Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Dunwoody, GA

Photo of Meghan Gottung Carrington, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meghan Gottung Carrington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dunwoody, GA 30338  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Therapy is not "one size fits all", so I use a combination of evidenced-based therapies with a strengths-based, trauma-informed approach.
Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with experience helping young adults and teens with a variety of mental health concerns such as: anxiety, trauma, depression, mood disorders, and crisis intervention. I also have experience working with chronic illness, chronic pain, and medical related trauma. My goal as a therapist is to create a safe and non-judgmental environment where you can feel better understood, supported, and confident.
Therapy is not "one size fits all", so I use a combination of evidenced-based therapies with a strengths-based, trauma-informed approach.
Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with experience helping young adults and teens with a variety of mental health concerns such as: anxiety, trauma, depression, mood disorders, and crisis intervention. I also have experience working with chronic illness, chronic pain, and medical related trauma. My goal as a therapist is to create a safe and non-judgmental environment where you can feel better understood, supported, and confident.
(678) 661-2975 View (678) 661-2975
Photo of David J. Ready, PhD, Psychologist
David J. Ready
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dunwoody, GA 30338  (Online Only)
Symptoms of anxiety, depression, OCD and trauma can lead to feeling helpless, being overwhelmed and feeling alone.
If anxiety from intrusive thoughts and/or memories repeatedly demands your attention, you are likely to benefit from the treatments I provide. These treatments are more effective and efficient than traditional talk therapy because they directly target your intrusive thoughts/memories. I provide specific exercises aimed at breaking behavioral patterns that maintain symptoms. I focus on changing behavior because only by changing what you do will you change how you feel. At the end of each session, you will have specific instructions for your next step forward.
Symptoms of anxiety, depression, OCD and trauma can lead to feeling helpless, being overwhelmed and feeling alone.
If anxiety from intrusive thoughts and/or memories repeatedly demands your attention, you are likely to benefit from the treatments I provide. These treatments are more effective and efficient than traditional talk therapy because they directly target your intrusive thoughts/memories. I provide specific exercises aimed at breaking behavioral patterns that maintain symptoms. I focus on changing behavior because only by changing what you do will you change how you feel. At the end of each session, you will have specific instructions for your next step forward.
(470) 635-5058 View (470) 635-5058
Photo of Erin Mills, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin Mills
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dunwoody, GA 30338
I am passionate about working with people who have substance abuse concerns, trauma, family conflict, and difficulty coping. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I strive to make any difficult life experience more manageable while gently guiding my clients and their families towards the life they want and see for themselves. I work with adolescents, young adults, and adults utilizing a client-centered, supportive approach. I work to make my office a safe, judgement-free space where my clients can discuss their struggles and get the support they need.
I am passionate about working with people who have substance abuse concerns, trauma, family conflict, and difficulty coping. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I strive to make any difficult life experience more manageable while gently guiding my clients and their families towards the life they want and see for themselves. I work with adolescents, young adults, and adults utilizing a client-centered, supportive approach. I work to make my office a safe, judgement-free space where my clients can discuss their struggles and get the support they need.
(470) 221-2588 View (470) 221-2588
Photo of Neal Baker, PhD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Neal Baker
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Dunwoody, GA 30338  (Online Only)
I focus on treating trauma and stress-related symptoms.
Life can be difficult for us all, but does it seem tougher on you at times? Maybe there actually IS something making life more challenging. Do you sometimes have feelings of guilt, shame, hopelessness, or panic, but can't identify the causes of these? Do you suffer from sleep problems, low energy, stomach issues, or muscle tension that you can't explain? Do you have trouble concentrating or have racing thoughts that are impossible to control? These are just some of the ways that anxiety and depression affects us. Add in daily stress or unresolved trauma and it can become challenging or even impossible to cope with daily life.
I focus on treating trauma and stress-related symptoms.
