Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Brighton, MA

Photo of Karen Furia, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Furia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Brighton, MA 02135
I am able to help pts connect past traumas to current problems and provide a host of skills and resources to clients to enable them to cope and heal themselves .
I want to help clients connect past trauma and feelings of shame to problems they are currently facing today, whether this be substance abuse, mood issues, relationship problems or behaviors. I will teach clients a variety of skills to help cope with current symptoms and problems as well as help process underlying negative thoughts and traumas. I also do family work with clients that are using substances or are in early recovery to work on codependency issues within the family system.
I am able to help pts connect past traumas to current problems and provide a host of skills and resources to clients to enable them to cope and heal themselves .
I want to help clients connect past trauma and feelings of shame to problems they are currently facing today, whether this be substance abuse, mood issues, relationship problems or behaviors. I will teach clients a variety of skills to help cope with current symptoms and problems as well as help process underlying negative thoughts and traumas. I also do family work with clients that are using substances or are in early recovery to work on codependency issues within the family system.
(617) 764-9824 View (617) 764-9824
Photo of Jennifer Brindley, LMHC, Counselor
Jennifer Brindley
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Brighton, MA 02135
I specialize in working with people who are managing issues with anxiety and trauma.
I strive to help people find strength during difficult times - to keep going, build supports, and focus on finding solutions. I can help identify ways to find more energy and appreciation in your life, and increase insight into sources of distress. Together we can work to identify your natural supports and improve on your strengths, as well as build coping skills and healthy ways to process difficult feelings. I specialize in EMDR and have advanced training in using EMDR for anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and complex PTSD.
I specialize in working with people who are managing issues with anxiety and trauma.
I strive to help people find strength during difficult times - to keep going, build supports, and focus on finding solutions. I can help identify ways to find more energy and appreciation in your life, and increase insight into sources of distress. Together we can work to identify your natural supports and improve on your strengths, as well as build coping skills and healthy ways to process difficult feelings. I specialize in EMDR and have advanced training in using EMDR for anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and complex PTSD.
(857) 271-4125 View (857) 271-4125
Photo of Aaron E Kook, LMHC, MA, Counselor
Aaron E Kook
Counselor, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
Brighton, MA 02135
You keep wondering if you are repeating the same pattern again and again; it feels inevitable and totally out of your control and yet you can't stop blaming yourself. I commend you for holding on to hope, for reaching out. It requires courage and inner strength to look for someone who is trained to listen and help. I have training and experience helping those who struggle with depression, anxiety, memories of trauma, career and relationship difficulties.
You keep wondering if you are repeating the same pattern again and again; it feels inevitable and totally out of your control and yet you can't stop blaming yourself. I commend you for holding on to hope, for reaching out. It requires courage and inner strength to look for someone who is trained to listen and help. I have training and experience helping those who struggle with depression, anxiety, memories of trauma, career and relationship difficulties.
(617) 544-2902 View (617) 544-2902
Photo of Brigitte Zakari, PsyaD, LMHC, Counselor
Brigitte Zakari
Counselor, PsyaD, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brighton, MA 02135
In my private practice, I work with patients suffering from depression, anxiety, trauma-related issues, eating disorders, cultural issues, difficulties with college life, and other significant life stressors.
I am a psychoanalyst and licensed mental health counselor in private practice in Brookline, Massachusetts with more than 15 years experience in the field. Throughout my training and career, I have worked with adults in outpatient psychotherapy clinics as well as with children and adolescents and their families in the Public School Systems.
In my private practice, I work with patients suffering from depression, anxiety, trauma-related issues, eating disorders, cultural issues, difficulties with college life, and other significant life stressors.
I am a psychoanalyst and licensed mental health counselor in private practice in Brookline, Massachusetts with more than 15 years experience in the field. Throughout my training and career, I have worked with adults in outpatient psychotherapy clinics as well as with children and adolescents and their families in the Public School Systems.
(617) 394-1880 View (617) 394-1880
Photo of Sabiha Zaman, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sabiha Zaman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Brighton, MA 02135  (Online Only)
Other areas of expertise include trauma, C- PTSD, anxiety, relationship diversity, and life transitions.
Navigating mental health can be intimidating, confusing, and exhausting. I commend you for taking the first steps and am here to support you along the way! Therapy is not one-size fits all— my approach is culturally sensitive, trauma-informed, and collaborative to prioritize each client's specific needs. I believe in the importance of building genuine therapeutic-relationships with clients to help them feel understood and empowered. I value your feedback to make sure we are working towards your goals. I hope to create a space that is warm, inviting, and celebrates your authentic self.
