Trauma and PTSD Therapists in 83703
![Photo of Ashley Weiss, LCSW, ACADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/97c76cc3-062b-40dd-9980-4f2137447ce8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Weiss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACADC
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83703
Waitlist for new clients
I am passionate about helping people in all areas of life. I specialize in trauma and addiction disorders, but also can help those who are struggling with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, schizophrenia, etc. I work from a religious perspective to help clients work through life stressors. I also provide bariatric evaluations, DUI evaluations, and domestic violence evaluations.
I am passionate about helping people in all areas of life. I specialize in trauma and addiction disorders, but also can help those who are struggling with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, schizophrenia, etc. I work from a religious perspective to help clients work through life stressors. I also provide bariatric evaluations, DUI evaluations, and domestic violence evaluations.
![Photo of Katelen Fortunati, DSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aa2eae52-e6cb-4a44-9624-b6937a661480/3/320x400.jpeg)
Katelen Fortunati
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83703
Waitlist for new clients
Dr. Fortunati specializes in working with children from age 3 to young adulthood who have experienced or are experiencing trauma, attachment disorders, complicated grief, ambiguous loss through parental (or a loved ones) incarceration, divorce, deployment, and/or parental (or a loved ones) addiction, and self-harm/suicidality. She has extensive experience working with traditional and nontraditional caregivers through parenting and co-parenting as well as working with and advocating for children in Special Education within a public school setting.
Dr. Fortunati specializes in working with children from age 3 to young adulthood who have experienced or are experiencing trauma, attachment disorders, complicated grief, ambiguous loss through parental (or a loved ones) incarceration, divorce, deployment, and/or parental (or a loved ones) addiction, and self-harm/suicidality. She has extensive experience working with traditional and nontraditional caregivers through parenting and co-parenting as well as working with and advocating for children in Special Education within a public school setting.
![Photo of David Buch, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2dc7eaec-0c0f-44a0-a326-5d5cf355a3f1/3/320x400.jpeg)
David Buch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83703
Waitlist for new clients
As a qualified EMDR therapist, I employ this evidence-based technique, along with EFT, CBT, and talk therapy, to effectively address trauma.
I am a dedicated clinical social worker with expertise in the specialized areas of trauma, LGBTQI+ issues, and relationship dynamics. My practice encompasses working with individuals, couples, and families, addressing a wide range of concerns, including but not limited to PTSD, neuro-diversity, personality disorders, depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
As a qualified EMDR therapist, I employ this evidence-based technique, along with EFT, CBT, and talk therapy, to effectively address trauma.
I am a dedicated clinical social worker with expertise in the specialized areas of trauma, LGBTQI+ issues, and relationship dynamics. My practice encompasses working with individuals, couples, and families, addressing a wide range of concerns, including but not limited to PTSD, neuro-diversity, personality disorders, depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
![Photo of Cade Kirkhart, LCPC, NCC, MCoun, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e00eab3e-bd32-46f5-9443-8f5a87823559/3/320x400.jpeg)
Cade Kirkhart
Counselor, LCPC, NCC, MCoun
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83703 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Making the decision to seek counseling takes courage, and I understand how overwhelming it can be to find the right counselor. As your guide, I offer my full self—my experiences, education, and unwavering support—in our sessions. Together, we'll build a safe space, free of judgment, where you're embraced with unconditional acceptance. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, or exploring relationships and identity, I'm here to meet you where you are. I'm committed to supporting you through every step of your journey towards healing and self-discovery.
Making the decision to seek counseling takes courage, and I understand how overwhelming it can be to find the right counselor. As your guide, I offer my full self—my experiences, education, and unwavering support—in our sessions. Together, we'll build a safe space, free of judgment, where you're embraced with unconditional acceptance. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, or exploring relationships and identity, I'm here to meet you where you are. I'm committed to supporting you through every step of your journey towards healing and self-discovery.
![Photo of Patricia Ellis, LMSW, BS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a6d8cdfd-4608-4e56-9ed8-4e5916dc6656/1/320x400.png)
Patricia Ellis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, BS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83703
Welcome! I'm Patricia, a compassionate therapist dedicated to guiding individuals through life's challenges. With a foundation rooted in empathy, collaboration, and evidence-based techniques, I create a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to explore their thoughts and emotions, gain insights, and develop coping strategies. My clients are individuals seeking a path forward amidst struggles with mental health concerns, life transitions, trauma, and the complexities of everyday life. They are motivated to enact positive change and are searching for a supportive companion to navigate their journey towards growth and healing.
