Therapists in El Dorado County, CA
![Photo of Jennifer A Alexander, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/21114d63-e4e1-4556-bd80-c96ee5dfce1a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer A Alexander
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Placerville, CA 95667
I am honored to serve anyone struggling with any type of trauma/PTSD, addiction, depression, or anxiety who wants life to be a little different. Total healing IS possible! I have a passion for non-judgemental connection with people who are nervous about being vulnerable, don’t want therapy, or have had a bad experience in the past. It can be fun and is worth the work! I like to partner with you to discover your strengths and help you reach YOUR goals. My ideal client is someone who has a good sense of humor, a desire for change, an open mind, ok w/an occassional bad word (or two), and MUST love dogs. I do animal assisted therapy.
I am honored to serve anyone struggling with any type of trauma/PTSD, addiction, depression, or anxiety who wants life to be a little different. Total healing IS possible! I have a passion for non-judgemental connection with people who are nervous about being vulnerable, don’t want therapy, or have had a bad experience in the past. It can be fun and is worth the work! I like to partner with you to discover your strengths and help you reach YOUR goals. My ideal client is someone who has a good sense of humor, a desire for change, an open mind, ok w/an occassional bad word (or two), and MUST love dogs. I do animal assisted therapy.
![Photo of Rosalva Escanuela-Starkweather, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0d6cd74f-dc29-4fd7-afd6-60d3dd1722a1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rosalva Escanuela-Starkweather
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
El Dorado Hills, CA 95762
My approach is client-centered. I believe in meeting the needs of the client based on their level of functioning. I will work collaboratively with my clients to identify their strengths and/or concerns. Therapy for anxiety, Fear, and Stress. Therapy for Depression and Mood changes; therapy for Teens; Therapy for Trauma, Abuse and Neglect; Therapy for grief and loss; Adoption process.
My approach is client-centered. I believe in meeting the needs of the client based on their level of functioning. I will work collaboratively with my clients to identify their strengths and/or concerns. Therapy for anxiety, Fear, and Stress. Therapy for Depression and Mood changes; therapy for Teens; Therapy for Trauma, Abuse and Neglect; Therapy for grief and loss; Adoption process.
![Photo of Lisa Larson - Pacific Counseling & Trauma Center, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9eef741f-2794-4dd0-9e1d-e178ac11c307/2/320x400.png)
Pacific Counseling & Trauma Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
El Dorado Hills, CA 95762
Our Center helps anyone suffering from unresolved trauma or disturbing experiences. You may be experiencing anxiety, depression, panic attacks, insomnia, hyper-vigilance, restlessness, rage, exhaustion, fatigue, or dissociation. We exist to alleviate the profound suffering of those who have been traumatized in childhood or adulthood. Trauma is often not healed from talk therapy alone. We use cutting edge trauma modalities that access your primitive brain where trauma is stored. Through this, you will release the trauma and all of the physical issues that go along with it, and graduate with a freedom you have never known.
Our Center helps anyone suffering from unresolved trauma or disturbing experiences. You may be experiencing anxiety, depression, panic attacks, insomnia, hyper-vigilance, restlessness, rage, exhaustion, fatigue, or dissociation. We exist to alleviate the profound suffering of those who have been traumatized in childhood or adulthood. Trauma is often not healed from talk therapy alone. We use cutting edge trauma modalities that access your primitive brain where trauma is stored. Through this, you will release the trauma and all of the physical issues that go along with it, and graduate with a freedom you have never known.
![Photo of Kristin M Roberts, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/41fbffe2-a7fe-4219-bd22-a2b3843254c3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kristin M Roberts
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Placerville, CA 95667
I offer EMDR and Brainspotting, a body-sourced trauma treatment.
I am here to help you with the hard things in your life and find your healing in your marriage, self-worth, your family of origin dynamics, to increase your insight, recognize any distorted thinking, acquire skills to calm the body when anxious, understand your depression, and assist in learning how to feel safe.
I offer EMDR and Brainspotting, a body-sourced trauma treatment.
I am here to help you with the hard things in your life and find your healing in your marriage, self-worth, your family of origin dynamics, to increase your insight, recognize any distorted thinking, acquire skills to calm the body when anxious, understand your depression, and assist in learning how to feel safe.
