Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Atlantic Beach, FL

Photo of Margaret E Johnston, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Margaret E Johnston
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Atlantic Beach, FL 32233  (Online Only)
I specialize in conscious freedom mindfulness, life meaning-making, trauma harm mitigation, control need/hoarding reduction.
You have made the brave decision to show up for therapy, to show up for YOU. I attempt to understand the world from the client's view; to give the most valuable healing gift: being heard. Together, we determine what is missing & what is important (the Why: purpose), how the client wants to find fulfillment (the What: set goals). We determine How we will know they are successful and can continue on their own (measures for termination). I've been a Chaplain. I counseled people living with schizophrenia, bi-polar, or addictions, and prisoners - exhibiting anxiety, depression, grief, identity disorders, impulsivity & trauma response.
I specialize in conscious freedom mindfulness, life meaning-making, trauma harm mitigation, control need/hoarding reduction.
You have made the brave decision to show up for therapy, to show up for YOU. I attempt to understand the world from the client's view; to give the most valuable healing gift: being heard. Together, we determine what is missing & what is important (the Why: purpose), how the client wants to find fulfillment (the What: set goals). We determine How we will know they are successful and can continue on their own (measures for termination). I've been a Chaplain. I counseled people living with schizophrenia, bi-polar, or addictions, and prisoners - exhibiting anxiety, depression, grief, identity disorders, impulsivity & trauma response.
(904) 299-0928 View (904) 299-0928
Photo of Gail James - Dr. James Counseling and Consulting Services, PhD
Dr. James Counseling and Consulting Services
PhD
Verified Verified
Atlantic Beach, FL 32233
Trauma requires the # 1 tool trust in the person helping you.
Are you experiencing feelings of abandonment, rejection, worthlessness, helplessness and hopelessness. Are you at a crossroad in life and you don't know what to do? Do you feel like your relationship seems stagnant? Whether your struggles are trauma, grief, relationships, self-esteem, depression, anxiety or any other mental health issues I would love to help you. I will use the experience I've gained through previous employment along with my education and the guidance of the Holy Spirit to equip you with the necessary tools to make the best decisions that will enhance your life to the maximum potential.
Trauma requires the # 1 tool trust in the person helping you.
Are you experiencing feelings of abandonment, rejection, worthlessness, helplessness and hopelessness. Are you at a crossroad in life and you don't know what to do? Do you feel like your relationship seems stagnant? Whether your struggles are trauma, grief, relationships, self-esteem, depression, anxiety or any other mental health issues I would love to help you. I will use the experience I've gained through previous employment along with my education and the guidance of the Holy Spirit to equip you with the necessary tools to make the best decisions that will enhance your life to the maximum potential.
(904) 549-6277 View (904) 549-6277
Photo of Nicole Story - Nicole Story, Oceanside Family Therapy &Assessment, EdS, MEd, LMFT, LMHC, NCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nicole Story, Oceanside Family Therapy &Assessment
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdS, MEd, LMFT, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Atlantic Beach, FL 32233
I treat & assess children & adults including ADHD; Anxiety; Aspergers/SCD; ASD; ESA; PTSD; PSD; Personality & Career changes, etc.
Experienced psychotherapist licensed in both Mental Health (LMHC) & Family Therapy (LMFT) offering Teletherapy & assessments throughout Florida & limited Walk/Talk sessions in local nature settings for children, teens & adults. Also working with attorney referred clients requiring evals for USCIS/Federal Immigration Court throughout the US including California, New York & Miami. ESA & Psychiatric Service Dog assessments. Psychometric testing in English/Spanish. Proficient in German, French, Spanish & Irish dialects. Check out our website for details and rates. Our beach office is in-house at Story Griffin, Consumer Justice Law Firm.
I treat & assess children & adults including ADHD; Anxiety; Aspergers/SCD; ASD; ESA; PTSD; PSD; Personality & Career changes, etc.
