Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Riverside, CA

Photo of Shelby Jernigan Roemer, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shelby Jernigan Roemer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Riverside, CA 92507
I have over 25 years of experience treating adults, couples, adolescents, and families struggling with depression, anxiety, and trauma. I am Certified in EMDR Therapy to treat PTSD and to finally heal from the past! I also have extensive experience in Executive Coaching. I am Solution Focused and ready to help you live the life you deserve now!
I have over 25 years of experience treating adults, couples, adolescents, and families struggling with depression, anxiety, and trauma. I am Certified in EMDR Therapy to treat PTSD and to finally heal from the past! I also have extensive experience in Executive Coaching. I am Solution Focused and ready to help you live the life you deserve now!
(951) 327-5753 View (951) 327-5753
Photo of Nayeli Ordonez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nayeli Ordonez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Riverside, CA 92508  (Online Only)
As a bilingual Latinx Licensed Clinical Social Worker I offer targeted support for those struggling with postpartum depression, anxiety, trauma, attachment issues, and relationship challenges.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Do you often experience exhaustion, isolation, or inadequacy? Are you struggling with feelings of sadness or anxiety that seem unending? Do past traumas affect your ability to connect with others? Are attachment issues impacting your relationships with your partner or family? If these questions resonate with you, know that you’re not alone.
As a bilingual Latinx Licensed Clinical Social Worker I offer targeted support for those struggling with postpartum depression, anxiety, trauma, attachment issues, and relationship challenges.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Do you often experience exhaustion, isolation, or inadequacy? Are you struggling with feelings of sadness or anxiety that seem unending? Do past traumas affect your ability to connect with others? Are attachment issues impacting your relationships with your partner or family? If these questions resonate with you, know that you’re not alone.
(949) 776-8537 View (949) 776-8537
Photo of Stanisha York, MS, LPCC
Stanisha York
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Riverside, CA 92506  (Online Only)
Whether you're facing anxiety, trauma, or life transitions, I’m here to listen and support you.
I’m here to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and challenges openly. My approach is rooted in empathy and collaboration, guiding you through your journey to healing and personal growth. Together, we’ll work to overcome obstacles, build resilience, and help you achieve the peace and fulfillment you deserve. I’m committed to supporting you every step of the way, and you don’t have to go through this alone.
Whether you're facing anxiety, trauma, or life transitions, I’m here to listen and support you.
I’m here to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and challenges openly. My approach is rooted in empathy and collaboration, guiding you through your journey to healing and personal growth. Together, we’ll work to overcome obstacles, build resilience, and help you achieve the peace and fulfillment you deserve. I’m committed to supporting you every step of the way, and you don’t have to go through this alone.
(951) 383-2664 View (951) 383-2664
Photo of Carlos Lamadrid - Carlos Lamadrid, LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carlos Lamadrid, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Riverside, CA 92506
He is a White Bison facilitator of the Medicine Wheel & 12 steps, and the Mending Broken Hearts: Native American Grief Recovery Workshop, which includes healing from inter-generational/historical trauma and helping others on their journey of recovery.
The use of alcohol and drugs, domestic violence, suicide, chronic grief and loss, internalized oppression, emotional, spiritual, and mental wounds are ALL symptoms not causes of imbalance. In order to heal, a community needs to deal with the causes of historical and generational, unresolved trauma and move toward balance. We acknowledge our inter-connectedness to all that has been created in this life and the unseen world. Healing will take place through the use of cultural and spiritual knowledge including creation stories, ancestral teachings, journeying into balance and wellness, as it takes everyone to heal the community.
He is a White Bison facilitator of the Medicine Wheel & 12 steps, and the Mending Broken Hearts: Native American Grief Recovery Workshop, which includes healing from inter-generational/historical trauma and helping others on their journey of recovery.
The use of alcohol and drugs, domestic violence, suicide, chronic grief and loss, internalized oppression, emotional, spiritual, and mental wounds are ALL symptoms not causes of imbalance. In order to heal, a community needs to deal with the causes of historical and generational, unresolved trauma and move toward balance. We acknowledge our inter-connectedness to all that has been created in this life and the unseen world. Healing will take place through the use of cultural and spiritual knowledge including creation stories, ancestral teachings, journeying into balance and wellness, as it takes everyone to heal the community.