![Photo of Bianca Rocio Zuniga-Quintana, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fd9356c-621e-4585-b95d-64e3349e1b85/2/320x400.jpeg)
Bianca Rocio Zuniga-Quintana
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
El Dorado Hills, CA 95762
I understand the unique and complex issues that queer individuals often face, including questions about gender identity, the search for social connection, struggles with self-esteem, and the intricate nuances of trauma.
I sincerely commend your courageous decision to embark on the path of therapy, as it signifies your commitment to embracing your unique life story and nurturing meaningful positive changes. With a deeply compassionate approach, I am here to provide unwavering support as you navigate the challenges that life may present. As a Mexican-American queer woman, I deeply resonate with the complexities of intersectionality and the current socio-cultural climate. I am eager to assist you in navigating these challenges, empowering you to overcome societal stigmas surrounding mental health.
I understand the unique and complex issues that queer individuals often face, including questions about gender identity, the search for social connection, struggles with self-esteem, and the intricate nuances of trauma.
I sincerely commend your courageous decision to embark on the path of therapy, as it signifies your commitment to embracing your unique life story and nurturing meaningful positive changes. With a deeply compassionate approach, I am here to provide unwavering support as you navigate the challenges that life may present. As a Mexican-American queer woman, I deeply resonate with the complexities of intersectionality and the current socio-cultural climate. I am eager to assist you in navigating these challenges, empowering you to overcome societal stigmas surrounding mental health.
![Photo of Bonnie Wagner, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c069c1a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I offer a wide variety of Therapy for the following: Grief/Loss, (including pets) Divorce, Custody Issues, Infertility, Depression, Anxiety, Abuse, Adoption, Attachment, Domestic Violence, Trauma, Blended Family Problems, Relationship Challenges, Difficult children/teen behaviors at home and/or school, ADHD, Family History of Drug/Alcohol Addictions, Self Esteem, Parenting, Grandparents raising Grandchildren, and more.
Hello, I'm Bonnie Wagner, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who enjoys working with individual adults, couples, children/teens (birth to 18 years) and families, for over 25 years. I have a great deal of experience as a therapist, helping people develop treatment goals which assist them in achieving the most optimal and positive outcomes for themselves.
I offer a wide variety of Therapy for the following: Grief/Loss, (including pets) Divorce, Custody Issues, Infertility, Depression, Anxiety, Abuse, Adoption, Attachment, Domestic Violence, Trauma, Blended Family Problems, Relationship Challenges, Difficult children/teen behaviors at home and/or school, ADHD, Family History of Drug/Alcohol Addictions, Self Esteem, Parenting, Grandparents raising Grandchildren, and more.
Hello, I'm Bonnie Wagner, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who enjoys working with individual adults, couples, children/teens (birth to 18 years) and families, for over 25 years. I have a great deal of experience as a therapist, helping people develop treatment goals which assist them in achieving the most optimal and positive outcomes for themselves.
![Photo of Shawna Cobabe - Shawna Cobabe, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3caf328e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shawna Cobabe
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
El Dorado Hills, CA 95762 (Online Only)
I have worked with children, families, individuals and couples in many different capacities before finding my calling as a therapist. I have specialized training in couples and marriage counseling, family counseling, PTSD/trauma, adoption and foster care, anxiety and depression, and other mental illness, life changes, grief and loss. I also work with adolescents who are struggling in school or with behavior problems, defiance, and depression and anxiety. I work with couples and families for a variety of reasons. I can help you too.
I have worked with children, families, individuals and couples in many different capacities before finding my calling as a therapist. I have specialized training in couples and marriage counseling, family counseling, PTSD/trauma, adoption and foster care, anxiety and depression, and other mental illness, life changes, grief and loss. I also work with adolescents who are struggling in school or with behavior problems, defiance, and depression and anxiety. I work with couples and families for a variety of reasons. I can help you too.
![Photo of Jessica Marroquin, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e46b6379-1606-49a5-aba5-a86459d0c7a4/2/320x400.jpeg)
With teens and adults, I utilize talk, trauma-focused, CBT, and strength-based therapy approaches to assist clients in discovering and overcoming the barriers necessary to bring about positive, permanent changes in improving the quality of their lives.
My name is Jessica Marroquin and I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am specialized in working with all ages from children as young as 5 to older adults. I take a client-centered approach in creating a safe enjoyable place where we can work together on developing new skills to tackle ways to improve your overall life functioning. I work with a variety of clients ranging from ages 0 to older adults. I am seasoned in working with young children, and families and feel comfortable with conducting individual and family sessions.
