Photo of Merrill Powers, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Merrill Powers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Auburn, CA 95603
Worried? Anxious? Blue? Feelings can be the result of your situation,or they can be triggered by deeper issues such as attachment, trauma, and unprocessed memories. EMDR "turbocharges" the processing of painful memories. Adults, teens, and children with a history of abuse, trauma, and loss can heal quickly. I also specialize in resolving relationship issues and helping families become stronger. Whether you need help to navigate life transitions or to realize your full potential for emotional growth, therapy is a highly interactive process. Together we develop a plan for treatment involving care and commitment. Feel better!
Worried? Anxious? Blue? Feelings can be the result of your situation,or they can be triggered by deeper issues such as attachment, trauma, and unprocessed memories. EMDR "turbocharges" the processing of painful memories. Adults, teens, and children with a history of abuse, trauma, and loss can heal quickly. I also specialize in resolving relationship issues and helping families become stronger. Whether you need help to navigate life transitions or to realize your full potential for emotional growth, therapy is a highly interactive process. Together we develop a plan for treatment involving care and commitment. Feel better!
(530) 616-8979 View (530) 616-8979
Photo of Jamie K Bell, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Jamie K Bell
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Auburn, CA 95603
For me, healing by definition, is the process of returning to wholeness. Yet, what that means is unique to each individual. Here in lies the journey. I hold great passion, and respect, for the potential we all have to create change in our own lives. I approach change through a trauma-informed, somatic (body-based), and Expressive Arts Therapy (EXA) foundation. In conjunction with an intuitive and empathetic approach, I strive to create a safe, supportive space for folx to explore their inner worlds and the challenges that may be holding them back from a sense of wholeness.
For me, healing by definition, is the process of returning to wholeness. Yet, what that means is unique to each individual. Here in lies the journey. I hold great passion, and respect, for the potential we all have to create change in our own lives. I approach change through a trauma-informed, somatic (body-based), and Expressive Arts Therapy (EXA) foundation. In conjunction with an intuitive and empathetic approach, I strive to create a safe, supportive space for folx to explore their inner worlds and the challenges that may be holding them back from a sense of wholeness.
(530) 628-9485 View (530) 628-9485
Photo of Derek C. Becker - Derek C. Becker LMFT, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Derek C. Becker LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Auburn, CA 95602
Hello! I am now taking new in-person clients. If you are reading this, chances are you may be struggling with parenting, connecting with your partner or building meaningful relationships. Or perhaps you want to better understand your own individual mental health journey. We can often feel overwhelmed and unable to see our role in the problem. This tends to cause anxiety, depression, and can sometimes cause us to turn to substances to cope. Sometimes we just need a little guidance to get us to our goals.
Hello! I am now taking new in-person clients. If you are reading this, chances are you may be struggling with parenting, connecting with your partner or building meaningful relationships. Or perhaps you want to better understand your own individual mental health journey. We can often feel overwhelmed and unable to see our role in the problem. This tends to cause anxiety, depression, and can sometimes cause us to turn to substances to cope. Sometimes we just need a little guidance to get us to our goals.
(530) 296-3234 View (530) 296-3234

Online Therapists

Photo of Chad McCain, Chad McCain, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Chad McCain
Marriage & Family Therapist, Chad McCain, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Rosa, CA 95404
You will find unconditional acceptance of the most painful parts of your life experience, and form a much needed alliance in repairing hurt and trauma.
You have been experiencing emotionally out-of-balance, blocked, stuck, or "off," or when you look at your future, you can't really see a way forward that interests you. You may relate to the idea of "being in limbo." Or else, you have experienced a loss so great it has seized your mental and emotional life and you feel there is no "space" to continue to carry out your daily responsibilities. Or else you are aware of an addictive or compulsive process, and to surmount this issue feels nearly impossible, so much that you don't even want to admit it is there.
You will find unconditional acceptance of the most painful parts of your life experience, and form a much needed alliance in repairing hurt and trauma.
You have been experiencing emotionally out-of-balance, blocked, stuck, or "off," or when you look at your future, you can't really see a way forward that interests you. You may relate to the idea of "being in limbo." Or else, you have experienced a loss so great it has seized your mental and emotional life and you feel there is no "space" to continue to carry out your daily responsibilities. Or else you are aware of an addictive or compulsive process, and to surmount this issue feels nearly impossible, so much that you don't even want to admit it is there.
(707) 940-7459 View (707) 940-7459
Photo of Wendy A Calomiris, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Wendy A Calomiris
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Petaluma, CA 94952
EMDR/NF disrupt looping brainwaves that maintains trauma-life.
