Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Cambridge, MA

Photo of Janet Namono, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janet Namono
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cambridge, MA 02138
I work with adults with concerns related to mood disorders, anxiety, relationships, trauma and life transitions.
My approach integrates a variety of therapeutic techniques tailored to your unique needs. I draw from relational psychodynamic and attachment-based therapy, trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and the Unified Protocol for Transdiagnostic Treatment of Emotional Disorders (UP). Additionally, I incorporate developmental psychology, mindfulness, and multicultural perspectives, ensuring our sessions are holistic and person-centered. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, family conflict, or life transitions, my goal is to guide you toward clarity and healing, empowering you to overcome life’s challenges.
I work with adults with concerns related to mood disorders, anxiety, relationships, trauma and life transitions.
My approach integrates a variety of therapeutic techniques tailored to your unique needs. I draw from relational psychodynamic and attachment-based therapy, trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and the Unified Protocol for Transdiagnostic Treatment of Emotional Disorders (UP). Additionally, I incorporate developmental psychology, mindfulness, and multicultural perspectives, ensuring our sessions are holistic and person-centered. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, family conflict, or life transitions, my goal is to guide you toward clarity and healing, empowering you to overcome life’s challenges.
(508) 941-8275 View (508) 941-8275
Photo of Melissa A. Jean-Charles - M.A. Jean-Charles Psychotherapy & Consulting, LLC, MPH, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
M.A. Jean-Charles Psychotherapy & Consulting, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MPH, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Cambridge, MA 02139
Waitlist for new clients
Factor dealing with emotional challenges such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, marital/relationship stress, racial trauma, then it may feel like the world is more unbearable.
At M.A.Jean-Charles Psychotherapy & Consulting, LLC, healing, learning, and growing is our mantra and shapes our therapeutic philosophy. We believe that to heal psychically and to grow into the best version of ourselves, and one must engage in learning. At times, life creates too much noise; one can lose sight and footing on their place in this world. Learning provides a pathway to engage in healing from that which binds the spirit. As a result of this, one is capable of tremendous emotional growth and, ultimately, living a fulfilling life. My speciality population is Women of Color.
Factor dealing with emotional challenges such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, marital/relationship stress, racial trauma, then it may feel like the world is more unbearable.
At M.A.Jean-Charles Psychotherapy & Consulting, LLC, healing, learning, and growing is our mantra and shapes our therapeutic philosophy. We believe that to heal psychically and to grow into the best version of ourselves, and one must engage in learning. At times, life creates too much noise; one can lose sight and footing on their place in this world. Learning provides a pathway to engage in healing from that which binds the spirit. As a result of this, one is capable of tremendous emotional growth and, ultimately, living a fulfilling life. My speciality population is Women of Color.
(978) 306-4475 View (978) 306-4475
Photo of Catherine Harvey, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Catherine Harvey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cambridge, MA 02141
Additionally, I am currently undergoing certification in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), a proven treatment for trauma disorders.
My ideal client would be someone who is ready and willing to participate in treatment. I am comfortable with an array of different diagnoses and struggles. Their needs would include working towards tangible goals that we are able to breakdown in the treatment setting. They may want to work on self-esteem, depression, anxiety, PTSD symptoms etc. They would want to minimize their symptoms and improve everyday functioning. The goal would ultimately be to no longer need treatment as they have reached their goals.
Additionally, I am currently undergoing certification in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), a proven treatment for trauma disorders.
My ideal client would be someone who is ready and willing to participate in treatment. I am comfortable with an array of different diagnoses and struggles. Their needs would include working towards tangible goals that we are able to breakdown in the treatment setting. They may want to work on self-esteem, depression, anxiety, PTSD symptoms etc. They would want to minimize their symptoms and improve everyday functioning. The goal would ultimately be to no longer need treatment as they have reached their goals.
(857) 858-6939 View (857) 858-6939
Photo of Betsy Hinden, PhD, Psychologist
Betsy Hinden
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cambridge, MA 02140
My expertise includes working with patients struggling with grief, loss and trauma.
I am a clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience. I use primarily relational and psycho-dynamic approaches to help people understand and make meaning of current conflicts and difficulties and to develop a compassionate narrative in relation to these difficulties. My focus is on supporting desired changes and the capacity to live a more fulfilling, self-determined life. Mindfulness and acceptance practices are an integral part of my work.
My expertise includes working with patients struggling with grief, loss and trauma.
