Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Poway, CA

Photo of Mauricio Perdomo, MA, LMFT , Marriage & Family Therapist
Mauricio Perdomo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Poway, CA 92064  (Online Only)
I am a bilingual therapist who has experience working with both English and Spanish speaking individuals, couples, men, children, adolescents, young adults, and families in the areas of trauma, marital issues, men issues, childhood abuse, addictions, depression, anxiety, and family conflict.
My passion is to help families, marriages and individuals know personal and relational healing. I believe that we all have unique life experiences that shape who we are and how we connect with others. Sometimes these experiences do not foster compassion or the ability to connect with those you love in the way in which you desire. I understand this; it is part of my story, too! I hope to join you in the process of healing to not go it alone.
I am a bilingual therapist who has experience working with both English and Spanish speaking individuals, couples, men, children, adolescents, young adults, and families in the areas of trauma, marital issues, men issues, childhood abuse, addictions, depression, anxiety, and family conflict.
My passion is to help families, marriages and individuals know personal and relational healing. I believe that we all have unique life experiences that shape who we are and how we connect with others. Sometimes these experiences do not foster compassion or the ability to connect with those you love in the way in which you desire. I understand this; it is part of my story, too! I hope to join you in the process of healing to not go it alone.
(858) 213-0328 x4 View (858) 213-0328 x4
Photo of Michele R Madson Johnson Formerly Manker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michele R Madson Johnson Formerly Manker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Poway, CA 92064
I have training in Trauma, utilizing EMDR.
I like working with individuals, couples, or families who are motivated to examine patterns in their thinking or behavior for positive change. I enjoy working in a collaborative manner where there is an active exchange and where my client is open to feeling some discomfort for change - no pain/no gain. I believe that we are all capable of change through insight and that our upbringing can result in both good and bad habits that are flexible as long as we are conscious. I enjoy bringing in spirituality/meaning of life discussions to further my clients self awareness and growth.
I have training in Trauma, utilizing EMDR.
I like working with individuals, couples, or families who are motivated to examine patterns in their thinking or behavior for positive change. I enjoy working in a collaborative manner where there is an active exchange and where my client is open to feeling some discomfort for change - no pain/no gain. I believe that we are all capable of change through insight and that our upbringing can result in both good and bad habits that are flexible as long as we are conscious. I enjoy bringing in spirituality/meaning of life discussions to further my clients self awareness and growth.
(619) 346-4349 View (619) 346-4349
Photo of Jeffrey Tang, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jeffrey Tang
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Poway, CA 92064  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with trauma in all its different forms, including depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
When you look in the mirror, do you find yourself asking, “Am I enough?” Do you have this nagging suspicion that something is deeply wrong? Has it started to affect your relationships, your work, your overall sense of peace? It’s likely that you’ve had experiences that no matter what you do, you just can’t seem to forget. These experiences shape your reality, fuel your anxieties, leaving you on edge and burnt out. What would it feel to like to let go of the pain you’ve carried for so long? Imagine what life would be like if you had the emotional space and clarity to be the best you.
I specialize in working with trauma in all its different forms, including depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
When you look in the mirror, do you find yourself asking, “Am I enough?” Do you have this nagging suspicion that something is deeply wrong? Has it started to affect your relationships, your work, your overall sense of peace? It’s likely that you’ve had experiences that no matter what you do, you just can’t seem to forget. These experiences shape your reality, fuel your anxieties, leaving you on edge and burnt out. What would it feel to like to let go of the pain you’ve carried for so long? Imagine what life would be like if you had the emotional space and clarity to be the best you.
(619) 664-4688 View (619) 664-4688
Photo of Miriam Chor Freitas - Miriam Chor Freitas, LCSW., LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Miriam Chor Freitas, LCSW.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Poway, CA 92064
Are you struggling with difficulties that are robbing you of your ability to be present and experience physical and emotional health and peace of mind in your life today? Are you ready to transform your life? So let's do this! I'm a therapist who has worked with very diverse clients on trauma and a variety of other mental health issues and challenging life circumstances for over 15 years. It's is not our difficulties that define us but our willingness to recognize the problem and start the journey towards health and healing.