Life can be difficult for us all, but does it seem tougher on you at times? Maybe there actually IS something making life more challenging. Do you sometimes have feelings of guilt, shame, hopelessness, or panic, but can't identify the causes of these? Do you suffer from sleep problems, low energy, stomach issues, or muscle tension that you can't explain? Do you have trouble concentrating or have racing thoughts that are impossible to control? These are just some of the ways that anxiety and depression affects us. Add in daily stress or unresolved trauma and it can become challenging or even impossible to cope with daily life.
(470) 274-3835 View (470) 274-3835
Photo of Madeline Smith Huerkamp, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Madeline Smith Huerkamp
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Dunwoody, GA 30338
My early clinical experience took place in intensive treatment facilities, with a focus on complex trauma and its co-occurring disorders.
Connection is the most integral part of my approach to counseling. My goal is to aid clients in developing a well-balanced lifestyle so that they can feel self-confident, fulfilled, and intimately connected to others. I hope for my clients to live in a wholehearted way that honors what they truly value, as opposed to feeling stuck in patterns that are no longer serving them.
My early clinical experience took place in intensive treatment facilities, with a focus on complex trauma and its co-occurring disorders.
Connection is the most integral part of my approach to counseling. My goal is to aid clients in developing a well-balanced lifestyle so that they can feel self-confident, fulfilled, and intimately connected to others. I hope for my clients to live in a wholehearted way that honors what they truly value, as opposed to feeling stuck in patterns that are no longer serving them.
(404) 905-1225 View (404) 905-1225
Photo of Trenice Morton, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Trenice Morton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dunwoody, GA 30346  (Online Only)
I have acquired 11+ years working with adults and child survivors of complex trauma, such as sexual and domestic violence and a variety of mental health disorders.
What if you could learn how to thrive under the conditions, circumstances, and situations life has placed you in? What if you could find yourself one day moving beyond the people, traumas, situations, setbacks, losses, mistakes, etc. and could feel as if you were truly thriving in life again? What if you could find a way to thrive not just in the end, but in each part of your healing or recovery process until you feel you've truly overcome the very thing(s) you never thought you could? As your therapist, I'm here to offer you that hope, support, guidance, and encouragement as you navigate through it all.
I have acquired 11+ years working with adults and child survivors of complex trauma, such as sexual and domestic violence and a variety of mental health disorders.
What if you could learn how to thrive under the conditions, circumstances, and situations life has placed you in? What if you could find yourself one day moving beyond the people, traumas, situations, setbacks, losses, mistakes, etc. and could feel as if you were truly thriving in life again? What if you could find a way to thrive not just in the end, but in each part of your healing or recovery process until you feel you've truly overcome the very thing(s) you never thought you could? As your therapist, I'm here to offer you that hope, support, guidance, and encouragement as you navigate through it all.
(470) 635-3782 View (470) 635-3782
Photo of Molly Halbrooks, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Molly Halbrooks
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Dunwoody, GA 30338
I have specialized training in trauma, EMDR, LGBTQIA+ populations, and relational dynamics.
In person sessions in the Charlotte area, telehealth across North Carolina and Georgia. Does anxiety run your life? Do you struggle to make sense of past hurts, to find meaning in the day to day, or to navigate relationships well? I work with adults who have experienced traumatic events, are facing life transitions such as divorce, new parenting, and career changes; individuals struggling with anxiety; and those who are wanting to make sense of and heal from past experiences.
I have specialized training in trauma, EMDR, LGBTQIA+ populations, and relational dynamics.
In person sessions in the Charlotte area, telehealth across North Carolina and Georgia. Does anxiety run your life? Do you struggle to make sense of past hurts, to find meaning in the day to day, or to navigate relationships well? I work with adults who have experienced traumatic events, are facing life transitions such as divorce, new parenting, and career changes; individuals struggling with anxiety; and those who are wanting to make sense of and heal from past experiences.
