Trauma and PTSD Therapists in San Mateo, CA

Photo of Teresa Trout, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Teresa Trout
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Mateo, CA 94403  (Online Only)
I offer affirmative, knowledgeable, and trauma-informed services for individuals who are part of the LGBTQ+, BDSM/Kink, and Non-Traditional Relationship communities.
I'm not going to lie, personal growth and healing can be hard work. But it can also be playful and (dare I say) fun. I seek to co-create a supportive safe space for your self-exploration. My approach is collaborative and rooted in the belief that you are the expert of you. In addition to talk therapy, I specialize in Expressive Arts (EXA) Therapy. EXA Therapy uses the creative arts (visual art, music, movement, writing, drama) to explore and process your lived experiences. Do not fear, you do not have to be “good” at art! This process is about what emerges during the process of creative expression and what it means to you.
I offer affirmative, knowledgeable, and trauma-informed services for individuals who are part of the LGBTQ+, BDSM/Kink, and Non-Traditional Relationship communities.
I'm not going to lie, personal growth and healing can be hard work. But it can also be playful and (dare I say) fun. I seek to co-create a supportive safe space for your self-exploration. My approach is collaborative and rooted in the belief that you are the expert of you. In addition to talk therapy, I specialize in Expressive Arts (EXA) Therapy. EXA Therapy uses the creative arts (visual art, music, movement, writing, drama) to explore and process your lived experiences. Do not fear, you do not have to be “good” at art! This process is about what emerges during the process of creative expression and what it means to you.
(510) 824-8384 View (510) 824-8384
Photo of Drae (Andrea) Roth, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Drae (Andrea) Roth
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
San Mateo, CA 94402
I’m an integrative neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ affirming therapist that has specialized training in and/or experience with ADHD, Autism, high sensitivity, 2e, neurodivergence, trauma, anxiety, perfectionism, procrastination, early childhood, families, parenting, BIPOC, and LGBTQ+ persons.
Are you full of ideas but are having difficulty doing the things you want to do? Do you struggle to make it to appointments on time, work on projects in advance, or take care of everyday tasks like cleaning or paying bills? Do you or others in your life feel frustrated when you don’t follow through on your commitments? Or do you question your gender identity or sexual orientation and grapple with what that means for your life? If so, then you’re not alone. Many neurodivergent people struggle to adapt to a world set up for neurotypical people. If any of these questions or statements resonate, you have come to the right place.
I’m an integrative neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ affirming therapist that has specialized training in and/or experience with ADHD, Autism, high sensitivity, 2e, neurodivergence, trauma, anxiety, perfectionism, procrastination, early childhood, families, parenting, BIPOC, and LGBTQ+ persons.
Are you full of ideas but are having difficulty doing the things you want to do? Do you struggle to make it to appointments on time, work on projects in advance, or take care of everyday tasks like cleaning or paying bills? Do you or others in your life feel frustrated when you don’t follow through on your commitments? Or do you question your gender identity or sexual orientation and grapple with what that means for your life? If so, then you’re not alone. Many neurodivergent people struggle to adapt to a world set up for neurotypical people. If any of these questions or statements resonate, you have come to the right place.
(650) 332-1292 View (650) 332-1292
Photo of Carolee Stabno, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carolee Stabno
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Mateo, CA 94402
As a solution-focused, culturally sensitive therapist, my treatment approach is to provide support and feedback to clients to help them resolve current problems, and work through life transitions and issues. Additionally, I have had extensive experience in the treatment of depression, panic disorder, anxiety, addiction, trauma, and loss & grief. With sensitivity and compassion, I help clients find solutions to a wide range of life challenges and psychological issues.
As a solution-focused, culturally sensitive therapist, my treatment approach is to provide support and feedback to clients to help them resolve current problems, and work through life transitions and issues. Additionally, I have had extensive experience in the treatment of depression, panic disorder, anxiety, addiction, trauma, and loss & grief. With sensitivity and compassion, I help clients find solutions to a wide range of life challenges and psychological issues.
(650) 209-7713 View (650) 209-7713
Photo of Leslie I Nieves, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Leslie I Nieves
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Mateo, CA 94402
I'm certified in many evidence-based trauma-informed interventions such as Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Aggression Replacement Training, DBT.
I'm passionate about partnering with clients in their healing journey. I work collaboratively with my clients on embracing a new life narrative. I have experience working with couples, families that are in crisis, parenting difficulties, at-risk teens, survivors of domestic violence, individuals experiencing life transitions, as well as clients experiencing depression, anxiety, fears, anger management difficulties, and crisis. I believe you can write a new life narrative as you heal from trauma. Lastly, as you embark on this journey, I believe you can emerge whole, enlightened, and empowered on the other side.
