Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Alpine, CA

Photo of Nancy D. Johnson, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nancy D. Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Alpine, CA 91901  (Online Only)
For 35 years, I have gained experience and expertise in treating trauma, abuse, neglect, anxiety, depression, loss, ADHD, school problems, divorce and painful memories.
Has life become overwhelming to you? Do you question yourself or your ability to be a loving spouse, friend, or parent? Is your child's challenging behaviors or your own traumatic childhood getting in the way of your dreams? Are you raising an adopted or foster child with a trauma history or unexplainable difficult behaviors? Has any of these caused you to feel secretly depressed and/or fearful that no one will understand or even really care?
For 35 years, I have gained experience and expertise in treating trauma, abuse, neglect, anxiety, depression, loss, ADHD, school problems, divorce and painful memories.
Has life become overwhelming to you? Do you question yourself or your ability to be a loving spouse, friend, or parent? Is your child's challenging behaviors or your own traumatic childhood getting in the way of your dreams? Are you raising an adopted or foster child with a trauma history or unexplainable difficult behaviors? Has any of these caused you to feel secretly depressed and/or fearful that no one will understand or even really care?
(619) 376-2367 View (619) 376-2367
Photo of Eric Wade Blank - Mind Space Therapy and Hypnosis: MSTH, LMFT, LPCC, LAADC, EMDR, BSP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mind Space Therapy and Hypnosis: MSTH
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC, LAADC, EMDR, BSP
Verified Verified
Alpine, CA 91901
If you are struggling with issues of: Adult/ Adolescent Addiction/Recovery, Adult/Adolescent Trauma history, or issues that Hypnosis could benefit, then reach out and let's see if we make a good fit for your healing journey.
I have experience with adults & adolescents struggling with trauma, drug & alcohol use, addiction & dependency, as well as other major life issues. I enjoy assisting individuals traverse the obstacles that accompany the process of recovery or trauma related issues. The individual is a whole person & therefore the needs of service are holistic & focus on all aspects of the individual to create a treatment experience where not only the substance use is addressed but the underlying reasons for the substance abuse and other life challenges; these must all be addressed together for effective, long lasting and sustainable recovery.
If you are struggling with issues of: Adult/ Adolescent Addiction/Recovery, Adult/Adolescent Trauma history, or issues that Hypnosis could benefit, then reach out and let's see if we make a good fit for your healing journey.
I have experience with adults & adolescents struggling with trauma, drug & alcohol use, addiction & dependency, as well as other major life issues. I enjoy assisting individuals traverse the obstacles that accompany the process of recovery or trauma related issues. The individual is a whole person & therefore the needs of service are holistic & focus on all aspects of the individual to create a treatment experience where not only the substance use is addressed but the underlying reasons for the substance abuse and other life challenges; these must all be addressed together for effective, long lasting and sustainable recovery.
(626) 888-8114 View (626) 888-8114
Photo of Elizabeth Ariel Clark, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elizabeth Ariel Clark
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Alpine, CA 91901
NEW clients WELCOME! I’m Elizabeth, or Liz for short. I am experienced in working with trauma. This is a commonly used word and there are many definitions for it. What I mean is that I help people who have gone through events in their lives, whether singular or reoccurring, that have caused parts of their personality to separate from other parts. This could be experienced through relational conflict, addictive tendencies, dissociation, sex, drugs, procrastination, a lack of motivation, inner conflict, anxiety, and difficulty sleeping or eating. My approach is somatic and relational, working with what shows up in the present moment.
NEW clients WELCOME! I’m Elizabeth, or Liz for short. I am experienced in working with trauma. This is a commonly used word and there are many definitions for it. What I mean is that I help people who have gone through events in their lives, whether singular or reoccurring, that have caused parts of their personality to separate from other parts. This could be experienced through relational conflict, addictive tendencies, dissociation, sex, drugs, procrastination, a lack of motivation, inner conflict, anxiety, and difficulty sleeping or eating. My approach is somatic and relational, working with what shows up in the present moment.
(805) 316-7381 View (805) 316-7381
Photo of Anne Marie Perkins, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anne Marie Perkins
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Alpine, CA 91901
I use an eclectic approach that provides results fast, CBT or EMDR for anxiety and trauma, Seeking Safety for substance abuse anxiety and depression, art therapy with children or anyone who struggles to find words to express their emotions.
As I walked though many personal difficult experieces in my life, I learned what I wanted from a good therapist. I have dedicated the last 10 years to becoming such a therapist for people who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma and tragic loss or overwhelming stress.
