Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Chillicothe, IL

Photo of Samantha Wagner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha Wagner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Chillicothe, IL 61523
I have had training in trauma informed care, LGBTQ+, crisis intervention, depression, anxiety, and DBT.
I'm Sam (she/her). I am a licensed clinical social worker in the Chicago-land area with 7 years of experience. I have provided individual, family, and group counseling as well as having extensive experience with crisis intervention. Throughout my career I have worked with clients during all stages of the lifespan. I am especially passionate about working with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, self-harm, trauma and life transitions. I tend to gravitate towards interventions that integrate mind and body, but I fundamentally believe that each client requires an individualized approach.
I have had training in trauma informed care, LGBTQ+, crisis intervention, depression, anxiety, and DBT.
I'm Sam (she/her). I am a licensed clinical social worker in the Chicago-land area with 7 years of experience. I have provided individual, family, and group counseling as well as having extensive experience with crisis intervention. Throughout my career I have worked with clients during all stages of the lifespan. I am especially passionate about working with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, self-harm, trauma and life transitions. I tend to gravitate towards interventions that integrate mind and body, but I fundamentally believe that each client requires an individualized approach.
(708) 847-9638 View (708) 847-9638
Photo of Paul Schellenberg, LCPC, Counselor
Paul Schellenberg
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chillicothe, IL 61523
I specialize in trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and personality disorders.
Everyone experiences pain in life and my goal is to keep the pain from becoming a person's identity. Our daily experiences are both joyful and painful. How we cope with these experience, either through healthy or unhealthy coping skills, will determine our new thought processes. These thought processes lead to self beliefs. I enjoy joining people in this moment of their lives and helping them redefine coping skills to rid themselves of related negative self beliefs.
I specialize in trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and personality disorders.
Everyone experiences pain in life and my goal is to keep the pain from becoming a person's identity. Our daily experiences are both joyful and painful. How we cope with these experience, either through healthy or unhealthy coping skills, will determine our new thought processes. These thought processes lead to self beliefs. I enjoy joining people in this moment of their lives and helping them redefine coping skills to rid themselves of related negative self beliefs.
(309) 265-0504 View (309) 265-0504
Photo of Megan Stickelmaier - Megan Stickelmaier Counseling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Stickelmaier Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chillicothe, IL 61523
Children and adolescents are under more pressure now than ever before from social stress, transitions and divorce, bullying and past trauma. I specialize in providing therapy for children, adolescents and adults. I believe that there are no bad kids or bad parents. It is through my family centered, solution focused approach that I encourage my clients and their parents to begin to celebrate their unique abilities. I also focus on the whole person, exploring academics, career, diet and nutrition, medical, social support any and all elements that impact my clients.
Children and adolescents are under more pressure now than ever before from social stress, transitions and divorce, bullying and past trauma. I specialize in providing therapy for children, adolescents and adults. I believe that there are no bad kids or bad parents. It is through my family centered, solution focused approach that I encourage my clients and their parents to begin to celebrate their unique abilities. I also focus on the whole person, exploring academics, career, diet and nutrition, medical, social support any and all elements that impact my clients.
(309) 271-1034 View (309) 271-1034
Photo of Kelly McKenna, LCSW, CAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly McKenna
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chillicothe, IL 61523
Not accepting new clients
Life is full of plot twists. It can be helpful to talk to someone outside of your family or friends to get a fresh perspective, new ideas, and objective feedback. Because no one has the same experiences, everyone has unique needs and challenges. Each person also has strengths and survival skills that have allowed him or her to get to this moment. Most people can't see their strengths and skills because they overlook, underestimate, or down play them.
Life is full of plot twists. It can be helpful to talk to someone outside of your family or friends to get a fresh perspective, new ideas, and objective feedback. Because no one has the same experiences, everyone has unique needs and challenges. Each person also has strengths and survival skills that have allowed him or her to get to this moment. Most people can't see their strengths and skills because they overlook, underestimate, or down play them.
(309) 408-0760 View (309) 408-0760

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lisa M Kyle-Wolf - Seventh Direction, LCSW, BS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Seventh Direction
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BS
Verified Verified
Germantown Hills, IL 61548
As a seasoned therapist of 32 years, I have a unique set of skills that allows me to assist in your healing. I practice the spiriutal concepts that I believe in and the healing techniques that I love. The techniques that I love the most are EFT, EMDR, Rapid Resolution Therapy, and Aroma Freedom Technique. These techniques allow me all that is necessary for us to heal your trauma issues or any other issues you may have. My passion is creating a space for all of us to unite and enrich your life. I look forward in working with you. Of course, I am well versed in typical cognitive/behavioral therapies as well.