Welcome! I'm Patricia, a compassionate therapist dedicated to guiding individuals through life's challenges. With a foundation rooted in empathy, collaboration, and evidence-based techniques, I create a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to explore their thoughts and emotions, gain insights, and develop coping strategies. My clients are individuals seeking a path forward amidst struggles with mental health concerns, life transitions, trauma, and the complexities of everyday life. They are motivated to enact positive change and are searching for a supportive companion to navigate their journey towards growth and healing.
![Photo of Amy S. Orlovich, MA, LCPC-S, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48d0f7fa-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Waters Gone By Counseling Healing from the Past, Hope for the Future www.watersgoneby.com I specialize in a number of different counseling issues including anxiety, grief, depression, trauma, and life issues with people in many different ages and stages. I use the therapeutic relationship in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as well as EMDR in my counseling approach. I provide therapy in Idaho and coaching out of state.
Waters Gone By Counseling Healing from the Past, Hope for the Future www.watersgoneby.com I specialize in a number of different counseling issues including anxiety, grief, depression, trauma, and life issues with people in many different ages and stages. I use the therapeutic relationship in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as well as EMDR in my counseling approach. I provide therapy in Idaho and coaching out of state.
![Photo of Sam Davis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/af23a57a-aa19-4650-8aec-cc6b59c14f7a/2/320x400.jpeg)
My areas of practice include: trauma/abuse, depression, anxiety, LGBTQ issues, mood/behavior management, dual diagnosis, religious trauma/deconstruction.
Hello, I have been working in the field of mental health for 6 years and specifically been doing therapy and counseling for the last 3 and a half years. My belief is that life is too short to sit in a place of discomfort, let trauma control us, or to struggle with mental health continuously. I want to help you to process life experiences which may be causing you emotional pain and challenges. My focus is to support individuals in all phases of life to find healing and understanding in difficult situations through developing their personal strengths and processing negative symptoms.
My areas of practice include: trauma/abuse, depression, anxiety, LGBTQ issues, mood/behavior management, dual diagnosis, religious trauma/deconstruction.
Hello, I have been working in the field of mental health for 6 years and specifically been doing therapy and counseling for the last 3 and a half years. My belief is that life is too short to sit in a place of discomfort, let trauma control us, or to struggle with mental health continuously. I want to help you to process life experiences which may be causing you emotional pain and challenges. My focus is to support individuals in all phases of life to find healing and understanding in difficult situations through developing their personal strengths and processing negative symptoms.
![Photo of Dale K. Wilson - Dale Wilson Counseling and Evaluation PLLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5427bc03-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dale Wilson Counseling and Evaluation PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83703
I'm here to help you find the solution you want to have a better quality of life. I can help you work from a secular or Christian perspective to recover from trauma or whatever circumstances that are causing your distress. I can help you resolve your trauma, anxiety, addictions, chronic pain, and depression through EMDR or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy methods.
I'm here to help you find the solution you want to have a better quality of life. I can help you work from a secular or Christian perspective to recover from trauma or whatever circumstances that are causing your distress. I can help you resolve your trauma, anxiety, addictions, chronic pain, and depression through EMDR or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy methods.
![Photo of Kris Angstman, LCPC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6d05a263-afb1-450a-b164-05f13c153d15/2/320x400.jpeg)
Additionally, I have had extensive training and experience in working with sexual trauma healing.
I am passionate about helping those I work with reconnect to their own inherent wisdom. I enjoy working with adults from various backgrounds. I strive to meet you where you are and support your healing journey.
Additionally, I have had extensive training and experience in working with sexual trauma healing.
I am passionate about helping those I work with reconnect to their own inherent wisdom. I enjoy working with adults from various backgrounds. I strive to meet you where you are and support your healing journey.
![Photo of Heidi Carpenter, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/caa94231-d44c-40d5-9508-27123cb92af2/3/320x400.jpeg)
My experience as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), includes working in a hospital behavioral health unit and counseling clinics. I have been in private practice now for 5 years. My focus is in helping individuals manage stress, anxiety and depression, along with working through trauma with client-centered talk therapy, EMDR and MBSR. My modalities are integrative and vary based on the individual needs of my client. My strength is in providing a genuinely safe and accepting environment in which you can become comfortable exploring your feelings, thoughts and different perspectives.