Are you struggling with difficulties that are robbing you of your ability to be present and experience physical and emotional health and peace of mind in your life today? Are you ready to transform your life? So let's do this! I'm a therapist who has worked with very diverse clients on trauma and a variety of other mental health issues and challenging life circumstances for over 15 years. It's is not our difficulties that define us but our willingness to recognize the problem and start the journey towards health and healing.
(858) 256-7984 View (858) 256-7984
Photo of Theresa Walker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Theresa Walker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Poway, CA 92064
I am an LCSW therapist located in Poway California. I specialize in EMDR therapy, PTSD, domestic violence, children's play therapy, grief and loss issues and self esteem building. I see individuals, couples, families and have group therapy sessions. I am committed to helping individuals, couples and families develop the relationships they desire among other people and themselves. My office is a safe place to begin the process of change and help people learn the tools needed in order to make the desired changes.
I am an LCSW therapist located in Poway California. I specialize in EMDR therapy, PTSD, domestic violence, children's play therapy, grief and loss issues and self esteem building. I see individuals, couples, families and have group therapy sessions. I am committed to helping individuals, couples and families develop the relationships they desire among other people and themselves. My office is a safe place to begin the process of change and help people learn the tools needed in order to make the desired changes.
(858) 386-4709 View (858) 386-4709
A Stable Life Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Poway, CA 92064
As a Psychotherapist I enjoy helping you become the person you yearn to be. Many people are held back due to a lack of confidence in themselves that likely began when they were young. For some people, hurtful words or experiences led to negative self-images, that caused what some people call "imposter syndrome". Other people experienced trauma that led to PTSD. I enjoy working with people who want to improve their lives, and are willing to work on themselves, with the help of an experienced Psychotherapist. Let me help you realize your career goals, improve your relationships, and your enjoyment of life.
As a Psychotherapist I enjoy helping you become the person you yearn to be. Many people are held back due to a lack of confidence in themselves that likely began when they were young. For some people, hurtful words or experiences led to negative self-images, that caused what some people call "imposter syndrome". Other people experienced trauma that led to PTSD. I enjoy working with people who want to improve their lives, and are willing to work on themselves, with the help of an experienced Psychotherapist. Let me help you realize your career goals, improve your relationships, and your enjoyment of life.
(760) 654-6911 View (760) 654-6911
Barbara Fouts
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Poway, CA 92064
As a Marriage/Family therapist and Educational Psychologist I assist individuals, families, couples and children overcome difficulties and begin the process of change in a safe, supportive environment. I specialize in Behavioral Issues, PTSD, relationships, parenting, effective communication, grief and loss, ADHD and Life Transitions. I help the whole person within their family, social environment and community. As a therapist and person I am committed to helping my clients create their journey through life in a positive, affirming manner.
As a Marriage/Family therapist and Educational Psychologist I assist individuals, families, couples and children overcome difficulties and begin the process of change in a safe, supportive environment. I specialize in Behavioral Issues, PTSD, relationships, parenting, effective communication, grief and loss, ADHD and Life Transitions. I help the whole person within their family, social environment and community. As a therapist and person I am committed to helping my clients create their journey through life in a positive, affirming manner.
(858) 381-5633 View (858) 381-5633
Photo of Bharati Patwardhan, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bharati Patwardhan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Poway, CA 92074  (Online Only)
With primary attachment, strength-based, trauma-focused approach, I use attachment theory, mindfulness, CBT, EFCT (emotionally-focused couples therapy), trauma-focused EMDR, psychodynamic theory.
