Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Del Mar, CA

Photo of Caleb Abrams, CSAT, CCTP, CAIMHP, CASDCS, CCATP
Caleb Abrams
CSAT, CCTP, CAIMHP, CASDCS, CCATP
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014  (Online Only)
Caleb is Christian Counselor, a Certified Sex Addiction Counselor (CSAT), Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), Certified Addictions-Informed Mental Health Professional (CAIMHP), Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist (CASDCS), and Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP). Caleb specializes in helping men work through addiction recovery, anxiety, addictive behaviors, depression, PTSD, emotional abuse, mental abuse and trauma of various kinds. His passion is to provide a safe space for his clients and to walk hand-in-hand with them, guiding them through the healing process.
Caleb is Christian Counselor, a Certified Sex Addiction Counselor (CSAT), Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), Certified Addictions-Informed Mental Health Professional (CAIMHP), Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist (CASDCS), and Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP). Caleb specializes in helping men work through addiction recovery, anxiety, addictive behaviors, depression, PTSD, emotional abuse, mental abuse and trauma of various kinds. His passion is to provide a safe space for his clients and to walk hand-in-hand with them, guiding them through the healing process.
(619) 639-4614 View (619) 639-4614
Photo of Ruthlyn Fox, PhD, Psychologist
Ruthlyn Fox
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014  (Online Only)
Hello! I am a licensed clinical psychologist, and I work with adults 18 or older with anxiety, trauma, difficult life experiences, and substance abuse. I offer a safe, kind, and emotionally supportive environment in which to explore and understand the impact that specific events or relationships have had on you and help you navigate a path forward towards recovery and strength; a life of your choosing.
Hello! I am a licensed clinical psychologist, and I work with adults 18 or older with anxiety, trauma, difficult life experiences, and substance abuse. I offer a safe, kind, and emotionally supportive environment in which to explore and understand the impact that specific events or relationships have had on you and help you navigate a path forward towards recovery and strength; a life of your choosing.
(858) 330-5821 View (858) 330-5821
Photo of Kristine Jackson, LCSW, CETI, CEDS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristine Jackson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CETI, CEDS
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014
I have specialities in trauma, eating disorders, couples, addictions, family therapy and LGBTQIA+.
I remember going to my first therapist, and thinking “I have to go back to places I’ve already survived?” You do not have to go backwards, though sometimes we have to feel to heal. With over 30 years of experience, I compassionately help guide you experientially, so you can access somatic and emotional wisdom.
I have specialities in trauma, eating disorders, couples, addictions, family therapy and LGBTQIA+.
I remember going to my first therapist, and thinking “I have to go back to places I’ve already survived?” You do not have to go backwards, though sometimes we have to feel to heal. With over 30 years of experience, I compassionately help guide you experientially, so you can access somatic and emotional wisdom.
(858) 683-0857 View (858) 683-0857
Photo of Julieann Myers - Julieann Myers-Center For Healthy Change, LCSW, CACIII, MAC, EMDR, CSAT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julieann Myers-Center For Healthy Change
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CACIII, MAC, EMDR, CSAT
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014
Waitlist for new clients
We specialize in treating Relationship/Intimacy Disruptions or Disorders, Behavioral Addictions, and SUD issues, Trauma, and Mood Disorders.
There is HOPE! I believe counseling is a "product!" You should have measurable improvements in your life when you are in counseling. We provide a safe relationship where you can explore the ways you "turn against yourself" through defenses and adaptations while learning new ways to address long-standing challenges. We will identify what has NOT been working and what IS working, with the goal of practicing effective strategies to create more positive results and get more out of your life. I couple three decades of clinical practice with my intuitive and relational expertise to help you realize your goals.
We specialize in treating Relationship/Intimacy Disruptions or Disorders, Behavioral Addictions, and SUD issues, Trauma, and Mood Disorders.
There is HOPE! I believe counseling is a "product!" You should have measurable improvements in your life when you are in counseling. We provide a safe relationship where you can explore the ways you "turn against yourself" through defenses and adaptations while learning new ways to address long-standing challenges. We will identify what has NOT been working and what IS working, with the goal of practicing effective strategies to create more positive results and get more out of your life. I couple three decades of clinical practice with my intuitive and relational expertise to help you realize your goals.
(760) 289-5958 View (760) 289-5958
Photo of Anastacia C Tobin, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anastacia C Tobin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014
As an Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) certified therapist, I specialize in the treatment of Post-traumatic stress disorder ( PTSD) and other trauma related issues.