I use an eclectic approach that provides results fast, CBT or EMDR for anxiety and trauma, Seeking Safety for substance abuse anxiety and depression, art therapy with children or anyone who struggles to find words to express their emotions.
As I walked though many personal difficult experieces in my life, I learned what I wanted from a good therapist. I have dedicated the last 10 years to becoming such a therapist for people who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma and tragic loss or overwhelming stress.
(619) 369-1661 View (619) 369-1661
Photo of Dr. Elham Ramtin Thompson, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Elham Ramtin Thompson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Alpine, CA 91901  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience in supporting survivors of trauma throughout the healing process, helping individuals struggling with addiction along the journey of recovery, and developing tools for maintaining mental health using mindfulness meditation.
I am a licensed psychologist with over a decade of clinical experience working with adult individuals, couples, and families across various treatment settings. Therapy is a powerful tool for clarifying goals, improving organization, defining values, and finding direction in one’s life. Specializing in treatments rooted in psychodynamic theory, I collaborate with my patients, empowering them to identify the source of their pain, and utilizing their strengths to find a resolution.
I have extensive experience in supporting survivors of trauma throughout the healing process, helping individuals struggling with addiction along the journey of recovery, and developing tools for maintaining mental health using mindfulness meditation.
I am a licensed psychologist with over a decade of clinical experience working with adult individuals, couples, and families across various treatment settings. Therapy is a powerful tool for clarifying goals, improving organization, defining values, and finding direction in one’s life. Specializing in treatments rooted in psychodynamic theory, I collaborate with my patients, empowering them to identify the source of their pain, and utilizing their strengths to find a resolution.
(949) 271-7873 View (949) 271-7873
Photo of Molly Downs-Stoller, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Molly Downs-Stoller
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Alpine, CA 91901  (Online Only)
Welcome! If you're here, you're likely facing some of life's challenges and seeking support. Whether you're navigating important decisions, unexpected stress, or simply feeling stuck, therapy can provide a safe and supportive space for healing and growth. As a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, I specialize in Individual Therapy. One on one support for healing and finding new ways of living…and the space to explore your unique journey discovering who you are meant to be. Together, we'll work to cultivate more joy, fulfillment, and hope in your life. Don't face these challenges alone - let's start this journey together.
Welcome! If you're here, you're likely facing some of life's challenges and seeking support. Whether you're navigating important decisions, unexpected stress, or simply feeling stuck, therapy can provide a safe and supportive space for healing and growth. As a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, I specialize in Individual Therapy. One on one support for healing and finding new ways of living…and the space to explore your unique journey discovering who you are meant to be. Together, we'll work to cultivate more joy, fulfillment, and hope in your life. Don't face these challenges alone - let's start this journey together.
(619) 784-5399 View (619) 784-5399
Photo of Rooky Hayman, MS, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Rooky Hayman
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Alpine, CA 91901
Life presents us with a multitude of challenges, each carrying the power to either diminish our spirit or bolster our resilience. My aim is to join you in navigating these pivotal moments that can enrich your life's narrative. Through this process, we’ll learn how to navigate life’s unpredictable waves, fostering not just survival, but a profound sense of peace and purpose in life. As we untangle the threads of worry, we’ll make space to focus on what truly matters: nurturing your self-worth, forging deeper connections with loved ones, and embracing a life that resonates with meaning and fulfillment.
Life presents us with a multitude of challenges, each carrying the power to either diminish our spirit or bolster our resilience. My aim is to join you in navigating these pivotal moments that can enrich your life's narrative. Through this process, we’ll learn how to navigate life’s unpredictable waves, fostering not just survival, but a profound sense of peace and purpose in life. As we untangle the threads of worry, we’ll make space to focus on what truly matters: nurturing your self-worth, forging deeper connections with loved ones, and embracing a life that resonates with meaning and fulfillment.
(323) 760-7986 View (323) 760-7986
Photo of Jarrett J Clifton, EdS, LEP
Jarrett J Clifton
Licensed Educational Psychologist, EdS, LEP
Verified Verified
Alpine, CA 91901
Working with children, teenagers, and young adults (age 18-24) has been a passion of mine. This time is full of possibilities which includes growth and conflict. My approach has worked well with teenagers who may not always know how to communicate these things effectively. With children, I enjoy partnering with parents and caregivers to provide insight and resources for success. In most cases, I work together with clients not only to maintain appropriate boundaries but also raise the bar on what can be done independently.