Are you feeling rejected, abandoned, humiliated, hurt, and lonely in relationships with your spouse, parents, siblings, children, and in social relationships? Do you think people have taken advantage of you & nobody cares about you? Left untreated, this rejection, emotional wounds, and trauma affect the rest of our life. It manifests in the form of sadness, low self-esteem, unstable relationships, occupational stress, and even health issues. Don't wait to seek help for emotional pain/ injury as you wouldn't for physical injury. Yes, it is not easy to be vulnerable but growth begins with vulnerability!
With primary attachment, strength-based, trauma-focused approach, I use attachment theory, mindfulness, CBT, EFCT (emotionally-focused couples therapy), trauma-focused EMDR, psychodynamic theory.
Are you feeling rejected, abandoned, humiliated, hurt, and lonely in relationships with your spouse, parents, siblings, children, and in social relationships? Do you think people have taken advantage of you & nobody cares about you? Left untreated, this rejection, emotional wounds, and trauma affect the rest of our life. It manifests in the form of sadness, low self-esteem, unstable relationships, occupational stress, and even health issues. Don't wait to seek help for emotional pain/ injury as you wouldn't for physical injury. Yes, it is not easy to be vulnerable but growth begins with vulnerability!
(858) 295-3680 View (858) 295-3680
Photo of Erica Sterling, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erica Sterling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Poway, CA 92064
I'm a trauma informed counselor who values using a holistic approach where all aspects of a client and their story are welcome and encouraged to be part of our work together.
Hi! I'm a licensed counselor in NJ and CA working for 14 years with individuals, couples, adolescents, and families. I believe in a client centered approach where a safe, open environment is created and my client(s) is part of creating the counseling process. I utilize an integrative approach, pulling from different techniques that are best suited for a client's preferences and/or needs with a focus on client strengths. Progress looks like a client having more clarity and awareness of self, stability and calm within, harmony with how they interact with others and the world around them, and the ability to achieve desired goals.
I'm a trauma informed counselor who values using a holistic approach where all aspects of a client and their story are welcome and encouraged to be part of our work together.
Hi! I'm a licensed counselor in NJ and CA working for 14 years with individuals, couples, adolescents, and families. I believe in a client centered approach where a safe, open environment is created and my client(s) is part of creating the counseling process. I utilize an integrative approach, pulling from different techniques that are best suited for a client's preferences and/or needs with a focus on client strengths. Progress looks like a client having more clarity and awareness of self, stability and calm within, harmony with how they interact with others and the world around them, and the ability to achieve desired goals.
(760) 316-6952 View (760) 316-6952
Photo of Donna Rosko, PsyD, Psychologist
Donna Rosko
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Poway, CA 92064
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, phobias, OCD, mood disorders, trauma, stress, and the psychological ramifications of chronic health conditions.
Do you find yourself struggling with certain aspects of your life? Is it anxiety holding you back? Do you find yourself struggling with negative thoughts? Or perhaps you have had life throw an unexpected twist or turn and you are feeling overwhelmed. Therapy has taught me that not only can we cope through these issues, but we can become stronger from them. You can start living a better quality of life.
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, phobias, OCD, mood disorders, trauma, stress, and the psychological ramifications of chronic health conditions.
Do you find yourself struggling with certain aspects of your life? Is it anxiety holding you back? Do you find yourself struggling with negative thoughts? Or perhaps you have had life throw an unexpected twist or turn and you are feeling overwhelmed. Therapy has taught me that not only can we cope through these issues, but we can become stronger from them. You can start living a better quality of life.
(619) 202-4310 View (619) 202-4310
Photo of Rita Romero, PhD, Psychologist
Rita Romero
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Poway, CA 92064
Board Certified as a PTSD clinician, with special expertise and training with evidenced based training in treatment of trauma, and anxiety, you will know you are receiving the latest cutting edge approaches to your particular challenges.