My experience as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), includes working in a hospital behavioral health unit and counseling clinics. I have been in private practice now for 5 years. My focus is in helping individuals manage stress, anxiety and depression, along with working through trauma with client-centered talk therapy, EMDR and MBSR. My modalities are integrative and vary based on the individual needs of my client. My strength is in providing a genuinely safe and accepting environment in which you can become comfortable exploring your feelings, thoughts and different perspectives.
![Photo of Elizabeth Bader, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d7bbdf3f-eb6e-4be4-92cb-d90d27af0551/1/320x400.jpeg)
My areas of focus are: grief and loss, trauma, anxiety and depression, relationships, behavioral concerns, family/interpersonal conflict, stress, and co-parenting.
I understand that the thought of going to therapy can generate massive feelings of anxiety, but really, therapy is a hopeful process, one of realizing your strengths and learning more advantageous approaches to the challenges life can bring. I specialize in therapy with adolescents and adults, couples, individuals, families and blended families.
My areas of focus are: grief and loss, trauma, anxiety and depression, relationships, behavioral concerns, family/interpersonal conflict, stress, and co-parenting.
I understand that the thought of going to therapy can generate massive feelings of anxiety, but really, therapy is a hopeful process, one of realizing your strengths and learning more advantageous approaches to the challenges life can bring. I specialize in therapy with adolescents and adults, couples, individuals, families and blended families.
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![Photo of Amber Hoid, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0041fc27-8384-4ad5-ad77-afd5cce0964f/1/320x400.png)
Amber Hoid
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83703
Waitlist for new clients
Areas that I find I thrive in my work with others are with individuals and families working with Autism or other DD, addiction, chronic trauma child/adult/parent, relational abuse, homelessness, refugee, chronic illnesses, and complex behavior presentations.
My ideal client wants to engage in positive change and seeks support in making those steps. I come from over twenty years of service in a diverse array of client age (2-96), ability, ethnicity, social class, and needs. Naturally we are all very unique creatures with some goals and experiences that overlap with those around us. My goal is to support clients to navigate through their challenges and hardships. In time, supporting them to make the most of their story and being able to reach their ideal version of self.
Areas that I find I thrive in my work with others are with individuals and families working with Autism or other DD, addiction, chronic trauma child/adult/parent, relational abuse, homelessness, refugee, chronic illnesses, and complex behavior presentations.
My ideal client wants to engage in positive change and seeks support in making those steps. I come from over twenty years of service in a diverse array of client age (2-96), ability, ethnicity, social class, and needs. Naturally we are all very unique creatures with some goals and experiences that overlap with those around us. My goal is to support clients to navigate through their challenges and hardships. In time, supporting them to make the most of their story and being able to reach their ideal version of self.
![Photo of Leann W Vaterlaus, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5455eedd-e9a5-42b7-9abc-278a59af9123/2/320x400.jpeg)
I also practice Accelerated Resolution therapy (ART) for the treatment of trauma, including PTSD and abuse.
No one feels shame when they need an “adjustment” at the chiropractor and I see counseling that way—an adjustment in our thinking/functioning that we all need from time to time. Finding the right therapist is important and most of the power of therapy happens when you feel understood, validated, and appreciated. I have a warm and loving personality and I use a direct style to get to the heart of the problem. I am a wife, mother, and grandmother with a lifetime of good and bad experiences that allow me to empathize with a wide variety of people and challenges.
I also practice Accelerated Resolution therapy (ART) for the treatment of trauma, including PTSD and abuse.
No one feels shame when they need an “adjustment” at the chiropractor and I see counseling that way—an adjustment in our thinking/functioning that we all need from time to time. Finding the right therapist is important and most of the power of therapy happens when you feel understood, validated, and appreciated. I have a warm and loving personality and I use a direct style to get to the heart of the problem. I am a wife, mother, and grandmother with a lifetime of good and bad experiences that allow me to empathize with a wide variety of people and challenges.
