Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Emerald Hills, CA

Photo of Elizabeth (Lisa) Ann Herendeen, LCSW, MEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth (Lisa) Ann Herendeen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Emerald Hills, CA 94062
Are your seeking a more peaceful and harmonious life?  One that can hold both the challenges and the goodness?  Therapy can help. My style is warm, empathic, and collaborative.  I use evidence-based techniques such as cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness and brain science. I would like to help you tackle what is impeding you and open up new options so that you can make good decisions and create more happiness for you and your loved ones.
Are your seeking a more peaceful and harmonious life?  One that can hold both the challenges and the goodness?  Therapy can help. My style is warm, empathic, and collaborative.  I use evidence-based techniques such as cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness and brain science. I would like to help you tackle what is impeding you and open up new options so that you can make good decisions and create more happiness for you and your loved ones.
(650) 334-1549 View (650) 334-1549

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Hong Jeong, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hong Jeong
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Redwood City, CA 94061
I specialize in trauma processing and am certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
We all go through emotional storms where we feel emotionally and physically stuck; we worry too much and lose control of ourselves. Do you find yourself thrown off balance by your childhood trauma? Childhood traumatic experiences such as abandonment, abuse, and neglect lead to social anxiety. My approach is solution-focused and tailored to your needs and goals. I am committed to providing a profound sense of safety and offering compassionate and actionable guidance to all my clients.
I specialize in trauma processing and am certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
We all go through emotional storms where we feel emotionally and physically stuck; we worry too much and lose control of ourselves. Do you find yourself thrown off balance by your childhood trauma? Childhood traumatic experiences such as abandonment, abuse, and neglect lead to social anxiety. My approach is solution-focused and tailored to your needs and goals. I am committed to providing a profound sense of safety and offering compassionate and actionable guidance to all my clients.
(669) 260-7354 View (669) 260-7354
Photo of Tanya T Wiser, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tanya T Wiser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Redwood City, CA 94061
I offer Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy for depression and anxiety, Compassion Focused Therapy for increasing self-compassion and intimacy with others, Mindfulness Based Relapse Prevention and Motivational Support to address mild to moderate addictions and Somatic Experiencing for healing from trauma.
Do you wish you were more present for life, yourself, and the people you love? Would you like to be free from negative thoughts, old wounds, and past trauma? Do you feel like you are making life more complicated, conflicted, or painful than easeful, calm, and connected? Is it hard for you to feel self-compassion? Is past trauma haunting you and disrupting your ability to live the life you want? Would you like help, tools, and the support you need to be able to turn toward your difficulties with mindfulness, kindness, and clarity? Do you want to pause more, reflect and show up for life with compassion, integrity, and wisdom?
I offer Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy for depression and anxiety, Compassion Focused Therapy for increasing self-compassion and intimacy with others, Mindfulness Based Relapse Prevention and Motivational Support to address mild to moderate addictions and Somatic Experiencing for healing from trauma.
Do you wish you were more present for life, yourself, and the people you love? Would you like to be free from negative thoughts, old wounds, and past trauma? Do you feel like you are making life more complicated, conflicted, or painful than easeful, calm, and connected? Is it hard for you to feel self-compassion? Is past trauma haunting you and disrupting your ability to live the life you want? Would you like help, tools, and the support you need to be able to turn toward your difficulties with mindfulness, kindness, and clarity? Do you want to pause more, reflect and show up for life with compassion, integrity, and wisdom?
(650) 557-2658 View (650) 557-2658
Photo of Christine Benetua, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Christine Benetua
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Redwood City, CA 94061
How do we move forward when trauma causes us to feel stuck?In our sessions, you can just be you, and let your defenses melt.
Accepting new clients! I work with couples, adults, teens, college students and kids. I understand how trauma can stop our daily lives, and force us to time travel to the past to relive our suffering. Trauma can cause blocks in our ability to think, feel, understand ourselves and the world.
How do we move forward when trauma causes us to feel stuck?In our sessions, you can just be you, and let your defenses melt.