Any scary event or even a medical diagnosis can wreak havoc & any daily routine is quickly found unmanageable. If the physical body fails you, it affects your mood. If emotions are out of wack, it affects your health. Either way, you deserve to feel in control and you can reclaim control. The goal is to highlight your strengths and minimize or eliminate any obstacles to healthy wellness. A direct benefit of engaging in effective help elevates your protective factors against emotional decay now a known correlate with disease. Together we can restore a sense of control, balance, and develop your future goals. You deserve to be happy.
EMDR/NF disrupt looping brainwaves that maintains trauma-life.
Any scary event or even a medical diagnosis can wreak havoc & any daily routine is quickly found unmanageable. If the physical body fails you, it affects your mood. If emotions are out of wack, it affects your health. Either way, you deserve to feel in control and you can reclaim control. The goal is to highlight your strengths and minimize or eliminate any obstacles to healthy wellness. A direct benefit of engaging in effective help elevates your protective factors against emotional decay now a known correlate with disease. Together we can restore a sense of control, balance, and develop your future goals. You deserve to be happy.
(707) 743-4082 View (707) 743-4082
Photo of Horizon Counseling Center - Horizon Counseling Center Group Practice, AMFT, MFT, Trainee, Marriage & Family Therapist
Horizon Counseling Center Group Practice
Marriage & Family Therapist, AMFT, MFT, Trainee
Verified Verified
West Sacramento, CA 95691
Offices in Folsom, Roseville, Sacramento and West Sacramento. Check out our website for address locations. Our group of therapists are available to see adults, teens, children, couples, and families experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, hoarding, co-parenting, panic attacks, school issues, relationship issues, family communication, conflict management, parent/teen conflict, and anger management. They also have experience working with survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault survivors and the family who support them. We have therapists trained in Gottman Level 1 and 2, Brain Spotting, Sand-tray and EMDR.
Offices in Folsom, Roseville, Sacramento and West Sacramento. Check out our website for address locations. Our group of therapists are available to see adults, teens, children, couples, and families experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, hoarding, co-parenting, panic attacks, school issues, relationship issues, family communication, conflict management, parent/teen conflict, and anger management. They also have experience working with survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault survivors and the family who support them. We have therapists trained in Gottman Level 1 and 2, Brain Spotting, Sand-tray and EMDR.
(916) 347-4472 View (916) 347-4472
Photo of Andrew J Leone, Psychologist
Andrew J Leone
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Danville, CA 94506  (Online Only)
Accepting new patients! Just living in today’s world can be difficult and exhausting. Many of us feel as if we are just “getting by.” We all struggle with our mental health, from daily conflict with others, feeling frustrated or irritable, painful past experiences(trauma), struggles with work and family, and anxious thoughts. These issues can hinder our ability to heal and grow. We can all use help at times, even if we don’t know how to ask for it. I provide comprehensive support and direct feedback to help guide you through this difficult journey, to reach a path that leads to healing, understanding, acceptance, and resolution.
Accepting new patients! Just living in today’s world can be difficult and exhausting. Many of us feel as if we are just “getting by.” We all struggle with our mental health, from daily conflict with others, feeling frustrated or irritable, painful past experiences(trauma), struggles with work and family, and anxious thoughts. These issues can hinder our ability to heal and grow. We can all use help at times, even if we don’t know how to ask for it. I provide comprehensive support and direct feedback to help guide you through this difficult journey, to reach a path that leads to healing, understanding, acceptance, and resolution.
(925) 448-9242 View (925) 448-9242
Photo of Kenny J Hill Sr, CADC 3, IS, CPT, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Kenny J Hill Sr
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CADC 3, IS, CPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fair Oaks, CA 95628
Trauma: Trauma is part of the human condition, and past trauma will drive future behavioral choices. We will work on the trauma that is causing poor symptomology. Brainspotting is cutting-edge trauma treatment can speed up the healing process, so that life's previous experiences can stop controlling your present negative actions. (See https://www.recoveryhill.info/brainspotting-trauma-therapy to find out more). The act of researching for help makes the correct assumption that your life matters! My practice, Recovery Hill, specializes with Trauma & Substance Abuse, from adolescents to seniors, all genders, Vets & First Responders.
Trauma: Trauma is part of the human condition, and past trauma will drive future behavioral choices. We will work on the trauma that is causing poor symptomology. Brainspotting is cutting-edge trauma treatment can speed up the healing process, so that life's previous experiences can stop controlling your present negative actions. (See https://www.recoveryhill.info/brainspotting-trauma-therapy to find out more). The act of researching for help makes the correct assumption that your life matters! My practice, Recovery Hill, specializes with Trauma & Substance Abuse, from adolescents to seniors, all genders, Vets & First Responders.