(951) 458-6932 View (951) 458-6932
Photo of Ashleigh Sorenson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ashleigh Sorenson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Riverside, CA 92506  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Reach out to any of our clinicians for a free 15-minute phone consultation to make sure we're the right fit for you! Our therapists are trauma-informed and LGBTQ+ inclusive and affirming.
Accepting New Clients! We specialize in working with folks who have faced and survived various kinds of trauma, anxiety, complex post-traumatic stress, and depression. We work with people who are exploring all parts of their identities, from relationships and work to sexuality, gender, spirituality, and creativity. ​ Challenging early life experiences can effect how we show up in adulthood. This can lead to loneliness, despair, constant longing, confusion, panic, or withdrawal from life. You may have found yourself at a cross-roads where old ways of relating to yourself and others no longer works.
Reach out to any of our clinicians for a free 15-minute phone consultation to make sure we're the right fit for you! Our therapists are trauma-informed and LGBTQ+ inclusive and affirming.
Accepting New Clients! We specialize in working with folks who have faced and survived various kinds of trauma, anxiety, complex post-traumatic stress, and depression. We work with people who are exploring all parts of their identities, from relationships and work to sexuality, gender, spirituality, and creativity. ​ Challenging early life experiences can effect how we show up in adulthood. This can lead to loneliness, despair, constant longing, confusion, panic, or withdrawal from life. You may have found yourself at a cross-roads where old ways of relating to yourself and others no longer works.
(657) 255-5590 View (657) 255-5590
Photo of Dr. Stacy Pipes-Joyner, DSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Stacy Pipes-Joyner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Riverside, CA 92506  (Online Only)
As a survivor of trauma and abuse, I know firsthand the pain of going through this life broken; what it feels like to maneuver through a mine field of emotions trying to avoid triggering an unwelcomed response.
My life’s work is centered around unaddressed childhood trauma, domestic violence & abuse, & the emotional damage it leaves in its wake. My work in trauma stems from my own life experiences. I grew up as a preacher’s kid in one of the toughest neighborhoods Los Angeles. At the age of five, I was a victim of childhood trauma & abuse; & during my early adult years, was in an abusive relationship that almost cost me my life. My emotional recovery was a painful process, one that took several years of therapy and self-repair before finding true healing and purpose. But out of my own pain and suffering came the desire to help others.
As a survivor of trauma and abuse, I know firsthand the pain of going through this life broken; what it feels like to maneuver through a mine field of emotions trying to avoid triggering an unwelcomed response.
My life’s work is centered around unaddressed childhood trauma, domestic violence & abuse, & the emotional damage it leaves in its wake. My work in trauma stems from my own life experiences. I grew up as a preacher’s kid in one of the toughest neighborhoods Los Angeles. At the age of five, I was a victim of childhood trauma & abuse; & during my early adult years, was in an abusive relationship that almost cost me my life. My emotional recovery was a painful process, one that took several years of therapy and self-repair before finding true healing and purpose. But out of my own pain and suffering came the desire to help others.
(951) 332-7046 View (951) 332-7046
Photo of Lincoln Madley, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lincoln Madley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Riverside, CA 92505  (Online Only)
I have specialized training in trauma, couples, and sex therapy.
I would describe my therapeutic approach as empathetic, compassionate, non-judgmental, embodied, and collaborative. I draw from a variety of models to meet clients where they are. I provide a humanistic, relational psychodynamic perspective that offers space to explore how past experiences shape present patterns of relating to others and the self.
I have specialized training in trauma, couples, and sex therapy.
I would describe my therapeutic approach as empathetic, compassionate, non-judgmental, embodied, and collaborative. I draw from a variety of models to meet clients where they are. I provide a humanistic, relational psychodynamic perspective that offers space to explore how past experiences shape present patterns of relating to others and the self.
(951) 419-3129 View (951) 419-3129
Photo of Katarina Kucavikova @ Victoria Community Counseling, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katarina Kucavikova @ Victoria Community Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Riverside, CA 92505
EMDR is an Evidence-based approach to trauma therapy using eye movements to reprocess trauma or stressful experiences.
I have extensive training in family therapy, parent-child relationship issues, co-parenting issues, blended families and family sessions, especially with adolescents (focusing on communication/relationship issues, academic, legal, behavioral or substance use issues). My other passion and field of expertise is trauma work, depression and anxiety issues with adults and children. EMDR is effective across life spans and different trauma presentations. I am trained in EMDR and MDFT.