Accepting new clients! I work with couples, adults, teens, college students and kids. I understand how trauma can stop our daily lives, and force us to time travel to the past to relive our suffering. Trauma can cause blocks in our ability to think, feel, understand ourselves and the world.
(415) 212-9827 View (415) 212-9827
Photo of Brett Gaynor - Dr. Brett Gaynor Psychotherapy and Consultation, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Brett Gaynor Psychotherapy and Consultation
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Redwood City, CA 94061
Guiding principles of my practice include a process-oriented diagnosis, trauma-informed treatment, and recognition that the brain is a social organ per current neurobiology.
I strive to facilitate a dialogue that both empowers and engages clients in their own self-healing, valuing the co-creation of a transformative narrative and experience. As a licensed clinical psychologist, experienced in treating both children and adults, I view emotional and behavioral challenges as a dynamic outcome that develops as a result of complex interactions across time, as opposed to something inherently "broken" inside an individual.
Guiding principles of my practice include a process-oriented diagnosis, trauma-informed treatment, and recognition that the brain is a social organ per current neurobiology.
I strive to facilitate a dialogue that both empowers and engages clients in their own self-healing, valuing the co-creation of a transformative narrative and experience. As a licensed clinical psychologist, experienced in treating both children and adults, I view emotional and behavioral challenges as a dynamic outcome that develops as a result of complex interactions across time, as opposed to something inherently "broken" inside an individual.
(415) 936-8748 View (415) 936-8748
Photo of Jason Magers, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jason Magers
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Redwood City, CA 94061
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is effective in undoing the impacts of trauma in a powerful way that is different than talk therapy, often creating lasting change.
I am a licensed psychotherapist and consultant specializing in individual psychotherapy and couple's therapy. I have extensive experience in the areas of PTSD, childhood wounding/abuse, and relational attachment issues. I believe everyone deserves a safe, secure space that welcomes all of them. Together we will explore the parts of yourself that seem harder to navigate, and over time we can develop a new understanding of the internal walls that hold you back from growth and a sense of connection.
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is effective in undoing the impacts of trauma in a powerful way that is different than talk therapy, often creating lasting change.
I am a licensed psychotherapist and consultant specializing in individual psychotherapy and couple's therapy. I have extensive experience in the areas of PTSD, childhood wounding/abuse, and relational attachment issues. I believe everyone deserves a safe, secure space that welcomes all of them. Together we will explore the parts of yourself that seem harder to navigate, and over time we can develop a new understanding of the internal walls that hold you back from growth and a sense of connection.
(408) 533-0581 View (408) 533-0581
Photo of Marcella Cox- Certified Eating Disorder Specialist, MS, LMFT, CEDS-S, CDWF, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marcella Cox- Certified Eating Disorder Specialist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CEDS-S, CDWF
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Redwood City, CA 94062  (Online Only)
At Kindful Body we specialize in working with disordered eating, eating disorders, body image dissatisfaction, and self-image issues, and underlying anxiety, shame and unresolved trauma.
Tired of struggling with your body, food, exercise or with yourself? You may be growing weary of feeling like you don't measure up and your constant mental chatter about your short-comings is taking a toll on you, your family, friendships, health and well-being. You may be feeling hopeless about breaking self-destructive pattens. Don't despair - you don't have to do this alone. Working together with a Kindful Body clinician we will begin a process that can heal your relationship with food, your body and yourself so you can live your life with greater ease and joy.
At Kindful Body we specialize in working with disordered eating, eating disorders, body image dissatisfaction, and self-image issues, and underlying anxiety, shame and unresolved trauma.
Tired of struggling with your body, food, exercise or with yourself? You may be growing weary of feeling like you don't measure up and your constant mental chatter about your short-comings is taking a toll on you, your family, friendships, health and well-being. You may be feeling hopeless about breaking self-destructive pattens. Don't despair - you don't have to do this alone. Working together with a Kindful Body clinician we will begin a process that can heal your relationship with food, your body and yourself so you can live your life with greater ease and joy.