Other areas of expertise include trauma, C- PTSD, anxiety, relationship diversity, and life transitions.
Navigating mental health can be intimidating, confusing, and exhausting. I commend you for taking the first steps and am here to support you along the way! Therapy is not one-size fits all— my approach is culturally sensitive, trauma-informed, and collaborative to prioritize each client's specific needs. I believe in the importance of building genuine therapeutic-relationships with clients to help them feel understood and empowered. I value your feedback to make sure we are working towards your goals. I hope to create a space that is warm, inviting, and celebrates your authentic self.
(617) 958-6141 View (617) 958-6141
Photo of Selina Lang, LMHC, Counselor
Selina Lang
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Brighton, MA 02135
I am a Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) trained Clinician, and I utilize Person-Centered, Positive Psychology, Trauma-informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Art Therapy approaches.
I am an independent Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Massachusetts. I received my Master of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a specialization in Art Therapy from Lesley University. I have worked with adolescents and adults in a multitude of settings. I have extensive experience working with individuals having difficulty navigating LGBTQIA2S+ related challenges, anxiety, depression, substance misuse, low self-esteem, life transitions, and trauma. I am LGBTQIA2S+ affirming and antiracist, and I am dedicated to creating a therapeutic space where clients feel safe and empowered.
I am a Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) trained Clinician, and I utilize Person-Centered, Positive Psychology, Trauma-informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Art Therapy approaches.
I am an independent Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Massachusetts. I received my Master of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a specialization in Art Therapy from Lesley University. I have worked with adolescents and adults in a multitude of settings. I have extensive experience working with individuals having difficulty navigating LGBTQIA2S+ related challenges, anxiety, depression, substance misuse, low self-esteem, life transitions, and trauma. I am LGBTQIA2S+ affirming and antiracist, and I am dedicated to creating a therapeutic space where clients feel safe and empowered.
(781) 678-7398 View (781) 678-7398
Photo of Haley Councillor, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Haley Councillor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brighton, MA 02135  (Online Only)
Taking new clients, with availability on Monday, Tuesday and Friday! Hello there, my name is Haley, and I'm so glad you're here. As a therapist who values the power of connection and understanding, I’m here to support you with empathy and an open heart. No matter what you're dealing with, be it a history of trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship challenges and more, I’m committed to walking alongside you in your path toward healing. Together, we’ll explore your story with compassion and work towards a journey of growth.
Taking new clients, with availability on Monday, Tuesday and Friday! Hello there, my name is Haley, and I'm so glad you're here. As a therapist who values the power of connection and understanding, I’m here to support you with empathy and an open heart. No matter what you're dealing with, be it a history of trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship challenges and more, I’m committed to walking alongside you in your path toward healing. Together, we’ll explore your story with compassion and work towards a journey of growth.
(857) 810-4847 View (857) 810-4847
Photo of Leslie Piken, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leslie Piken
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brighton, MA 02135  (Online Only)
Much of my work is rooted in addressing the trauma in all of our lives and how it manifests in our bodies, relationships, language and perspectives.
My treatment approach is integrative and personalized to my clients’ needs, focused on building a foundation of trust. I work with clients to identify underlying roots of problems and elicit existing and new strengths and resources. I prefer a holistic approach to treatment which, while based in a psychodynamic framework, draws from my specialized training in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing, attachment based, trauma-informed and mindfulness modalities. I work with adults ranging from young adulthood through end of life, using a culturally-sensitive approach.
Much of my work is rooted in addressing the trauma in all of our lives and how it manifests in our bodies, relationships, language and perspectives.
My treatment approach is integrative and personalized to my clients’ needs, focused on building a foundation of trust. I work with clients to identify underlying roots of problems and elicit existing and new strengths and resources. I prefer a holistic approach to treatment which, while based in a psychodynamic framework, draws from my specialized training in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing, attachment based, trauma-informed and mindfulness modalities. I work with adults ranging from young adulthood through end of life, using a culturally-sensitive approach.
(857) 763-5343 View (857) 763-5343
Photo of Freddie Palmer, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Freddie Palmer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brighton, MA 02135
To support you in reaching your goals, I use a variety of therapeutic modalities including but not limited to cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma informed practices, mindfulness practices, and motivational interviewing.