As a seasoned therapist of 32 years, I have a unique set of skills that allows me to assist in your healing. I practice the spiriutal concepts that I believe in and the healing techniques that I love. The techniques that I love the most are EFT, EMDR, Rapid Resolution Therapy, and Aroma Freedom Technique. These techniques allow me all that is necessary for us to heal your trauma issues or any other issues you may have. My passion is creating a space for all of us to unite and enrich your life. I look forward in working with you. Of course, I am well versed in typical cognitive/behavioral therapies as well.
(309) 517-5243 View (309) 517-5243
Photo of Renae Miller, MS, MFT, LCPC, Counselor
Renae Miller
Counselor, MS, MFT, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dunlap, IL 61525
I'm a certified EMDR therapist through EMDRIA and have been trained in the treatment of early childhood trauma, experiences that shape a person before narrative memories occur .
It's not easy to talk to a stranger about the things that make us feel most vulnerable. It's difficult to hope that things could be better or to believe that we could be loved or accepted once we are fully known. I work with my clients in an atmosphere of respect, believing the best things for you that you cannot see right now, working together towards the goals that you courageously speak out loud. After 15 years in practice, I have seen so many people find freedom from the fears and symptoms that hold them back and it brings me great joy and honor to walk beside them as they heal.
I'm a certified EMDR therapist through EMDRIA and have been trained in the treatment of early childhood trauma, experiences that shape a person before narrative memories occur .
It's not easy to talk to a stranger about the things that make us feel most vulnerable. It's difficult to hope that things could be better or to believe that we could be loved or accepted once we are fully known. I work with my clients in an atmosphere of respect, believing the best things for you that you cannot see right now, working together towards the goals that you courageously speak out loud. After 15 years in practice, I have seen so many people find freedom from the fears and symptoms that hold them back and it brings me great joy and honor to walk beside them as they heal.
(309) 245-0397 View (309) 245-0397
Photo of Erin Surratt, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin Surratt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61614
I have experience working with PTSD and trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, ADHD, ODD and behavioral issues.
I believe that we all need a little bit of help once in a while. I also know that sometimes we don't know how to get that help or whom to ask. I feel that therapy can be beneficial to help facilitate that change by providing an outlet or resource for those that need that help.
I have experience working with PTSD and trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, ADHD, ODD and behavioral issues.
I believe that we all need a little bit of help once in a while. I also know that sometimes we don't know how to get that help or whom to ask. I feel that therapy can be beneficial to help facilitate that change by providing an outlet or resource for those that need that help.
(309) 928-7717 View (309) 928-7717
Photo of Leslie Perera, AMFT, CSAT-C, EMDR, ERCEM, Marriage & Family Therapist
Leslie Perera
Marriage & Family Therapist, AMFT, CSAT-C, EMDR, ERCEM
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61615
If you are suffering with post-traumatic stress, debilitating anxiety, the quicksand of depression, marital issues, or life transitions, I can help you and/or your relationship learn new ways to communicate, see things differently, and see and hear one another in a whole new way.
Finding it hard to transition to civilian life? Grappling with your new unfolding reality? Troubled by memories of your experience in the service?” Feel drained by thoughts you just can’t shut off? No one understands the emptiness, turmoil, and lack of structure you are facing? Turned to alcohol, drugs, or other addictions to cope? If you served in the military, law enforcement, or first responder or have a loved one suffering from trauma, anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress, Anger Issues, or marital difficulties, I can help! During my 20 years of military service, I have experienced extended deployments, combat action, and led commands.
If you are suffering with post-traumatic stress, debilitating anxiety, the quicksand of depression, marital issues, or life transitions, I can help you and/or your relationship learn new ways to communicate, see things differently, and see and hear one another in a whole new way.
Finding it hard to transition to civilian life? Grappling with your new unfolding reality? Troubled by memories of your experience in the service?” Feel drained by thoughts you just can’t shut off? No one understands the emptiness, turmoil, and lack of structure you are facing? Turned to alcohol, drugs, or other addictions to cope? If you served in the military, law enforcement, or first responder or have a loved one suffering from trauma, anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress, Anger Issues, or marital difficulties, I can help! During my 20 years of military service, I have experienced extended deployments, combat action, and led commands.