I am a clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience. I use primarily relational and psycho-dynamic approaches to help people understand and make meaning of current conflicts and difficulties and to develop a compassionate narrative in relation to these difficulties. My focus is on supporting desired changes and the capacity to live a more fulfilling, self-determined life. Mindfulness and acceptance practices are an integral part of my work.
(857) 777-5652 View (857) 777-5652
Photo of Jodi Waddell, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jodi Waddell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cambridge, MA 02138
I believe positive change in therapy takes place in a safe and collaborative environment. I strive to put my clients at ease with compassion, candor, and humor. I am a licensed clinical social worker who specializes in perinatal and infertility issues, foster care and adoption and the LGBTQ+ population. I also provide psychotherapy to individuals who are experiencing anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, relationship concerns and identity issues. I utilize an eclectic blend of therapeutic modalities such as, psychodynamic, CBT, DBT, and solution focused treatment.
I believe positive change in therapy takes place in a safe and collaborative environment. I strive to put my clients at ease with compassion, candor, and humor. I am a licensed clinical social worker who specializes in perinatal and infertility issues, foster care and adoption and the LGBTQ+ population. I also provide psychotherapy to individuals who are experiencing anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, relationship concerns and identity issues. I utilize an eclectic blend of therapeutic modalities such as, psychodynamic, CBT, DBT, and solution focused treatment.
(617) 812-1552 View (617) 812-1552
Photo of Kurt Loiseau, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kurt Loiseau
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cambridge, MA 02138
I offer therapeutic services to adults of all ages, including clients navigating mood disorders/ depression, anxiety, relational difficulties, trauma, grief, life transition, identity concerns, and college adjustment.
My therapeutic approach is grounded in psychodynamic, relational cultural, and cognitive-behavioral theories. My therapeutic style is collaborative and transparent in nature, as I aim to be aligned with my clients’ treatment goals and clear in the direction of our sessions. Additionally, I aim to meet my clients where they are and utilize the relevant skills to meet my clients’ needs. My therapeutic style is rooted in curiosity and viewing the client holistically. I have had extensive training in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) approaches and am able to apply practical, short-term skills when clinically appropriate.
I offer therapeutic services to adults of all ages, including clients navigating mood disorders/ depression, anxiety, relational difficulties, trauma, grief, life transition, identity concerns, and college adjustment.
My therapeutic approach is grounded in psychodynamic, relational cultural, and cognitive-behavioral theories. My therapeutic style is collaborative and transparent in nature, as I aim to be aligned with my clients’ treatment goals and clear in the direction of our sessions. Additionally, I aim to meet my clients where they are and utilize the relevant skills to meet my clients’ needs. My therapeutic style is rooted in curiosity and viewing the client holistically. I have had extensive training in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) approaches and am able to apply practical, short-term skills when clinically appropriate.
(508) 392-5456 View (508) 392-5456
Photo of Kate Galef, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kate Galef
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cambridge, MA 02140  (Online Only)
My specialty areas include complex trauma and PTSD, anxiety disorders, stressful life circumstances, and developing healthy boundaries.
Are you searching for a therapist who can help you develop a deeper understanding of yourself and overcome your mental health challenges or organize your life and work habits? As a licensed psychotherapist providing telehealth services to adults, my warm and pragmatic approach to therapy involves breaking down problems to help you gain clarity and insight into your situation. Together, we build a model of what's currently happening, and run experiments to find what works for your goals.
My specialty areas include complex trauma and PTSD, anxiety disorders, stressful life circumstances, and developing healthy boundaries.
Are you searching for a therapist who can help you develop a deeper understanding of yourself and overcome your mental health challenges or organize your life and work habits? As a licensed psychotherapist providing telehealth services to adults, my warm and pragmatic approach to therapy involves breaking down problems to help you gain clarity and insight into your situation. Together, we build a model of what's currently happening, and run experiments to find what works for your goals.
(617) 420-7571 View (617) 420-7571
Photo of Anna Cardoso, LMHC, Counselor
Anna Cardoso
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Cambridge, MA 02142  (Online Only)
Hi there! My name Anna Cardoso and I am here to help you on your journey. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), Yoga & Meditation Teacher, Holistic Coach, and a Reiki Master. I truly believe we all have the power to heal ourselves and it is my mission to share with you alternative methods to help you on your path. I like to think of it as finding your way back home to yourself and I am here to help you remember how. I fell in love with yoga and energy work in search for healing for my chronic pain and past trauma. Healing comes from the inside out and we first have to begin with ourselves.
