Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Burlingame, CA

Photo of Amanda Castro, PsyD, Psychologist
Amanda Castro
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Burlingame, CA 94010
I have a sub-specialization in trauma treatment for children, adolescents, and adults.
I enjoy working with tweens, adolescents, adults, and families at all different stages in their lives. I am a licensed psychologist who received my undergraduate degree from Stanford University and a doctorate from the California Institute of Integral Studies. I have worked extensively with both youth and adults with a wide variety of presenting problems and mental health issues. My approach to therapy is integrative drawing on client-centered, psychodynamic, CBT, attachment, and family systems models. I conduct individual therapy for adults and for youth along w/family sessions w/their parents as well as parenting support.
I have a sub-specialization in trauma treatment for children, adolescents, and adults.
I enjoy working with tweens, adolescents, adults, and families at all different stages in their lives. I am a licensed psychologist who received my undergraduate degree from Stanford University and a doctorate from the California Institute of Integral Studies. I have worked extensively with both youth and adults with a wide variety of presenting problems and mental health issues. My approach to therapy is integrative drawing on client-centered, psychodynamic, CBT, attachment, and family systems models. I conduct individual therapy for adults and for youth along w/family sessions w/their parents as well as parenting support.
(415) 237-2050 View (415) 237-2050
Photo of Rachel (Kyung Jin) Lee, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rachel (Kyung Jin) Lee
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Burlingame, CA 94010
As a caring and dedicated therapist, I’m here to provide a supportive space for you to navigate the challenges you’re facing. Whether you’re grappling with relationship difficulties, trauma, anxiety, depression, or any other issues, know that you’re not alone in this journey. In our sessions, I prioritize your unique experiences and needs, ensuring that our therapy is centered around you as an individual. Drawing from my diverse background as an immigrant and an engineer in the corporate world, I bring a unique perspective to our conversations, allowing me to better understand the complexities of the challenges you’re encountering.
As a caring and dedicated therapist, I’m here to provide a supportive space for you to navigate the challenges you’re facing. Whether you’re grappling with relationship difficulties, trauma, anxiety, depression, or any other issues, know that you’re not alone in this journey. In our sessions, I prioritize your unique experiences and needs, ensuring that our therapy is centered around you as an individual. Drawing from my diverse background as an immigrant and an engineer in the corporate world, I bring a unique perspective to our conversations, allowing me to better understand the complexities of the challenges you’re encountering.
(650) 684-1326 View (650) 684-1326
Photo of Jeff Watson, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Jeff Watson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Burlingame, CA 94010  (Online Only)
I focus on grief and loss, depression, addiction, anxiety, PTSD, and ADHD.
If you’re tired of the story you’re telling yourself, let’s find another one together. I love to help redefine old narratives that may have been holding you back, and I am grateful to help write a brand new story of you. Sometimes, we can tell ourselves scary stories about the future and replay the painful traumas of our past. Together, we can look at your stories and see their strengths and their challenges and how you can build a new narrative for your life. I like to help clients find their true North Star to guide them to a new meaning and purpose.
I focus on grief and loss, depression, addiction, anxiety, PTSD, and ADHD.
If you’re tired of the story you’re telling yourself, let’s find another one together. I love to help redefine old narratives that may have been holding you back, and I am grateful to help write a brand new story of you. Sometimes, we can tell ourselves scary stories about the future and replay the painful traumas of our past. Together, we can look at your stories and see their strengths and their challenges and how you can build a new narrative for your life. I like to help clients find their true North Star to guide them to a new meaning and purpose.
(408) 539-8370 View (408) 539-8370
Photo of Sara Mozayeny Saatchi - Dr. Sara Saatchi, MA, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Sara Saatchi
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Burlingame, CA 94010
I treat anxiety, depression, behavior issues, bullying, social skill development, parenting issues/co-parenting, separation/divorce, trauma, loss, postpartum issues, bonding/attachment, adoption, behavior problems at school and at home, professional and personal relationship problems, I also provide consultation to schools on behalf of a child when needed.
I provide psychotherapy for young children as well as adults. In my work with children, the goals is to strengthen the parent-child attachment as well as treat symptoms such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and other childhood conditions. In my work with adults, I provide a compassionate and down-to-earth approach that is relatable along with effective interventions to support clients to resolve areas in their life they are feeling stuck and unhappy.
I treat anxiety, depression, behavior issues, bullying, social skill development, parenting issues/co-parenting, separation/divorce, trauma, loss, postpartum issues, bonding/attachment, adoption, behavior problems at school and at home, professional and personal relationship problems, I also provide consultation to schools on behalf of a child when needed.
