Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Huntertown, IN

Photo of Kathryn McLaughlin, LMHCA, Counselor
Kathryn McLaughlin
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Huntertown, IN 46748
Waitlist for new clients
Kathryn specializes in Trauma/ PTSD, Grief & Loss, Anxiety, Depression, Relationship Issues, and School & Career Related Problems.
The process of finding a therapist and beginning therapy can be overwhelming. I believe any and all people can benefit from therapy and I encourage everyone to give it a shot! In my office, anyone is welcome. I serve many types of people and specifically work with anxiety, trauma, grief, and school/career/relationship problems.
Kathryn specializes in Trauma/ PTSD, Grief & Loss, Anxiety, Depression, Relationship Issues, and School & Career Related Problems.
The process of finding a therapist and beginning therapy can be overwhelming. I believe any and all people can benefit from therapy and I encourage everyone to give it a shot! In my office, anyone is welcome. I serve many types of people and specifically work with anxiety, trauma, grief, and school/career/relationship problems.
(260) 261-1237 View (260) 261-1237
Photo of Shannon Rahn, MS Ed, LMHCA, Counselor
Shannon Rahn
Counselor, MS Ed, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntertown, IN 46748
I take a client-centered approach, utilizing tools and techniques specific to your needs, goals, and individual strengths. My primary therapeutic approach is Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, which helps people identify and change self-defeating patterns of thought, behavior, and learn how to cope with their emotional experience.
I take a client-centered approach, utilizing tools and techniques specific to your needs, goals, and individual strengths. My primary therapeutic approach is Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, which helps people identify and change self-defeating patterns of thought, behavior, and learn how to cope with their emotional experience.
(260) 368-5395 View (260) 368-5395
Photo of Rylie E Cook, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rylie E Cook
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Huntertown, IN 46748
Not accepting new clients
My work is influenced largely by Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Relational-Cultural Therapy techniques.
I have always had a passion for working with underserved populations and those in need. Most of my experience has been with providing therapy to children and adults who have experienced trauma, as well as those who have struggled with anxiety and depression. I aim to create trusting and authentic partnerships between myself and clients on their journey to healing. I strive to utilize an anti-oppressive and trauma-informed approach to create a safe space for all clients to learn, grow, and embrace healthy connection, while acknowledging the impacts of environment and culture.
My work is influenced largely by Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Relational-Cultural Therapy techniques.
I have always had a passion for working with underserved populations and those in need. Most of my experience has been with providing therapy to children and adults who have experienced trauma, as well as those who have struggled with anxiety and depression. I aim to create trusting and authentic partnerships between myself and clients on their journey to healing. I strive to utilize an anti-oppressive and trauma-informed approach to create a safe space for all clients to learn, grow, and embrace healthy connection, while acknowledging the impacts of environment and culture.
(260) 238-9494 View (260) 238-9494
Photo of Karah Wynn, MSW, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karah Wynn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Huntertown, IN 46748
Not accepting new clients
I am trained in Family Centered Treatment, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Emotionally Focused Therapy.
I am not accepting new clients until late January 2025. I work with adults to support them in effectively managing and addressing stress, trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, perinatal mental health, and other mental health concerns. I endeavor to build trusting therapeutic relationships with my clients to facilitate direct and honest communication. I believe that therapy can be beneficial to anyone!
I am trained in Family Centered Treatment, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Emotionally Focused Therapy.
I am not accepting new clients until late January 2025. I work with adults to support them in effectively managing and addressing stress, trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, perinatal mental health, and other mental health concerns. I endeavor to build trusting therapeutic relationships with my clients to facilitate direct and honest communication. I believe that therapy can be beneficial to anyone!
(260) 233-9718 View (260) 233-9718

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Catherine Sallaz - Catherine Sallaz Counseling, LMHC, Counselor
Catherine Sallaz Counseling
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Fort Wayne, IN 46825
Catherine is a certified clinical Trauma Professional as well as EMDR therapy certified.
Catherine specializes in helping clients work through difficult times and provides the strategies and techniques necessary for empowerment as well as making and maintaining positive changes. Catherine works with children, teenagers, and adults and often addresses anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief, adjustment issues, relational and family challenges, confidence, sexuality issues and substance abuse problems. Each person is unique and therapy must be tailored to meet their specific needs and goals.
Catherine is a certified clinical Trauma Professional as well as EMDR therapy certified.