(704) 397-4742 View (704) 397-4742
Photo of Jana Glass, LPC, MAC, PMH-C, BC-TMH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jana Glass
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MAC, PMH-C, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dunwoody, GA 30338
I define trauma as anything difficult from your past that is present in your life that affects you in a negative manner.
Connection & Sense of Belonging: We all want to be accepted and know we matter. Challenging life experiences disrupt these connections and leave you feeling isolated and alone. My first priority is creating a meaningful relationship through respect and non-judgement by listen to your story and what brings you to seek support and guidance. People I work with struggle with anxiety, depression, and often have negative core beliefs from past experiences that inform present decisions and actions. I help people find relief and re-define beliefs in a more positive direction.
I define trauma as anything difficult from your past that is present in your life that affects you in a negative manner.
Connection & Sense of Belonging: We all want to be accepted and know we matter. Challenging life experiences disrupt these connections and leave you feeling isolated and alone. My first priority is creating a meaningful relationship through respect and non-judgement by listen to your story and what brings you to seek support and guidance. People I work with struggle with anxiety, depression, and often have negative core beliefs from past experiences that inform present decisions and actions. I help people find relief and re-define beliefs in a more positive direction.
(404) 238-7248 View (404) 238-7248
Photo of Najam Mehmood, MD, MACC, CHT, LPC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Najam Mehmood
Licensed Professional Counselor, MD, MACC, CHT, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dunwoody, GA 30338
Narcissistic abuse leads to Chronic health problems and Complex PTSD.
Are you looking for a holistic healing space? I am a Physician who practices Psychotherapy full time. I am also a certified hypnotherapist and meditation coach. I give one on one time to my clients who want to use their mind and body's self healing resources to alleviate trauma and restore their natural rhythms. These two modalities allow you to travel beyond everyday distractions and let your soul to shine through. You will discover authenticity and reconnect with your deepest self in this journey with me. Join me to find more fulfillment and give meaning to your life. I also do life coaching for my clients.
Narcissistic abuse leads to Chronic health problems and Complex PTSD.
Are you looking for a holistic healing space? I am a Physician who practices Psychotherapy full time. I am also a certified hypnotherapist and meditation coach. I give one on one time to my clients who want to use their mind and body's self healing resources to alleviate trauma and restore their natural rhythms. These two modalities allow you to travel beyond everyday distractions and let your soul to shine through. You will discover authenticity and reconnect with your deepest self in this journey with me. Join me to find more fulfillment and give meaning to your life. I also do life coaching for my clients.
(678) 894-1196 View (678) 894-1196
Photo of Christine Cantilena Barnes, MS/NCC, LPC, EMDR, CPCS, GA/ MD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christine Cantilena Barnes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS/NCC, LPC, EMDR, CPCS, GA/ MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dunwoody, GA 30338  (Online Only)
Master's Degree of Science - Trained in Trauma, Forensic Evaluations for Court, and Parental Alienation.
Counseling is a healthy commitment and instills courage. It is crucial to find the right fit for yourself, one who can best relate to your issues. Working for Peachford, Ridgeview, and Emory Hospitals, has allowed me to focus on trauma, persons on the spectrum, resistant depression or anxiety, ADHD, and grief. My goal is to serve as an advocate for those desiring healing, proper medical care and learning to use their own voice. Specializing in teens, college students, and adults who suffer from intrusive thoughts, self-harming behaviors, suicidal ideation, depression, anxiety, divorce, parental alienation, and narcissist abuse.
Master's Degree of Science - Trained in Trauma, Forensic Evaluations for Court, and Parental Alienation.
Counseling is a healthy commitment and instills courage. It is crucial to find the right fit for yourself, one who can best relate to your issues. Working for Peachford, Ridgeview, and Emory Hospitals, has allowed me to focus on trauma, persons on the spectrum, resistant depression or anxiety, ADHD, and grief. My goal is to serve as an advocate for those desiring healing, proper medical care and learning to use their own voice. Specializing in teens, college students, and adults who suffer from intrusive thoughts, self-harming behaviors, suicidal ideation, depression, anxiety, divorce, parental alienation, and narcissist abuse.