![Photo of Cassandra E. Rustvold, LCSW, MEd, SEP, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/936bb99c-fdbb-4d3e-8b29-a41dfb2ba4f2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cassandra E. Rustvold
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MEd, SEP, CST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83703 (Online Only)
I am a AASECT Certified Sex Therapist and Somatic Experiencing Practitioner who specializes in problematic sexual behavior and trauma resolution.
I believe all humans are built with an innate ability and impulse to move towards health and personal growth. Therefore, I view my role as a therapist to serve as an assistant to these natural inclinations, and empower clients in removing barriers to a full-filling and value congruent life. Clients seeking to work with me have an internal desire for change and are willing to step into vulnerability and accountability within the safe and supported space of a therapeutic relationship.
I am a AASECT Certified Sex Therapist and Somatic Experiencing Practitioner who specializes in problematic sexual behavior and trauma resolution.
I believe all humans are built with an innate ability and impulse to move towards health and personal growth. Therefore, I view my role as a therapist to serve as an assistant to these natural inclinations, and empower clients in removing barriers to a full-filling and value congruent life. Clients seeking to work with me have an internal desire for change and are willing to step into vulnerability and accountability within the safe and supported space of a therapeutic relationship.
![Photo of Emily Thomas, LCPC, CMHC, CPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5eb68c4b-d156-440a-a78f-f3f8998a19b0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Emily Thomas
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CMHC, CPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83703 (Online Only)
Most of my clients have experienced some kind of trauma and typically have experienced complex trauma. They need someone who is willing to listen without judgment, to meet them where they're at. My clients often express experiencing rigid environments (within their family growing up, abusive relationships, or possibly their religion) that have caused elevated stress responses. We will find ways to cope with that and process these past situations so they are no longer distressing. Therapeutic services can help piece all of their parts together so help them make sense of their situation and feel comfortable in meeting their goals.
Most of my clients have experienced some kind of trauma and typically have experienced complex trauma. They need someone who is willing to listen without judgment, to meet them where they're at. My clients often express experiencing rigid environments (within their family growing up, abusive relationships, or possibly their religion) that have caused elevated stress responses. We will find ways to cope with that and process these past situations so they are no longer distressing. Therapeutic services can help piece all of their parts together so help them make sense of their situation and feel comfortable in meeting their goals.
![Photo of Dawn Soriano, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9bd5f999-e524-4ff0-80e4-3b242ff50eac/2/320x400.jpeg)
I'm a client-centered therapist practicing from a trauma-informed lens at Keys Counseling Solutions in Meridian, off Eagle Highway on Titanium Place. I believe that the client knows themself better than I do, and I guide clients to find ways to help themselves rather than telling them what to do. I recognize that therapy is a collaborative process and each individual has unique needs and goals. I am committed to providing a safe, non-judgmental space for self-exploration, skill-building, and healing.
I'm a client-centered therapist practicing from a trauma-informed lens at Keys Counseling Solutions in Meridian, off Eagle Highway on Titanium Place. I believe that the client knows themself better than I do, and I guide clients to find ways to help themselves rather than telling them what to do. I recognize that therapy is a collaborative process and each individual has unique needs and goals. I am committed to providing a safe, non-judgmental space for self-exploration, skill-building, and healing.
![Photo of Pennie Jeanine McKay, MA, LMFT, LCPC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cd31844-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Pennie Jeanine McKay
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83703
Accepting new clients. In my practice I work with individuals, couples, families, and small groups. Most of the people I see are between 13 and 75 years old; overcoming trauma, self-doubt, depression, anxiety, or loss. Many feel "different", marginalized, alone, misunderstood, or not "mainstream" enough. Some look fine, but feel out of place. Some are deaf or children of deaf adults (CODA). Others are physically challenged, caretakers, straight, lesbian, gay, transgendered, or unsure. After 30 years, I still feel it is honored to be part of the growth and change people experience as skills develop and clients " Enjoy Life More".
Accepting new clients. In my practice I work with individuals, couples, families, and small groups. Most of the people I see are between 13 and 75 years old; overcoming trauma, self-doubt, depression, anxiety, or loss. Many feel "different", marginalized, alone, misunderstood, or not "mainstream" enough. Some look fine, but feel out of place. Some are deaf or children of deaf adults (CODA). Others are physically challenged, caretakers, straight, lesbian, gay, transgendered, or unsure. After 30 years, I still feel it is honored to be part of the growth and change people experience as skills develop and clients " Enjoy Life More".