Experienced psychotherapist licensed in both Mental Health (LMHC) & Family Therapy (LMFT) offering Teletherapy & assessments throughout Florida & limited Walk/Talk sessions in local nature settings for children, teens & adults. Also working with attorney referred clients requiring evals for USCIS/Federal Immigration Court throughout the US including California, New York & Miami. ESA & Psychiatric Service Dog assessments. Psychometric testing in English/Spanish. Proficient in German, French, Spanish & Irish dialects. Check out our website for details and rates. Our beach office is in-house at Story Griffin, Consumer Justice Law Firm.
(904) 385-2270 View (904) 385-2270
Photo of Judi Howard, LMHC, CMHC, EMDR, SSP, Counselor
Judi Howard
Counselor, LMHC, CMHC, EMDR, SSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlantic Beach, FL 32233
I am certified in providing Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP), a polyvagal approach to sensory issues, anxiety and trauma related symptoms.
Hello. I have provided therapy to individuals, children, and couples since 1990. Currently, I enjoy providing therapy to adults with various concerns including anxiety, depression, grief/loss and trauma. I take an integrative approach to therapy, combining techniques and strategies designed to promote the positive outcomes and goals that clients seek. This includes teaching relaxation and stress reduction techniques that clients can use in their everyday life. I rely on my training and experience along with the client's unique concerns, to determine how best to approach the situation.
I am certified in providing Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP), a polyvagal approach to sensory issues, anxiety and trauma related symptoms.
Hello. I have provided therapy to individuals, children, and couples since 1990. Currently, I enjoy providing therapy to adults with various concerns including anxiety, depression, grief/loss and trauma. I take an integrative approach to therapy, combining techniques and strategies designed to promote the positive outcomes and goals that clients seek. This includes teaching relaxation and stress reduction techniques that clients can use in their everyday life. I rely on my training and experience along with the client's unique concerns, to determine how best to approach the situation.
(904) 297-2037 View (904) 297-2037
Photo of Patricia Borgess, MS, Counselor
Patricia Borgess
Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
Atlantic Beach, FL 32233
Complex PTSD symptoms include emotional flashbacks (constant fight/flight/freeze triggers), a tyrannical inner critic, toxic shame, self abandonment, social anxiety, and relationship issues. This distressing experience can feel isolating and confusing, and like there is something wrong with you. The good news is there isn't - the human nervous system is intelligent and doing its best to protect us. We can learn to soften, self-soothe and communicate more deeply with our innermost self with somatic therapy. I also support with psychedelic integration, sexual awakening and am certified in yoga, breathwork, and nondual somatic inquiry.
Complex PTSD symptoms include emotional flashbacks (constant fight/flight/freeze triggers), a tyrannical inner critic, toxic shame, self abandonment, social anxiety, and relationship issues. This distressing experience can feel isolating and confusing, and like there is something wrong with you. The good news is there isn't - the human nervous system is intelligent and doing its best to protect us. We can learn to soften, self-soothe and communicate more deeply with our innermost self with somatic therapy. I also support with psychedelic integration, sexual awakening and am certified in yoga, breathwork, and nondual somatic inquiry.
(904) 587-4649 View (904) 587-4649
Photo of Amy Discepolo - Gentle Therapy Place, MS, LMHC, EMDRIA, ART, CCTP, Counselor
Gentle Therapy Place
Counselor, MS, LMHC, EMDRIA, ART, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlantic Beach, FL 32233
I use trauma-informed and systems approaches and am sensitive to perspectives from families-of-origin.
I like to use a gentle, caring, non-judgmental approach. I am certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and in ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy). I also use other trauma-informed, creative and energy modalities to achieve treatment goals. I facilitate coaching sessions, using goal setting, visualization and sensory techniques to discover a new you, whether personally or professionally.
I use trauma-informed and systems approaches and am sensitive to perspectives from families-of-origin.
I like to use a gentle, caring, non-judgmental approach. I am certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and in ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy). I also use other trauma-informed, creative and energy modalities to achieve treatment goals. I facilitate coaching sessions, using goal setting, visualization and sensory techniques to discover a new you, whether personally or professionally.