EMDR is an Evidence-based approach to trauma therapy using eye movements to reprocess trauma or stressful experiences.
I have extensive training in family therapy, parent-child relationship issues, co-parenting issues, blended families and family sessions, especially with adolescents (focusing on communication/relationship issues, academic, legal, behavioral or substance use issues). My other passion and field of expertise is trauma work, depression and anxiety issues with adults and children. EMDR is effective across life spans and different trauma presentations. I am trained in EMDR and MDFT.
(951) 476-5642 View (951) 476-5642
Photo of Ruby Pena, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ruby Pena
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Riverside, CA 92505  (Online Only)
I use evidenced based practices such as CBT and DBT in my practice while incorporating a social justice framework that acknowledges historical and generational trauma that impact the emotional well-being of families and individuals.
Hello all, my name is Ruby. I am a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been in the mental health field for over 6 years working in many different capacities. I have experience working with children, families, transitional aged youth and adults.
I use evidenced based practices such as CBT and DBT in my practice while incorporating a social justice framework that acknowledges historical and generational trauma that impact the emotional well-being of families and individuals.
Hello all, my name is Ruby. I am a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been in the mental health field for over 6 years working in many different capacities. I have experience working with children, families, transitional aged youth and adults.
(909) 637-4291 View (909) 637-4291
Photo of Barbara D. Neal, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Barbara D. Neal
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Riverside, CA 92505
I specialize in treating individuals who have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, and BPD.
Thank you for viewing my profile. Experiencing trauma and/or severe life stresses can cause life to unravel. My desire is to bring healing to people who have been through traumatic/stressful experiences and to provide comfort, hope in times of despair, loneliness and confusion. Therapy can help when we experience overwhelming emotions and destructive behaviors. I work with individuals to help them overcome obstacles to their wellbeing and couples to help them to strengthen their relationship and feel more connected and bonded to one another through improved communication, conflict resolution, rebuilding trust and intimacy.
I specialize in treating individuals who have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, and BPD.
Thank you for viewing my profile. Experiencing trauma and/or severe life stresses can cause life to unravel. My desire is to bring healing to people who have been through traumatic/stressful experiences and to provide comfort, hope in times of despair, loneliness and confusion. Therapy can help when we experience overwhelming emotions and destructive behaviors. I work with individuals to help them overcome obstacles to their wellbeing and couples to help them to strengthen their relationship and feel more connected and bonded to one another through improved communication, conflict resolution, rebuilding trust and intimacy.
(951) 987-5792 View (951) 987-5792
Photo of Celeste Thompson, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Celeste Thompson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Riverside, CA 92503  (Online Only)
The theoretical approach for each client is dependent on their needs and could include trauma-focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR or attachment-based therapy.
Therapy is a vulnerable space, and one of my primary focuses is providing clients with a safe place where they feel seen, heard, valued and where their concerns can be explored with curiosity and empathy. I work with clients, of various ages, to address a variety of concerns including unresolved trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, parenting, and life transitions by building on the client's strengths and resilience. My approach to therapy is relational and client-centered.
The theoretical approach for each client is dependent on their needs and could include trauma-focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR or attachment-based therapy.
Therapy is a vulnerable space, and one of my primary focuses is providing clients with a safe place where they feel seen, heard, valued and where their concerns can be explored with curiosity and empathy. I work with clients, of various ages, to address a variety of concerns including unresolved trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, parenting, and life transitions by building on the client's strengths and resilience. My approach to therapy is relational and client-centered.
(951) 724-5704 View (951) 724-5704
Photo of Ana Yesenia Lainez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ana Yesenia Lainez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Riverside, CA 92509
I am Ana Lainez, LCSW, a licensed clinician uses a strengths-based approach to promote healing of the mind, spirit, and body. I am able to provide services in English and Spanish. I currently work with adolescents and adults. I have experience in treating anxiety, trauma, depression, life transitions, grief, severe illnesses, self-esteem issues, ADHD, anger management, and behavioral issues. Given that each person is different, I tailor my therapy to meet my clients’ specific needs. I will happily collaborate with you to develop positive coping strategies to manage challenges healthily.