![Photo of Deborah J Russo, LCSW, CHT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4095b35e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Deborah J Russo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83703 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I work with people ages 12 (must want therapy) through adulthood who have depression, anxiety, stress, PTSD, trauma (both emotional trauma and experiential trauma), acute grief, life transitions, and those who are motivated for change but feel stuck.
Taking Video clients! Do you feel stuck, anxious and depressed and wonder what is wrong with you? Personal crisis, work burnout, the loss of a loved one, and stressful situations like those of 2020 make life even harder. Just deciding to change, talking yourself through it or “pulling yourself up by the bootstraps” doesn't always work. Sometimes your pain is deep and rooted in the past. Maybe it’s not clear to you and held in your subconscious. That is often a normal outcome when we don’t get the support we need in our time of struggle. I am here to help and look forward to meeting you
I work with people ages 12 (must want therapy) through adulthood who have depression, anxiety, stress, PTSD, trauma (both emotional trauma and experiential trauma), acute grief, life transitions, and those who are motivated for change but feel stuck.
Taking Video clients! Do you feel stuck, anxious and depressed and wonder what is wrong with you? Personal crisis, work burnout, the loss of a loved one, and stressful situations like those of 2020 make life even harder. Just deciding to change, talking yourself through it or “pulling yourself up by the bootstraps” doesn't always work. Sometimes your pain is deep and rooted in the past. Maybe it’s not clear to you and held in your subconscious. That is often a normal outcome when we don’t get the support we need in our time of struggle. I am here to help and look forward to meeting you
![Photo of Wendi Story-McFarland, LCSW, MEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/981fcdca-c227-46cc-92ec-b294f0b595f0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Wendi Story-McFarland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83703
My specialty is C-PTSD/childhood trauma/attachment fractures.
Good therapy brings peace, understanding and a path to lasting change. Maybe you seek freedom from anxiety, depression, unfulfilling relationships, perfectionist tendencies, bad habits, overwhelm, a busy mind, a trauma you can't shake or simply wanting more for yourself. Talk therapy + neurofeedback (NF) may help. NF is biofeedback for the brain. It interupts dysfunctional neural pathways (brain's hard wiring) and patterns of thinking (mind). Clients to come up with starkly different solutions and a profound shift in confidence and competence. It adds a richness and ease to the therapeutic process not found with other modalities.
My specialty is C-PTSD/childhood trauma/attachment fractures.
Good therapy brings peace, understanding and a path to lasting change. Maybe you seek freedom from anxiety, depression, unfulfilling relationships, perfectionist tendencies, bad habits, overwhelm, a busy mind, a trauma you can't shake or simply wanting more for yourself. Talk therapy + neurofeedback (NF) may help. NF is biofeedback for the brain. It interupts dysfunctional neural pathways (brain's hard wiring) and patterns of thinking (mind). Clients to come up with starkly different solutions and a profound shift in confidence and competence. It adds a richness and ease to the therapeutic process not found with other modalities.
![Photo of Rebecca Houston, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e928770a-1167-40f5-a1f8-df6485cc29cf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Though trauma and PTSD is a primary focus in my practice, I have years of experience as a marriage counselor and addiction counselor.
Currently accepting Emergency Responders (Police officers, Fire Fighters, and Paramedics) and Military Members for individual and couples counseling. My passion is supporting those who support and serve our local, national and global community, with an approach that is direct, educational, and humorous (Okay, attempts at humor.) From 2008-2014 I worked across the US, Europe and Japan, as a rotational counselor supporting military. It was a difficult choice to leave that work, but since my return to Idaho, I've really appreciated still being able to serve by supporting our Idaho's Emergency Responder community and Military.
Though trauma and PTSD is a primary focus in my practice, I have years of experience as a marriage counselor and addiction counselor.
Currently accepting Emergency Responders (Police officers, Fire Fighters, and Paramedics) and Military Members for individual and couples counseling. My passion is supporting those who support and serve our local, national and global community, with an approach that is direct, educational, and humorous (Okay, attempts at humor.) From 2008-2014 I worked across the US, Europe and Japan, as a rotational counselor supporting military. It was a difficult choice to leave that work, but since my return to Idaho, I've really appreciated still being able to serve by supporting our Idaho's Emergency Responder community and Military.
See more therapy options for 83703
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.