I provide psychotherapy for young children as well as adults. In my work with children, the goals is to strengthen the parent-child attachment as well as treat symptoms such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and other childhood conditions. In my work with adults, I provide a compassionate and down-to-earth approach that is relatable along with effective interventions to support clients to resolve areas in their life they are feeling stuck and unhappy.
(650) 295-0945 View (650) 295-0945
Photo of Tura Johnson - Ray of Hope Child Therapy Services Inc, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ray of Hope Child Therapy Services Inc
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlingame, CA 94010  (Online Only)
Our areas of speciality include severe mental illness, depression and other mood disorders, trauma, anxiety, and grief and loss.
Ray of Hope Child Therapy Services is an outpatient clinic providing psychotherapy services to children, adolescents, adults and families throughout California. Our mission is to provide services to everyone regardless of their ability to pay. By providing hope, inspiration and a warm supportive environment, we ensure that people reach their wellness goals.  We provide a safe place to discuss your thoughts and feelings without fear of being judged. Our goal is to assist with exploring a variety of life situations and help provide coping skills to handle them.
Our areas of speciality include severe mental illness, depression and other mood disorders, trauma, anxiety, and grief and loss.
Ray of Hope Child Therapy Services is an outpatient clinic providing psychotherapy services to children, adolescents, adults and families throughout California. Our mission is to provide services to everyone regardless of their ability to pay. By providing hope, inspiration and a warm supportive environment, we ensure that people reach their wellness goals.  We provide a safe place to discuss your thoughts and feelings without fear of being judged. Our goal is to assist with exploring a variety of life situations and help provide coping skills to handle them.
(650) 240-4854 View (650) 240-4854
Photo of Sandra Mineyev Athanasios, PsyD, MA, Psychologist
Sandra Mineyev Athanasios
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Burlingame, CA 94010
Are you feeling anxious, stuck, or down? Perhaps you’re questioning your goals or future plans? I am a licensed clinical psychologist here to support you in creating meaningful change, uncovering your resiliency, and understanding how your past is affecting your present. I specialize in working with adolescents and adults in individual therapy. My approach to therapy is trauma-informed and relational meaning our relationship if central to the treatment. I aim to create a safe and collaborative space for my clients where together we can explore life’s challenges and process traumatic events.
Are you feeling anxious, stuck, or down? Perhaps you’re questioning your goals or future plans? I am a licensed clinical psychologist here to support you in creating meaningful change, uncovering your resiliency, and understanding how your past is affecting your present. I specialize in working with adolescents and adults in individual therapy. My approach to therapy is trauma-informed and relational meaning our relationship if central to the treatment. I aim to create a safe and collaborative space for my clients where together we can explore life’s challenges and process traumatic events.
(650) 628-6659 View (650) 628-6659
Photo of Susan Bowen, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Susan Bowen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Burlingame, CA 94010
Living life in peace can be challenging when suddenly you are confronted with unexpected change...relationship status, health, recovery from loss, trauma and/or addiction. The truth is life is full of change, and the challenges we face often impact the quality of our connection to ourselves and others. I offer confidential, compassionate, effective care by combining the best of traditional psychotherapy with a progressive integration of mindfulness, for a wide range of issues we find ourselves faced with in modern life. A dual approach that encourages healing, connection, focus, and personal growth.
Living life in peace can be challenging when suddenly you are confronted with unexpected change...relationship status, health, recovery from loss, trauma and/or addiction. The truth is life is full of change, and the challenges we face often impact the quality of our connection to ourselves and others. I offer confidential, compassionate, effective care by combining the best of traditional psychotherapy with a progressive integration of mindfulness, for a wide range of issues we find ourselves faced with in modern life. A dual approach that encourages healing, connection, focus, and personal growth.
(650) 532-0514 View (650) 532-0514
Photo of Cecilia A Nepomuceno, PhD, Psychologist
Cecilia A Nepomuceno
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Burlingame, CA 94010  (Online Only)
Anxiety, depression, grief, and trauma can be alleviated by being able to be present with the pain/fears/agitation and developing skills and self-awareness to make behavior changes to support wellness.
"The deep learning that results in transformation must include the healing of hearts and souls. When spirit is thirsty, it is love, compassion, and truth that quench and satisfy." ~ audrey lorde ~ When we can be compassionate to our growth areas and be grounded in owning our talents and gifts, it may be easier to navigate our challenges and be open to opportunities. When we experience challenges we may need support to work through them. We can use these challenges as opportunities to renew and transform ourselves to have a better relationship with ourselves and others.