I am Ana Lainez, LCSW, a licensed clinician uses a strengths-based approach to promote healing of the mind, spirit, and body. I am able to provide services in English and Spanish. I currently work with adolescents and adults. I have experience in treating anxiety, trauma, depression, life transitions, grief, severe illnesses, self-esteem issues, ADHD, anger management, and behavioral issues. Given that each person is different, I tailor my therapy to meet my clients’ specific needs. I will happily collaborate with you to develop positive coping strategies to manage challenges healthily.
(951) 210-7730 View (951) 210-7730
Photo of Chevonna Gaylor, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Chevonna Gaylor
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Riverside, CA 92505
Lastly, I conduct trainings on my areas of passion: suicide prevention and awareness, human trafficking, trauma and diversity.
Here to help you, your staff and our world heal. Therapy should make life a little lighter and brighter. Let my team and I help ease your load. You deserve respect. We treat you with dignity. We fully connect with your needs and partner with you for your healing. We are willing and usually able to connect with even the most difficult person. We work with almost anyone seeking positive change. We specialize in trauma, but can help soothe the hearts of all that are hurting, from school or work problem or a bad break up to a tragic loss.
Lastly, I conduct trainings on my areas of passion: suicide prevention and awareness, human trafficking, trauma and diversity.
Here to help you, your staff and our world heal. Therapy should make life a little lighter and brighter. Let my team and I help ease your load. You deserve respect. We treat you with dignity. We fully connect with your needs and partner with you for your healing. We are willing and usually able to connect with even the most difficult person. We work with almost anyone seeking positive change. We specialize in trauma, but can help soothe the hearts of all that are hurting, from school or work problem or a bad break up to a tragic loss.
(951) 319-2387 View (951) 319-2387
Photo of Avis Attaway - Life Source Affordable Counseling Services, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Life Source Affordable Counseling Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Riverside, CA 92507
We work with individual, couples, families and kids - teens and little ones - to help with depression, anxiety, trauma and the stresses of life, work and relationships.
If you have been looking for professional help with problems related to your marriage, family or stress in your life, but have not been able to afford the cost of therapy...we can help! You can get the help you need now at an extremely affordable rate by making an appointment with one of our qualified Associates or Graduate student Trainees in Marriage & Family Therapy. Life Source Training Institute in Riverside, Calif., is a 501(c)3 non-profit dedicated to providing affordable counseling and family education to the community.
We work with individual, couples, families and kids - teens and little ones - to help with depression, anxiety, trauma and the stresses of life, work and relationships.
If you have been looking for professional help with problems related to your marriage, family or stress in your life, but have not been able to afford the cost of therapy...we can help! You can get the help you need now at an extremely affordable rate by making an appointment with one of our qualified Associates or Graduate student Trainees in Marriage & Family Therapy. Life Source Training Institute in Riverside, Calif., is a 501(c)3 non-profit dedicated to providing affordable counseling and family education to the community.
(951) 977-3928 View (951) 977-3928
Photo of Glaser Burkhardt Emdr Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR, IEHP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Glaser Burkhardt Emdr Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR, IEHP
Verified Verified
Riverside, CA 92506
Therapy does not have to take a long time. My offices are in Riverside & Moreno Valley. I assist individuals & couples to successfully get through their difficult (or ongoing) stage) of their lives to acquire a healthier, more effective perspective of their relationships, their situations, & their lives. My professional background for the past 2 decades include working with adults and adolescents who have experienced trauma, grief & loss, Family/Parenting concerns, relationship issues, Depression, & Anxiety-Related challenges.
Therapy does not have to take a long time. My offices are in Riverside & Moreno Valley. I assist individuals & couples to successfully get through their difficult (or ongoing) stage) of their lives to acquire a healthier, more effective perspective of their relationships, their situations, & their lives. My professional background for the past 2 decades include working with adults and adolescents who have experienced trauma, grief & loss, Family/Parenting concerns, relationship issues, Depression, & Anxiety-Related challenges.
(951) 605-7911 View (951) 605-7911
Photo of Eva Schmeisser, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Eva Schmeisser
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Riverside, CA 92505  (Online Only)
I have a passion for helping clients become more aware of what is keeping them "stuck" and working collaboratively towards attainable goals. My clients describe me as direct, compassionate, helpful, and understanding. I have extensive experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. I believe that therapy should be used as a tool and be just as helpful outside of the sessions. I utilize processing, skill-building, and psychoeducation during sessions and love seeing the growth within each client.