I'm certified in many evidence-based trauma-informed interventions such as Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Aggression Replacement Training, DBT.
I'm passionate about partnering with clients in their healing journey. I work collaboratively with my clients on embracing a new life narrative. I have experience working with couples, families that are in crisis, parenting difficulties, at-risk teens, survivors of domestic violence, individuals experiencing life transitions, as well as clients experiencing depression, anxiety, fears, anger management difficulties, and crisis. I believe you can write a new life narrative as you heal from trauma. Lastly, as you embark on this journey, I believe you can emerge whole, enlightened, and empowered on the other side.
(650) 517-7974 View (650) 517-7974
Photo of Miriam Lima, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Miriam Lima
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Mateo, CA 94404
Are you feeling overwhelmed, depressed, or anxious? Feeling lonely, lost, or stuck? Are you experiencing trauma/PTSD symptoms? Or having interpersonal relationship difficulties? There is hope for you!
Are you feeling overwhelmed, depressed, or anxious? Feeling lonely, lost, or stuck? Are you experiencing trauma/PTSD symptoms? Or having interpersonal relationship difficulties? There is hope for you!
(650) 525-2397 x008 View (650) 525-2397 x008
Photo of Karol J Markowitz, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Karol J Markowitz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Mateo, CA 94402
Waitlist for new clients
The individuals who typically seek my help are adults and parents with children 0-5 who are struggling with depression, PTSD, painful early childhood memories, trauma and neglect, anxiety, abusive relationships and other complex life transitions. In addition, I support parents/caregivers who are struggling with children's challenging behavior and trying to understand the meaning of it. I have extensive experience working with children and supporting their development and emotional regulation.
The individuals who typically seek my help are adults and parents with children 0-5 who are struggling with depression, PTSD, painful early childhood memories, trauma and neglect, anxiety, abusive relationships and other complex life transitions. In addition, I support parents/caregivers who are struggling with children's challenging behavior and trying to understand the meaning of it. I have extensive experience working with children and supporting their development and emotional regulation.
(650) 525-2231 View (650) 525-2231
Photo of Carolyn Garrison, MS, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Carolyn Garrison
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Mateo, CA 94403  (Online Only)
Supporting children, teens, adults, & parents to overcome various adversities, heal to obtain healthy development & maturation, and ultimately reach full potential. Specialties are trauma, depression, anxiety, stress management, life transitions, women's issues, self-esteem/awareness, ADHD, secondary effects of learning differences/disabilities, multi ethnicities/cultures, and spirituality. Support is holistic and integrative, incorporating Brainspotting (BSP), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Humanistic/Existential Therapy, & Play/Expressive Art Therapy, while utilizing innate strengths. Helping you to heal, grow, and thrive.
Supporting children, teens, adults, & parents to overcome various adversities, heal to obtain healthy development & maturation, and ultimately reach full potential. Specialties are trauma, depression, anxiety, stress management, life transitions, women's issues, self-esteem/awareness, ADHD, secondary effects of learning differences/disabilities, multi ethnicities/cultures, and spirituality. Support is holistic and integrative, incorporating Brainspotting (BSP), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Humanistic/Existential Therapy, & Play/Expressive Art Therapy, while utilizing innate strengths. Helping you to heal, grow, and thrive.
(650) 445-4935 View (650) 445-4935
Photo of Mariana Tiwari, MSW, ACSW, PPSC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Mariana Tiwari
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, ACSW, PPSC
Verified Verified
San Mateo, CA 94401
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in EMDR, a leading evidence-based therapy for trauma (experiences that overwhelm our ability to cope and linger in our system).
Are certain habits getting in the way of you making the best of opportunities and fully enjoying life, loving, working, playing, and feeling joy? Perhaps it has been hard to build your self-esteem when discouraging beliefs like "I'm not good enough" or "I can't handle it" infiltrate your thoughts. Or maybe you find yourself bothered by feelings of guilt or shame. Are you puzzled that these challenges persist, even when there are many good things in your life? If you are ready to start overcoming these issues, I can help and guide you in conquering a new path.
I specialize in EMDR, a leading evidence-based therapy for trauma (experiences that overwhelm our ability to cope and linger in our system).