Anxiety, depression, grief, and trauma can be alleviated by being able to be present with the pain/fears/agitation and developing skills and self-awareness to make behavior changes to support wellness.
"The deep learning that results in transformation must include the healing of hearts and souls. When spirit is thirsty, it is love, compassion, and truth that quench and satisfy." ~ audrey lorde ~ When we can be compassionate to our growth areas and be grounded in owning our talents and gifts, it may be easier to navigate our challenges and be open to opportunities. When we experience challenges we may need support to work through them. We can use these challenges as opportunities to renew and transform ourselves to have a better relationship with ourselves and others.
(650) 265-4541 View (650) 265-4541
Photo of Cindy Lin, PsyD, Psychologist
Cindy Lin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Burlingame, CA 94010
I am experienced in treating a range of issues: stress, depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, autism, trauma, grief, relationships, new mom, parenting and child/teen issues.
My role is to guide and help you in developing insight, greater satisfaction, and symptom relief. I provide support by discussing your concerns and feelings, and by helping you resolve and move towards your goals, such as fulfillment, belonging, to cope with hardship or to feel 'unstuck'. I guide you in examining your situation, struggles and relationships, facilitating deeper understanding and strengths to make positive shifts. My style is warm, collaborative and engaging. I compassionately promote therapeutic healing, growth & change. For youth, I practice a combo of play, talk and behavioral therapy, parent coaching/support.
I am experienced in treating a range of issues: stress, depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, autism, trauma, grief, relationships, new mom, parenting and child/teen issues.
My role is to guide and help you in developing insight, greater satisfaction, and symptom relief. I provide support by discussing your concerns and feelings, and by helping you resolve and move towards your goals, such as fulfillment, belonging, to cope with hardship or to feel 'unstuck'. I guide you in examining your situation, struggles and relationships, facilitating deeper understanding and strengths to make positive shifts. My style is warm, collaborative and engaging. I compassionately promote therapeutic healing, growth & change. For youth, I practice a combo of play, talk and behavioral therapy, parent coaching/support.
(650) 753-5068 View (650) 753-5068
Photo of Debbi  Odell, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Debbi  Odell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Burlingame, CA 94010  (Online Only)
I help children (over 8), teens, adults, couples, and families struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, identity, parenting, and relationships.
Would you like to understand yourself and others better, feel more connected to your body and emotions, and be more effective your life and relationships? Most of us want these things but run into roadblocks. You may really making an effort, but it still seems like something's getting in your way, and it's hard to figure out how to change it. That’s why you need the support of a knowledgeable and flexible therapist, to move past blocks, become more embodied and more aware, connect with your inner child, build skills and resilience. To go deeper, uncover the root of the issues, shift patterns and feel more grounded and effective.
I help children (over 8), teens, adults, couples, and families struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, identity, parenting, and relationships.
Would you like to understand yourself and others better, feel more connected to your body and emotions, and be more effective your life and relationships? Most of us want these things but run into roadblocks. You may really making an effort, but it still seems like something's getting in your way, and it's hard to figure out how to change it. That’s why you need the support of a knowledgeable and flexible therapist, to move past blocks, become more embodied and more aware, connect with your inner child, build skills and resilience. To go deeper, uncover the root of the issues, shift patterns and feel more grounded and effective.
(650) 681-8359 View (650) 681-8359
Photo of Reika D Faust, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Reika D Faust
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Burlingame, CA 94010  (Online Only)
My years of experience working with sexual assault survivors has helped me develop a compassionate and trauma-informed approach to therapy.
Are you struggling with relationships? Do you find yourself longing to fully understand who you are and why you may make the choices that you make? Learning to love and accept yourself -and your choices- can seem like a challenge, but it is possible. I can help you on that journey.
My years of experience working with sexual assault survivors has helped me develop a compassionate and trauma-informed approach to therapy.
Are you struggling with relationships? Do you find yourself longing to fully understand who you are and why you may make the choices that you make? Learning to love and accept yourself -and your choices- can seem like a challenge, but it is possible. I can help you on that journey.
(650) 733-2947 View (650) 733-2947
Photo of Kit Tang, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kit Tang
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlingame, CA 94010  (Online Only)
I am specialized in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, grief and loss.
I come from a culture where there is a strong stigma around seeking help for mental health. I understand the courage it takes to look for a therapist and show up to the first session. Stepping out of your comfort zone is not an easy step, but if you’re here, you are one step closer to getting in touch with your thoughts and emotions. I am here to provide you support that is tailored to your needs on this self-discovery journey. Every individual has a unique set of strengths. I can help you to build on your strengths, better understand yourself, and improve your confidence.