Life is full of uncertainty and challenges and sometimes our usual coping, resources, and knowledge are not enough to help manage these situations. We might notice an increase in worry, distress, sadness, grief, or relational conflict that appear to have no resolution. Sometimes we experience abrupt and traumatic situations that leave us feeling unsafe, disoriented, and confused by our emotional and physiological responses. Any of these experiences can be overwhelming, but a supportive therapeutic relationship combined with empirically based treatments can be helpful in managing the situations and finding resolutions.
As an Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) certified therapist, I specialize in the treatment of Post-traumatic stress disorder ( PTSD) and other trauma related issues.
Life is full of uncertainty and challenges and sometimes our usual coping, resources, and knowledge are not enough to help manage these situations. We might notice an increase in worry, distress, sadness, grief, or relational conflict that appear to have no resolution. Sometimes we experience abrupt and traumatic situations that leave us feeling unsafe, disoriented, and confused by our emotional and physiological responses. Any of these experiences can be overwhelming, but a supportive therapeutic relationship combined with empirically based treatments can be helpful in managing the situations and finding resolutions.
(858) 252-0341 View (858) 252-0341
Photo of Leah Robbins, PhD, Psychologist
Leah Robbins
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Del Mar, CA 92014
I am here for the sensitive empaths who have survived trauma. I provide a unique mix of professional experience, therapy, refined energy healing and nervous system relaxation. Specifically for sensitive people, my unique approach can provide stability, clarity, and profound swift healing. It's time to release the heavy emotions stored in your body; the energetic imprints that manifest as physical illness, pain or fatigue. Together, we can create the life you deserve and desire.
I am here for the sensitive empaths who have survived trauma. I provide a unique mix of professional experience, therapy, refined energy healing and nervous system relaxation. Specifically for sensitive people, my unique approach can provide stability, clarity, and profound swift healing. It's time to release the heavy emotions stored in your body; the energetic imprints that manifest as physical illness, pain or fatigue. Together, we can create the life you deserve and desire.
(858) 348-5698 View (858) 348-5698
Photo of Kristin Kwiatkowski, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kristin Kwiatkowski
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Del Mar, CA 92014
With over 20 years of experience in the mental health field, Kristin is a seasoned professional who can help you navigate life's challenges. Her 5 years of clinical experience as a marriage and family therapist make her well equipped to address a variety of issues, including Trauma and Complex Trauma, PTSD, Depression, LGBTQ+ , Addiction,and Anxiety issues. She is passionate about working with those who strive to overcome life’s obstacles such as; Loss, Fear, Relationship Struggles, Isolation, self Doubt and Change.
With over 20 years of experience in the mental health field, Kristin is a seasoned professional who can help you navigate life's challenges. Her 5 years of clinical experience as a marriage and family therapist make her well equipped to address a variety of issues, including Trauma and Complex Trauma, PTSD, Depression, LGBTQ+ , Addiction,and Anxiety issues. She is passionate about working with those who strive to overcome life’s obstacles such as; Loss, Fear, Relationship Struggles, Isolation, self Doubt and Change.
(858) 762-9572 View (858) 762-9572
Photo of Katy Joy Freeman, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Katy Joy Freeman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Del Mar, CA 92014  (Online Only)
With my depth of experience in psychotherapy and therapeutic coaching, I have helped many clients get relief from trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and relationship difficulties.
I began my journey of self-discovery & healing by doing my own work in therapy. With patience, guidance, practice, and education, I have come to love and accept my own challenges and strengths. This informs and motivates me daily. My journey and helping others find their own positive trajectory is a very important component of my life. Balance in life is essential, and so I continue to pursue my love of nature, health and creativity – and where it intersects with my profession, it informs our therapeutic process.
With my depth of experience in psychotherapy and therapeutic coaching, I have helped many clients get relief from trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and relationship difficulties.
I began my journey of self-discovery & healing by doing my own work in therapy. With patience, guidance, practice, and education, I have come to love and accept my own challenges and strengths. This informs and motivates me daily. My journey and helping others find their own positive trajectory is a very important component of my life. Balance in life is essential, and so I continue to pursue my love of nature, health and creativity – and where it intersects with my profession, it informs our therapeutic process.
(858) 330-3501 View (858) 330-3501
Photo of Robert Miller, PhD, Psychologist
Robert Miller
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014
A complete description and testimonials from other therapists of how ImTT can help you overcome depression, trauma, anxiety, OCD, addictions, and more is at: www.