Are certain habits getting in the way of you making the best of opportunities and fully enjoying life, loving, working, playing, and feeling joy? Perhaps it has been hard to build your self-esteem when discouraging beliefs like "I'm not good enough" or "I can't handle it" infiltrate your thoughts. Or maybe you find yourself bothered by feelings of guilt or shame. Are you puzzled that these challenges persist, even when there are many good things in your life? If you are ready to start overcoming these issues, I can help and guide you in conquering a new path.
(650) 749-7400 View (650) 749-7400
Photo of Connelly Murphy, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Connelly Murphy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Mateo, CA 94401
I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT 78886) and have been practicing in the Bay Area since 2006. After completing my undergrad at Stanford University, I obtained my Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from Santa Clara University. In the years following, I have worked with individuals, families and groups, across the lifespan. I have extensive experience treating depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship and family issues, parenting challenges, life transitions and personal growth/exploratory work. I provide affirming care for the LGBTQ+ community as well.
I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT 78886) and have been practicing in the Bay Area since 2006. After completing my undergrad at Stanford University, I obtained my Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from Santa Clara University. In the years following, I have worked with individuals, families and groups, across the lifespan. I have extensive experience treating depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship and family issues, parenting challenges, life transitions and personal growth/exploratory work. I provide affirming care for the LGBTQ+ community as well.
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Photo of Lynda Lynette Johnson-Basuino, MA, BCPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lynda Lynette Johnson-Basuino
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, BCPC
Verified Verified
San Mateo, CA 94401
"Sometimes a little insight makes all the difference." I'm an experienced counselor who overcomes the obstacles of every day living despite vision loss. My specialty is helping people navigate through life altering crises such as the trauma of chronic health issues, divorce, job loss, behavior concerns in children, adolescence and teens. In my practice, I see people who are experiencing depression, anxiety, anger, PTSD, and the emotional responses to vision loss and blindness. I've been counseling for 25 years and I'm in the examination process of licensure. This is my passion. I look forward to working with you.
"Sometimes a little insight makes all the difference." I'm an experienced counselor who overcomes the obstacles of every day living despite vision loss. My specialty is helping people navigate through life altering crises such as the trauma of chronic health issues, divorce, job loss, behavior concerns in children, adolescence and teens. In my practice, I see people who are experiencing depression, anxiety, anger, PTSD, and the emotional responses to vision loss and blindness. I've been counseling for 25 years and I'm in the examination process of licensure. This is my passion. I look forward to working with you.
(650) 504-1650 View (650) 504-1650
Photo of Garine Kevranian, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Garine Kevranian
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Mateo, CA 94402  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am passionate about working with individuals and families navigating trauma and its effects.
Welcome. Are you needing support? Maybe you feel overwhelmed, stuck, or as if something needs to change. Maybe you are looking to know yourself deeper. I come from a place of radical compassion and attunement and believe everyone has innate wisdom, strengths, and coping skills that I hope to help illuminate in collaboration with each person.
I am passionate about working with individuals and families navigating trauma and its effects.
Welcome. Are you needing support? Maybe you feel overwhelmed, stuck, or as if something needs to change. Maybe you are looking to know yourself deeper. I come from a place of radical compassion and attunement and believe everyone has innate wisdom, strengths, and coping skills that I hope to help illuminate in collaboration with each person.
(650) 719-5335 View (650) 719-5335
Photo of Miriam Home, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Miriam Home
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Mateo, CA 94402
I find joy in helping my clients gain self-acceptance, inner-strength, self-forgiveness, and a sense of hope. I have experience working with adults, adolescents, and children who are struggling with depression, anxiety, anger management, substance abuse, and life threatening illnesses as well as survivors of sexual assault. I have a special passion for working with survivors of trauma.
I find joy in helping my clients gain self-acceptance, inner-strength, self-forgiveness, and a sense of hope. I have experience working with adults, adolescents, and children who are struggling with depression, anxiety, anger management, substance abuse, and life threatening illnesses as well as survivors of sexual assault. I have a special passion for working with survivors of trauma.
(650) 437-7507 View (650) 437-7507
Photo of S. L. McIntyre, LMFT, ASDCS, Marriage & Family Therapist
S. L. McIntyre
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ASDCS
Verified Verified
San Mateo, CA 94403
I help Neurodivergent Professionals heal from Trauma.
Are you an emerging professional experiencing anxiety, relationship distress, or dissociation? Are you often hypervigilant, insecure or disconnected from your body? Do you feel you can't trust yourself? Are you aware of self-defeating behaviors, but can't seem to change them? You may have had a "late-in-life" diagnosis, realized your gender or even childhood weren’t what you thought they were. You may have had a recent breakup, job change, newborn or Saturn Return. Wherever you’re at, you want long-lasting change and a Right-Fit Therapist. Someone who is not only Neurodivergent-affirming, but who is Neurodivergent themself.