Hi there! My name Anna Cardoso and I am here to help you on your journey. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), Yoga & Meditation Teacher, Holistic Coach, and a Reiki Master. I truly believe we all have the power to heal ourselves and it is my mission to share with you alternative methods to help you on your path. I like to think of it as finding your way back home to yourself and I am here to help you remember how. I fell in love with yoga and energy work in search for healing for my chronic pain and past trauma. Healing comes from the inside out and we first have to begin with ourselves.
(617) 829-9252 View (617) 829-9252
Photo of Dr. Hali Santiago - Current Openings, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dr. Hali Santiago - Current Openings
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cambridge, MA 02140  (Online Only)
I incorporate theories including multicultural, positive psychology, sex-positive, trauma-informed, and client-centered approaches.
Sept 22 Update: New to a group practice, so have several openings (Mon/Wed/Thurs/Fri). I'm a multi-racial, Latina-White, Puerto Rican therapist, who is passionate about working with individuals who have experienced trauma, grief, or loss. I also help individuals navigate their experiences and beliefs around sexual health, sexuality, and physical/emotional intimacy.
I incorporate theories including multicultural, positive psychology, sex-positive, trauma-informed, and client-centered approaches.
Sept 22 Update: New to a group practice, so have several openings (Mon/Wed/Thurs/Fri). I'm a multi-racial, Latina-White, Puerto Rican therapist, who is passionate about working with individuals who have experienced trauma, grief, or loss. I also help individuals navigate their experiences and beliefs around sexual health, sexuality, and physical/emotional intimacy.
(508) 452-2063 View (508) 452-2063
Photo of Lucila Halperin, PsyD, Psychologist
Lucila Halperin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Cambridge, MA 02139
I provide a warm and empathic environment that focuses on individual strengths to help my clients cope with life challenges and foster a sense of meaning in life. I help clients cope with issues related to: immigration and acculturation stress; relationship problems; depression; anxiety; trauma; academic and job-related struggles; and grief and loss. I consider it a privilege to hear a client's personal story and collaboratively work towards a greater understanding of oneself to reduce distress, set achievable goals and make long lasting changes.
I provide a warm and empathic environment that focuses on individual strengths to help my clients cope with life challenges and foster a sense of meaning in life. I help clients cope with issues related to: immigration and acculturation stress; relationship problems; depression; anxiety; trauma; academic and job-related struggles; and grief and loss. I consider it a privilege to hear a client's personal story and collaboratively work towards a greater understanding of oneself to reduce distress, set achievable goals and make long lasting changes.
(857) 271-4145 View (857) 271-4145
Photo of Eric Flaman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eric Flaman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cambridge, MA 02141
Over the past six years I have worked with clients and families who are working through anxiety, depression, trauma, suicidality, and self injurious behavior.
My ideal client is someone who is willing to work with me in order to achieve their goal. This includes being able to have back and forth conversation around ways to achieve that goal, as well as have the more difficult conversations when it comes to road blocks and the occasional self sabotaging behavior. I will always be honest in my assessments, and thoughts, and my hope would be that my client is as well.
Over the past six years I have worked with clients and families who are working through anxiety, depression, trauma, suicidality, and self injurious behavior.
My ideal client is someone who is willing to work with me in order to achieve their goal. This includes being able to have back and forth conversation around ways to achieve that goal, as well as have the more difficult conversations when it comes to road blocks and the occasional self sabotaging behavior. I will always be honest in my assessments, and thoughts, and my hope would be that my client is as well.
(857) 375-6198 View (857) 375-6198
Alyssa Christopher
Pre-Licensed Professional, they, she
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cambridge, MA 02138
I walk alongside clients in navigating trauma and complex PTSD, mood and anxiety-based concerns, identity development (racial, gender, sexuality, disability), grief and loss, interpersonal and relationship-based issues, major life transitions and stressors, and experiences of oppression (institutional, internalized, interpersonal, ideological).
My therapeutic orientation is grounded in principles from Liberation psychology, Black/African-centered psychology, mad pride, and disability justice. I work with clients to explore their lived experiences and emotions in the context of intersecting systems of power, privilege, and oppression. I also collaborate with clients in exploring alternative models of understanding psychiatric disabilities outside of pathologization and the medical model of health and wellness. I aim to co-create a therapeutic space that prioritizes transparency, agency, authenticity, understanding, and connection.
I walk alongside clients in navigating trauma and complex PTSD, mood and anxiety-based concerns, identity development (racial, gender, sexuality, disability), grief and loss, interpersonal and relationship-based issues, major life transitions and stressors, and experiences of oppression (institutional, internalized, interpersonal, ideological).