Selected as one of the Three Best Rated Psychologists in San Diego in 2022, 2023 and 2024 and Woman of Distinction in 2023.. With 25 years of experience, I have been able to successfully empower individuals to identify and transform their personal, relational and professional challenges and reach their desired goals. I will bring compassion, respect and unique insight into our work together. My license is at the doctoral level as a psychologist, as well as having been licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist. Treatment will be uniquely tailored to your personality to effectively alleviate discomfort and maximize your goals.
Board Certified as a PTSD clinician, with special expertise and training with evidenced based training in treatment of trauma, and anxiety, you will know you are receiving the latest cutting edge approaches to your particular challenges.
Selected as one of the Three Best Rated Psychologists in San Diego in 2022, 2023 and 2024 and Woman of Distinction in 2023.. With 25 years of experience, I have been able to successfully empower individuals to identify and transform their personal, relational and professional challenges and reach their desired goals. I will bring compassion, respect and unique insight into our work together. My license is at the doctoral level as a psychologist, as well as having been licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist. Treatment will be uniquely tailored to your personality to effectively alleviate discomfort and maximize your goals.
(760) 303-4783 View (760) 303-4783
Photo of Uri Kugel, PhD, Psychologist
Uri Kugel
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Poway, CA 92064
I am experienced in treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, behavioral issues, grief, adjustment issues, autism spectrum disorder, academic underachievement, ADHD, parenting issues, relationship distress, and improving peoples' career and personal success.
Have you been feeling unhappy, unsatisfied, not good enough, or anxious? Is it hard for you to parent your child or communicate with your partner? Do you feel stuck? I am here to give you the space that you need and help you make a significant and long lasting positive change towards success. Contact me today to get started on a better path for you and your loved ones!
I am experienced in treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, behavioral issues, grief, adjustment issues, autism spectrum disorder, academic underachievement, ADHD, parenting issues, relationship distress, and improving peoples' career and personal success.
Have you been feeling unhappy, unsatisfied, not good enough, or anxious? Is it hard for you to parent your child or communicate with your partner? Do you feel stuck? I am here to give you the space that you need and help you make a significant and long lasting positive change towards success. Contact me today to get started on a better path for you and your loved ones!
(510) 343-7217 View (510) 343-7217
Photo of Erica Petree, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erica Petree
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Poway, CA 92064
Over 18 years of experience providing Trauma Therapy, Postpartum Therapy, Family Therapy, Couples Therapy and Parenting and Co-Parenting.
Your current situation does not define you. It's a bump in the road, a pit-stop to learn from. It takes a village and I am here to be a part of your village. My scope of competence is in trauma, postpartum, attachment, family conflict, anxiety, school/work related problems, parent education, parent-child conflict, divorce, co-parenting and depression. Don't let the pain and struggle of your present situation keep you from living your truth. I am licensed in Tennessee, Texas, California and Virginia. Offering in-person therapy in Tennessee and virtual to Tennessee, California, Texas and Virginia.
Over 18 years of experience providing Trauma Therapy, Postpartum Therapy, Family Therapy, Couples Therapy and Parenting and Co-Parenting.
Your current situation does not define you. It's a bump in the road, a pit-stop to learn from. It takes a village and I am here to be a part of your village. My scope of competence is in trauma, postpartum, attachment, family conflict, anxiety, school/work related problems, parent education, parent-child conflict, divorce, co-parenting and depression. Don't let the pain and struggle of your present situation keep you from living your truth. I am licensed in Tennessee, Texas, California and Virginia. Offering in-person therapy in Tennessee and virtual to Tennessee, California, Texas and Virginia.
(423) 205-5757 View (423) 205-5757
Photo of Stephen M White, PsyD, Psychologist
Stephen M White
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Poway, CA 92064  (Online Only)
EMDR is an approach developed to treat trauma, which helps people reduce or eliminate distress by identifying and focusing on traumatic memories while experiencing repeated left-right eye movements or other sensory stimulation.