I help Neurodivergent Professionals heal from Trauma.
Are you an emerging professional experiencing anxiety, relationship distress, or dissociation? Are you often hypervigilant, insecure or disconnected from your body? Do you feel you can't trust yourself? Are you aware of self-defeating behaviors, but can't seem to change them? You may have had a "late-in-life" diagnosis, realized your gender or even childhood weren’t what you thought they were. You may have had a recent breakup, job change, newborn or Saturn Return. Wherever you’re at, you want long-lasting change and a Right-Fit Therapist. Someone who is not only Neurodivergent-affirming, but who is Neurodivergent themself.
(650) 267-2094 View (650) 267-2094
Photo of Diana Moore (Formerly Diana To), MA, MBA, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Diana Moore (Formerly Diana To)
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MBA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Mateo, CA 94404
I found my calling to become a psychotherapist out of a desire to help people live happier, healthier and more fulfilling lives. I work with individuals, couples and families to help them resolve the impact of abuse and trauma, as well as problems of depression, anxiety, anger, grief, couples' discord, family conflicts, behavioral issues, low self-esteem, and life transitions. I am passionate about helping my clients who feel lost about their life directions with career exploration and identity development. As a Christian, I also love integrating spirituality with psychological well-being with clients for whom spirituality is relevant.
I found my calling to become a psychotherapist out of a desire to help people live happier, healthier and more fulfilling lives. I work with individuals, couples and families to help them resolve the impact of abuse and trauma, as well as problems of depression, anxiety, anger, grief, couples' discord, family conflicts, behavioral issues, low self-esteem, and life transitions. I am passionate about helping my clients who feel lost about their life directions with career exploration and identity development. As a Christian, I also love integrating spirituality with psychological well-being with clients for whom spirituality is relevant.
(650) 419-4581 View (650) 419-4581
Photo of Elizabeth A. Bruno, MA, LMHC
Elizabeth A. Bruno
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
San Mateo, CA 94401  (Online Only)
My experience includes working with clients with anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, addiction, suicidality, life transitions and more.
I am a strength-based Clinical Therapist whose goal is to walk with you through therapy to increase your own self-warmth, hope, insight and healing. I believe that addiction or mental health issues are just a small piece of the multi-faceted jigsaw puzzle of who you are. Both my Bachelor of Science and Master of Arts are from Santa Clara University, where my basketball jersey is retired as I hold the "All Time Men and Women's Rebounding Record". I believe that athletics were the genesis of my relentless positivity, embracement of strengths, and belief in the perseverance of the human heart.
My experience includes working with clients with anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, addiction, suicidality, life transitions and more.
I am a strength-based Clinical Therapist whose goal is to walk with you through therapy to increase your own self-warmth, hope, insight and healing. I believe that addiction or mental health issues are just a small piece of the multi-faceted jigsaw puzzle of who you are. Both my Bachelor of Science and Master of Arts are from Santa Clara University, where my basketball jersey is retired as I hold the "All Time Men and Women's Rebounding Record". I believe that athletics were the genesis of my relentless positivity, embracement of strengths, and belief in the perseverance of the human heart.
(425) 629-0687 View (425) 629-0687
Photo of Yael Gonicman, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Yael Gonicman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Mateo, CA 94404  (Online Only)
Your therapeutic journey can be incredibly rewarding and difficult at the same time. Anxiety, trauma, and depression can make us feel lost and the road through is muddy and overwhelming. This is why having a guide that can understand you and meet you where you are, is incredibly important. It is my goal to help you navigate this voyage as well as hold and work through complex emotions as they fight with each other while at the same time cohabitating in the same space. I look forward to taking those first steps with you and take this journey together.
Your therapeutic journey can be incredibly rewarding and difficult at the same time. Anxiety, trauma, and depression can make us feel lost and the road through is muddy and overwhelming. This is why having a guide that can understand you and meet you where you are, is incredibly important. It is my goal to help you navigate this voyage as well as hold and work through complex emotions as they fight with each other while at the same time cohabitating in the same space. I look forward to taking those first steps with you and take this journey together.
(650) 729-9867 View (650) 729-9867
Photo of Susan Joyner, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Joyner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Mateo, CA 94401  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and identity issues.