As a former teacher turned therapist, I have developed a strong counseling tool box. I specialize in supporting adolescents/teens and adults find ways to cope with trauma and loss, manage anxiety and depression, develop problem solving strategies and social skills, overcome substance abuse and low self-esteem, and manage family conflict. I am also able to help the individuals I work with to develop executive functioning and advocacy skills at school, home, and in the community. I utilize humor, unconditional positive regard, and curiosity to create a safe and productive space for you to grow.
To support you in reaching your goals, I use a variety of therapeutic modalities including but not limited to cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma informed practices, mindfulness practices, and motivational interviewing.
As a former teacher turned therapist, I have developed a strong counseling tool box. I specialize in supporting adolescents/teens and adults find ways to cope with trauma and loss, manage anxiety and depression, develop problem solving strategies and social skills, overcome substance abuse and low self-esteem, and manage family conflict. I am also able to help the individuals I work with to develop executive functioning and advocacy skills at school, home, and in the community. I utilize humor, unconditional positive regard, and curiosity to create a safe and productive space for you to grow.
(617) 676-0183 View (617) 676-0183
Photo of Jessica Slicer, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Slicer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brighton, MA 02135
I am trained in DBT, certified in Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD and am a Trauma Center Trauma Sensitive Yoga Facilitator.
Hello! I am accepting new in-person clients in East Boston and virtual clients across Massachusetts, Maine and Connecticut. As a somatic-oriented therapist, I focus on treating motivated adults and teens who want to find new skills and tools for overcoming symptoms of anxiety, depression and trauma. Focusing on the mind-body connection, I can work with you to help heal your nervous system and gain mastery to understand your emotions and behaviors using evidenced-based interventions. My sessions can be a place to process emotions, learn skills, create safety in your body and gain the freedom to move forward.
I am trained in DBT, certified in Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD and am a Trauma Center Trauma Sensitive Yoga Facilitator.
Hello! I am accepting new in-person clients in East Boston and virtual clients across Massachusetts, Maine and Connecticut. As a somatic-oriented therapist, I focus on treating motivated adults and teens who want to find new skills and tools for overcoming symptoms of anxiety, depression and trauma. Focusing on the mind-body connection, I can work with you to help heal your nervous system and gain mastery to understand your emotions and behaviors using evidenced-based interventions. My sessions can be a place to process emotions, learn skills, create safety in your body and gain the freedom to move forward.
(857) 663-7860 View (857) 663-7860
Photo of Disha Joshi, LMHC, Counselor
Disha Joshi
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brighton, MA 02135  (Online Only)
I use a multidimensional approach consisting of CBT, DBT, Narrative Therapy, and elements of Psychodynamic Therapy, all through a trauma-informed lens.
Are you tired of living life in autopilot? Are you sick of the mundane routine that has become your day to day? Do you find yourself feeling alone or unable to connect with others? Therapy offers a chance to change things up. Each is its own little safe haven designed to release difficult emotions and gain different perspectives from the one that keeps us stuck. Let me help you clear out the cobwebs of your life! My goal is to create a warm environment that fosters real human connection that leaves you feeling like you are part of something bigger than yourself.
I use a multidimensional approach consisting of CBT, DBT, Narrative Therapy, and elements of Psychodynamic Therapy, all through a trauma-informed lens.
Are you tired of living life in autopilot? Are you sick of the mundane routine that has become your day to day? Do you find yourself feeling alone or unable to connect with others? Therapy offers a chance to change things up. Each is its own little safe haven designed to release difficult emotions and gain different perspectives from the one that keeps us stuck. Let me help you clear out the cobwebs of your life! My goal is to create a warm environment that fosters real human connection that leaves you feeling like you are part of something bigger than yourself.
(857) 675-3182 View (857) 675-3182
Photo of Carmen Pullella, LICSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carmen Pullella
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brighton, MA 02135  (Online Only)
Special interests in my therapeutic work include relationships, attachment, codependency, boundaries, ADHD, trauma, shame, self-trust, and self-discovery.
Accepting new clients! Therapy is one of the most loving practices we can gift ourselves. It is brave and powerful to look inwards, meet parts of ourselves we’ve tucked away, and share our inner world. We all have parts of us that resist change, uncomfortable emotions, vulnerability, and owning our truths. And we also have parts of us that are yearning to speak up, to be free, and to feel confident in our ability to manage life’s many ebbs and flows. I join you in the process of growth and self-reflection with warmth, empowerment, and acceptance as we discover the most authentic versions of you.
Special interests in my therapeutic work include relationships, attachment, codependency, boundaries, ADHD, trauma, shame, self-trust, and self-discovery.