(678) 952-2079 View (678) 952-2079
Photo of Tara M Boadu, PsyD, Psychologist
Tara M Boadu
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Dunwoody, GA 30338
Waitlist for new clients
Areas of expertise: Depression, anxiety, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder ( PTSD), multicultural and diversity issues.
I am a licensed psychologist at the Pathway Center for Psychotherapy in Berkeley Lake. I work with all ages and can do individual, couples, and family therapy. My style is very personal, warm, and tailored to your needs. People find me to be a safe, non-judgemental person that they can share anything with and be validated in their experiences. I see therapy as a partnership between both of us to work on problems together. Through therapy, you will discover solutions for yourself, as well as a boost in confidence and self-esteem.
Areas of expertise: Depression, anxiety, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder ( PTSD), multicultural and diversity issues.
I am a licensed psychologist at the Pathway Center for Psychotherapy in Berkeley Lake. I work with all ages and can do individual, couples, and family therapy. My style is very personal, warm, and tailored to your needs. People find me to be a safe, non-judgemental person that they can share anything with and be validated in their experiences. I see therapy as a partnership between both of us to work on problems together. Through therapy, you will discover solutions for yourself, as well as a boost in confidence and self-esteem.
(678) 723-4704 View (678) 723-4704
Photo of Heather V Youngblood - Perimeter Therapy Associates, LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Perimeter Therapy Associates, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dunwoody, GA 30338
We have clinicians that specialize in Trauma, Internal Family Systems, Ketamiine Assisted Therapy, Substance Abuse, Couples Counseling, Maternal Mental Health, Play Therapy, LGBTQ community, Developmental Disabilities, Parenting Issues, BiPolar Disorder, Cancer Diagnosis, Personal Finance Coaching and Elder Issues.
Perimeter Therapy Associates provides psychological services for children, adolescents, adults, older adults, couples, and families experiencing life transitions, relationship difficulties, depression, post partum depression, anxiety, grief, parenting concerns and other mental health issues. Our approach to therapy is tailored to the unique needs of each client, facilitating positive change in a warm and caring environment. We assist clients in making fundamental changes in the way they think and act thereby improving their ability to solve problems, cope and communicate effectively. We also offer personal finance coaching.
We have clinicians that specialize in Trauma, Internal Family Systems, Ketamiine Assisted Therapy, Substance Abuse, Couples Counseling, Maternal Mental Health, Play Therapy, LGBTQ community, Developmental Disabilities, Parenting Issues, BiPolar Disorder, Cancer Diagnosis, Personal Finance Coaching and Elder Issues.
Perimeter Therapy Associates provides psychological services for children, adolescents, adults, older adults, couples, and families experiencing life transitions, relationship difficulties, depression, post partum depression, anxiety, grief, parenting concerns and other mental health issues. Our approach to therapy is tailored to the unique needs of each client, facilitating positive change in a warm and caring environment. We assist clients in making fundamental changes in the way they think and act thereby improving their ability to solve problems, cope and communicate effectively. We also offer personal finance coaching.
(678) 824-2031 View (678) 824-2031
Photo of Dr. Nicole N Benton - NNK 4 Living Independently For Excellence, LPC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
NNK 4 Living Independently For Excellence
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dunwoody, GA 30346  (Online Only)
I have over 25 years working in trauma and crisis.
Ideally, I am a good fit for clients who are looking for purpose, but struggle with indecisiveness, maintaining employment, relationships, and stability because of distrust or the inability to get pass the past. If you are looking for a therapist to challenge your thoughts and beliefs about yourself to increase self-love, self-worth, and the ability to go out and accomplish your goals, let's see if we can build a therapeutic alliance to make it happen.