Catherine specializes in helping clients work through difficult times and provides the strategies and techniques necessary for empowerment as well as making and maintaining positive changes. Catherine works with children, teenagers, and adults and often addresses anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief, adjustment issues, relational and family challenges, confidence, sexuality issues and substance abuse problems. Each person is unique and therapy must be tailored to meet their specific needs and goals.
(260) 960-5483 View (260) 960-5483
Photo of Amanda Jo Gonzalez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Jo Gonzalez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fort Wayne, IN 46845  (Online Only)
Furthermore, I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, middle aged and 'antiqued' populations who are struggling to manage stress, anxiety, depression, grief, mood disorders, relationship conflict and/or unresolved trauma.
Hi. My name is Amanda Jo! I'm honored you've taken the opportunity to read a little bit about me in order to determine if we might be a good fit to walk a part of life's journey together! I have over ten years of experience working in the field of mental health. I completed my undergraduate degree in Psychology at Saint Leo University and obtained my Masters in Social Work from Indiana University. I served in the United States Army and am acutely aware of the mental health and family issues specifically related to deployments as well as pre and post service.
Furthermore, I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, middle aged and 'antiqued' populations who are struggling to manage stress, anxiety, depression, grief, mood disorders, relationship conflict and/or unresolved trauma.
Hi. My name is Amanda Jo! I'm honored you've taken the opportunity to read a little bit about me in order to determine if we might be a good fit to walk a part of life's journey together! I have over ten years of experience working in the field of mental health. I completed my undergraduate degree in Psychology at Saint Leo University and obtained my Masters in Social Work from Indiana University. I served in the United States Army and am acutely aware of the mental health and family issues specifically related to deployments as well as pre and post service.
(260) 250-9748 View (260) 250-9748
Photo of Teri Wilder, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Teri Wilder
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Fort Wayne, IN 46818
A client who desires to accept partnership and engage in being open to change is the most ideal client. I prefer to work with adults and older adolescents struggling with addictions, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and trauma. I have a vast amount of experience working in the field of trauma. Due to my experience working in community mental health, I also work well with those with intense mental health and substance abuse treatment needs. I have worked both inpatient and outpatient experiences, resulting in my flexibility to help stabilize in a crisis and to work with individuals at any level.
A client who desires to accept partnership and engage in being open to change is the most ideal client. I prefer to work with adults and older adolescents struggling with addictions, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and trauma. I have a vast amount of experience working in the field of trauma. Due to my experience working in community mental health, I also work well with those with intense mental health and substance abuse treatment needs. I have worked both inpatient and outpatient experiences, resulting in my flexibility to help stabilize in a crisis and to work with individuals at any level.
(260) 525-9308 View (260) 525-9308
Photo of Deb Pardue, MS Ed, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Deb Pardue
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS Ed, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fort Wayne, IN 46801  (Online Only)
I work with a diverse range of clients (adolescents, adults, couples, & families) who are struggling with issues such as infidelity, communication breakdowns, high-functioning autism, trauma, sexual abuse, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and grief.
As a compassionate and experienced therapist, I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship to foster healing and growth. Drawing on a person-centered approach, I create a safe and supportive space for clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I integrate techniques from positive psychology and cognitive-behavioral therapy to help individuals identify and challenge negative thought patterns, develop coping skills, and cultivate resilience. With a focus on individual strengths and potential, I empower clients to overcome challenges and live more fulfilling lives.
I work with a diverse range of clients (adolescents, adults, couples, & families) who are struggling with issues such as infidelity, communication breakdowns, high-functioning autism, trauma, sexual abuse, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and grief.
As a compassionate and experienced therapist, I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship to foster healing and growth. Drawing on a person-centered approach, I create a safe and supportive space for clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I integrate techniques from positive psychology and cognitive-behavioral therapy to help individuals identify and challenge negative thought patterns, develop coping skills, and cultivate resilience. With a focus on individual strengths and potential, I empower clients to overcome challenges and live more fulfilling lives.
(812) 272-2782 View (812) 272-2782
Photo of Adrienne Smith, MS, LMHC, LCPC, Counselor
Adrienne Smith
Counselor, MS, LMHC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Wayne, IN 46825  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating trauma both big and small and have extensive experience working with people from all backgrounds and walks of life.
Do you have the feeling that you aren't participating fully in life? Do you want to begin a journey of self exploration but aren't sure how? There are times when it is difficult to navigate our journey and a helping hand is needed. I will walk with you to resolve barriers to well-being caused by trauma, mood issues, grief and personal stressors. When working together, you will be given a secure emotional space in which to explore and work on life issues which are important to you. It is time to take the opportunity to spend much needed time being curious about yourself. Get excited, the first step is just around the corner!