I am specialized in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, grief and loss.
I come from a culture where there is a strong stigma around seeking help for mental health. I understand the courage it takes to look for a therapist and show up to the first session. Stepping out of your comfort zone is not an easy step, but if you’re here, you are one step closer to getting in touch with your thoughts and emotions. I am here to provide you support that is tailored to your needs on this self-discovery journey. Every individual has a unique set of strengths. I can help you to build on your strengths, better understand yourself, and improve your confidence.
(650) 643-5018 View (650) 643-5018
Photo of April Vogensen, PsyD, Psychologist
April Vogensen
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Burlingame, CA 94010
I have successfully treated youth with a wide range of difficulties, and I hold specific expertise in treating Anxiety, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, and Trauma.
We all have the natural ability to heal and grow to our full potential.  In children and adolescents this ability is enormously powerful but can be disrupted by stress and obstacles, both internal and external.  ​You are probably seeking therapy for yourself or your child, to find a way to overcome these obstacles and move forward with healing and growth. For 20 years, I have helped children, adolescents and their families find the skills they need for healthy emotional development.
I have successfully treated youth with a wide range of difficulties, and I hold specific expertise in treating Anxiety, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, and Trauma.
We all have the natural ability to heal and grow to our full potential.  In children and adolescents this ability is enormously powerful but can be disrupted by stress and obstacles, both internal and external.  ​You are probably seeking therapy for yourself or your child, to find a way to overcome these obstacles and move forward with healing and growth. For 20 years, I have helped children, adolescents and their families find the skills they need for healthy emotional development.
(650) 667-7066 View (650) 667-7066
Photo of Ting-Yi Huang, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ting-Yi Huang
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Burlingame, CA 94010
I provide individual and couples counseling for adults with life transitions, anger issues, or past trauma, supporting their personal healing and relationship growth.
*Virtual Sessions Available* Does your kid or teenager often say NO, I DON’T CARE, or YOU DON’T UNDERSTAND. You see them struggling with anxiety and depression, or risky behaviors such as using drugs, and don’t know what to do. You might also have gifted children or teenagers who are struggling with perfectionism-obsession-procrastination (POP). Are you high functioning and having a stable job but yet have symptoms, feelings, and behaviors that are difficult to explain in the context of your life experiences? Are you often in a relational pattern where you do things out of fear, obligation, and guilt (FOG)?
I provide individual and couples counseling for adults with life transitions, anger issues, or past trauma, supporting their personal healing and relationship growth.
*Virtual Sessions Available* Does your kid or teenager often say NO, I DON’T CARE, or YOU DON’T UNDERSTAND. You see them struggling with anxiety and depression, or risky behaviors such as using drugs, and don’t know what to do. You might also have gifted children or teenagers who are struggling with perfectionism-obsession-procrastination (POP). Are you high functioning and having a stable job but yet have symptoms, feelings, and behaviors that are difficult to explain in the context of your life experiences? Are you often in a relational pattern where you do things out of fear, obligation, and guilt (FOG)?
(650) 581-9104 View (650) 581-9104
Photo of Mary Jordan, AMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Mary Jordan
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Burlingame, CA 94010
Do you find yourself shut down or suppress your feelings? Do you struggle in relationships due to your trauma? Are you unsure of where you belong? I work with people of all identities to process unresolved feelings due to trauma. I strive to provide you a safe and non-judgmental space, in order for you to develop coping mechanisms for trauma symptoms (anxiety, depression, addiction, etc.) and to explore aspects of yourself. I can help you let go of past HURTS and develop tools to find RELIEF.
Do you find yourself shut down or suppress your feelings? Do you struggle in relationships due to your trauma? Are you unsure of where you belong? I work with people of all identities to process unresolved feelings due to trauma. I strive to provide you a safe and non-judgmental space, in order for you to develop coping mechanisms for trauma symptoms (anxiety, depression, addiction, etc.) and to explore aspects of yourself. I can help you let go of past HURTS and develop tools to find RELIEF.
(669) 260-7136 View (669) 260-7136
Photo of Hazzel Angulo, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Hazzel Angulo
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Burlingame, CA 94010
Trauma, anxiety, and addiction can make you feel stuck. The most important step towards healing is to address the unresolved emotion inside you. Healing requires feelings. Acceptance slowly dissolves pain. When we function from the fear and scarring of our trauma, the cycles continue until we learn how to transmute that energy into love. I apply a Holistic approach that integrates physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual forms of well-being, addressing the “whole” self. Through a holistic framework tailored to your unique needs, the goal is to support you develop a deeper understanding of the self on all these levels.