(904) 785-3019 View (904) 785-3019
Photo of Dr. Erica N. Wortherly, DSW, LCSW-QS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Erica N. Wortherly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW-QS
Verified Verified
Atlantic Beach, FL 32233
Clients also receive treatment to cope with trauma, parenting challenges, life transitions, etc.
I provide services for adolescents and young adults transitioning toward independence. In addition, I support and equip parents and educators on all levels who are challenged with maintaining a balance between providing nurturing environments to meet the needs of children/youth and living a mentally, emotionally, and physically healthy lifestyle.
Clients also receive treatment to cope with trauma, parenting challenges, life transitions, etc.
I provide services for adolescents and young adults transitioning toward independence. In addition, I support and equip parents and educators on all levels who are challenged with maintaining a balance between providing nurturing environments to meet the needs of children/youth and living a mentally, emotionally, and physically healthy lifestyle.
(904) 853-1784 View (904) 853-1784
Photo of Myrtle Harrison Greene, PhD, LMHC, CAP, ICADC, Counselor
Myrtle Harrison Greene
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, CAP, ICADC
Verified Verified
Atlantic Beach, FL 32233
Dr. Greene is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Certified Addiction and Trauma Professional, that works with older adolescents and adults. She uses several theoretical approaches and also utilizes a holistic approach that empowers her clients to improve their quality of life. With a doctorate in Psychology from Walden University, master's in counseling from Webster University, master's s in Rehabilitation Counseling from Thomas University and years of clinical experience she can offer sessions specifically design for the client's overall well being.
Dr. Greene is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Certified Addiction and Trauma Professional, that works with older adolescents and adults. She uses several theoretical approaches and also utilizes a holistic approach that empowers her clients to improve their quality of life. With a doctorate in Psychology from Walden University, master's in counseling from Webster University, master's s in Rehabilitation Counseling from Thomas University and years of clinical experience she can offer sessions specifically design for the client's overall well being.
(904) 429-4530 View (904) 429-4530
Photo of Selina Beenen - Beenen Therapy Group, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Beenen Therapy Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Atlantic Beach, FL 32233
At Beenen Therapy Group, our tailored support, using diverse modalities like psychodynamic, CBT, EMDR, Gottman Method, DBT, and ERP, specializes in trauma healing, emotional regulation, relationship improvement, and parenting guidance.
Beenen Therapy Group in Jacksonville Beach serves diverse clients – adolescents, adults, couples, and families tackling trauma, codependency, grief, depression, anxiety, OCD, parenting, and relationship issues. Motivated by transformative healing, they appreciate our therapists' eclectic approach, incorporating psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, EMDR, Gottman Method, DBT, ERP, and more. Committed to personal growth, clients seek tailored and holistic interventions, valuing a practice prioritizing comprehensive, effective methods for lasting positive change.
At Beenen Therapy Group, our tailored support, using diverse modalities like psychodynamic, CBT, EMDR, Gottman Method, DBT, and ERP, specializes in trauma healing, emotional regulation, relationship improvement, and parenting guidance.
Beenen Therapy Group in Jacksonville Beach serves diverse clients – adolescents, adults, couples, and families tackling trauma, codependency, grief, depression, anxiety, OCD, parenting, and relationship issues. Motivated by transformative healing, they appreciate our therapists' eclectic approach, incorporating psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, EMDR, Gottman Method, DBT, ERP, and more. Committed to personal growth, clients seek tailored and holistic interventions, valuing a practice prioritizing comprehensive, effective methods for lasting positive change.
(904) 624-1960 View (904) 624-1960
Photo of Jacqueline Frey - Jacqueline Frey Therapy and Life Coaching, LCSW, MSW, CLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jacqueline Frey Therapy and Life Coaching
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, CLC
Verified Verified
Atlantic Beach, FL 32233
I have training with addiction, marital problems, self-esteem, trauma, depression, anxiety, life transitions and so much more.