I specialize in treating trauma both big and small and have extensive experience working with people from all backgrounds and walks of life.
Do you have the feeling that you aren't participating fully in life? Do you want to begin a journey of self exploration but aren't sure how? There are times when it is difficult to navigate our journey and a helping hand is needed. I will walk with you to resolve barriers to well-being caused by trauma, mood issues, grief and personal stressors. When working together, you will be given a secure emotional space in which to explore and work on life issues which are important to you. It is time to take the opportunity to spend much needed time being curious about yourself. Get excited, the first step is just around the corner!
(260) 235-2463 View (260) 235-2463
Photo of Bethany Kellogg, LCSW, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bethany Kellogg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Wayne, IN 46825
Waitlist for new clients
I also enjoy working with adults to provide solution focused and effective interventions dealing with past trauma, depression, anxiety, addiction and more.
I love working with kids and seeing how play transforms lives! I am a clinical social worker and a registered play therapist (RPT). I have worked with kids with a variety of concerns including behaviors, trauma, and regulation. I'm very playful in my approach, using a lot of sensory tools and activities specific to each child. I am client-centered, strengths based, trauma-informed and use an eclectic approach.
I also enjoy working with adults to provide solution focused and effective interventions dealing with past trauma, depression, anxiety, addiction and more.
I love working with kids and seeing how play transforms lives! I am a clinical social worker and a registered play therapist (RPT). I have worked with kids with a variety of concerns including behaviors, trauma, and regulation. I'm very playful in my approach, using a lot of sensory tools and activities specific to each child. I am client-centered, strengths based, trauma-informed and use an eclectic approach.
(260) 231-1550 View (260) 231-1550
Photo of Teri Cardwell, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Teri Cardwell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Fort Wayne, IN 46818
I have worked with behavioral health (anxiety, substance use); mood disorders including depression, Bipolar, and dual diagnoses; trauma and PTSD; and personality disorders.
As a therapist, I am most excited to see clients motivated to explore their unknown strengths, widen their horizons, increase their abilities to make informed decisions and lead a life of meaning as they define it. Everyone I have worked with brings to therapy a foundation upon which to grow. Regardless of the problem, an enhanced sense of self is possible. Instilling hope of something better in life is one of my greatest motivations, and assisting others in achieving their goals drew me to this profession.
I have worked with behavioral health (anxiety, substance use); mood disorders including depression, Bipolar, and dual diagnoses; trauma and PTSD; and personality disorders.
As a therapist, I am most excited to see clients motivated to explore their unknown strengths, widen their horizons, increase their abilities to make informed decisions and lead a life of meaning as they define it. Everyone I have worked with brings to therapy a foundation upon which to grow. Regardless of the problem, an enhanced sense of self is possible. Instilling hope of something better in life is one of my greatest motivations, and assisting others in achieving their goals drew me to this profession.
(260) 589-5273 View (260) 589-5273
Photo of Renee Devine, MS, LMHC, EMDR, Counselor
Renee Devine
Counselor, MS, LMHC, EMDR
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Fort Wayne, IN 46825
I enjoy working with adolescents through those in their later years, with issues such as parenting, trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and abuse.
Do you want to make positive changes in your life? We all want to achieve, but some have difficulty with juggling everything in life. As a mental health counselor and life coach, I will be your accountability partner, who can help you assess your past, gain clarity for your future, assist in making an action plan, and troubleshoot the pitfalls along the way. I will work with you on managing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, finances, career development, time management, and more. I am able to meet with you in person at my office, or online. I am trained in EMDR, and other therapies, and find this helps with many of life's issues.
I enjoy working with adolescents through those in their later years, with issues such as parenting, trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and abuse.
Do you want to make positive changes in your life? We all want to achieve, but some have difficulty with juggling everything in life. As a mental health counselor and life coach, I will be your accountability partner, who can help you assess your past, gain clarity for your future, assist in making an action plan, and troubleshoot the pitfalls along the way. I will work with you on managing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, finances, career development, time management, and more. I am able to meet with you in person at my office, or online. I am trained in EMDR, and other therapies, and find this helps with many of life's issues.
(260) 205-5793 View (260) 205-5793
Photo of Julie DeJesus, MS, LMHC-A, Counselor
Julie DeJesus
Counselor, MS, LMHC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Wayne, IN 46825
I enjoy working with parents who struggle with their own child with trauma/mental health issues.
