Trauma and PTSD Therapists in La Jolla, CA

Photo of Nicole Karst, PsyD, LVN, Psychologist
Nicole Karst
Psychologist, PsyD, LVN
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
Dr. Nicole Karst is a clinical forensic psychologist, nurse, and veteran. She has extensive health and mental health treatment experience at all levels of care ranging from hospitalization to outpatient psychotherapy. She specializes in the treatment of trauma, mood instability, obsessive thoughts, relationship problems, stress management, and mind-body wellness.
Dr. Nicole Karst is a clinical forensic psychologist, nurse, and veteran. She has extensive health and mental health treatment experience at all levels of care ranging from hospitalization to outpatient psychotherapy. She specializes in the treatment of trauma, mood instability, obsessive thoughts, relationship problems, stress management, and mind-body wellness.
(858) 683-6419 x1031 View (858) 683-6419 x1031
Photo of Michelle Marie Carcel - Michelle Carcel, Psy.D., PsyD, Psychologist
Michelle Carcel, Psy.D.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037
My specialization and training includes: eating disorders, trauma/ PTSD, anxiety, depression, mood and personality disorders, health and wellness concerns among others.
First and foremost, congratulations on taking a step towards accomplishing your goals! Making the decision to work with a therapist to help manage any life stressor takes strength and commitment. When working with a new client, one of my primary objectives is to foster a welcoming and encouraging environment. I believe the best outcomes stem from an engaging, collaborative working relationship. Therapy is a very personal experience and I encourage my clients to be active participants in their therapeutic success.
My specialization and training includes: eating disorders, trauma/ PTSD, anxiety, depression, mood and personality disorders, health and wellness concerns among others.
First and foremost, congratulations on taking a step towards accomplishing your goals! Making the decision to work with a therapist to help manage any life stressor takes strength and commitment. When working with a new client, one of my primary objectives is to foster a welcoming and encouraging environment. I believe the best outcomes stem from an engaging, collaborative working relationship. Therapy is a very personal experience and I encourage my clients to be active participants in their therapeutic success.
(858) 337-5258 View (858) 337-5258
Photo of Moira Haller, PhD, Psychologist
Moira Haller
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037
Note: For those with PTSD, I have extensive experience with Prolonged Exposure, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and ACT.
Have you experienced a traumatic event you cannot seem to get out of your mind? Do anxiety and worry get in the way of living your best life? Does constant stress suck the joy out of life? Do you have trouble falling or staying asleep? If you answered yes to any of these questions, I may be the right therapist for you. I want you to know that recovery is possible, no matter how long you have been struggling. My practice specializes in treating PTSD, trauma-related guilt, anxiety disorders (e.g., social anxiety, generalized anxiety, panic disorder), insomnia, stress from infertility/pregnancy loss, and addiction/dual-diagnosis.
Note: For those with PTSD, I have extensive experience with Prolonged Exposure, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and ACT.
Have you experienced a traumatic event you cannot seem to get out of your mind? Do anxiety and worry get in the way of living your best life? Does constant stress suck the joy out of life? Do you have trouble falling or staying asleep? If you answered yes to any of these questions, I may be the right therapist for you. I want you to know that recovery is possible, no matter how long you have been struggling. My practice specializes in treating PTSD, trauma-related guilt, anxiety disorders (e.g., social anxiety, generalized anxiety, panic disorder), insomnia, stress from infertility/pregnancy loss, and addiction/dual-diagnosis.
(858) 267-4193 View (858) 267-4193
Photo of Shelby Robinson, PsyD, Psychologist
Shelby Robinson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
I am trained in and feel comfortable providing evidence-based treatment for PTSD and complex trauma, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, grief, and life transitions.
Hello there! My name is Dr. Shelby Robinson, and I am a licensed clinical psychologist with Live Better Psychotherapy. I enjoy working with all types of folks dealing with PTSD, complex (developmental) trauma, anxiety and stress, depression, grief, and life transitions. I've received extensive, specialized education and training in the treatment of traumatic stress and feel very passionate about helping folks process and overcome traumatic life experiences.
I am trained in and feel comfortable providing evidence-based treatment for PTSD and complex trauma, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, grief, and life transitions.
Hello there! My name is Dr. Shelby Robinson, and I am a licensed clinical psychologist with Live Better Psychotherapy. I enjoy working with all types of folks dealing with PTSD, complex (developmental) trauma, anxiety and stress, depression, grief, and life transitions. I've received extensive, specialized education and training in the treatment of traumatic stress and feel very passionate about helping folks process and overcome traumatic life experiences.