I have over 25 years working in trauma and crisis.
Ideally, I am a good fit for clients who are looking for purpose, but struggle with indecisiveness, maintaining employment, relationships, and stability because of distrust or the inability to get pass the past. If you are looking for a therapist to challenge your thoughts and beliefs about yourself to increase self-love, self-worth, and the ability to go out and accomplish your goals, let's see if we can build a therapeutic alliance to make it happen.
(706) 887-6424 View (706) 887-6424
Photo of Cristiane Uchida, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cristiane Uchida
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Dunwoody, GA 30338
I’m a therapist who specializes in anxiety and trauma. You would be surprised to learn how many client's emotional struggles are due to a past trauma. I help my clients overcome worries, panic attacks, overthinking, and symptoms related to trauma in order for them reach their goals and grow into the best version of themselves.
I’m a therapist who specializes in anxiety and trauma. You would be surprised to learn how many client's emotional struggles are due to a past trauma. I help my clients overcome worries, panic attacks, overthinking, and symptoms related to trauma in order for them reach their goals and grow into the best version of themselves.
(404) 994-5298 View (404) 994-5298
Photo of Mary Teresa Freeman-Walters, MS, MAC, LPC, CPCS, Counselor
Mary Teresa Freeman-Walters
Counselor, MS, MAC, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Dunwoody, GA 30338
I enjoy working with people of all ages and with a variety of issues such as self-esteem, relational issues, addictions, trauma and abuse.
For as long as I can remember, I've had a heart for encouraging people. I consider it a blessing to be able to do what gives me great joy - watching lives become transformed through the healing experience of counseling. I am looking forward to meeting you and having the privilege to be a part of your journey of renewal.
I enjoy working with people of all ages and with a variety of issues such as self-esteem, relational issues, addictions, trauma and abuse.
For as long as I can remember, I've had a heart for encouraging people. I consider it a blessing to be able to do what gives me great joy - watching lives become transformed through the healing experience of counseling. I am looking forward to meeting you and having the privilege to be a part of your journey of renewal.
(678) 820-4781 View (678) 820-4781
Photo of Anna Lisa Derenthal, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anna Lisa Derenthal
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Dunwoody, GA 30338
Trained and experienced in complex trauma work, adult survivors of childhood abuse.
Are you haunted by the past, consumed by fear, pain, guilt or sadness? I have helped many others like you end suffering and overcome fears, finally putting their pasts behind them. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and Brainspotting are specialized therapies for healing Trauma and PTSD more quickly and completely. I am also experienced with grief/loss, panic and anxiety disorders, phobias, depression, low self esteem, and other issues. In addition, I work with LGBTQI, Gender Identity, transgender people and transitioning. I am open-minded and accepting and I welcome folks from all spiritual belief systems, sexual orientations, gender expressions, colors, shapes and sizes.
Trained and experienced in complex trauma work, adult survivors of childhood abuse.
Are you haunted by the past, consumed by fear, pain, guilt or sadness? I have helped many others like you end suffering and overcome fears, finally putting their pasts behind them. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and Brainspotting are specialized therapies for healing Trauma and PTSD more quickly and completely. I am also experienced with grief/loss, panic and anxiety disorders, phobias, depression, low self esteem, and other issues. In addition, I work with LGBTQI, Gender Identity, transgender people and transitioning. I am open-minded and accepting and I welcome folks from all spiritual belief systems, sexual orientations, gender expressions, colors, shapes and sizes.
(678) 270-2384 View (678) 270-2384
Photo of Shequita Moxey, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shequita Moxey
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Dunwoody, GA 30338  (Online Only)
Together, we can help you heal from childhood trauma and other traumas you have experienced.