(650) 727-5401 View (650) 727-5401
Photo of Sarah Rose Nagle, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Rose Nagle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Redwood City, CA 94059  (Online Only)
With 22 years of experience of working with family upheaval, foster care and physical and sexual abuse, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and domestic violence, I enjoy being present for those working on the above issues. Issues of loss and grief, parenting skills or a new life direction. In recent years, I have come to love working with families and siblings of children diagnosed with Autism. Many times these family members are left with no support in the day in and day out living with a child or sibling with Autism. Chronic pain is also a major interest of mine.
With 22 years of experience of working with family upheaval, foster care and physical and sexual abuse, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and domestic violence, I enjoy being present for those working on the above issues. Issues of loss and grief, parenting skills or a new life direction. In recent years, I have come to love working with families and siblings of children diagnosed with Autism. Many times these family members are left with no support in the day in and day out living with a child or sibling with Autism. Chronic pain is also a major interest of mine.
(650) 209-7692 View (650) 209-7692
Photo of Katherine Hohbach, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Katherine Hohbach
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Redwood City, CA 94059
Trauma and many of its related challenges can cause emotional reactions and physical responses causing you to wonder, will this ever get better? You may wonder, how long can I tolerate this bravery? I welcome supporting you. If complicated life themes tend to show up unexpectedly in behaviors that cause you to second guess yourself, I can help. Let’s collaborate and explore this knotted chain, which is really a portal into what blocks self confidence and connection. We'll find new solutions, reduce or resolve triggers that affect your everyday life in a way that is paced.
Trauma and many of its related challenges can cause emotional reactions and physical responses causing you to wonder, will this ever get better? You may wonder, how long can I tolerate this bravery? I welcome supporting you. If complicated life themes tend to show up unexpectedly in behaviors that cause you to second guess yourself, I can help. Let’s collaborate and explore this knotted chain, which is really a portal into what blocks self confidence and connection. We'll find new solutions, reduce or resolve triggers that affect your everyday life in a way that is paced.
(650) 731-0464 View (650) 731-0464
Photo of Audrey Hu, ASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Audrey Hu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ASW
Verified Verified
Redwood City, CA 94061
We all feel lost from time to time, but there’s always light at the end of the tunnel. I’ve been through my own therapy as a young adult when I was stuck in a bout of anxiety and panic attacks due to childhood trauma. Throughout my years of working with traumatized individuals, I learned first-hand about how childhood trauma can have a strong impact on adulthood. I can help you address unresolved trauma, in order for you to find passion, connection, and purpose in your life.
We all feel lost from time to time, but there’s always light at the end of the tunnel. I’ve been through my own therapy as a young adult when I was stuck in a bout of anxiety and panic attacks due to childhood trauma. Throughout my years of working with traumatized individuals, I learned first-hand about how childhood trauma can have a strong impact on adulthood. I can help you address unresolved trauma, in order for you to find passion, connection, and purpose in your life.
(669) 200-2682 View (669) 200-2682
Photo of Pyar Khatri, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Pyar Khatri
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Redwood City, CA 94062  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have helped with healing from trauma, behavioral concerns, emotional dysregulation, and more.
We are unfortunately not born with a manual on how to live life. It’s unpredictable complexities jolt us out of the path we had so carefully planned for ourselves, and leave us in a place of feeling lost. These obstacles can appear in various ways; parenting, relationships, work, loss, violence and sometimes do not appear at all except for a knot in our stomach. What does one do when the next step is not clear? It is in these moments of uncertainty where I can be of help. There is no right or wrong reason, or person, for therapy; it is an opportunity to put life on pause for an hour, while we work together to uncover the next step.
I have helped with healing from trauma, behavioral concerns, emotional dysregulation, and more.
We are unfortunately not born with a manual on how to live life. It’s unpredictable complexities jolt us out of the path we had so carefully planned for ourselves, and leave us in a place of feeling lost. These obstacles can appear in various ways; parenting, relationships, work, loss, violence and sometimes do not appear at all except for a knot in our stomach. What does one do when the next step is not clear? It is in these moments of uncertainty where I can be of help. There is no right or wrong reason, or person, for therapy; it is an opportunity to put life on pause for an hour, while we work together to uncover the next step.