(916) 721-2247 View (916) 721-2247
Photo of Jordan Boehler, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jordan Boehler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Livermore, CA 94550
If you could let go of anything, what would it be? I provide short-term, intensive therapy that resolves the cause of your issue. I am a practitioner of Mimetic Therapies. This means I facilitate profound and transformational experiences in the resolution of Trauma/PTSD and Grief/Loss, as well as panic, depression, phobia, and pain for anyone- regardless of background- interested in feeling better. My ideal client is done talking about it, done doing workbooks, done understanding the cause. I connect deeply and directly with the parts of you that have been trying so hard to protect and heal your self and cause them to collaborate.
If you could let go of anything, what would it be? I provide short-term, intensive therapy that resolves the cause of your issue. I am a practitioner of Mimetic Therapies. This means I facilitate profound and transformational experiences in the resolution of Trauma/PTSD and Grief/Loss, as well as panic, depression, phobia, and pain for anyone- regardless of background- interested in feeling better. My ideal client is done talking about it, done doing workbooks, done understanding the cause. I connect deeply and directly with the parts of you that have been trying so hard to protect and heal your self and cause them to collaborate.
(925) 248-3871 View (925) 248-3871
Photo of Patty Shirley - East Bay Christian Counseling And Neurotherapy, LMFT, LPCC, CATC, CCTP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Patty Shirley - East Bay Christian Counseling And Neurotherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC, CATC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Danville, CA 94526
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, Registered Addiction Specialist, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, certified in grief, co-occurring disorders, anger management, domestic violence, women's treatment, dementia-related behaviors, ecotherapy, utilizing CBT, DBT, Somatic Experiencing & Neurofeedback.
Neurofeedback, is utilizing your brain’s own God-given ability to re-regulate itself to a more stable / productive brain wave pattern by providing it feedback through audible and visual cues. It is like playing a video game using only your brain and no controller. Electrodes record the brain's activity, training your brain to learn new things, reinforcing better patterns and reactions. It is non-invasive, with no drugs or medications. Feeling worried, anxious, sad, angry or frustrated? Having relationship and communication issues? In-Person, Virtual and Phone Sessions are available for individuals, couples, families and groups.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, Registered Addiction Specialist, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, certified in grief, co-occurring disorders, anger management, domestic violence, women's treatment, dementia-related behaviors, ecotherapy, utilizing CBT, DBT, Somatic Experiencing & Neurofeedback.
Neurofeedback, is utilizing your brain’s own God-given ability to re-regulate itself to a more stable / productive brain wave pattern by providing it feedback through audible and visual cues. It is like playing a video game using only your brain and no controller. Electrodes record the brain's activity, training your brain to learn new things, reinforcing better patterns and reactions. It is non-invasive, with no drugs or medications. Feeling worried, anxious, sad, angry or frustrated? Having relationship and communication issues? In-Person, Virtual and Phone Sessions are available for individuals, couples, families and groups.
(925) 212-1018 View (925) 212-1018
Photo of Francisca Salazar-Perez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Francisca Salazar-Perez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Modesto, CA 95350  (Online Only)
Book with me now by clicking on my website. By working together we can explore your strengths, weaknesses, interests, and motivation to problem solve issues related to depression, anxiety, poor relationships with others, conflict resolution, impulse control, poor work/school/sports performance, sleep difficulties, organizational concerns, trauma, stress, self-esteem, body image, women’s issues, health issues, aging and disabilities, foster care system and child protective issues, co-parenting issues, grief and loss.
Book with me now by clicking on my website. By working together we can explore your strengths, weaknesses, interests, and motivation to problem solve issues related to depression, anxiety, poor relationships with others, conflict resolution, impulse control, poor work/school/sports performance, sleep difficulties, organizational concerns, trauma, stress, self-esteem, body image, women’s issues, health issues, aging and disabilities, foster care system and child protective issues, co-parenting issues, grief and loss.
(209) 935-1344 View (209) 935-1344
Photo of Katie Jane LaRue, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Katie Jane LaRue
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Chico, CA 95926
CURRENTLY NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. EMDR THERAPY. For the last 10 years, I have worked with trauma survivors providing compassionate therapeutic care. Every person’s story is unique & how we cope with life’s struggles will be different for each of us. I believe each person has the wisdom, strength, & skills to heal. The key is to find out how, believe in what you’re doing, & apply the methods. I can help you discover parts of yourself that have been dimmed or never explored. At times, we all feel stuck & lost. I would feel honored to be a part of your journey. My space is safe & free of judgment.