I have a passion for helping clients become more aware of what is keeping them "stuck" and working collaboratively towards attainable goals. My clients describe me as direct, compassionate, helpful, and understanding. I have extensive experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. I believe that therapy should be used as a tool and be just as helpful outside of the sessions. I utilize processing, skill-building, and psychoeducation during sessions and love seeing the growth within each client.
(951) 692-7934 View (951) 692-7934
Photo of Kiara Hernandez, MS, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Kiara Hernandez
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Riverside, CA 92506
I have experience with individuals who struggle with identity, stress, anxiety, trauma, and depression.
Hello! I’m Kiara, I enjoy working with youth, couples, and adult individuals. I have a big heart for others and use CBT and EFT to promote healing, which I believe is limitless. I am trained in Prepare and Enrich, to help couples in several seasons of their relationships, especially pre-marital counseling. I also offer Faith-based integration for clients who want it, within counseling, as it promotes a better understanding of life's complexity and how we can find meaning with God's word and encouragement.
I have experience with individuals who struggle with identity, stress, anxiety, trauma, and depression.
Hello! I’m Kiara, I enjoy working with youth, couples, and adult individuals. I have a big heart for others and use CBT and EFT to promote healing, which I believe is limitless. I am trained in Prepare and Enrich, to help couples in several seasons of their relationships, especially pre-marital counseling. I also offer Faith-based integration for clients who want it, within counseling, as it promotes a better understanding of life's complexity and how we can find meaning with God's word and encouragement.
(951) 524-7050 View (951) 524-7050
Photo of Ann Hodgdon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ann Hodgdon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Riverside, CA 92504
Hello! My name is Ann Hodgdon, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I view all clients as individuals and work with you to identify your areas of focus and your personal goals. I generally utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. I love working with adults from all backgrounds. My experience in a variety of Mental Health settings has given me a unique perspective. I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 25 years and have worked extensively with individuals with depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic mental illness, and addiction.
Hello! My name is Ann Hodgdon, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I view all clients as individuals and work with you to identify your areas of focus and your personal goals. I generally utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. I love working with adults from all backgrounds. My experience in a variety of Mental Health settings has given me a unique perspective. I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 25 years and have worked extensively with individuals with depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic mental illness, and addiction.
(909) 581-4347 View (909) 581-4347
Photo of Emily Rickard, MS, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Emily Rickard
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Riverside, CA 92506
I have special training in EMDR, a therapy for trauma, long term depression, PTSD & more.
Feeling depressed? Anxious? Dissatisfied? Struggling to overcome difficult life circumstances? I'm glad you're here - exploring therapy as a potential support. I am here to help you examine, embrace, heal, and problem solve, in a warm & personable way.
I have special training in EMDR, a therapy for trauma, long term depression, PTSD & more.
Feeling depressed? Anxious? Dissatisfied? Struggling to overcome difficult life circumstances? I'm glad you're here - exploring therapy as a potential support. I am here to help you examine, embrace, heal, and problem solve, in a warm & personable way.
(951) 467-4470 View (951) 467-4470
Photo of Karisa Quick, M A ED, LPCC, PPS
Karisa Quick
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, M A ED, LPCC, PPS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Riverside, CA 92501  (Online Only)
LGBTQ+, EMDR, trauma, Religious deconversion. I’m a queer, non-binary therapist who loves helping people recover from painful experiences, deal with life stress, and take control of their lives. We will take steps together to help you move toward your ideal self by focusing on your healing, goals, dreams, passions, fears, and unique qualities. Therapy is personal and beautiful and can bring up difficult feelings. We will work to help you feel safe and develop skills to deal with these intense emotions. I only work with adult individuals at this time. I am in-network with some insurances and I also offer Superbills!
LGBTQ+, EMDR, trauma, Religious deconversion. I’m a queer, non-binary therapist who loves helping people recover from painful experiences, deal with life stress, and take control of their lives. We will take steps together to help you move toward your ideal self by focusing on your healing, goals, dreams, passions, fears, and unique qualities. Therapy is personal and beautiful and can bring up difficult feelings. We will work to help you feel safe and develop skills to deal with these intense emotions. I only work with adult individuals at this time. I am in-network with some insurances and I also offer Superbills!
(909) 244-3219 View (909) 244-3219
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.