With teens and adults, I utilize talk, trauma-focused, CBT, and strength-based therapy approaches to assist clients in discovering and overcoming the barriers necessary to bring about positive, permanent changes in improving the quality of their lives.
My name is Jessica Marroquin and I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am specialized in working with all ages from children as young as 5 to older adults. I take a client-centered approach in creating a safe enjoyable place where we can work together on developing new skills to tackle ways to improve your overall life functioning. I work with a variety of clients ranging from ages 0 to older adults. I am seasoned in working with young children, and families and feel comfortable with conducting individual and family sessions.
![Photo of Robyn T. DeBary, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f219a8c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Is your child or adolescent struggling in school, dealing with difficult life transitions, or having trouble connecting with others? Is your child encountering depression or anxiety, past or recent trauma or behavioral disturbances? Does your teen experience negative self-esteem or poor self concept? Are you and your child having difficulty interacting with one another? I am here to help. We will get to the root of the problem using a compassionate and collaborative approach whereby I will help you and your child find tools to overcome and cope with these issues.
Is your child or adolescent struggling in school, dealing with difficult life transitions, or having trouble connecting with others? Is your child encountering depression or anxiety, past or recent trauma or behavioral disturbances? Does your teen experience negative self-esteem or poor self concept? Are you and your child having difficulty interacting with one another? I am here to help. We will get to the root of the problem using a compassionate and collaborative approach whereby I will help you and your child find tools to overcome and cope with these issues.
![Photo of Lisa Olson, MA, LMFT, PPS, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aae565ad-9a17-4dc8-8159-964bc2f97f9f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa Olson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PPS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
You're lost in the weeds of to-do's, obligations, & responsibilities; your mind a cacophony of distractions clamoring for your attention. At some point, this life you built got so busy that you're no longer enjoying it. Instead, you're overwhelmed by the anxiety of it all; sure that something will go horribly wrong. You tell yourself that these worries aren't real, just scary stories you contemplate- your own "monster under the bed". So you push them to the back of your mind and slap a smile on your face, forging on. Unfortunately, until we open the door to face the boogeyman, that gnawing feeling of dread won't ever really go away.
You're lost in the weeds of to-do's, obligations, & responsibilities; your mind a cacophony of distractions clamoring for your attention. At some point, this life you built got so busy that you're no longer enjoying it. Instead, you're overwhelmed by the anxiety of it all; sure that something will go horribly wrong. You tell yourself that these worries aren't real, just scary stories you contemplate- your own "monster under the bed". So you push them to the back of your mind and slap a smile on your face, forging on. Unfortunately, until we open the door to face the boogeyman, that gnawing feeling of dread won't ever really go away.
![Photo of Jennifer Maghsoudi Golden Psy.d., PsyD, MA, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5290289f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Maghsoudi Golden Psy.d.
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
I am devoted to guiding those that are called to improve their lives, whether it is to become the first in their family to be a college graduate, to rise to the challenge of becoming a professional in their field of choice, or to overcome years of negative self esteem. My clients want to find positive connection with themselves, their partners, their families, and communities. My clients have often experienced traumatic events but I have taught them about and shared tools which give them control over how those events affect them, finding peace and strength out of difficult experiences. I offer counsel to adults, couples, & kids.
I am devoted to guiding those that are called to improve their lives, whether it is to become the first in their family to be a college graduate, to rise to the challenge of becoming a professional in their field of choice, or to overcome years of negative self esteem. My clients want to find positive connection with themselves, their partners, their families, and communities. My clients have often experienced traumatic events but I have taught them about and shared tools which give them control over how those events affect them, finding peace and strength out of difficult experiences. I offer counsel to adults, couples, & kids.
15 Second Videos
Pacific Counseling & Trauma Center
Shawna Cobabe
Lisa Olson
![Photo of Patrizia Ahlers, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/88661d9b-8572-4a2d-af17-0a160147cfa7/2/320x400.jpeg)
I believe therapy can be fun and transforming! Therapy is like getting a tune-up for your car. If your car is 18 years old, it might be time to do some maintenance! This is okay; you want your car to run well! Therapy is for the client, YOU. And you are an integral part in your own therapy. You create your own goals; I only help facilitate those goals. I see myself as a guide, someone to help you put the puzzle pieces together to create a fuller, more complete, life. A life that is filled with deeper meaning and sense of purpose. Main Therapeutic Approaches: Logo Therapy (Viktor Frankl) and Cognitive, both of which are direct.