Live The Life YOU Love! My goal for everyone of my clients is for you to be the architect of your own life. A lot of us fall into our lives or we wake up one day and wonder, “How did I get here?” Well I am here to help you live with intention, that includes making conscious choices to propel your life, go after your dream or even get out of your own head. A lot of times we may have some obstacles such as past trauma, negative thought patterns or unhealthy relationships. That is where I come in, as a therapist it is my job to help you move past those obstacles and reach your goals, or even help you identify new ones
I have training with addiction, marital problems, self-esteem, trauma, depression, anxiety, life transitions and so much more.
Live The Life YOU Love! My goal for everyone of my clients is for you to be the architect of your own life. A lot of us fall into our lives or we wake up one day and wonder, “How did I get here?” Well I am here to help you live with intention, that includes making conscious choices to propel your life, go after your dream or even get out of your own head. A lot of times we may have some obstacles such as past trauma, negative thought patterns or unhealthy relationships. That is where I come in, as a therapist it is my job to help you move past those obstacles and reach your goals, or even help you identify new ones
(904) 574-4846 View (904) 574-4846
Photo of Horizon Counseling Llc, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Horizon Counseling Llc Llc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlantic Beach, FL 32233  (Online Only)
Specializing in depression; anxiety; ADHD; trauma related disorders; family conflict; postpartum mental health; foster care/adoption; and addiction recovery.
Psychotherapist with a history of working with adults and adolescents. As a therapist with a social work background, my practice is person-centered and rooted in empathy. My goal is to support you on your journey to improved mental health by connecting with your values and taking steps towards personal goals. I've had a lot of success working with clients who were uncertain about therapy or had a bad experience with it in the past. I bring a lot of care and intention to the work that I do and receive feedback that clients feel more than just heard but also supported in developing applicable skills they were seeking from therapy.
Specializing in depression; anxiety; ADHD; trauma related disorders; family conflict; postpartum mental health; foster care/adoption; and addiction recovery.
Psychotherapist with a history of working with adults and adolescents. As a therapist with a social work background, my practice is person-centered and rooted in empathy. My goal is to support you on your journey to improved mental health by connecting with your values and taking steps towards personal goals. I've had a lot of success working with clients who were uncertain about therapy or had a bad experience with it in the past. I bring a lot of care and intention to the work that I do and receive feedback that clients feel more than just heard but also supported in developing applicable skills they were seeking from therapy.
(904) 593-4176 View (904) 593-4176
Photo of Christie Castner, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christie Castner
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlantic Beach, FL 32233
My background is in working with young children to adults in their senior years, along with working with a clientele that spans across varying cultures, socioeconomic classes and family structures. I truly love what I do. I am constantly in awe of the people I meet and the bravery they show in their journey to confront issues and to lead a more balanced and satisfying life. Additionally, the genuine empathy and a sense of humor I bring to therapy assists in building the therapeutic relationship.
My background is in working with young children to adults in their senior years, along with working with a clientele that spans across varying cultures, socioeconomic classes and family structures. I truly love what I do. I am constantly in awe of the people I meet and the bravery they show in their journey to confront issues and to lead a more balanced and satisfying life. Additionally, the genuine empathy and a sense of humor I bring to therapy assists in building the therapeutic relationship.
(904) 853-3300 View (904) 853-3300
Photo of David Tolbert, MA, LMHC, Counselor
David Tolbert
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlantic Beach, FL 32233
Very few things affect your enjoyment of life or sense of well being as much as the state of your marriage. The great news is that Improving the quality of your relationship is attainable. But it's vital to choose a counselor with training in methods that are proven and validated by research. Dave is the only male therapist approved for the Gottman Network between Atlanta and Orlando to have completed Level 3 in The Gottman Couples Counseling Method - the product of over 30 years of empirical research by Dr. John Gottman into what makes relationships succeed or fail.