If you're suffering from depression, traumatic memories, anxiety, or OCD, Image Transformation Therapy (ImTT) can restore your effectiveness in the world and the balance in your life. I developed ImTT while working at Camp Pendleton Marine Base because I needed a treatment that could release the most intense pain, terror, and memories without the person having to experience the feelings or relive the memories. The result is that ImTT treatment enables a person to live without self-consciousness and fear -- spending more of their life in the "creative zone."
A complete description and testimonials from other therapists of how ImTT can help you overcome depression, trauma, anxiety, OCD, addictions, and more is at: www.
If you're suffering from depression, traumatic memories, anxiety, or OCD, Image Transformation Therapy (ImTT) can restore your effectiveness in the world and the balance in your life. I developed ImTT while working at Camp Pendleton Marine Base because I needed a treatment that could release the most intense pain, terror, and memories without the person having to experience the feelings or relive the memories. The result is that ImTT treatment enables a person to live without self-consciousness and fear -- spending more of their life in the "creative zone."
(626) 465-3163 View (626) 465-3163
Photo of Katie Militello, MA, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Katie Militello
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014  (Online Only)
I am a strengths based, trauma focused therapist specializing in grief & loss, PTSD, and feeling stuck and overwhelmed by past negative experiences and beliefs. I work with clients ranging in age from adolescents to seniors utilizing EMDR and family systems therapy.
I am a strengths based, trauma focused therapist specializing in grief & loss, PTSD, and feeling stuck and overwhelmed by past negative experiences and beliefs. I work with clients ranging in age from adolescents to seniors utilizing EMDR and family systems therapy.
(760) 840-2737 View (760) 840-2737
Photo of Dr. John Caffaro - Dr. John Caffaro, PhD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. John Caffaro
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014
Waitlist for new clients
I regularly provide consultation to clinicians and forensic settings due to my expertise working with adult survivors of sibling sexual, physical, and emotional trauma.
My practice is currently focused on treating adult survivors of childhood interpersonal trauma. I have published numerous peer reviewed papers, authored two seminal books (Caffaro, 1998; 2014) on Sibling Abuse Trauma, trained professionals nationally and internationally, and serve as Advisory Board Member on the Sibling Aggression and Abuse Research and Advocacy Initiative (SAARA) embedded at the University of New Hampshire. I am a licensed psychologist and marriage and family therapist with more than 25 years of clinical experience treating depression, anxiety, and post traumatic stress in adult survivors of interpersonal trauma.
I regularly provide consultation to clinicians and forensic settings due to my expertise working with adult survivors of sibling sexual, physical, and emotional trauma.
My practice is currently focused on treating adult survivors of childhood interpersonal trauma. I have published numerous peer reviewed papers, authored two seminal books (Caffaro, 1998; 2014) on Sibling Abuse Trauma, trained professionals nationally and internationally, and serve as Advisory Board Member on the Sibling Aggression and Abuse Research and Advocacy Initiative (SAARA) embedded at the University of New Hampshire. I am a licensed psychologist and marriage and family therapist with more than 25 years of clinical experience treating depression, anxiety, and post traumatic stress in adult survivors of interpersonal trauma.
(858) 264-3014 View (858) 264-3014
Photo of Julieann Myers - Julieann Myers-Center for Healthy Change, LCSW, MAC, EMDR, CSAT, TRMII, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julieann Myers-Center for Healthy Change
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MAC, EMDR, CSAT, TRMII
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Del Mar, CA 92014
We work specifically with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Recovery from Behavioral and Substance Use Disorders, Intimacy Disorders, Out of Control Sexual Behaviors, Sex Addiction, Relationship struggles, Anxiety, Depression and AD/HD.
I am a Clinical Social Worker, Masters Level Addiction Counselor, Certified in EMDR, Couples Institute Trained -Couples Therapist, and an approved EMDRIA consultant. I work from Attachment and Trauma Informed Frameworks.after more than three decades I couple my intuitive knowledge with the latest psychotherapeutic and empirically-based approaches in counseling. I especially enjoy working with individuals, families and couples in an immersive/intensive structured model. Additionally, I work in tandem with Katy Joy Freeman an LMFT licensed therapy who works online with clients.
We work specifically with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Recovery from Behavioral and Substance Use Disorders, Intimacy Disorders, Out of Control Sexual Behaviors, Sex Addiction, Relationship struggles, Anxiety, Depression and AD/HD.