I believe therapy can be fun and transforming! Therapy is like getting a tune-up for your car. If your car is 18 years old, it might be time to do some maintenance! This is okay; you want your car to run well! Therapy is for the client, YOU. And you are an integral part in your own therapy. You create your own goals; I only help facilitate those goals. I see myself as a guide, someone to help you put the puzzle pieces together to create a fuller, more complete, life. A life that is filled with deeper meaning and sense of purpose. Main Therapeutic Approaches: Logo Therapy (Viktor Frankl) and Cognitive, both of which are direct.
![Photo of Jessica Wolff, MA, LMFT, CYT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6be9df51-ba9c-4d8d-8e10-9615035b411d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Wolff
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CYT
Verified Verified
El Dorado Hills, CA 95762
My biggest passion is to help women heal through a mind/body/soul approach to learn how to create joy and balance in their lives. I love to work with women to address phase of life, life transition, mood related issues, relationship patterns, anxiety, and depression intuitively and holistically. From a Holistic prospective, I consider the mental, physical, and spiritual factors that influence a person's well-being and to help people heal and thrive on a deeper level.
My biggest passion is to help women heal through a mind/body/soul approach to learn how to create joy and balance in their lives. I love to work with women to address phase of life, life transition, mood related issues, relationship patterns, anxiety, and depression intuitively and holistically. From a Holistic prospective, I consider the mental, physical, and spiritual factors that influence a person's well-being and to help people heal and thrive on a deeper level.
![Photo of Ashley McCulloch, MA , AMFT , Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/63f19e1c-56f1-4c13-9b65-f6458ce1c1e9/4/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley McCulloch
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA , AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
El Dorado Hills, CA 95762
Allowing yourself space to share vulnerable and emotional thoughts can sometimes be tough. Exploring these feelings without being judged can cultivate an opportunity to connect, grow, and heal as an individual. My hope is to provide a supportive environment and the tools to reach your goals. I am passionate about offering encouragement, validation, and support that will best suit your needs. While we will work to address the challenges you are facing, we will also dive into your strengths and uniqueness you possess. The experience towards self-discovery and healing is uniquely yours, and I am here to guide you every step of the way!
Allowing yourself space to share vulnerable and emotional thoughts can sometimes be tough. Exploring these feelings without being judged can cultivate an opportunity to connect, grow, and heal as an individual. My hope is to provide a supportive environment and the tools to reach your goals. I am passionate about offering encouragement, validation, and support that will best suit your needs. While we will work to address the challenges you are facing, we will also dive into your strengths and uniqueness you possess. The experience towards self-discovery and healing is uniquely yours, and I am here to guide you every step of the way!
![Photo of Xiaoting Joyce, LMFT, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/61fd6b2c-e5e5-4742-99f6-cc84eb9b46ea/1/320x400.jpeg)
Xiaoting Joyce
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
El Dorado Hills, CA 95762
Deep within, I believe everyone holds the keys to a life of profound meaning and joy. By discerning their dreams and charting their personal journeys, my clients unlock doors to lives they cherish all the more. In the wise words of Carl Jung, 'Man's task is to become conscious of the contents that press upward from the unconscious.'
Deep within, I believe everyone holds the keys to a life of profound meaning and joy. By discerning their dreams and charting their personal journeys, my clients unlock doors to lives they cherish all the more. In the wise words of Carl Jung, 'Man's task is to become conscious of the contents that press upward from the unconscious.'
![Photo of Gwenisha Sennie, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d39f0245-c70d-4b21-8677-b611837ded2d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Gwenisha Sennie
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
As a therapist, I strive to provide a safe and affirming space, in which families, individuals, couples, and children feel heard and supported, as they work towards deepening their insight into the root of their experiences and discovering their paths toward healing, peace, and connection. My specialties involve working with women and couples during pregnancy, and post-partum, as well as helping couples, children, individuals, and families process and cope with life changes, traumatic experiences, stress, and depression.
As a therapist, I strive to provide a safe and affirming space, in which families, individuals, couples, and children feel heard and supported, as they work towards deepening their insight into the root of their experiences and discovering their paths toward healing, peace, and connection. My specialties involve working with women and couples during pregnancy, and post-partum, as well as helping couples, children, individuals, and families process and cope with life changes, traumatic experiences, stress, and depression.