Very few things affect your enjoyment of life or sense of well being as much as the state of your marriage. The great news is that Improving the quality of your relationship is attainable. But it's vital to choose a counselor with training in methods that are proven and validated by research. Dave is the only male therapist approved for the Gottman Network between Atlanta and Orlando to have completed Level 3 in The Gottman Couples Counseling Method - the product of over 30 years of empirical research by Dr. John Gottman into what makes relationships succeed or fail.
(904) 601-0895 View (904) 601-0895
Photo of Guy W. Van Syckle Jr., PhD, Psychologist
Guy W. Van Syckle Jr.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Atlantic Beach, FL 32233
I am a licensed clinical psychologist. I have been working with children, adolescents, adults and families for over thirty years. My specialty is cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). I offer individual, couples, and family therapy to all age groups. I also am trained in school psychology. I consult frequently with educators, physicians, nurses, clergy, attorneys and judges on child and family matters. I have extensive experience helping families with divorce and reunification issues. I am an experienced court-appointed parent coordinator and child custody evaluator. I also treat adolescent and adults with substance abuse issues.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist. I have been working with children, adolescents, adults and families for over thirty years. My specialty is cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). I offer individual, couples, and family therapy to all age groups. I also am trained in school psychology. I consult frequently with educators, physicians, nurses, clergy, attorneys and judges on child and family matters. I have extensive experience helping families with divorce and reunification issues. I am an experienced court-appointed parent coordinator and child custody evaluator. I also treat adolescent and adults with substance abuse issues.
(703) 991-4974 View (703) 991-4974
Photo of Barbara Palomino de Velasco, PsyD, Psychologist
Barbara Palomino de Velasco
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Atlantic Beach, FL 32233
Hello, my name is Dr. Barbara Palomino de Velasco, or if you wish, you may call me "Dr. P." I have been working with adults and families for over 20 years. I have had the privilege of assisting them in communication, problem-solving, depression management, anxiety reduction, substance abuse, sexual issues in relationships, family issues, and life transitions, emphasizing helping them develop adaptive coping skills. Additionally, I train nationwide on law enforcement suicide prevention, critical incidents, and building more resilient first responder families.
Hello, my name is Dr. Barbara Palomino de Velasco, or if you wish, you may call me "Dr. P." I have been working with adults and families for over 20 years. I have had the privilege of assisting them in communication, problem-solving, depression management, anxiety reduction, substance abuse, sexual issues in relationships, family issues, and life transitions, emphasizing helping them develop adaptive coping skills. Additionally, I train nationwide on law enforcement suicide prevention, critical incidents, and building more resilient first responder families.
(813) 945-4714 View (813) 945-4714
Photo of Jan Agers Gallagher - Jan Gallagher, LMHC, LMHC, Counselor
Jan Gallagher, LMHC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Atlantic Beach, FL 32233
After over thirty years in practice, my most studied specialty is in relationship counseling. Loving feelings can grow when couples make a commitment of just 4 to 6 sessions. I teach enhanced communication skills and a conflict resolution model to help you talk out an issue all the way to a solution. I can help you move past the anger and towards a deeper connection. Some couples disagree over personality traits or gender differences? I increase your understanding of these differences so you can let go of those negative feelings. And I will help you change patterns of behavior that disrupt your present relationship.
After over thirty years in practice, my most studied specialty is in relationship counseling. Loving feelings can grow when couples make a commitment of just 4 to 6 sessions. I teach enhanced communication skills and a conflict resolution model to help you talk out an issue all the way to a solution. I can help you move past the anger and towards a deeper connection. Some couples disagree over personality traits or gender differences? I increase your understanding of these differences so you can let go of those negative feelings. And I will help you change patterns of behavior that disrupt your present relationship.