(309) 245-3869 View (309) 245-3869
Photo of Amy Fischer, MSW, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Fischer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dunlap, IL 61525
Waitlist for new clients
Amy specializes in healing women & girls ages 12-45 with relationship trauma (friendships and romantic), healing inner child wounds (bullying, sexual abuse, physical abuse), toxic relationship patterns, emotional eating issues, increasing self love and post-partum depression/anxiety. She uses EMDR, deep guided imagery, hypnotherapy, CBT, and DBT tools to help make positive changes happen. Along with processing past traumas the other goal is to teach you coping tools to effectively manage life on your own. Check out www.mindoasiscounseling.com for more information.
Amy specializes in healing women & girls ages 12-45 with relationship trauma (friendships and romantic), healing inner child wounds (bullying, sexual abuse, physical abuse), toxic relationship patterns, emotional eating issues, increasing self love and post-partum depression/anxiety. She uses EMDR, deep guided imagery, hypnotherapy, CBT, and DBT tools to help make positive changes happen. Along with processing past traumas the other goal is to teach you coping tools to effectively manage life on your own. Check out www.mindoasiscounseling.com for more information.
(309) 247-8323 View (309) 247-8323
Photo of Alan Moreland, LMFT, CSAT, CMAT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alan Moreland
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT, CMAT, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61615
I offer individual, marital, and group therapy for men and women struggling with sex addiction, intimacy disorders, relationship problems, and trauma.
Are you addicted to sex, pornography, relationships, or obsessed with love? Do you want to stop your sexual or destructive relationship behaviors, but cannot quit alone? On the verge of losing everything because of out of control sexual behavior. If you're serious about getting help, then call me now. I create a safe place for clients. I am non-judgmental, down-to-earth, genuine, yet firm and direct. I specialize in treating sexual addiction, intimacy problems, and betrayal trauma, helping addicts and partners heal from the wounds, betrayal, and brokenness of sexual and pornography addiction. Get help now. Call now.
I offer individual, marital, and group therapy for men and women struggling with sex addiction, intimacy disorders, relationship problems, and trauma.
Are you addicted to sex, pornography, relationships, or obsessed with love? Do you want to stop your sexual or destructive relationship behaviors, but cannot quit alone? On the verge of losing everything because of out of control sexual behavior. If you're serious about getting help, then call me now. I create a safe place for clients. I am non-judgmental, down-to-earth, genuine, yet firm and direct. I specialize in treating sexual addiction, intimacy problems, and betrayal trauma, helping addicts and partners heal from the wounds, betrayal, and brokenness of sexual and pornography addiction. Get help now. Call now.
(309) 807-9679 View (309) 807-9679
Photo of Stephanie Czarnecki, LCSW, CSAT, MVF-CSW, C-CATOD, CGC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Czarnecki
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAT, MVF-CSW, C-CATOD, CGC
Verified Verified
Dunlap, IL 61525  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed therapist, CSAT focused on individuals dealing with trauma (PTSD, betrayal trauma, etc.), narcissistic abuse or trauma, sex and porn addiction, substance use/addiction, and personality disorders. If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or to cope with life's challenges, you're not alone. Many people go through difficult periods in their lives where they need extra support and guidance. Therapy can be a transformative experience that helps individuals improve their mental health, build resilience, and live a more fulfilling life
I am a licensed therapist, CSAT focused on individuals dealing with trauma (PTSD, betrayal trauma, etc.), narcissistic abuse or trauma, sex and porn addiction, substance use/addiction, and personality disorders. If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or to cope with life's challenges, you're not alone. Many people go through difficult periods in their lives where they need extra support and guidance. Therapy can be a transformative experience that helps individuals improve their mental health, build resilience, and live a more fulfilling life
(309) 305-9670 View (309) 305-9670
Photo of Katelyn Mills, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katelyn Mills
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dunlap, IL 61525
I believe we all long for meaningful connections. My goal is to facilitate the discovery of meaning and connection within yourself and within your closest relationships. Trauma looks different to each individual, and I believe we do the best we can to cope using skills we have learned throughout our lives. Unfortunately, many of these skills no longer serve us in a healthy way in the present. Regardless of your past, or where you find yourself today, you deserve to be heard. I aim to create a safe, nonjudgmental space to process traumas and challenges, finding healing and peace amidst the chaos.
I believe we all long for meaningful connections. My goal is to facilitate the discovery of meaning and connection within yourself and within your closest relationships. Trauma looks different to each individual, and I believe we do the best we can to cope using skills we have learned throughout our lives. Unfortunately, many of these skills no longer serve us in a healthy way in the present. Regardless of your past, or where you find yourself today, you deserve to be heard. I aim to create a safe, nonjudgmental space to process traumas and challenges, finding healing and peace amidst the chaos.