![Photo of Ellen L Turner, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c3420bf-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Ellen L Turner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Placerville, CA 95667
Not accepting new clients
I have been working with children (5-17) and their families for the past 22 years, helping children and families discover how early childhood trauma impacts the nervous system, and ways to correct the damage done.
Is your child acting out and causing disruption in your home and/or at school? Does your child seem to be anxious or sad? Is your child being defiant to your authority, or the authority of others at school? Does your child struggle with regulating emotions in healthy and productive ways? It is possible that your child is reacting to outside stressors and may not have the tools to help your child deal with those stressors. I provide in-home therapy services to children and their families, to help them discover what the stressors are, and learn new ways of coping with daily stressors.
I have been working with children (5-17) and their families for the past 22 years, helping children and families discover how early childhood trauma impacts the nervous system, and ways to correct the damage done.
Is your child acting out and causing disruption in your home and/or at school? Does your child seem to be anxious or sad? Is your child being defiant to your authority, or the authority of others at school? Does your child struggle with regulating emotions in healthy and productive ways? It is possible that your child is reacting to outside stressors and may not have the tools to help your child deal with those stressors. I provide in-home therapy services to children and their families, to help them discover what the stressors are, and learn new ways of coping with daily stressors.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Thuy Tran, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/19001e06-a919-4773-8dca-e5df440aeaa5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, my name is Thuy (Twee) Tran. I'm a licensed clinical social worker who helps individuals identify and utilize their inner resilience to cope with various life stressors or adversities. I have worked with people from all walks of life. Those who struggles with anxiety, depression, and/or trauma. I had the honor to work with survivors of human trafficking, domestic violence, and various forms of abuse during childhood.
Hello, my name is Thuy (Twee) Tran. I'm a licensed clinical social worker who helps individuals identify and utilize their inner resilience to cope with various life stressors or adversities. I have worked with people from all walks of life. Those who struggles with anxiety, depression, and/or trauma. I had the honor to work with survivors of human trafficking, domestic violence, and various forms of abuse during childhood.
![Photo of Dr. Marcella Kreysa, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fe1a3d7b-2ba1-4e26-9a8e-f7045d6b781b/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in treating Complex Trauma, Depression, ADHD, Anxiety, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Developmental Delays, relational disruptions and interpersonal difficulties, along with issues related to LGBTQIA+, and questions of gender and identity.
Life can be an overwhelming experience for anyone. Things can become especially challenging when a person feels stressed by circumstances beyond their control. Individuals who come to therapy are often very capable human beings who have experienced something in their life that has left them needing some extra support. Many times people begin therapy feeling down and lost. Through a person's work in therapy, they are often able to find some light on their path to help guide them through the pain. This shift creates an opportunity for a person to improve their day-to-day functioning and overall, they FEEL BETTER!!
I specialize in treating Complex Trauma, Depression, ADHD, Anxiety, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Developmental Delays, relational disruptions and interpersonal difficulties, along with issues related to LGBTQIA+, and questions of gender and identity.
Life can be an overwhelming experience for anyone. Things can become especially challenging when a person feels stressed by circumstances beyond their control. Individuals who come to therapy are often very capable human beings who have experienced something in their life that has left them needing some extra support. Many times people begin therapy feeling down and lost. Through a person's work in therapy, they are often able to find some light on their path to help guide them through the pain. This shift creates an opportunity for a person to improve their day-to-day functioning and overall, they FEEL BETTER!!
![Photo of Sherry E Ehrhart, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d5d4057c-9ad6-4644-a585-1ad982da2830/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sherry's clinical expertise includes trauma-informed therapy for children, even as young as infants.
Sherry is a licensed clinician who has over thirty years experience with children. Serving with a background in education and children’s programming leadership, Sherry has a passion for providing a trustworthy child-friendly space for effective healing work. Lasting effects in child therapy often include parent partnership and this service is integrated into weekly sessions to mentor each child’s long-term goals.
Sherry's clinical expertise includes trauma-informed therapy for children, even as young as infants.
Sherry is a licensed clinician who has over thirty years experience with children. Serving with a background in education and children’s programming leadership, Sherry has a passion for providing a trustworthy child-friendly space for effective healing work. Lasting effects in child therapy often include parent partnership and this service is integrated into weekly sessions to mentor each child’s long-term goals.
See more therapy options for El Dorado County
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.