Working with children, teenagers, and young adults (age 18-24) has been a passion of mine. This time is full of possibilities which includes growth and conflict. My approach has worked well with teenagers who may not always know how to communicate these things effectively. With children, I enjoy partnering with parents and caregivers to provide insight and resources for success. In most cases, I work together with clients not only to maintain appropriate boundaries but also raise the bar on what can be done independently.
(619) 404-0512 View (619) 404-0512
Photo of Marlee Cornue, LPCC
Marlee Cornue
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Alpine, CA 91901
Marlee is a dedicated Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) with a passion for helping individuals and couples build stronger, more fulfilling relationships. Marlee specializes in relational healing, guiding clients to deeper emotional connections and healthier patterns of interaction.
Marlee is a dedicated Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) with a passion for helping individuals and couples build stronger, more fulfilling relationships. Marlee specializes in relational healing, guiding clients to deeper emotional connections and healthier patterns of interaction.
(619) 314-6572 View (619) 314-6572
Photo of Christa Mapes, MS, LPCC
Christa Mapes
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Alpine, CA 91901  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Christa has a warm, collaborative approach that helps empower her clients to raise awareness, tap into their personal strengths and develop the skills to meet their desired treatment goals. Christa’s goal is to provide a safe therapeutic environment for clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use issues and perinatal mental health challenges. Christa believes there are many paths to healing and uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, Motivational Interviewing and techniques in Mindfulness to meet her client's individual needs.
Christa has a warm, collaborative approach that helps empower her clients to raise awareness, tap into their personal strengths and develop the skills to meet their desired treatment goals. Christa’s goal is to provide a safe therapeutic environment for clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use issues and perinatal mental health challenges. Christa believes there are many paths to healing and uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, Motivational Interviewing and techniques in Mindfulness to meet her client's individual needs.
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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Brainspotting Trauma Therapist Giselle Laguna, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brainspotting Trauma Therapist Giselle Laguna
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
El Cajon, CA 92021
Welcome to my page! Are you struggling with trauma, anxiety, pain, relationship challenges, or cultural barriers? It can be incredibly tough to find a therapist who gets you. You deserve someone who empathizes with your experiences and works with you to overcome emotional burdens. I specialize in PTSD and trauma, depression, anxiety, chronic illness, and substance misuse. By integrating Brainspotting and my background in energy healing, I’ll help you navigate and transform your challenges into a journey of self-discovery and empowerment, leading you toward a more authentic and fulfilling life.
Welcome to my page! Are you struggling with trauma, anxiety, pain, relationship challenges, or cultural barriers? It can be incredibly tough to find a therapist who gets you. You deserve someone who empathizes with your experiences and works with you to overcome emotional burdens. I specialize in PTSD and trauma, depression, anxiety, chronic illness, and substance misuse. By integrating Brainspotting and my background in energy healing, I’ll help you navigate and transform your challenges into a journey of self-discovery and empowerment, leading you toward a more authentic and fulfilling life.
(619) 473-2561 View (619) 473-2561
Photo of Tiffany Cox, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tiffany Cox
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
El Cajon, CA 92019  (Online Only)
My professional background is with adults experiencing severe mental illness, such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorders; trauma; addiction; interpersonal conflict; life-stage changes; anxiety; and depression.
I enjoy working with clients who want more than the traditional “talk” therapy. I have an active, curious style when examining symptoms of distress. For example, if we were to explore feelings of anxiety, I may ask questions to identify where you sense those feelings in your body, discuss the implications of stress, and investigate the triggers for it. This will enable you to create greater self-awarenes and have better control over your symptoms. My philosophy is deeply rooted in the mind-body connection and our interconnectedness with the world around us.
My professional background is with adults experiencing severe mental illness, such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorders; trauma; addiction; interpersonal conflict; life-stage changes; anxiety; and depression.
I enjoy working with clients who want more than the traditional “talk” therapy. I have an active, curious style when examining symptoms of distress. For example, if we were to explore feelings of anxiety, I may ask questions to identify where you sense those feelings in your body, discuss the implications of stress, and investigate the triggers for it. This will enable you to create greater self-awarenes and have better control over your symptoms. My philosophy is deeply rooted in the mind-body connection and our interconnectedness with the world around us.
(619) 824-1805 View (619) 824-1805
Photo of Lauren Spinelli - Good Talk Therapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Spinelli - Good Talk Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
El Cajon, CA 92021
I have a passion for helping individuals overcome anxiety, make successful life transitions, heal from past trauma, enhance emotional well-being, and improve their relationships.