(309) 865-5985 View (309) 865-5985
Photo of Jessica L Wooden, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica L Wooden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dunlap, IL 61525  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have years of experience helping people work through life stressors, childhood trauma, anxiety, rejection, abandonment, grief, self-esteem issues, anger and relationship issues.
Are you ready to work through past hurts or unresolved issues so that you can have more peace in your life? I want to help you develop more insight into some of your unresolved issues you may be struggling with so that you can feel better. Do you want to feel more confident in yourself and work through negative beliefs you may have been struggling with for years? I want to help you and be that supportive and empathetic person to guide you through those things.
I have years of experience helping people work through life stressors, childhood trauma, anxiety, rejection, abandonment, grief, self-esteem issues, anger and relationship issues.
Are you ready to work through past hurts or unresolved issues so that you can have more peace in your life? I want to help you develop more insight into some of your unresolved issues you may be struggling with so that you can feel better. Do you want to feel more confident in yourself and work through negative beliefs you may have been struggling with for years? I want to help you and be that supportive and empathetic person to guide you through those things.
(309) 220-5632 View (309) 220-5632
Photo of Heidi Van Heuklon, LCPC, Counselor
Heidi Van Heuklon
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61614
I am EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) trained, which is a very beneficial form of treatment for trauma related issues.
It takes courage to take the first step into a counseling relationship. Everyone needs help navigating life's issues and complexities from time to time. Sometimes these problems can lead to feelings of confusion, depression and anxiety. I want to assist you on your personal journey as you encounter life's challenges and obstacles. I am confident that each of my clients hold the capacity to overcome adversity, effectively communicate, make healthy life choices, and lead happy and productive lives. I believe that each individual is special and unique.
I am EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) trained, which is a very beneficial form of treatment for trauma related issues.
It takes courage to take the first step into a counseling relationship. Everyone needs help navigating life's issues and complexities from time to time. Sometimes these problems can lead to feelings of confusion, depression and anxiety. I want to assist you on your personal journey as you encounter life's challenges and obstacles. I am confident that each of my clients hold the capacity to overcome adversity, effectively communicate, make healthy life choices, and lead happy and productive lives. I believe that each individual is special and unique.
(309) 324-3030 View (309) 324-3030
Photo of Jill (Bradford) Roberts, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jill (Bradford) Roberts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Metamora, IL 61548
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with anxiety, OCD, panic attacks, phobias, and trauma/PTSD.
Are anxiety and fear keeping you from truly living your life? Struggling with ruminating, intrusive, and unwanted thoughts? Does social anxiety keep you from making the connections your desire? Do you find yourself stuck in past trauma, unable to move forward? It doesn't have to be this way. Relief is possible. I am passionate about helping people live their life without having anxiety at the wheel. I specialize in working with clients with all types of anxiety issues (OCD, panic disorder, phobias, GAD). I also work with PTSD, trauma, navigating life transitions, and relationship issues.
I specialize in working with anxiety, OCD, panic attacks, phobias, and trauma/PTSD.
Are anxiety and fear keeping you from truly living your life? Struggling with ruminating, intrusive, and unwanted thoughts? Does social anxiety keep you from making the connections your desire? Do you find yourself stuck in past trauma, unable to move forward? It doesn't have to be this way. Relief is possible. I am passionate about helping people live their life without having anxiety at the wheel. I specialize in working with clients with all types of anxiety issues (OCD, panic disorder, phobias, GAD). I also work with PTSD, trauma, navigating life transitions, and relationship issues.
(309) 408-0968 View (309) 408-0968
Photo of Laura Deffley, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laura Deffley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dunlap, IL 61525  (Online Only)
I specialize in college/graduate students and adults who are feeling overwhelmed or experiencing life transitions, depression, anxiety, trauma, and LGBTQIA+ identity issues. I understand that reaching out to make a change can be difficult, but the relief of finally making headway on something that has kept you stuck is far greater. I’ll collaborate with you to reflect on where you are right now to consider the best path forward based on your unique strengths (trust me, you have many even if it doesn’t seem like it, right now) and experiences. You’ll take control of your story.
I specialize in college/graduate students and adults who are feeling overwhelmed or experiencing life transitions, depression, anxiety, trauma, and LGBTQIA+ identity issues. I understand that reaching out to make a change can be difficult, but the relief of finally making headway on something that has kept you stuck is far greater. I’ll collaborate with you to reflect on where you are right now to consider the best path forward based on your unique strengths (trust me, you have many even if it doesn’t seem like it, right now) and experiences. You’ll take control of your story.