(858) 295-8577 x101 View (858) 295-8577 x101
Photo of Bernadette M. Di Toro, PsyD, MS, Psychologist
Bernadette M. Di Toro
Psychologist, PsyD, MS
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
I bring together the heart and science of psychology to my practice and 25 years experience in the field of mental health. I have worked as a researcher and clinician in inpatient and outpatient settings (including UCSD and the VA) and focused on trauma, grief, depression, dementia, Alzheimer's disease and forensics. I received a B.A. from Lehigh University in Psychology and Health & Human Development, an M.S.Degree from SDSU in Gerontology (the study of aging), and an M.A. Degree and a Doctorate Degree in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology.
I bring together the heart and science of psychology to my practice and 25 years experience in the field of mental health. I have worked as a researcher and clinician in inpatient and outpatient settings (including UCSD and the VA) and focused on trauma, grief, depression, dementia, Alzheimer's disease and forensics. I received a B.A. from Lehigh University in Psychology and Health & Human Development, an M.S.Degree from SDSU in Gerontology (the study of aging), and an M.A. Degree and a Doctorate Degree in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology.
(858) 348-4139 View (858) 348-4139
Photo of Tatiana Anastasia Chircop Rollick, PhD, MA, MS, Psychologist
Tatiana Anastasia Chircop Rollick
Psychologist, PhD, MA, MS
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
My passion as a clinician is treating trauma and comorbid disorders including depression, anxiety depersonalization, derealization mood disorder adjustment, grief, and loss.
Dr. Chircop-Rollick earned her B.A. in Counseling Psychology graduating Cuma Sum Luda from Hawaii Pacific University, and received her MA from Pepperdine University in Malibu, CA. Dr. Chircop-Rollick completed an additional MS and a Dual PhD in Clinical Psychology and Industrial Psychology at California School of Professional Psych iSan Diego; She is published in peer-reviewed journals including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Supportive Psychotherapy, Phantom limb pain, PTSD, Chronic Back Pain utilizing multimodal telehealth Interventions.She spent 10 yers working for the correctional Prison system with inpatient acute population
My passion as a clinician is treating trauma and comorbid disorders including depression, anxiety depersonalization, derealization mood disorder adjustment, grief, and loss.
Dr. Chircop-Rollick earned her B.A. in Counseling Psychology graduating Cuma Sum Luda from Hawaii Pacific University, and received her MA from Pepperdine University in Malibu, CA. Dr. Chircop-Rollick completed an additional MS and a Dual PhD in Clinical Psychology and Industrial Psychology at California School of Professional Psych iSan Diego; She is published in peer-reviewed journals including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Supportive Psychotherapy, Phantom limb pain, PTSD, Chronic Back Pain utilizing multimodal telehealth Interventions.She spent 10 yers working for the correctional Prison system with inpatient acute population
(858) 358-3795 View (858) 358-3795
Photo of Stamatia Daroglou, PhD, Psychologist
Stamatia Daroglou
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
Daroglou specializes in trauma and grief.
Dr. Daroglou is a licensed psychologist. She has worked in the mental health field for over two decades and has been licensed as a psychologist in California since 2005. She offers psychotherapy for individuals and couples. She has offices in La Jolla and Encinitas for face-to-face appointments and also offers Tele-Health. Visit our website at: https://www.sdpsychology.org/
Daroglou specializes in trauma and grief.
Dr. Daroglou is a licensed psychologist. She has worked in the mental health field for over two decades and has been licensed as a psychologist in California since 2005. She offers psychotherapy for individuals and couples. She has offices in La Jolla and Encinitas for face-to-face appointments and also offers Tele-Health. Visit our website at: https://www.sdpsychology.org/
(858) 295-3823 View (858) 295-3823
Photo of Jean Campbell, PhD, Psychologist
Jean Campbell
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
Recovery from trauma, especially assoicated with domestic violence, sexual abuse, and assault, are areas of special focus.
Therapy usually begins with taking stock of one's current situation in life, and figuring out the best way to move forward. I have been helping adults and children with difficult life situations and transitions for almost 30 years. My intent is to be understanding; to listen and to hear but also provide feedback, in an environment you can count on as confidential and safe. I work with children, adults, and families.
Recovery from trauma, especially assoicated with domestic violence, sexual abuse, and assault, are areas of special focus.