Do you feel alone? Like the world is burning? In today's day and time, it is hard to cope with the day to day. We have political overwhelm as well as climate overwhelm. I hear you. I see you. I don't promise to have all of the answers but I promise to meet you where you are as a human being. I am here to help you cope and provide a nonjudmental and safer space to process your experiences. I will help you learn how to be present in your body and identify what subtle messages your body might be telling you. You will be the expert of your experience and I am here as a guide. I aim to encourage and empower you to be your authentic self.
I enjoy working with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and identity issues.
Do you feel alone? Like the world is burning? In today's day and time, it is hard to cope with the day to day. We have political overwhelm as well as climate overwhelm. I hear you. I see you. I don't promise to have all of the answers but I promise to meet you where you are as a human being. I am here to help you cope and provide a nonjudmental and safer space to process your experiences. I will help you learn how to be present in your body and identify what subtle messages your body might be telling you. You will be the expert of your experience and I am here as a guide. I aim to encourage and empower you to be your authentic self.
(650) 275-6766 View (650) 275-6766
Photo of Linda Johnson, MS, LMFT, LAADC, NPT-C, Marriage & Family Therapist
Linda Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LAADC, NPT-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Mateo, CA 94401  (Online Only)
I'm an interactive therapist with over 20 years experience who provides telehealth services to California and Texas residents as a licensed LMFT in both states. I'm also a LAADC and an ICAADC, and a Certified Neuropsychotherapist. My style is client-centered and highly collaborative with a trauma- and developmentally-informed approach that includes a strong attachment focus. I'm trained in several evidence-based theories and interventions, including EMDR. I enjoy providing therapy services and am honored to work with adults and couples seeking to overcome personal and/or professional challenges to increase their life satisfaction.
I'm an interactive therapist with over 20 years experience who provides telehealth services to California and Texas residents as a licensed LMFT in both states. I'm also a LAADC and an ICAADC, and a Certified Neuropsychotherapist. My style is client-centered and highly collaborative with a trauma- and developmentally-informed approach that includes a strong attachment focus. I'm trained in several evidence-based theories and interventions, including EMDR. I enjoy providing therapy services and am honored to work with adults and couples seeking to overcome personal and/or professional challenges to increase their life satisfaction.
(650) 735-3965 View (650) 735-3965
Photo of Ornit Shoham, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ornit Shoham
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Mateo, CA 94401
Hello and welcome! I primarily work with adults and teenagers struggling with trauma, depression, and anxiety. I often find our inner beliefs have a huge impact on our lives, our sense of self, and our relationships. As your therapist, my main focus is to provide you a safe space that is free-from judgment and offers you a process-oriented approach to identify unconscious feelings and beliefs. I offer a genuine and understanding therapeutic relationship for you to feel held and seen, as we reflect together.
Hello and welcome! I primarily work with adults and teenagers struggling with trauma, depression, and anxiety. I often find our inner beliefs have a huge impact on our lives, our sense of self, and our relationships. As your therapist, my main focus is to provide you a safe space that is free-from judgment and offers you a process-oriented approach to identify unconscious feelings and beliefs. I offer a genuine and understanding therapeutic relationship for you to feel held and seen, as we reflect together.
(650) 753-7025 View (650) 753-7025
Photo of Travis Woodmansee, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Travis Woodmansee
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Mateo, CA 94401
I offer a safe place to explore your concerns about relationships, trauma, depression, anxiety, transitions, stress, addictions, acute/chronic health conditions, Multicultural/LGBT issues.
Wherever you are on life's journey, and whatever feelings or behaviors you feel stuck in, you are welcome here. ALL parts of you are welcome here, exactly as you are. I'm a licensed psychotherapist that uses an integrative approach to focus on your current concerns and goals using the relationship between the mind, body, and spirit. My goal is to establish a warm, supportive, authentic environment offering questions and reflections that can guide you in handling your challenges and making the changes you desire.
I offer a safe place to explore your concerns about relationships, trauma, depression, anxiety, transitions, stress, addictions, acute/chronic health conditions, Multicultural/LGBT issues.
Wherever you are on life's journey, and whatever feelings or behaviors you feel stuck in, you are welcome here. ALL parts of you are welcome here, exactly as you are. I'm a licensed psychotherapist that uses an integrative approach to focus on your current concerns and goals using the relationship between the mind, body, and spirit. My goal is to establish a warm, supportive, authentic environment offering questions and reflections that can guide you in handling your challenges and making the changes you desire.
(650) 727-6073 View (650) 727-6073
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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.