(650) 460-5115 View (650) 460-5115
Photo of Esther Bolton, AMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Esther Bolton
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodside, CA 94061  (Online Only)
Welcome here! I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist connecting with clients throughout the Bay Area and California. I work with men, women and children who are navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, life transition, loss and personal development.
Welcome here! I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist connecting with clients throughout the Bay Area and California. I work with men, women and children who are navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, life transition, loss and personal development.
(510) 822-6584 View (510) 822-6584
Photo of Jane Vanderwerf, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jane Vanderwerf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Redwood City, CA 94063
My name is Jane Vanderwerf, and I am an LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) who specializes in anxiety, stress, and developmental trauma. I am a supportive, authentic, and direct therapist who prioritizes my clients' emotional safety and sense of connectedness. I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Psychodynamic Therapy. In practice, this means that we identify the underlying causes for symptoms and then use that insight to change the way you think and behave to reduce symptoms and improve functioning. I also use Exposure and Response Prevention for anxiety, Narrative Therapy, and some trauma-informed modalities.
My name is Jane Vanderwerf, and I am an LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) who specializes in anxiety, stress, and developmental trauma. I am a supportive, authentic, and direct therapist who prioritizes my clients' emotional safety and sense of connectedness. I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Psychodynamic Therapy. In practice, this means that we identify the underlying causes for symptoms and then use that insight to change the way you think and behave to reduce symptoms and improve functioning. I also use Exposure and Response Prevention for anxiety, Narrative Therapy, and some trauma-informed modalities.
(530) 461-5855 View (530) 461-5855
Photo of Emily Peltason, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Emily Peltason
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Redwood City, CA 94059  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I offer psychotherapy that is relational, depth-oriented, trauma-informed, and LGBTQIA+/Neurodiversity-affirming.
Wherever you find yourself right now, I am here to support you in your journey to connect with yourself or others, gain understanding, experience relief, and, ultimately, build a more satisfying life. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, or feelings of being stuck, therapy presents an opportunity to shift your experience and grow your capacity for change. Effective therapy produces relief from suffering, but not only that: it is also makes way for a new sense of freedom to emerge, rendering once unthinkable choices or ways of being in the world newly within reach.
I offer psychotherapy that is relational, depth-oriented, trauma-informed, and LGBTQIA+/Neurodiversity-affirming.
Wherever you find yourself right now, I am here to support you in your journey to connect with yourself or others, gain understanding, experience relief, and, ultimately, build a more satisfying life. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, or feelings of being stuck, therapy presents an opportunity to shift your experience and grow your capacity for change. Effective therapy produces relief from suffering, but not only that: it is also makes way for a new sense of freedom to emerge, rendering once unthinkable choices or ways of being in the world newly within reach.
(650) 262-3992 View (650) 262-3992
Photo of Nicole Woolf, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Woolf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Redwood City, CA 94061
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
Photo of Brandy Dunn - Silver Lake Psychology, PsyD, Psychologist
Silver Lake Psychology
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Redwood City, CA 94061
Relationship and sexual concerns, couples therapy, anxiety, addiction, trauma, eating disorders, stress management, insomnia, women's issues, creativity, LGBTQ- welcome.
Learn how to feel more connected to yourself, others, and the world around you. Therapy provides all the elements of intimacy: honest communication, vulnerability, and trust. Good therapy is challenging yet warm, providing both structure and empathy for your unique experience.
Relationship and sexual concerns, couples therapy, anxiety, addiction, trauma, eating disorders, stress management, insomnia, women's issues, creativity, LGBTQ- welcome.
Learn how to feel more connected to yourself, others, and the world around you. Therapy provides all the elements of intimacy: honest communication, vulnerability, and trust. Good therapy is challenging yet warm, providing both structure and empathy for your unique experience.
(415) 649-9458 View (415) 649-9458
Photo of Connor Adams, Psychologist
Connor Adams
Psychologist
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Redwood City, CA 94061  (Online Only)
My areas of focus include relationships, trauma, and managing overwhelming emotions.