I am a Clinical Social Worker, Masters Level Addiction Counselor, Certified in EMDR, Couples Institute Trained -Couples Therapist, and an approved EMDRIA consultant. I work from Attachment and Trauma Informed Frameworks.after more than three decades I couple my intuitive knowledge with the latest psychotherapeutic and empirically-based approaches in counseling. I especially enjoy working with individuals, families and couples in an immersive/intensive structured model. Additionally, I work in tandem with Katy Joy Freeman an LMFT licensed therapy who works online with clients.
(858) 330-5098 View (858) 330-5098
Photo of Bentley Hess, PhD, Psychologist
Bentley Hess
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014  (Online Only)
I offer individual therapy to support and treat relational issues, anxiety, emotional distress, trauma, and life transitions.
I imagine you found yourself here because there is something in your life that is not working for you, creating distress, or bringing you pain. OR maybe you are desiring inner change, to evolve and grow as a human, parent, partner, or spiritually. Maybe you want to dive into exploring who you are at your core, what you are capable of, or what truly makes you happy. What is it that you want out of life? Whether you are seeking emotional, spiritual, or physical balance, this is your journey and I am here to guide you in discovering your personal happiness, what brings you peace and makes you feel centered, complete, and healthy.
I offer individual therapy to support and treat relational issues, anxiety, emotional distress, trauma, and life transitions.
I imagine you found yourself here because there is something in your life that is not working for you, creating distress, or bringing you pain. OR maybe you are desiring inner change, to evolve and grow as a human, parent, partner, or spiritually. Maybe you want to dive into exploring who you are at your core, what you are capable of, or what truly makes you happy. What is it that you want out of life? Whether you are seeking emotional, spiritual, or physical balance, this is your journey and I am here to guide you in discovering your personal happiness, what brings you peace and makes you feel centered, complete, and healthy.
(858) 758-8116 View (858) 758-8116
Photo of Gayle R. Lewis, PhD, ABPP, MSCS, Psychologist
Gayle R. Lewis
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP, MSCS
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014  (Online Only)
Let me begin my saying I am Accepting new patients! I warmly welcome working with individuals and couples struggling with a variety of emotional and relational conflicts. My areas of specialty are the following: Those currently dealing with present or past sexual harassment issues, Trauma (survivors of domestic/sexual abuse, those in ongoing abusive relationships), Eating Disorders and Chronic disease, with particular experience working with patients with Multiple Sclerosis. Practice accepting new patients in New York and California. If you reside in a state other than those two, please reach out anyway; I likely can work with you.
Let me begin my saying I am Accepting new patients! I warmly welcome working with individuals and couples struggling with a variety of emotional and relational conflicts. My areas of specialty are the following: Those currently dealing with present or past sexual harassment issues, Trauma (survivors of domestic/sexual abuse, those in ongoing abusive relationships), Eating Disorders and Chronic disease, with particular experience working with patients with Multiple Sclerosis. Practice accepting new patients in New York and California. If you reside in a state other than those two, please reach out anyway; I likely can work with you.
(646) 553-4047 View (646) 553-4047
Photo of Dr. Gricelda Fragoso G, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Gricelda Fragoso G
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Del Mar, CA 92014
I am a Clinical Psychologist offering IN-PERSON and telehealth appointments. As a real person in the room, my clients receive a level of education and caring that opens the door to their healing and progress. I help my clients reclaim their inherent value to live out whole, authentic lives. As a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and Neuropsychotherapist, my primary loves are helping adults heal childhood trauma and build self-worth.
I am a Clinical Psychologist offering IN-PERSON and telehealth appointments. As a real person in the room, my clients receive a level of education and caring that opens the door to their healing and progress. I help my clients reclaim their inherent value to live out whole, authentic lives. As a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and Neuropsychotherapist, my primary loves are helping adults heal childhood trauma and build self-worth.
(760) 203-5383 View (760) 203-5383
Photo of Cyndi Pulsinelli, LMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cyndi Pulsinelli
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Del Mar, CA 92014
I specialize in treating individuals with eating disorders, mood disorders and trauma.
What does it mean to thrive? The heart of my practice is the very essence of equipping individuals and families to live a life where they thrive. To thrive is a means of growth, to flourish, revive, change-state or turn.
I specialize in treating individuals with eating disorders, mood disorders and trauma.
What does it mean to thrive? The heart of my practice is the very essence of equipping individuals and families to live a life where they thrive. To thrive is a means of growth, to flourish, revive, change-state or turn.
(760) 965-3251 View (760) 965-3251
Photo of Troy Nickell - PsyNamic Counseling and Psychological Services, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
PsyNamic Counseling and Psychological Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Del Mar, CA 92014
Treatment is individualized, whether building positive coping skills or processing past trauma, we will decide together the most effective course of action for your specific needs.