Accepting new clients! Therapy is one of the most loving practices we can gift ourselves. It is brave and powerful to look inwards, meet parts of ourselves we’ve tucked away, and share our inner world. We all have parts of us that resist change, uncomfortable emotions, vulnerability, and owning our truths. And we also have parts of us that are yearning to speak up, to be free, and to feel confident in our ability to manage life’s many ebbs and flows. I join you in the process of growth and self-reflection with warmth, empowerment, and acceptance as we discover the most authentic versions of you.
(617) 982-0436 View (617) 982-0436
Photo of Amit Shapira, PhD, Psychologist
Amit Shapira
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Brighton, MA 02135  (Online Only)
I am a licensed psychologist providing individual and couples counseling. My experience includes treating individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, life-transitions, relationship challenges, and chronic illness, especially diabetes. In treatment we will collaboratively work together to help you make changes to lead a fuller and more satisfying life.
I am a licensed psychologist providing individual and couples counseling. My experience includes treating individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, life-transitions, relationship challenges, and chronic illness, especially diabetes. In treatment we will collaboratively work together to help you make changes to lead a fuller and more satisfying life.
(857) 240-0946 View (857) 240-0946
Photo of Judi M Locke - Judi Locke, M.A., L.M.H.C.,, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Judi Locke, M.A., L.M.H.C.,
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Brighton, MA 02135
A few of my specialties are; Anxiety disorder, Depression , Mood disorder, Trauma, Relationship building, Interpersonal skills, ADHD/Behavioral problems, Adoption/Infertility, Parenting Support.
I treat an array of ages and psychological issues from anxiety disorder to behavioral challenges with children, adolescents and adults. I am processed oriented and offer skill building strategies to enhance self-awareness and foster positive change.
A few of my specialties are; Anxiety disorder, Depression , Mood disorder, Trauma, Relationship building, Interpersonal skills, ADHD/Behavioral problems, Adoption/Infertility, Parenting Support.
I treat an array of ages and psychological issues from anxiety disorder to behavioral challenges with children, adolescents and adults. I am processed oriented and offer skill building strategies to enhance self-awareness and foster positive change.
(617) 841-8493 View (617) 841-8493
Photo of Brian Hiller, MC, LMHC, Counselor
Brian Hiller
Counselor, MC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brighton, MA 02135  (Online Only)
Everybody is born with the capacity to enjoy life, to feel empowered, and to be healthy in mind, body, and spirit. Unfortunately, certain life circumstances such as abusive and toxic relationships, family conflict, trauma, failure, and loss can prevent people from feeling hopeful, worthy, or successful. In a supportive and nurturing environment, I have dedicated my career to helping others develop the positive habits, spiritual tools, and healthy thinking needed for them to heal and succeed.
Everybody is born with the capacity to enjoy life, to feel empowered, and to be healthy in mind, body, and spirit. Unfortunately, certain life circumstances such as abusive and toxic relationships, family conflict, trauma, failure, and loss can prevent people from feeling hopeful, worthy, or successful. In a supportive and nurturing environment, I have dedicated my career to helping others develop the positive habits, spiritual tools, and healthy thinking needed for them to heal and succeed.
(617) 206-1478 View (617) 206-1478
Photo of Jenna Hickey, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jenna Hickey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brighton, MA 02135  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating anxiety/depression, eating disorders, trauma, low self-esteem, and women’s issues.
I’m firmly rooted in the stance that you already have everything needed within you to build the life you want for yourself - and tapping into your own strengths and unique skill set (& maybe discovering a few new ones along the way) is the ethos of self-healing. My eclectic therapeutic approach emphasizes person-centered, individualized care. I work closely with clients by collaborating on problem-solving, exploring the complexities of your inner world, building awareness to old patterns and habits, establishing motivating goals to work towards, and above all, centering our work around your own inner wisdom & self-expertise.
I specialize in treating anxiety/depression, eating disorders, trauma, low self-esteem, and women’s issues.
I’m firmly rooted in the stance that you already have everything needed within you to build the life you want for yourself - and tapping into your own strengths and unique skill set (& maybe discovering a few new ones along the way) is the ethos of self-healing. My eclectic therapeutic approach emphasizes person-centered, individualized care. I work closely with clients by collaborating on problem-solving, exploring the complexities of your inner world, building awareness to old patterns and habits, establishing motivating goals to work towards, and above all, centering our work around your own inner wisdom & self-expertise.