Do irrational core beliefs about yourself affect your confidence, relationships, work performance, goals, and overall happiness? Did you experience trauma as a child or even as an adult? I have a passion for helping older teens and adults through difficult times. I also believe our mental health is just as important as our physical health. My goal is to help you discover and learn a new belief system about yourself and to change assumptions that have been interfering with a healthy "you" for years. This is your trauma journey through healing and I am here to help navigate it at your own pace.
I enjoy working with parents who struggle with their own child with trauma/mental health issues.
Do irrational core beliefs about yourself affect your confidence, relationships, work performance, goals, and overall happiness? Did you experience trauma as a child or even as an adult? I have a passion for helping older teens and adults through difficult times. I also believe our mental health is just as important as our physical health. My goal is to help you discover and learn a new belief system about yourself and to change assumptions that have been interfering with a healthy "you" for years. This is your trauma journey through healing and I am here to help navigate it at your own pace.
(260) 344-4231 View (260) 344-4231
Photo of Dorit Tomandl, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dorit Tomandl
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Wayne, IN 46801
The word psychotherapist is greek and means "Healer of the Soul". When you come into my office, I will not label you with anxiety, depression, addiction or any other disorder. You will hear me ask questions like: How is your addiction protecting you from pain? What do you not feel when depression numbs you? Once you witness and heal the wounds of your soul (you can also call it trauma), the symptoms (the 'disorder') can disappear. If you are interested in having a deeper understanding and awareness of your emotions, I will help you to develop a relationship with yourself that is characterized by curiosity, respect and compassion.
The word psychotherapist is greek and means "Healer of the Soul". When you come into my office, I will not label you with anxiety, depression, addiction or any other disorder. You will hear me ask questions like: How is your addiction protecting you from pain? What do you not feel when depression numbs you? Once you witness and heal the wounds of your soul (you can also call it trauma), the symptoms (the 'disorder') can disappear. If you are interested in having a deeper understanding and awareness of your emotions, I will help you to develop a relationship with yourself that is characterized by curiosity, respect and compassion.
(317) 203-8288 View (317) 203-8288
Photo of Laura DeMougin, MS , LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura DeMougin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS , LSW
Verified Verified
Fort Wayne, IN 46818
I approach everyone with trauma-focused lens.
Some of my specialty areas are Anxiety, Depression, Trauma and PTSD, Self-esteem, OCD, Domestic Violence, and Child Emotional Neglect. Are you struggling with self-esteem, self-trust, shame, and guilt, which is why change does not occur? I provide psychoeducation to all clients to help them recognize why change is so difficult and understand how the mind works. An ideal client takes notes and follows through on exercises throughout the week. There are 160 hours in a week, and as a therapist, I only see you 1 hour a week, which means work outside of a therapy session is key to making positive changes in your life.
I approach everyone with trauma-focused lens.
Some of my specialty areas are Anxiety, Depression, Trauma and PTSD, Self-esteem, OCD, Domestic Violence, and Child Emotional Neglect. Are you struggling with self-esteem, self-trust, shame, and guilt, which is why change does not occur? I provide psychoeducation to all clients to help them recognize why change is so difficult and understand how the mind works. An ideal client takes notes and follows through on exercises throughout the week. There are 160 hours in a week, and as a therapist, I only see you 1 hour a week, which means work outside of a therapy session is key to making positive changes in your life.
(260) 346-4831 View (260) 346-4831
Photo of Jamie Herring, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jamie Herring
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Fort Wayne, IN 46835
I am a trained EMDR therapist, and often use this researched approach along with Internal Family Systems to process through trauma, anxiety, and pain to find relief.
Have you become frustrated, hopeless, or powerless about a situation in your life? Seeking out counseling for individual or relationship concerns can be the beginning of change in your life. Setting and working toward goals are the first steps to seeing the results you want.
I am a trained EMDR therapist, and often use this researched approach along with Internal Family Systems to process through trauma, anxiety, and pain to find relief.
Have you become frustrated, hopeless, or powerless about a situation in your life? Seeking out counseling for individual or relationship concerns can be the beginning of change in your life. Setting and working toward goals are the first steps to seeing the results you want.
(260) 782-1155 View (260) 782-1155
Photo of Rachel Hartman, MA, BSN, LCAC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Rachel Hartman
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, BSN, LCAC
Verified Verified
Fort Wayne, IN 46845  (Online Only)
I am passionate about providing open-minded, non-judgmental support/treatment, to those who struggle with substance use issues and mental health difficulties including, addictions, trauma/grief/loss, depression/anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar Disorders and personality disorders.