Are you feeling like life is getting a bit heavy? Maybe you're dealing with overwhelming emotions, stress, anxiety or just feeling alone in it all. Challenges will inevitably arise throughout life. Some can be handled effectively on our own and some require additional support. That's where I come in! First of all, kudos to you for having the strength and courage to ask for help. I'd consider it a privilege to support you in whatever you're going through. For over 11 years, I've devoted my life to listening to people share their fears and frustrations, while equipping them with the tools to live more fulfilling and joyful lives.
I have a passion for helping individuals overcome anxiety, make successful life transitions, heal from past trauma, enhance emotional well-being, and improve their relationships.
Are you feeling like life is getting a bit heavy? Maybe you're dealing with overwhelming emotions, stress, anxiety or just feeling alone in it all. Challenges will inevitably arise throughout life. Some can be handled effectively on our own and some require additional support. That's where I come in! First of all, kudos to you for having the strength and courage to ask for help. I'd consider it a privilege to support you in whatever you're going through. For over 11 years, I've devoted my life to listening to people share their fears and frustrations, while equipping them with the tools to live more fulfilling and joyful lives.
(619) 361-7865 View (619) 361-7865
Photo of Matthew Fava, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Matthew Fava
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
El Cajon, CA 92021
Hello, my name is Matthew Fava, Psy.D, LMFT , license 47392. My approach to therapy is helping improve the client's ability to both establish, maintain, and improve relationships. Helping the client develop and utilize positive coping skills that best fit their lifestyle. Helping promote the decision-making process while facilitating client potential. My areas of focus are Anxiety disorders, Depression and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder ( PTSD). For the past 27 years I have been working with clients that struggle with Depression, Anxiety and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
Hello, my name is Matthew Fava, Psy.D, LMFT , license 47392. My approach to therapy is helping improve the client's ability to both establish, maintain, and improve relationships. Helping the client develop and utilize positive coping skills that best fit their lifestyle. Helping promote the decision-making process while facilitating client potential. My areas of focus are Anxiety disorders, Depression and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder ( PTSD). For the past 27 years I have been working with clients that struggle with Depression, Anxiety and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
(619) 648-4912 View (619) 648-4912
Photo of Mysty Higgins, MEd
Mysty Higgins
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MEd
Verified Verified
El Cajon, CA 92021  (Online Only)
I work mostly with anxiety, depression, panic, trauma, grief, and stress, although there are many additional stressors and diagnosis that I have been successful at helping clients with.
Are you struggling with emotions that you don't know what to do with? Are you stuck in thought processes that are unhelpful, yet you are not sure how to change them? Do you want to learn how to regulate emotion, reduce stress, improve relationships, improve communication, reduce unwanted emotion, and feel comfortable in your own body? These are just a few of the things that I work with clients on, and I can work with you as well. I believe we are all humans doing the best that we can, and sometimes the best thing we can do is ask for help.
I work mostly with anxiety, depression, panic, trauma, grief, and stress, although there are many additional stressors and diagnosis that I have been successful at helping clients with.
Are you struggling with emotions that you don't know what to do with? Are you stuck in thought processes that are unhelpful, yet you are not sure how to change them? Do you want to learn how to regulate emotion, reduce stress, improve relationships, improve communication, reduce unwanted emotion, and feel comfortable in your own body? These are just a few of the things that I work with clients on, and I can work with you as well. I believe we are all humans doing the best that we can, and sometimes the best thing we can do is ask for help.
(949) 771-7021 View (949) 771-7021
Photo of Amber Michelle Monroe - Healing Balance Therapy Inc. , LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Healing Balance Therapy Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
El Cajon, CA 92021
We believe that trauma and difficult life events present in many forms and is evidenced in our coping mechanisms.
Welcome to Healing Balance Therapy Inc. We are a group of highly trained and intuitive therapists who take gratitude in honoring individuals on their healing journey to balance. We are a mix of licensed and associate therapists with varying mental health degrees and licenses. We have a passion for helping clients increase insight around their barriers to growth. Our therapists have extensive knowledge in teaching clients how to process difficult life events and increase their authentic coping skills. For more information please copy and paste... www.healingbalancetherapy.com or click on our website link to the right.
We believe that trauma and difficult life events present in many forms and is evidenced in our coping mechanisms.
Welcome to Healing Balance Therapy Inc. We are a group of highly trained and intuitive therapists who take gratitude in honoring individuals on their healing journey to balance. We are a mix of licensed and associate therapists with varying mental health degrees and licenses. We have a passion for helping clients increase insight around their barriers to growth. Our therapists have extensive knowledge in teaching clients how to process difficult life events and increase their authentic coping skills. For more information please copy and paste... www.healingbalancetherapy.com or click on our website link to the right.