(617) 882-7183 View (617) 882-7183
Photo of Sarah Vasiliauskas, PsyD, Psychologist
Sarah Vasiliauskas
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Brighton, MA 02135
I have training and experience working with depression, anxiety, ADHD, panic, mood disorders, trauma, eating struggles, weight management, grief and chronic medical diagnoses including cancer, pre/post bariatric, sickle cell anemia and diabetes.
** AT THIS TIME I AM NOT ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS** It can be so overwhelming to look for a therapist. So many options and decisions when you simply want to be helped during a difficult time in your life. You may be feeling stressed, sad, angry or just not yourself. Simply put, therapy is a unique and unusual experience; at times it can feel uncomfortable talking to a person you have just met. I encourage you to email me or call for a phone consultation. There is never any obligation following the phone call. It may be helpful to visit my website.
I have training and experience working with depression, anxiety, ADHD, panic, mood disorders, trauma, eating struggles, weight management, grief and chronic medical diagnoses including cancer, pre/post bariatric, sickle cell anemia and diabetes.
** AT THIS TIME I AM NOT ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS** It can be so overwhelming to look for a therapist. So many options and decisions when you simply want to be helped during a difficult time in your life. You may be feeling stressed, sad, angry or just not yourself. Simply put, therapy is a unique and unusual experience; at times it can feel uncomfortable talking to a person you have just met. I encourage you to email me or call for a phone consultation. There is never any obligation following the phone call. It may be helpful to visit my website.
(617) 702-4166 View (617) 702-4166
Photo of Katy Litwak, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katy Litwak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Brighton, MA 02135
I work with people who are personally struggling or have family members struggling with challenges such as medical illness/chronic pain, grief/loss, life transitions, relationships, substance abuse/misuse, mental illness, depression, anxiety, and trauma.
I believe psychotherapy is a powerful means of facilitating personal growth and deepening relationships and connection. My clients describe me as genuine, warm, and interactive. My goal is to help you access your inner strength and resilience so you may better cope with problems and adversity, find solutions, and make positive changes you hope to achieve. My years practicing in outpatient mental health and primary care medical settings have afforded me rich experience with clients diverse in background and a broad range of issues.
I work with people who are personally struggling or have family members struggling with challenges such as medical illness/chronic pain, grief/loss, life transitions, relationships, substance abuse/misuse, mental illness, depression, anxiety, and trauma.
I believe psychotherapy is a powerful means of facilitating personal growth and deepening relationships and connection. My clients describe me as genuine, warm, and interactive. My goal is to help you access your inner strength and resilience so you may better cope with problems and adversity, find solutions, and make positive changes you hope to achieve. My years practicing in outpatient mental health and primary care medical settings have afforded me rich experience with clients diverse in background and a broad range of issues.
(617) 936-8074 View (617) 936-8074
Photo of Lau Zocchi, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lau Zocchi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Brighton, MA 02135  (Online Only)
I provide trauma-informed, psychodynamic, and narrative psychotherapy to adults and adolescents.
I believe all individuals are capable of healing and growth. Having a safe, trusting relationship with a therapist can be an important part of that process. In my practice, I aim to create an open space for us to work towards your goals while allowing you to feel heard, cared for, and accepted.
I provide trauma-informed, psychodynamic, and narrative psychotherapy to adults and adolescents.
I believe all individuals are capable of healing and growth. Having a safe, trusting relationship with a therapist can be an important part of that process. In my practice, I aim to create an open space for us to work towards your goals while allowing you to feel heard, cared for, and accepted.
(508) 475-5899 View (508) 475-5899
Photo of Rachel Holmes, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Holmes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brighton, MA 02135
As a clinician, I aim to be a point of guidance, trust, and support for the communities and individuals who need it most. I work with individuals to help cope with anxiety, depression, trauma, self esteem, substance use, and more. I work with a wide range of clients, from adolescents to adults, to help them move through life's challenges with understanding, compassion, and the confidence they need. I utilize techniques including CBT and Motivational Interviewing, while keeping a focus on harm reduction and trauma informed care. I hope to provide a warm, non-judgmental and empathetic space for all the clients I work with.
As a clinician, I aim to be a point of guidance, trust, and support for the communities and individuals who need it most. I work with individuals to help cope with anxiety, depression, trauma, self esteem, substance use, and more. I work with a wide range of clients, from adolescents to adults, to help them move through life's challenges with understanding, compassion, and the confidence they need. I utilize techniques including CBT and Motivational Interviewing, while keeping a focus on harm reduction and trauma informed care. I hope to provide a warm, non-judgmental and empathetic space for all the clients I work with.
(617) 917-2918 View (617) 917-2918
1
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.