Prior to serving others’ in the field of Addictions/Substance Use and Mental Health issues, I served in the role of a Registered Nurse for multiple years. I received my BSN from Indiana University in 2002. I also served for The United States Air Force as an ICU nurse, and I am a proud Veteran of our country! Through my life journey and prayer, I decided to serve in the role of an Addictions/Mental Health therapist. I graduated from Indiana Wesleyan University in 2017, with my M.A. in Licensed Clinical Addictions Counseling. I completed my Post-Masters in Licensed Mental Health Counseling in 2022, at IWU.
I am passionate about providing open-minded, non-judgmental support/treatment, to those who struggle with substance use issues and mental health difficulties including, addictions, trauma/grief/loss, depression/anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar Disorders and personality disorders.
Prior to serving others’ in the field of Addictions/Substance Use and Mental Health issues, I served in the role of a Registered Nurse for multiple years. I received my BSN from Indiana University in 2002. I also served for The United States Air Force as an ICU nurse, and I am a proud Veteran of our country! Through my life journey and prayer, I decided to serve in the role of an Addictions/Mental Health therapist. I graduated from Indiana Wesleyan University in 2017, with my M.A. in Licensed Clinical Addictions Counseling. I completed my Post-Masters in Licensed Mental Health Counseling in 2022, at IWU.
(260) 638-6332 View (260) 638-6332
Photo of Janae Bell, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janae Bell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Wayne, IN 46818  (Online Only)
My specialization is in working with trauma, especially sexual, relationship, and parental trauma.
Book with me now by clicking on my website - I believe therapy should be accessible to you. I provide a safe and empathetic space where we can use humor, art, and other outlets to process your past and work towards a more fulfilling future. You are the expert in your life - not me. Therefore, I believe in letting you define the problem and helping you grow in your skills to manage those concerns.
My specialization is in working with trauma, especially sexual, relationship, and parental trauma.
Book with me now by clicking on my website - I believe therapy should be accessible to you. I provide a safe and empathetic space where we can use humor, art, and other outlets to process your past and work towards a more fulfilling future. You are the expert in your life - not me. Therefore, I believe in letting you define the problem and helping you grow in your skills to manage those concerns.
(463) 288-6505 View (463) 288-6505
Photo of Ellen Shannon, LMHC, Counselor
Ellen Shannon
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Wayne, IN 46825
See below for details of my Therapeutic Trauma Healing Group available multiple times throughout the year.
Welcome! Therapy takes a gentle, empowering approach to help you compassionately understand and overcome the complex and difficult symptoms of PTSD. I have pursued advanced training through The International Society of Trauma and Dissociation, a leading organization in research and development of trauma treatment, to provide excellent services to help you achieve healing.
See below for details of my Therapeutic Trauma Healing Group available multiple times throughout the year.
Welcome! Therapy takes a gentle, empowering approach to help you compassionately understand and overcome the complex and difficult symptoms of PTSD. I have pursued advanced training through The International Society of Trauma and Dissociation, a leading organization in research and development of trauma treatment, to provide excellent services to help you achieve healing.
(260) 238-8564 View (260) 238-8564
Photo of Mignonette Daniels, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mignonette Daniels
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Fort Wayne, IN 46818
My specialty is strengths-based, person-centered care with an emphasis on trauma-informed practice.
The ideal client is anyone brave enough to put themselves first and ask for help. The ideal client is receptive to the therapeutic process and is direct, open, and vulnerable. They also understand that the therapeutic process takes time, and one does not get there overnight. The ideal client is patient with themselves and can give themselves grace and permission to grow. The client will have the goal of personal self-development and is ready to do the work. The ideal client does not expect me to "fix" them but understands that a clinician is a form of support on their journey and that we will accomplish any goals together.
My specialty is strengths-based, person-centered care with an emphasis on trauma-informed practice.
The ideal client is anyone brave enough to put themselves first and ask for help. The ideal client is receptive to the therapeutic process and is direct, open, and vulnerable. They also understand that the therapeutic process takes time, and one does not get there overnight. The ideal client is patient with themselves and can give themselves grace and permission to grow. The client will have the goal of personal self-development and is ready to do the work. The ideal client does not expect me to "fix" them but understands that a clinician is a form of support on their journey and that we will accomplish any goals together.
(260) 305-1158 View (260) 305-1158

See more therapy options for Huntertown

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.