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist practicing in Rancho Bernardo. I am currently working through telehealth only, and I generally work with clients shorter term (3-6 months). I primarily work in the morning and early afternoon. I have been trained in the following approaches: *Cognitive Therapy, which helps people improve their mood and functioning by increasing awareness of the thoughts they have associated with different kinds of distress. *Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). ACT helps individuals stop avoiding and struggling with unwanted thoughts, feelings, and memories, and improve ability to pursue valued goals.
EMDR is an approach developed to treat trauma, which helps people reduce or eliminate distress by identifying and focusing on traumatic memories while experiencing repeated left-right eye movements or other sensory stimulation.
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist practicing in Rancho Bernardo. I am currently working through telehealth only, and I generally work with clients shorter term (3-6 months). I primarily work in the morning and early afternoon. I have been trained in the following approaches: *Cognitive Therapy, which helps people improve their mood and functioning by increasing awareness of the thoughts they have associated with different kinds of distress. *Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). ACT helps individuals stop avoiding and struggling with unwanted thoughts, feelings, and memories, and improve ability to pursue valued goals.
(619) 566-7035 View (619) 566-7035
Photo of Susan Bell, MA, LMFT, AT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Susan Bell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, AT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Poway, CA 92064
I am also trained to use Comprehensive Resource Model to work with dissociation resulting from complex trauma.
I believe that each person is born unique and important to this earth. Behavior is adaptive and as such can be understood in the context of experience. I assist with helping others understand patterns of behavior that may contribute to one's unhappiness. I work with marital and relational difficulties to find ways of communicating and honoring differences. I teach about positive communication and assist with developing skills that lead to feeling heard and understood. I assist parents to successfully teach their children to accept and follow direction with the use of behavioral programs best suited to meet the individual need.
I am also trained to use Comprehensive Resource Model to work with dissociation resulting from complex trauma.
I believe that each person is born unique and important to this earth. Behavior is adaptive and as such can be understood in the context of experience. I assist with helping others understand patterns of behavior that may contribute to one's unhappiness. I work with marital and relational difficulties to find ways of communicating and honoring differences. I teach about positive communication and assist with developing skills that lead to feeling heard and understood. I assist parents to successfully teach their children to accept and follow direction with the use of behavioral programs best suited to meet the individual need.
(858) 375-4702 View (858) 375-4702
Photo of Michelle D. Motta, MA, LMFT, RPT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michelle D. Motta
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Poway, CA 92064
I have been trained in EMDR and Lifespan Integration, which works well with PTSD, Phobias, General Anxiety, Panic Attacks, and Depression.
Do you, or a loved one, struggle with the weight of depression or anxiety? Often one can feel alone and isolated, and it seems that no one else has experienced the same personal struggles. My approach is client centered and empathetic, directed at assisting one in increasing their awareness and understanding their feelings and behaviors. It is possible to learn and improve coping skills; creating more stability in your life and promoting a sense of wellbeing.
I have been trained in EMDR and Lifespan Integration, which works well with PTSD, Phobias, General Anxiety, Panic Attacks, and Depression.
Do you, or a loved one, struggle with the weight of depression or anxiety? Often one can feel alone and isolated, and it seems that no one else has experienced the same personal struggles. My approach is client centered and empathetic, directed at assisting one in increasing their awareness and understanding their feelings and behaviors. It is possible to learn and improve coping skills; creating more stability in your life and promoting a sense of wellbeing.
(858) 386-7299 View (858) 386-7299
Photo of Shirley Duarte, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shirley Duarte
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Poway, CA 92064
I am a licensed therapist who is a compassionate and motivated individual with excellent listening skills, capable of quickly building rapport with clients. With over 12 years of experience, I have worked extensively with clients dealing with trauma, depression, anxiety, and grief. I also have extensive experience with neurodivergent clients, such as those diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. Some clients are comfortable just being heard by their therapist, and others might seek a transformative process utilizing unique tools from specific modalities.