(309) 326-5506 View (309) 326-5506
Photo of Brandon Ludolph, NCC, LCPC, LPC
Brandon Ludolph
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, NCC, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Metamora, IL 61548  (Online Only)
At Mended Hearts we use Equine and Animal Assisted Therapy to help build trust, confidence, and relationships. Equine Therapy provides immediate, honest, and observable feedback. This type of therapy can be utilized by groups, individuals, families, and couples. Individuals who struggle with low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, impulse-control, anxiety, and substance-related disorders will benefit from equine therapy. The client will engage in activities that will help process feelings, behaviors, and build healthy coping skills.
At Mended Hearts we use Equine and Animal Assisted Therapy to help build trust, confidence, and relationships. Equine Therapy provides immediate, honest, and observable feedback. This type of therapy can be utilized by groups, individuals, families, and couples. Individuals who struggle with low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, impulse-control, anxiety, and substance-related disorders will benefit from equine therapy. The client will engage in activities that will help process feelings, behaviors, and build healthy coping skills.
(309) 220-5161 View (309) 220-5161
Photo of Mary Beth Cunningham, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Mary Beth Cunningham
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dunlap, IL 61525
Waitlist for new clients
I have vast training and experience in working with individuals with backgrounds of trauma (including domestic violence and sexual assault), substance use, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenic disorder (including schizoaffective disorder), and clients whose diagnoses impede their abilities to learn and work in a traditional setting.
My office is a judgement-free zone when helping my clients to achieve their goal of a higher quality of life. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who is skilled in diagnosing and treating mental health disorders. I have over a decade of experience helping adolescents and adults overcome barriers related to mood & anxiety disorders, trauma-related stressors, substance use disorders, grief & loss, and educational difficulties related to learning disabilities and mental health diagnoses. I am a client-centered therapist and am able to tailor treatment goals to each individual's needs using evidence-based approaches.
I have vast training and experience in working with individuals with backgrounds of trauma (including domestic violence and sexual assault), substance use, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenic disorder (including schizoaffective disorder), and clients whose diagnoses impede their abilities to learn and work in a traditional setting.
My office is a judgement-free zone when helping my clients to achieve their goal of a higher quality of life. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who is skilled in diagnosing and treating mental health disorders. I have over a decade of experience helping adolescents and adults overcome barriers related to mood & anxiety disorders, trauma-related stressors, substance use disorders, grief & loss, and educational difficulties related to learning disabilities and mental health diagnoses. I am a client-centered therapist and am able to tailor treatment goals to each individual's needs using evidence-based approaches.
(309) 213-2825 View (309) 213-2825
Audrey Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61614
—I have a female-focused practice. Female consent is key in my practice. All requests for therapy MUST be initiated by a woman. — I help women reclaim their sexual identity again after trauma. I work with sexual health concerns, including mental barriers that prevent enjoyment of sexual experiences. I do not specialize in male sexual disorders, and work within the scope of my expertise.
—I have a female-focused practice. Female consent is key in my practice. All requests for therapy MUST be initiated by a woman. — I help women reclaim their sexual identity again after trauma. I work with sexual health concerns, including mental barriers that prevent enjoyment of sexual experiences. I do not specialize in male sexual disorders, and work within the scope of my expertise.
(309) 857-7740 View (309) 857-7740
Photo of Erica Ray, MEd, LCPC, Counselor
Erica Ray
Counselor, MEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
Dunlap, IL 61525
Hello, I'm Erica! Life is difficult and sometimes we forget that we don't have to do it alone. I look forward to having the chance to understand who you are. I have provided therapy out in the community, in schools, as well as in a typical counseling office. I have experience with clients of all ages who struggle with depression, anxiety, anger, family conflict, coping with grief and loss, the challenges of parenting, social behavior, and trauma. My approach to counseling is person centered. I believe you are the first and best expert on yourself. I focus on truly hearing what you believe about your own needs and concerns.
Hello, I'm Erica! Life is difficult and sometimes we forget that we don't have to do it alone. I look forward to having the chance to understand who you are. I have provided therapy out in the community, in schools, as well as in a typical counseling office. I have experience with clients of all ages who struggle with depression, anxiety, anger, family conflict, coping with grief and loss, the challenges of parenting, social behavior, and trauma. My approach to counseling is person centered. I believe you are the first and best expert on yourself. I focus on truly hearing what you believe about your own needs and concerns.
(309) 777-0897 View (309) 777-0897

See more therapy options for Chillicothe

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.