Hi I'm Troy, I'm President and Lead Clinician of PsyNamic Counseling Services and a Private Practice owner since 2014. I have been a leader in mental health industry as well as the community, and have helped people from all walks of life improve their situations and increase their overall sense of wellbeing. I really love helping people identify purpose and create a clear and simple way to reach their goals, for the betterment of themselves and those around them.
Treatment is individualized, whether building positive coping skills or processing past trauma, we will decide together the most effective course of action for your specific needs.
Hi I'm Troy, I'm President and Lead Clinician of PsyNamic Counseling Services and a Private Practice owner since 2014. I have been a leader in mental health industry as well as the community, and have helped people from all walks of life improve their situations and increase their overall sense of wellbeing. I really love helping people identify purpose and create a clear and simple way to reach their goals, for the betterment of themselves and those around them.
(858) 683-8810 View (858) 683-8810
Photo of Norman Severe, PsyD, Psychologist
Norman Severe
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014  (Online Only)
I specialize in the treatment of Anxiety, Depression and Post-traumatic Stress Disorder in children and adolescents as well as adults who have experienced trauma related to abuse, car accidents and/or witnessing and being exposed to life-threatening situations.
I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself to you. My name is Dr. Norman Severe and I'm a licensed clinical psychologist who has worked in our local San Diego community for over 20 years. For the past seventeen years, I have devoted my private practice to serving the mental health needs of children, adolescents and families in need of therapeutic and psychological support. I beleive everyone can achieve great things in their lives by recognizing their strengths, working through struggles and overcoming obstacles by persevering and never giving up.
I specialize in the treatment of Anxiety, Depression and Post-traumatic Stress Disorder in children and adolescents as well as adults who have experienced trauma related to abuse, car accidents and/or witnessing and being exposed to life-threatening situations.
I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself to you. My name is Dr. Norman Severe and I'm a licensed clinical psychologist who has worked in our local San Diego community for over 20 years. For the past seventeen years, I have devoted my private practice to serving the mental health needs of children, adolescents and families in need of therapeutic and psychological support. I beleive everyone can achieve great things in their lives by recognizing their strengths, working through struggles and overcoming obstacles by persevering and never giving up.
(858) 943-2894 View (858) 943-2894
Photo of Sheila Henry, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sheila Henry
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014
Although I am highly experienced in working with anxiety and trauma, my passion is to help women over 50 get into a loving relationship. Are you lonely? Being lonely has many ill effects upon your health and quality of life. Love adds years of better health and a longer life. I specialize in helping women get rid of past baggage (such as trauma, physical or emotional abuse not being able to receive love.) You will learn how to avoid repeating past dysfunctional patterns, and then how find the man to create the great relationship of your dreams.
Although I am highly experienced in working with anxiety and trauma, my passion is to help women over 50 get into a loving relationship. Are you lonely? Being lonely has many ill effects upon your health and quality of life. Love adds years of better health and a longer life. I specialize in helping women get rid of past baggage (such as trauma, physical or emotional abuse not being able to receive love.) You will learn how to avoid repeating past dysfunctional patterns, and then how find the man to create the great relationship of your dreams.
(858) 215-1961 View (858) 215-1961
Photo of Jill Silverman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jill Silverman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014
I have developed ANSRS™ Emotional Relief, a new scientific approach that restores emotional balance to the brain to heal anxiety and PTSD faster and deeper than traditional methods.
Are you suffering from relationship pain, stress or traumatic memories? Do you find yourself struggling with health, career and financial issues? I have been helping people with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and relationship problems for over 20 years. I am an expert in helping my clients get out of emotional distress and into healthy thinking and living. I offer tools to assist in effective communication, boundary setting, stress management and conflict resolution. I help clients to manage difficult emotions, overcome negative thinking, feel more confident, and create loving relationships. I also specialize in EMDR.
I have developed ANSRS™ Emotional Relief, a new scientific approach that restores emotional balance to the brain to heal anxiety and PTSD faster and deeper than traditional methods.
Are you suffering from relationship pain, stress or traumatic memories? Do you find yourself struggling with health, career and financial issues? I have been helping people with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and relationship problems for over 20 years. I am an expert in helping my clients get out of emotional distress and into healthy thinking and living. I offer tools to assist in effective communication, boundary setting, stress management and conflict resolution. I help clients to manage difficult emotions, overcome negative thinking, feel more confident, and create loving relationships. I also specialize in EMDR.
(858) 793-2400 View (858) 793-2400
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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.