I am a licensed therapist who is a compassionate and motivated individual with excellent listening skills, capable of quickly building rapport with clients. With over 12 years of experience, I have worked extensively with clients dealing with trauma, depression, anxiety, and grief. I also have extensive experience with neurodivergent clients, such as those diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. Some clients are comfortable just being heard by their therapist, and others might seek a transformative process utilizing unique tools from specific modalities.
(818) 450-5830 View (818) 450-5830
Photo of Sarah Ray, PsyD, QME, Psychologist
Sarah Ray
Psychologist, PsyD, QME
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Poway, CA 92064
We treat a wide-range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, chronic pain and illness, trauma, self-esteem, & stress.
Now more than ever, it seems that so many of us are facing circumstances that make life stressful, confusing, and painful at times. The purpose of our work together is to help you live a healthier, happier, and more meaningful life. Whether you want to be a happier person, to have better relationships, or to simply understand yourself better, I can help you achieve this. I combine support, insight, and direction to help you have the skills to better manage your life, and obtain greater peace and joy. There is no greater privilege than helping a person improve their life, and I appreciate the opportunity to help you!
We treat a wide-range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, chronic pain and illness, trauma, self-esteem, & stress.
Now more than ever, it seems that so many of us are facing circumstances that make life stressful, confusing, and painful at times. The purpose of our work together is to help you live a healthier, happier, and more meaningful life. Whether you want to be a happier person, to have better relationships, or to simply understand yourself better, I can help you achieve this. I combine support, insight, and direction to help you have the skills to better manage your life, and obtain greater peace and joy. There is no greater privilege than helping a person improve their life, and I appreciate the opportunity to help you!
(619) 378-4402 View (619) 378-4402
Photo of Dr. Tara Shuman, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Tara Shuman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Poway, CA 92064
As a psychologist with over 20 years of experience, I work collaboratively with clients and provide a nonjudgmental and nurturing space for clients to explore their challenges and overcome their struggles. I aim to assist my clients in learning skills and strategies that they can use to increase happiness and fulfillment in their lives. I am dedicated to identifying, understanding and treating the core issues that impact clients and lead to depression, anxiety and relationship dissatisfaction. I utilize trauma informed treatments to help clients cope with difficult past experiences and work toward healthier futures.
As a psychologist with over 20 years of experience, I work collaboratively with clients and provide a nonjudgmental and nurturing space for clients to explore their challenges and overcome their struggles. I aim to assist my clients in learning skills and strategies that they can use to increase happiness and fulfillment in their lives. I am dedicated to identifying, understanding and treating the core issues that impact clients and lead to depression, anxiety and relationship dissatisfaction. I utilize trauma informed treatments to help clients cope with difficult past experiences and work toward healthier futures.
(858) 264-2005 View (858) 264-2005
Photo of Amanda Torre, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amanda Torre
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Poway, CA 92064
I've worked extensively with trauma, depression, anxiety, stress management, and Christian counseling.
Hello! I am so excited that you are ready and eager to work through whatever you may be facing. Although you may be experiencing some distressing times you will get through it! Healing and hope is available if you are willing to receive. So open up your heart and mind and be ready to receive when you schedule your appointment with me. I look forward to hearing from you and learning the ways I can collaborate with you to establish the plans God has for you! Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans. Proverbs 16:3
I've worked extensively with trauma, depression, anxiety, stress management, and Christian counseling.
Hello! I am so excited that you are ready and eager to work through whatever you may be facing. Although you may be experiencing some distressing times you will get through it! Healing and hope is available if you are willing to receive. So open up your heart and mind and be ready to receive when you schedule your appointment with me. I look forward to hearing from you and learning the ways I can collaborate with you to establish the plans God has for you! Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans. Proverbs 16:3
(619) 304-7826 View (619) 304-7826
1
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.