Trauma, anxiety, and addiction can make you feel stuck. The most important step towards healing is to address the unresolved emotion inside you. Healing requires feelings. Acceptance slowly dissolves pain. When we function from the fear and scarring of our trauma, the cycles continue until we learn how to transmute that energy into love. I apply a Holistic approach that integrates physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual forms of well-being, addressing the “whole” self. Through a holistic framework tailored to your unique needs, the goal is to support you develop a deeper understanding of the self on all these levels.
(669) 260-7348 View (669) 260-7348
Photo of Jennifer Lara, ASW
Jennifer Lara
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW
Verified Verified
Burlingame, CA 94010
Childhood trauma can cripple us, it creates overpowering ‘intense’ emotions such as anxiety, depression, and anger when left unattended which begins to create physical symptoms to defend our bodies from the internal wounds. Has there ever been a time in your life where you have experienced this reaction? Are you experiencing these feelings based on current or past trauma from childhood, early teens, adolescence, adulthood, or as a senior? I aim to utilize a variety of actionable techniques to help reduce trauma related symptoms and make lasting changes in life.
Childhood trauma can cripple us, it creates overpowering ‘intense’ emotions such as anxiety, depression, and anger when left unattended which begins to create physical symptoms to defend our bodies from the internal wounds. Has there ever been a time in your life where you have experienced this reaction? Are you experiencing these feelings based on current or past trauma from childhood, early teens, adolescence, adulthood, or as a senior? I aim to utilize a variety of actionable techniques to help reduce trauma related symptoms and make lasting changes in life.
(669) 200-2652 View (669) 200-2652
Photo of Melissa Satram, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melissa Satram
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Burlingame, CA 94010
Do you ever struggle with feeling like you’re not enough? Do you feel like you have to prove yourself? Do you feel stuck and triggered by childhood trauma? The symptoms of trauma include anxiety, depression, high conflict relationships, occupational impairment, addiction, and much more. I believe therapy can help you develop a more self-awareness and actionable plan to alleviate these symptoms. I specialized in working with people who are willing to explore past, present, and future challenges and to find tools for personal growth.
Do you ever struggle with feeling like you’re not enough? Do you feel like you have to prove yourself? Do you feel stuck and triggered by childhood trauma? The symptoms of trauma include anxiety, depression, high conflict relationships, occupational impairment, addiction, and much more. I believe therapy can help you develop a more self-awareness and actionable plan to alleviate these symptoms. I specialized in working with people who are willing to explore past, present, and future challenges and to find tools for personal growth.
(669) 200-2247 View (669) 200-2247
Photo of Nicole Logan, LPC, EMDR
Nicole Logan
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Burlingame, CA 94010
My goal is to help you process childhood and recent trauma and reframe unhelpful patterns of thoughts, behaviors, and beliefs.
I utilize a client centered approach in working with adolescents and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, and life transitions. In a safe, supportive, and non judgemental space we can explore the negative patterns in your life, work through any barriers, and move towards healing, growth, and change.
My goal is to help you process childhood and recent trauma and reframe unhelpful patterns of thoughts, behaviors, and beliefs.
I utilize a client centered approach in working with adolescents and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, and life transitions. In a safe, supportive, and non judgemental space we can explore the negative patterns in your life, work through any barriers, and move towards healing, growth, and change.
(669) 201-0852 View (669) 201-0852
Photo of Nicole Woolf, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Woolf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Burlingame, CA 94010
My approach to therapy is tailored to your needs and may include body/mindfulness, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Seeking help can be scary and exciting, and it takes a lot of bravery and courage to take the initial step. You may be feeling like you are depressed and anxious due to your trauma. I aim to meet you where you are mentally and emotionally and help you grow, learn skills, and adapt to new changes. We can work together to identify your goals and needs and address the emotional and behavioral challenges you experience.
My approach to therapy is tailored to your needs and may include body/mindfulness, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Seeking help can be scary and exciting, and it takes a lot of bravery and courage to take the initial step. You may be feeling like you are depressed and anxious due to your trauma. I aim to meet you where you are mentally and emotionally and help you grow, learn skills, and adapt to new changes. We can work together to identify your goals and needs and address the emotional and behavioral challenges you experience.
(669) 200-0587 View (669) 200-0587
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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.