(619) 382-3154 View (619) 382-3154
Photo of Saranne Wilson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Saranne Wilson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakeside, CA 92040
My specialties are grief and loss, end of life issues, terminal illness, HIV, trauma, adults abused as children, foster care and adoption families, relational issues and couples.
I believe that everyone has wounded places in their hearts that could benefit from counseling. Many people at some point realize that the challenges of life are too much to manage on their own and decide to seek help from a professional that can support them as they navigate the challenges that life can bring at times. My work is based on helping people to heal from the wounds of the past and deal with present stressors in an environment of safety and acceptance. My passion is to provide support as they work toward fulfillment in their lives.
My specialties are grief and loss, end of life issues, terminal illness, HIV, trauma, adults abused as children, foster care and adoption families, relational issues and couples.
I believe that everyone has wounded places in their hearts that could benefit from counseling. Many people at some point realize that the challenges of life are too much to manage on their own and decide to seek help from a professional that can support them as they navigate the challenges that life can bring at times. My work is based on helping people to heal from the wounds of the past and deal with present stressors in an environment of safety and acceptance. My passion is to provide support as they work toward fulfillment in their lives.
(619) 259-5145 View (619) 259-5145
Photo of Lauren Walden, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Walden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
El Cajon, CA 92021
My experience has been in psychiatric inpatient, outpatient, and hospital settings working with adolescents and adults struggling with the disease process, mental health, trauma-related challenges, body image disturbances, as well as substance use dependencies.
Hello! I take a warm and direct approach to therapy as we journey through examining your life. I am a Latinx queer woman. I am LGBTQ+ aligned, body positive, trauma-informed, and strengths-based. I welcome you to this space and look forward to meeting you!
My experience has been in psychiatric inpatient, outpatient, and hospital settings working with adolescents and adults struggling with the disease process, mental health, trauma-related challenges, body image disturbances, as well as substance use dependencies.
Hello! I take a warm and direct approach to therapy as we journey through examining your life. I am a Latinx queer woman. I am LGBTQ+ aligned, body positive, trauma-informed, and strengths-based. I welcome you to this space and look forward to meeting you!
(619) 736-8188 View (619) 736-8188
Photo of Jacquellin Harris, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jacquellin Harris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lakeside, CA 92040
My client focus is on those who are struggling with complex trauma, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, exploring life transitions, and negative thought processes.
Have you felt disconnected from yourself? Have you had moments where you take things for granted and don't appreciate what is happening in the present? Most times, with our busy daily lives, we don't take the time to check in with ourselves physically, mentally, or emotionally. Being more mindful and aware of how our mind and body interact and influence each other, can help reduce anxiety, depression symptoms, improve mood and give us a better understanding of not only ourselves but have the ability to appreciate the world around us through a more positive lens. My approach is cognitive-based while also using mindfulness techniques.
My client focus is on those who are struggling with complex trauma, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, exploring life transitions, and negative thought processes.
Have you felt disconnected from yourself? Have you had moments where you take things for granted and don't appreciate what is happening in the present? Most times, with our busy daily lives, we don't take the time to check in with ourselves physically, mentally, or emotionally. Being more mindful and aware of how our mind and body interact and influence each other, can help reduce anxiety, depression symptoms, improve mood and give us a better understanding of not only ourselves but have the ability to appreciate the world around us through a more positive lens. My approach is cognitive-based while also using mindfulness techniques.
(323) 743-3945 View (323) 743-3945
Photo of Amy Belanger, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amy Belanger
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lakeside, CA 92040
Amy Belanger is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. She earned her Bachelor's Degree from San Diego State University in 1994 and her Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology from National University in 1996. Amy has over twenty years of experience working with adults, children, and families. Amy's areas of special interest include trauma and trauma-based disorders, victims of crime, relationship issues, blended family issues, child abuse, and domestic violence. Amy relates to many theoretical approaches but is drawn to solution-focused therapy while also utilizing cognitive behavioral techniques.
Amy Belanger is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. She earned her Bachelor's Degree from San Diego State University in 1994 and her Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology from National University in 1996. Amy has over twenty years of experience working with adults, children, and families. Amy's areas of special interest include trauma and trauma-based disorders, victims of crime, relationship issues, blended family issues, child abuse, and domestic violence. Amy relates to many theoretical approaches but is drawn to solution-focused therapy while also utilizing cognitive behavioral techniques.
(858) 923-5826 View (858) 923-5826

See more therapy options for Alpine

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.