Hi there I am a licensed professional counselor in Georgia. I have 10 years of experience as a therapist and mental health assessor. I have worked in community mental health agencies and mental health hospitals. I empower women, teenagers, and adolescents to overcome trauma, reduce anxiety, reduce depression, control mood, and control ADHD. I enjoy incorporating multimodal approaches, including holistic, mindfulness, and TF-CBT,
Together, we can help you heal from childhood trauma and other traumas you have experienced.
Hi there I am a licensed professional counselor in Georgia. I have 10 years of experience as a therapist and mental health assessor. I have worked in community mental health agencies and mental health hospitals. I empower women, teenagers, and adolescents to overcome trauma, reduce anxiety, reduce depression, control mood, and control ADHD. I enjoy incorporating multimodal approaches, including holistic, mindfulness, and TF-CBT,
(470) 287-3805 View (470) 287-3805
Photo of Mariah Dookie, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mariah Dookie
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Dunwoody, GA 30350
I am a trauma- informed clinician experienced working with teens and adults through concerns such as life transitions, traumatic experiences, managing stress, anxiety and self- esteem using techniques based in Mindfulness, SFBT, CBT, Strengths Approaches and more.
Life throws many challenges and transitions at us, some expected and others happen unexpectedly where we realize that we need additional help. In those vulnerable moments, I hope to provide a safe space for you to seek the support and healing that you need in order to thrive.
I am a trauma- informed clinician experienced working with teens and adults through concerns such as life transitions, traumatic experiences, managing stress, anxiety and self- esteem using techniques based in Mindfulness, SFBT, CBT, Strengths Approaches and more.
Life throws many challenges and transitions at us, some expected and others happen unexpectedly where we realize that we need additional help. In those vulnerable moments, I hope to provide a safe space for you to seek the support and healing that you need in order to thrive.
(678) 679-5651 View (678) 679-5651
Photo of Maria Gonzalez-Iglesias, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maria Gonzalez-Iglesias
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dunwoody, GA 30346
Maria is passionate about building on client strengths to overcome obstacles in life. It is in teaching clients coping strategies that they are able to be successful in life regardless of past trauma. Maria uses an eclectic approach to therapy, including psychodynamic theory, cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing and a strengths-based approach. She has experience in working with clients dealing with anxiety and depression, suicidal ideation, abuse, parenting issues and divorce.
Maria is passionate about building on client strengths to overcome obstacles in life. It is in teaching clients coping strategies that they are able to be successful in life regardless of past trauma. Maria uses an eclectic approach to therapy, including psychodynamic theory, cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing and a strengths-based approach. She has experience in working with clients dealing with anxiety and depression, suicidal ideation, abuse, parenting issues and divorce.
(678) 990-9212 View (678) 990-9212
Photo of Dr. Aurelie Weinstein, PhD, MA, LPC, RPT, Counselor
Dr. Aurelie Weinstein
Counselor, PhD, MA, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
Dunwoody, GA 30338
Dr. Aurélie Weinstein is a Child and Family Therapist. Dr. Weinstein is passionate about helping her clients work through challenging life circumstances which include serious illness, anxiety, traumas, phobias, depression, self-esteem, attachment, and divorce related issues. She applies the best research-based treatments to effectively help her clients. For children, adolescents, and adults who have suffered from trauma, she uses EMDR and Brainspotting and for those with depression and self-esteem issues, she uses DBT treatment. As a Registered Play Therapist, she uses different types of play therapy to help children's challenges.
Dr. Aurélie Weinstein is a Child and Family Therapist. Dr. Weinstein is passionate about helping her clients work through challenging life circumstances which include serious illness, anxiety, traumas, phobias, depression, self-esteem, attachment, and divorce related issues. She applies the best research-based treatments to effectively help her clients. For children, adolescents, and adults who have suffered from trauma, she uses EMDR and Brainspotting and for those with depression and self-esteem issues, she uses DBT treatment. As a Registered Play Therapist, she uses different types of play therapy to help children's challenges.
(470) 236-4254 View (470) 236-4254
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.