Often people seek support when it feels like "something" isn't working - perhaps in a relationship, your career, or within yourself. That feeling may be connected to a specific event, relationship, or personal trait, or it might be hard to identify that "something." As we get to know each other, we'll work to identify what's not working and determine how to bring change and relief. We'll likely notice patterns in your relationships, ways of approaching problems, or in how you see the world. Then we'll explore how these patterns impact your life, so you have the power to choose whether to continue them or develop new patterns.
My areas of focus include relationships, trauma, and managing overwhelming emotions.
Often people seek support when it feels like "something" isn't working - perhaps in a relationship, your career, or within yourself. That feeling may be connected to a specific event, relationship, or personal trait, or it might be hard to identify that "something." As we get to know each other, we'll work to identify what's not working and determine how to bring change and relief. We'll likely notice patterns in your relationships, ways of approaching problems, or in how you see the world. Then we'll explore how these patterns impact your life, so you have the power to choose whether to continue them or develop new patterns.
(650) 663-4181 View (650) 663-4181
Photo of Vanessa Ruvalcaba, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Vanessa Ruvalcaba
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Atherton, CA 94027  (Online Only)
Trauma is complex and not a one size fits all.
Hello! My name is Ness (Vanessa) Ruvalcaba. I am a Spanish and English speaking licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California. I work with individuals and families who are are needing some extra support understanding or creating change in their lives. I specialize in trauma informed care, PTSD, anxiety and depression, self harm, family dynamics and various other issues and needs. I also work with individual around resolving conflict, improving communication, processing difficult experiences, and various other experiences. At this time, I do not work with couples.
Trauma is complex and not a one size fits all.
Hello! My name is Ness (Vanessa) Ruvalcaba. I am a Spanish and English speaking licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California. I work with individuals and families who are are needing some extra support understanding or creating change in their lives. I specialize in trauma informed care, PTSD, anxiety and depression, self harm, family dynamics and various other issues and needs. I also work with individual around resolving conflict, improving communication, processing difficult experiences, and various other experiences. At this time, I do not work with couples.
(858) 251-6486 View (858) 251-6486
Photo of Nicole Logan, LPC, EMDR
Nicole Logan
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Redwood City, CA 94061
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 Araceli Pimentel, MSW, ASW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Araceli Pimentel
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, ASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atherton, CA 94027  (Online Only)
My approach is holistic and grounded in psychodynamic, humanstic, and somatic orientations, I use a range of trauma modalities like Internal Family Systems (IFS), (EMDR), Emotion Focused Couples Therapy (EFCT), Somatic Experiencing (SE), Brainspotting (BSP), and more to tailor sessions to your unique needs.
Are you feeling stuck in a cycle of conflict and misunderstanding in your relationships? Do you long for deeper connections but find yourself facing barriers you can't seem to overcome? As a therapist specializing in relationship issues, I am here to offer you a guiding hand on your journey towards healing and connection. With a warm, empathetic approach, I provide a safe and supportive space for individuals and couples to explore their feelings, communicate effectively, and foster healthier relationships. My focus areas include anxiety/depression, childhood trauma, PTSD, people-pleasing, and marital/pre-marital issues .
My approach is holistic and grounded in psychodynamic, humanstic, and somatic orientations, I use a range of trauma modalities like Internal Family Systems (IFS), (EMDR), Emotion Focused Couples Therapy (EFCT), Somatic Experiencing (SE), Brainspotting (BSP), and more to tailor sessions to your unique needs.
Are you feeling stuck in a cycle of conflict and misunderstanding in your relationships? Do you long for deeper connections but find yourself facing barriers you can't seem to overcome? As a therapist specializing in relationship issues, I am here to offer you a guiding hand on your journey towards healing and connection. With a warm, empathetic approach, I provide a safe and supportive space for individuals and couples to explore their feelings, communicate effectively, and foster healthier relationships. My focus areas include anxiety/depression, childhood trauma, PTSD, people-pleasing, and marital/pre-marital issues .
(323) 312-3401 View (323) 312-3401

See more therapy options for Emerald Hills

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.