has. I approach things through a holistic( mind, body, soul) lens as people cannot function as their best self in fragmented pieces. I am looking to serve individuals who have difficulty with coping through life stressors, while being open to the possibilities of transformative solutions.
I have worked with a diverse population of clients by factors such as age, socioeconomic status, and ethnic groups that have dealt with varying challenges such as trauma, anxiety, depression, parent/child conflicts, grief, mood & behavior disorders, PTSD, and ADD/ADHD.
My main focus has been to empower clients to reach a higher level of self-sufficiency and healing through supportive practices. Understanding that the world in which we live, how we function, and the resources available to us determines the perspective and navigation in which one has. I approach things through a holistic( mind, body, soul) lens as people cannot function as their best self in fragmented pieces. I am looking to serve individuals who have difficulty with coping through life stressors, while being open to the possibilities of transformative solutions.
(312) 516-2426 View (312) 516-2426
Photo of Chelly Calandra, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chelly Calandra
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60661  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Life is challenging and seems to grow more challenging by the day. I offer a warm and non judgmental space to explore the pulls on our lives- parenthood, work, adult parents with personality disorders. We may explore how your childhood impacts today or process through a trauma that has been a barrier to moving forward. I offer both a space to explore feelings as well as solutions to the challenges we face.
Life is challenging and seems to grow more challenging by the day. I offer a warm and non judgmental space to explore the pulls on our lives- parenthood, work, adult parents with personality disorders. We may explore how your childhood impacts today or process through a trauma that has been a barrier to moving forward. I offer both a space to explore feelings as well as solutions to the challenges we face.
(312) 548-1122 View (312) 548-1122
Photo of Lindsay Sherman, MAAT, LCPC, Counselor
Lindsay Sherman
Counselor, MAAT, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60661
With therapy, trauma can be integrated into the past where it occurred, and I can help you learn how to feel safe and grounded in the present.
Are you struggling with emotions, career, relationships, or chronic pain, but not sure how to move forward? As we've all experienced through the pandemic to certain degrees; life events can be unexpected, overwhelming, and traumatic. You deserve space to process what brings you to therapy with a professional who can validate your experiences and commit to working with you, at your pace, to develop solutions. I work from a culturally-aware, trauma-informed perspective to ensure that you feel seen and heard, and offer Art Therapy. Non-judgmental by nature, I collaborate with clients by building on strengths to overcome challenges.
With therapy, trauma can be integrated into the past where it occurred, and I can help you learn how to feel safe and grounded in the present.
Are you struggling with emotions, career, relationships, or chronic pain, but not sure how to move forward? As we've all experienced through the pandemic to certain degrees; life events can be unexpected, overwhelming, and traumatic. You deserve space to process what brings you to therapy with a professional who can validate your experiences and commit to working with you, at your pace, to develop solutions. I work from a culturally-aware, trauma-informed perspective to ensure that you feel seen and heard, and offer Art Therapy. Non-judgmental by nature, I collaborate with clients by building on strengths to overcome challenges.
(312) 766-6893 View (312) 766-6893
Photo of Nancy Gardner, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy Gardner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60661
My passion is to help you feel heard, understood, and hopeful about the possibility of change. You'd be surprised by how much better you may feel after just a few sessions, either in-person or tele-health. I specialize in working with clients who are struggling with a number of things at the same time (such as life transitions, anxiety, trauma). My ideal client is someone who is interested in going below surface issues, and- potentially- including some "body-up" work in their therapy.
My passion is to help you feel heard, understood, and hopeful about the possibility of change. You'd be surprised by how much better you may feel after just a few sessions, either in-person or tele-health. I specialize in working with clients who are struggling with a number of things at the same time (such as life transitions, anxiety, trauma). My ideal client is someone who is interested in going below surface issues, and- potentially- including some "body-up" work in their therapy.
(312) 548-8751 View (312) 548-8751
Photo of Christian Moresco, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christian Moresco
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60661
I have experience working with those with anxiety, trauma, depression, fears and phobias, as well as OCD.
My approach to therapy is collaborative, and goal oriented. When you come into a session, you should expect the support to take your treatment into the direction that you want. You can also take your treatment step-by-step in a more structured way.
I have experience working with those with anxiety, trauma, depression, fears and phobias, as well as OCD.
My approach to therapy is collaborative, and goal oriented. When you come into a session, you should expect the support to take your treatment into the direction that you want. You can also take your treatment step-by-step in a more structured way.
(773) 906-4088 View (773) 906-4088
Photo of Jacqueline Hamilton, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Jacqueline Hamilton
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60661  (Online Only)
I work with individuals to improve symptoms of anxiety, PTSD, emotional regulation, self-esteem, mood disorders, and life stressors.
There are many factors in life that can affect our emotional well-being and functioning. This can leave us feeling overwhelmed, powerless, or just not our best self. Through a collaborative approach, I aim to help you manage whatever unwanted feelings and symptoms you may be experiencing. No matter how big or small you feel your challenges may be, I believe we can all benefit from taking time out of the busyness of life to focus on ourselves. I am here to support you and empower you during this process.
I work with individuals to improve symptoms of anxiety, PTSD, emotional regulation, self-esteem, mood disorders, and life stressors.
There are many factors in life that can affect our emotional well-being and functioning. This can leave us feeling overwhelmed, powerless, or just not our best self. Through a collaborative approach, I aim to help you manage whatever unwanted feelings and symptoms you may be experiencing. No matter how big or small you feel your challenges may be, I believe we can all benefit from taking time out of the busyness of life to focus on ourselves. I am here to support you and empower you during this process.
(312) 300-2104 View (312) 300-2104
Trauma and PTSD Therapists

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.