Therapy usually begins with taking stock of one's current situation in life, and figuring out the best way to move forward. I have been helping adults and children with difficult life situations and transitions for almost 30 years. My intent is to be understanding; to listen and to hear but also provide feedback, in an environment you can count on as confidential and safe. I work with children, adults, and families.
(858) 375-4696 View (858) 375-4696
Photo of Jelena Bodinet, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jelena Bodinet
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037
Are you struggling with self-doubt, anxiety, depression, or relationship challenges that seem rooted in past experiences? I specialize in helping adults break free from the lasting effects of childhood trauma. My practice is centered on guiding clients toward healing using an individualized, evidence-based approach. I integrate Somatic Experiencing (SE), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and mindfulness-based cognitive behavioral approaches to help clients overcome trauma-related patterns, foster self-compassion, restore emotional balance, and create lasting, meaningful change.
Are you struggling with self-doubt, anxiety, depression, or relationship challenges that seem rooted in past experiences? I specialize in helping adults break free from the lasting effects of childhood trauma. My practice is centered on guiding clients toward healing using an individualized, evidence-based approach. I integrate Somatic Experiencing (SE), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and mindfulness-based cognitive behavioral approaches to help clients overcome trauma-related patterns, foster self-compassion, restore emotional balance, and create lasting, meaningful change.
(619) 413-7113 View (619) 413-7113
Photo of Heather Johns - Anxiety And Trauma Therapist, MA, LPCC
Heather Johns - Anxiety And Trauma Therapist
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037
I have a passion for working with survivors of sexual assault, intimate partner violence, and other traumas experiencing anxiety, panic attacks, and PTSD.
If you are a survivor of trauma, I am here to help you regain a sense of safety and wholeness. Together we can significantly reduce the negative effects that these events continue to have on your life. As a person-centered and trauma-informed therapist, I work to create a safe and judgement-free space where my client and I can walk along their healing journey together, gaining insight, learning coping skills, and building resiliency along the way.
I have a passion for working with survivors of sexual assault, intimate partner violence, and other traumas experiencing anxiety, panic attacks, and PTSD.
If you are a survivor of trauma, I am here to help you regain a sense of safety and wholeness. Together we can significantly reduce the negative effects that these events continue to have on your life. As a person-centered and trauma-informed therapist, I work to create a safe and judgement-free space where my client and I can walk along their healing journey together, gaining insight, learning coping skills, and building resiliency along the way.
(619) 612-5085 View (619) 612-5085
Photo of Wendy Myers - Sage Recovery Services, LAADC, ICADC, MSCP, LMHC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Sage Recovery Services
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LAADC, ICADC, MSCP, LMHC
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
I utilize Evidence Based practices such as CBT, Solution Focus, Person Centered and DBT for addiction and recovery, grief and loss, trauma, anxiety, depression to help you in developing coping skills to walk through this healing process and help you to start living.
For 30 years, I have specialized in attending to the needs of my clients with addiction problems and mental health needs. I am very passionate about working with individuals who want to improve themselves, live a productive and happier, peaceful life. I will help you to find the right skills and tools to utilize in your recovery.
I utilize Evidence Based practices such as CBT, Solution Focus, Person Centered and DBT for addiction and recovery, grief and loss, trauma, anxiety, depression to help you in developing coping skills to walk through this healing process and help you to start living.
For 30 years, I have specialized in attending to the needs of my clients with addiction problems and mental health needs. I am very passionate about working with individuals who want to improve themselves, live a productive and happier, peaceful life. I will help you to find the right skills and tools to utilize in your recovery.
(760) 307-1195 View (760) 307-1195
Photo of Anya Levine Morrill, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anya Levine Morrill
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
I specialize in supporting teens and adults with challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, and relational struggles.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or down due to life's unexpected challenges? Whether you're struggling with relationships, work, or daily stressors, these issues can take a toll on your well-being and diminish your enjoyment of life. It’s common to feel isolated and unsure of where to start when trying to improve your mental health. I offer a supportive and compassionate space where you can explore your experience and find clarity. With the right guidance and support, you'll find that you have the ability to conquer these challenges and discover opportunities for personal growth and renewed happiness.
I specialize in supporting teens and adults with challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, and relational struggles.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or down due to life's unexpected challenges? Whether you're struggling with relationships, work, or daily stressors, these issues can take a toll on your well-being and diminish your enjoyment of life. It’s common to feel isolated and unsure of where to start when trying to improve your mental health. I offer a supportive and compassionate space where you can explore your experience and find clarity. With the right guidance and support, you'll find that you have the ability to conquer these challenges and discover opportunities for personal growth and renewed happiness.