CURRENTLY NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. EMDR THERAPY. For the last 10 years, I have worked with trauma survivors providing compassionate therapeutic care. Every person’s story is unique & how we cope with life’s struggles will be different for each of us. I believe each person has the wisdom, strength, & skills to heal. The key is to find out how, believe in what you’re doing, & apply the methods. I can help you discover parts of yourself that have been dimmed or never explored. At times, we all feel stuck & lost. I would feel honored to be a part of your journey. My space is safe & free of judgment.
(707) 229-1452 View (707) 229-1452
Photo of Andres Garcia, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andres Garcia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tracy, CA 95377
Hello. My name is Andres Garcia. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, California, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults of all ages and specialize in addiction, depression, trauma, and anxiety. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy to help my clients make progress and start feeling better.
Hello. My name is Andres Garcia. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, California, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults of all ages and specialize in addiction, depression, trauma, and anxiety. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy to help my clients make progress and start feeling better.
(562) 620-8883 View (562) 620-8883
Photo of Richard C Hanzy - Dr Richard C Hanzy - MyFaith CCS, PsyD, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr Richard C Hanzy - MyFaith CCS
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Antioch, CA 94531
Welcome! And thank you! I love to work with Couples, Families, and individuals who are seeking to overcome barriers in their lives. Some are struggling with: * anger management, * addiction, * Jobs stress, * familial & social relationships issues, * loneliness, * anxiety, * current or past abuse * depression, * poor communication, * relationship issues, * parenting, * Trauma/Traumatic events * poor focus and attention, * low motivation, * veterans support, * VICTIM OF A VIOLENT CRIME (VOC),* and the search for purpose. Often many people are stuck in addictive self-destructive patterns in their lives, which result from an effort to manage their emotional pain.
Welcome! And thank you! I love to work with Couples, Families, and individuals who are seeking to overcome barriers in their lives. Some are struggling with: * anger management, * addiction, * Jobs stress, * familial & social relationships issues, * loneliness, * anxiety, * current or past abuse * depression, * poor communication, * relationship issues, * parenting, * Trauma/Traumatic events * poor focus and attention, * low motivation, * veterans support, * VICTIM OF A VIOLENT CRIME (VOC),* and the search for purpose. Often many people are stuck in addictive self-destructive patterns in their lives, which result from an effort to manage their emotional pain.
(925) 892-3790 View (925) 892-3790
Photo of Sheena Boyd, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sheena Boyd
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Corning, CA 96021
I have a background of working with individuals, couples, and families with depression, anxiety, life transitions, family struggles, relationship difficulties, trauma, behavioral problems, and many other life challenges.
Hello, I am Sheena Boyd, a licensed marriage and family therapist. My goal is to provide everyone with a safe space to allow the open and honest expression of thoughts and feelings. I find that every individual comes with their own story, and I strive to meet you where you are and provide you with a service that best meets your needs. I am here to assist you with meeting the goals that you are looking to accomplish. I have been working in the mental health field since 2012 and providing therapy since 2014. I use an eclectic style of therapy and therapy modalities that will best accomplish positive outcomes.
I have a background of working with individuals, couples, and families with depression, anxiety, life transitions, family struggles, relationship difficulties, trauma, behavioral problems, and many other life challenges.
Hello, I am Sheena Boyd, a licensed marriage and family therapist. My goal is to provide everyone with a safe space to allow the open and honest expression of thoughts and feelings. I find that every individual comes with their own story, and I strive to meet you where you are and provide you with a service that best meets your needs. I am here to assist you with meeting the goals that you are looking to accomplish. I have been working in the mental health field since 2012 and providing therapy since 2014. I use an eclectic style of therapy and therapy modalities that will best accomplish positive outcomes.
(626) 699-8905 View (626) 699-8905
Photo of Nicole Poell, PsyD, Psychologist
Nicole Poell
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611  (Online Only)
I also utilize EMDR, somatic-based, compassion-focused and trauma-focused therapies to help in the healing process.
Right now, you are doing something very courageous! You are taking the first step toward a more meaningful and rich life. You might sense that your thoughts and feelings are holding you back from truly living your life. You might have had traumatic life experience(s) that shaped your life in a way that is unfulfilling and terrifying. You might feel plagued by depression and/or anxiety, feel uncomfortable in your own skin or as if you are not performing to your best abilities. I want to commend you for taking this step and I would feel honored to be on this journey with you, helping you live a more satisfying, engaged and full life.