(904) 329-7976 View (904) 329-7976
Photo of Stephanie Cox, MS, LMHC
Stephanie Cox
Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlantic Beach, FL 32233
Accepting New Clients! I'm Steph, owner of Better Being Therapy Services, Psychology Today author, guest speaker and EFT Trained Therapist. Like you, I know our lives, relationships & histories can take a toll. The world around us can feel chaotic. We know we want to feel better, but don't know how. The complexities & seasons that life takes us through can be more challenging than we can handle. Still, better ways & better days are possible. Professional partnership through therapy can lead you there. Maybe you are just curious, maybe you are ready to take another step – let’s talk & figure it out together.
Accepting New Clients! I'm Steph, owner of Better Being Therapy Services, Psychology Today author, guest speaker and EFT Trained Therapist. Like you, I know our lives, relationships & histories can take a toll. The world around us can feel chaotic. We know we want to feel better, but don't know how. The complexities & seasons that life takes us through can be more challenging than we can handle. Still, better ways & better days are possible. Professional partnership through therapy can lead you there. Maybe you are just curious, maybe you are ready to take another step – let’s talk & figure it out together.
(904) 606-9196 View (904) 606-9196
Photo of Jennifer Wilburn, LMHC, CIC, Counselor
Jennifer Wilburn
Counselor, LMHC, CIC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Atlantic Beach, FL 32233
Let us embark on the inevitable tempests of life, those unpredictable storms that test our resolve and resilience. If you find yourself adrift in the turbulent waters of hardship, or overwhelmed by the depths of a challenging situation, you are in the right harbor. I offer therapy to help you heal, transform behaviors, and dismantle unhealthy thought patterns, enabling you to navigate life's storms with greater skill and confidence. I am here to help you chart a course toward your personal goals—whether that be achieving a greater sense of well-being, cultivating self-acceptance and trust, or building unshakeable confidence.
Let us embark on the inevitable tempests of life, those unpredictable storms that test our resolve and resilience. If you find yourself adrift in the turbulent waters of hardship, or overwhelmed by the depths of a challenging situation, you are in the right harbor. I offer therapy to help you heal, transform behaviors, and dismantle unhealthy thought patterns, enabling you to navigate life's storms with greater skill and confidence. I am here to help you chart a course toward your personal goals—whether that be achieving a greater sense of well-being, cultivating self-acceptance and trust, or building unshakeable confidence.
(904) 454-4396 View (904) 454-4396
Photo of Caitlin Laurence, LMHC, Counselor
Caitlin Laurence
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Atlantic Beach, FL 32233
Hi, I’m Caitlin! I love all things music, the beach, fur babies, and fantasy football.
Hi, I’m Caitlin! I love all things music, the beach, fur babies, and fantasy football.
(904) 906-9445 View (904) 906-9445
Photo of Jenny Batalla - Jenny Batalla & 'Apollo' - Ripple Effects Therapy, MS, LMHC, AAT-C, Counselor
Jenny Batalla & 'Apollo' - Ripple Effects Therapy
Counselor, MS, LMHC, AAT-C
Verified Verified
Atlantic Beach, FL 32233
Taking the step to engage in therapy requires courage and vulnerability. As a compassionate therapist, I provide a safe, non-judgmental space for individuals seeking support. As the founder of Ripple Effects Therapy, LLC, I believe in therapy's transformative power to create positive change not only within individuals but also in their relationships and communities. Therapy, like a stone creating ripples in water, has the potential to extend its effects far beyond the individual seeking help. My goal is to empower individuals to make meaningful shifts in their lives, leading to a ripple effect that touches the lives of others.
Taking the step to engage in therapy requires courage and vulnerability. As a compassionate therapist, I provide a safe, non-judgmental space for individuals seeking support. As the founder of Ripple Effects Therapy, LLC, I believe in therapy's transformative power to create positive change not only within individuals but also in their relationships and communities. Therapy, like a stone creating ripples in water, has the potential to extend its effects far beyond the individual seeking help. My goal is to empower individuals to make meaningful shifts in their lives, leading to a ripple effect that touches the lives of others.
(904) 780-0207 View (904) 780-0207
1

See more therapy options for Atlantic Beach

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.