(858) 779-2046 View (858) 779-2046
Photo of Shannon Moore, PsyD, Psychologist
Shannon Moore
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92039  (Online Only)
My specialty is working with adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma and other mental health diagnoses.
Hello. Are you a high functioning adult who lives in California where the weather is often practically perfect, and the scenery may be spectacular? Outwardly you may appear to have "the beautiful life" but you don't feel like that on the inside? Do you feel sad or anxious, or have unresolved life problems that gnaw at you? You may benefit from talking with a caring, licensed professional psychologist like me. Therapy is difficult and can be very rewarding. Let me help you. For more than 20 years I've effectively helped adults in Minnesota, Texas and California. I look forward to meeting with & working with you.
My specialty is working with adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma and other mental health diagnoses.
Hello. Are you a high functioning adult who lives in California where the weather is often practically perfect, and the scenery may be spectacular? Outwardly you may appear to have "the beautiful life" but you don't feel like that on the inside? Do you feel sad or anxious, or have unresolved life problems that gnaw at you? You may benefit from talking with a caring, licensed professional psychologist like me. Therapy is difficult and can be very rewarding. Let me help you. For more than 20 years I've effectively helped adults in Minnesota, Texas and California. I look forward to meeting with & working with you.
(858) 766-4509 View (858) 766-4509
Photo of Angela Anderson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angela Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
I have experience working with the aging and disabled populations, those facing difficult health diagnoses, and caregiving challenges. I've also helped people address grief, and past trauma along with supporting those who seek to maintain health, independence, and dignity. My approach marries compassion, experience, and science. The therapeutic relationship is the priority as those who feel safe, validated, and heard are often open to genuine healing. I have been trained in various Evidence-based practices (EBPs) for various issues. I provide services in English and Spanish.
I have experience working with the aging and disabled populations, those facing difficult health diagnoses, and caregiving challenges. I've also helped people address grief, and past trauma along with supporting those who seek to maintain health, independence, and dignity. My approach marries compassion, experience, and science. The therapeutic relationship is the priority as those who feel safe, validated, and heard are often open to genuine healing. I have been trained in various Evidence-based practices (EBPs) for various issues. I provide services in English and Spanish.
(858) 289-0586 View (858) 289-0586
Photo of Dr. Julie Manoogian, PsyD, MSW, Psychologist
Dr. Julie Manoogian
Psychologist, PsyD, MSW
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
I specialize in individual and couples psychotherapy and I also provide clinical hypnosis. EMDR is offered by other providers in my group. Please visit Lajollapsychologists.com. I have over 18 years of experience in the mental health field and I have worked in multiple settings, including college counseling centers and an inpatient residential treatment facility. I am particularly interested in the treatment of trauma, depression, relationship challenges, postpartum health, infertility, emotion regulation, anxiety, stress, and depression. We specialize in working with marginalized populations and our group is LGBTQIA+ affirming.
I specialize in individual and couples psychotherapy and I also provide clinical hypnosis. EMDR is offered by other providers in my group. Please visit Lajollapsychologists.com. I have over 18 years of experience in the mental health field and I have worked in multiple settings, including college counseling centers and an inpatient residential treatment facility. I am particularly interested in the treatment of trauma, depression, relationship challenges, postpartum health, infertility, emotion regulation, anxiety, stress, and depression. We specialize in working with marginalized populations and our group is LGBTQIA+ affirming.
(858) 285-4353 View (858) 285-4353
Photo of Carol Randolph, PhD, Psychologist
Carol Randolph
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
Choosing a therapist is like selecting an ally. After 30 years in practice, I assure you that no two alliances are the same. My skill rests on my ability to form safe, durable working relationships with clients, providing the space and support necessary to understand and resolve obstacles. I am trained in a range of modalities to treat mood & anxiety disorders, problems stemming from childhood trauma, PTSD, issues regarding attachment, substance abuse or problems with impulse control. Issues commonly seen include love or work-related difficulties. I favor a collaborative and positive approach, and believe this work is a privilege..
Choosing a therapist is like selecting an ally. After 30 years in practice, I assure you that no two alliances are the same. My skill rests on my ability to form safe, durable working relationships with clients, providing the space and support necessary to understand and resolve obstacles. I am trained in a range of modalities to treat mood & anxiety disorders, problems stemming from childhood trauma, PTSD, issues regarding attachment, substance abuse or problems with impulse control. Issues commonly seen include love or work-related difficulties. I favor a collaborative and positive approach, and believe this work is a privilege..