I also utilize EMDR, somatic-based, compassion-focused and trauma-focused therapies to help in the healing process.
Right now, you are doing something very courageous! You are taking the first step toward a more meaningful and rich life. You might sense that your thoughts and feelings are holding you back from truly living your life. You might have had traumatic life experience(s) that shaped your life in a way that is unfulfilling and terrifying. You might feel plagued by depression and/or anxiety, feel uncomfortable in your own skin or as if you are not performing to your best abilities. I want to commend you for taking this step and I would feel honored to be on this journey with you, helping you live a more satisfying, engaged and full life.
(510) 849-6755 View (510) 849-6755
Photo of Donn Bradley, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Donn Bradley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, CA 94513
I specialize in issues like trauma, depression, anxiety, and grief, amongst other things.
You'll find that I'm not your typical patches-on-the-sleeves, "tell me about your mother" style therapist. After a career as a first responder, I have come in contact with a great many mental health challenges. My clients will find I am very empathetic while at the same time no-nonsense and to the point. Together, we'll explore what your challenges have been historically and find new ways to approach the life (and ultimately, happiness) for which you're looking.
I specialize in issues like trauma, depression, anxiety, and grief, amongst other things.
You'll find that I'm not your typical patches-on-the-sleeves, "tell me about your mother" style therapist. After a career as a first responder, I have come in contact with a great many mental health challenges. My clients will find I am very empathetic while at the same time no-nonsense and to the point. Together, we'll explore what your challenges have been historically and find new ways to approach the life (and ultimately, happiness) for which you're looking.
(925) 568-7296 View (925) 568-7296
Photo of William Michael Henry Kleemann, ACSW
William Michael Henry Kleemann
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95816
Having experienced my own issues with trauma and addiction I know first hand how difficult it is to seek help, that is why I aim to make therapy a streamlined process tailored to your specific needs and in a timeframe that works for you. Whether its trauma, depression, anxiety or any number of other mental health affliction I am here to help and support.
Having experienced my own issues with trauma and addiction I know first hand how difficult it is to seek help, that is why I aim to make therapy a streamlined process tailored to your specific needs and in a timeframe that works for you. Whether its trauma, depression, anxiety or any number of other mental health affliction I am here to help and support.
(916) 398-2602 View (916) 398-2602
Photo of Laina Marcus, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Laina Marcus
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Martinez, CA 94553
HI there! My name is Laina Marcus LMFT, PMH-C. My goal as a therapist is to assist you in finding your own internal strengths, reclaim your resiliency, and find clarity in your life. Starting therapy can be challenging, Im here to provide a safe and believe it or not fun place to grow and find joy. I typically work with adults only, I do also include family members including partners/spouses into sessions if need to be to strengthen the work on my client. I can comfortably treat anxiety, depression, maternal mental health disorders, grief, addiction, trauma, men's issues, women's issues, family conflict, transitions of all kinds.
HI there! My name is Laina Marcus LMFT, PMH-C. My goal as a therapist is to assist you in finding your own internal strengths, reclaim your resiliency, and find clarity in your life. Starting therapy can be challenging, Im here to provide a safe and believe it or not fun place to grow and find joy. I typically work with adults only, I do also include family members including partners/spouses into sessions if need to be to strengthen the work on my client. I can comfortably treat anxiety, depression, maternal mental health disorders, grief, addiction, trauma, men's issues, women's issues, family conflict, transitions of all kinds.
(951) 583-3123 View (951) 583-3123
Photo of Ines M Vaniman, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ines M Vaniman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lafayette, CA 94549
I have experience working with adults, teenagers, and families with different problems like stress, depression, anxiety, life transitions and trauma.
There are so many different reasons to seek therapy and it is my job to get you to where you want to get, as quickly as possible. I am a down to earth, experienced therapist. I use scientifically proven approaches, based on the needs and preferences of my patients. I focus on building strong relationships and providing a space where we can develop and implement a plan to make meaningful change happen. I have over 15 years of experience working in this field and feel very passionate about this work.
I have experience working with adults, teenagers, and families with different problems like stress, depression, anxiety, life transitions and trauma.
There are so many different reasons to seek therapy and it is my job to get you to where you want to get, as quickly as possible. I am a down to earth, experienced therapist. I use scientifically proven approaches, based on the needs and preferences of my patients. I focus on building strong relationships and providing a space where we can develop and implement a plan to make meaningful change happen. I have over 15 years of experience working in this field and feel very passionate about this work.
(925) 246-2964 View (925) 246-2964
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.