(619) 785-3987 x619699 View (619) 785-3987 x619699
Photo of Dr. Naomi Midura - La Jolla Psychologists, PsyD, Psychological Associate
La Jolla Psychologists
Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
My name is Dr. Naomi Midura. I am a Registered Psychological Associate at La Jolla Psychologists. Prior to this role I have worked as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for 11+ years. I specialize in trauma informed work supporting insight regarding how wounds and ruptures affect our experiences, strategies for regulating and soothing our bodies and utilizing mindfulness strategies to support healing with ourselves and others. I partner with individuals, couples, and families. I look forward to partnering with you any way I can support growth and healing.
My name is Dr. Naomi Midura. I am a Registered Psychological Associate at La Jolla Psychologists. Prior to this role I have worked as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for 11+ years. I specialize in trauma informed work supporting insight regarding how wounds and ruptures affect our experiences, strategies for regulating and soothing our bodies and utilizing mindfulness strategies to support healing with ourselves and others. I partner with individuals, couples, and families. I look forward to partnering with you any way I can support growth and healing.
(858) 786-0469 View (858) 786-0469
Photo of Kellie Delli Colli, PhD, BCN, RYT, Psychologist
Kellie Delli Colli
Psychologist, PhD, BCN, RYT
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
Unlock healing with EMDR for trauma recovery.
Are you facing the overwhelming weight of life's challenges, experiencing obsessive thoughts, intrusive memories, feeling disconnected from others, fatigue, feeling on edge, sadness, fear, worry, or constant distraction? If these difficulties impact your work, relationships, and overall well-being, I am here to support you through a powerful process of healing and growth. I specialize in treating people who experience trauma, depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. Through your engagement in treatment, you will free yourself from suffering, overcome obstacles, and foster your resilience.
Unlock healing with EMDR for trauma recovery.
Are you facing the overwhelming weight of life's challenges, experiencing obsessive thoughts, intrusive memories, feeling disconnected from others, fatigue, feeling on edge, sadness, fear, worry, or constant distraction? If these difficulties impact your work, relationships, and overall well-being, I am here to support you through a powerful process of healing and growth. I specialize in treating people who experience trauma, depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. Through your engagement in treatment, you will free yourself from suffering, overcome obstacles, and foster your resilience.
(619) 598-0813 View (619) 598-0813
Photo of Sandra Nunez - Guiding Hope Individual and Family Therapy, DBA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Guiding Hope Individual and Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, DBA, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
People search for therapy for various reasons. Most often these reasons include feelings of sadness, experiencing difficulties adjusting to life changes, difficulties dealing with chronic physical pain, emotional pain, trauma, depression, anger, stress and anxieties. Perhaps you are trying to heal from a difficult relationship breakup, leaving you feeling sad and defeated. It could be that you are a part of a newly formed blended family, living together for the first time, and instead of joy you are experiencing chaos. You may be seeking help, because your spouse has received orders for yet another deployment with the military.
People search for therapy for various reasons. Most often these reasons include feelings of sadness, experiencing difficulties adjusting to life changes, difficulties dealing with chronic physical pain, emotional pain, trauma, depression, anger, stress and anxieties. Perhaps you are trying to heal from a difficult relationship breakup, leaving you feeling sad and defeated. It could be that you are a part of a newly formed blended family, living together for the first time, and instead of joy you are experiencing chaos. You may be seeking help, because your spouse has received orders for yet another deployment with the military.
(619) 432-4230 View (619) 432-4230
Photo of Samantha Arreola, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha Arreola
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
I am a trauma-informed therapist who supports clients in understanding how their experiences have impacted their relationships, self-image, motivation, work ethic, and all other aspects of life. I have been told I am very calm-natured and relatable, which clients appreciate in session. I support people who want to unapologetically set boundaries, discover who they are, stop people-pleasing, improve their self-worth, and manage their symptoms of depression and anxiety. I offer a lot of resources such as books, workbooks, podcasts, etc. to review outside of therapy which helps accelerate the therapy process.
I am a trauma-informed therapist who supports clients in understanding how their experiences have impacted their relationships, self-image, motivation, work ethic, and all other aspects of life. I have been told I am very calm-natured and relatable, which clients appreciate in session. I support people who want to unapologetically set boundaries, discover who they are, stop people-pleasing, improve their self-worth, and manage their symptoms of depression and anxiety. I offer a lot of resources such as books, workbooks, podcasts, etc. to review outside of therapy which helps accelerate the therapy process.
(858) 330-5790 View (858) 330-5790
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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.