My therapeutic orientation is grounded in principles from Liberation psychology, Black/African-centered psychology, mad pride, and disability justice. I work with clients to explore their lived experiences and emotions in the context of intersecting systems of power, privilege, and oppression. I also collaborate with clients in exploring alternative models of understanding psychiatric disabilities outside of pathologization and the medical model of health and wellness. I aim to co-create a therapeutic space that prioritizes transparency, agency, authenticity, understanding, and connection.
(508) 501-5745 View (508) 501-5745
Photo of Kat DiFillippo Montague, LICSW, BFA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kat DiFillippo Montague
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, BFA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cambridge, MA 02139  (Online Only)
I will approach our sessions with a holistic and a trauma-informed mindset in order for you to feel safe giving voice to your current struggles.
Are you feeling stuck in your life and unsure of how to move forward? Maybe you’re burned out. Maybe you’re struggling in the isolation of traumatic memories. I am a holistic trauma-informed psychotherapist that is dedicated to treating your entire self. Together we will explore and unpack your deep emotional pains while becoming curious of their root cause. My hope is that we can develop a collaborative bond that feels impactful and reliable. You've already been through so much, I hope that you are able to feel a sense of pride in taking on this challenge.
I will approach our sessions with a holistic and a trauma-informed mindset in order for you to feel safe giving voice to your current struggles.
Are you feeling stuck in your life and unsure of how to move forward? Maybe you’re burned out. Maybe you’re struggling in the isolation of traumatic memories. I am a holistic trauma-informed psychotherapist that is dedicated to treating your entire self. Together we will explore and unpack your deep emotional pains while becoming curious of their root cause. My hope is that we can develop a collaborative bond that feels impactful and reliable. You've already been through so much, I hope that you are able to feel a sense of pride in taking on this challenge.
(617) 299-8232 View (617) 299-8232
Photo of Dr. Emily Stewart, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Emily Stewart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Cambridge, MA 02139
Dr. Emily Stewart is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) in the state of Massachusetts. She has experience working with individuals across a range of age groups in a variety of settings, including outpatient hospital systems, nonprofit organizations, residential treatment facilities, and schools. Emily is particularly passionate about working with children, young adults, and families and has experience treating a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, life transitions, relational issues, postpartum adjustment, and crisis intervention.
Dr. Emily Stewart is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) in the state of Massachusetts. She has experience working with individuals across a range of age groups in a variety of settings, including outpatient hospital systems, nonprofit organizations, residential treatment facilities, and schools. Emily is particularly passionate about working with children, young adults, and families and has experience treating a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, life transitions, relational issues, postpartum adjustment, and crisis intervention.
(857) 855-5743 View (857) 855-5743
Photo of Samira Bell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samira Bell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cambridge, MA 02138
Guided by a trauma-informed, anti-oppressive, and liberation health framework, I work alongside and empower my clients.
My clinical work is psychodynamically oriented, client-centered, and culturally aware. I draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Narrative Therapy to inform my work, incorporating psychoeducation, mindfulness, and narrative/storytelling techniques when helpful to my clients. I have trained in community mental health and as a Victim Witness Advocate, and I am currently a postgraduate Fellow at Clinical Alliance Services, LLC.
Guided by a trauma-informed, anti-oppressive, and liberation health framework, I work alongside and empower my clients.
My clinical work is psychodynamically oriented, client-centered, and culturally aware. I draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Narrative Therapy to inform my work, incorporating psychoeducation, mindfulness, and narrative/storytelling techniques when helpful to my clients. I have trained in community mental health and as a Victim Witness Advocate, and I am currently a postgraduate Fellow at Clinical Alliance Services, LLC.
(508) 734-4985 View (508) 734-4985
Photo of Sidney Irias, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sidney Irias
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cambridge, MA 02141
My expertise is supporting clients of all ages who struggle with Anxiety, Depression, Life Transitions, Bereavement or Grief, Family Problems, and Trauma.
My ideal client is a person who is seeking treatment and is aware of the reason why he/she/they want help. The person can be self-referred or referred by a provider, family, etc. The client is aware of their goals and objectives. The client is also okay with meeting weekly for 50 minutes and understands/agrees with the policies of the agency. The client is aware of and agrees with the limitations therapists have.
My expertise is supporting clients of all ages who struggle with Anxiety, Depression, Life Transitions, Bereavement or Grief, Family Problems, and Trauma.
My ideal client is a person who is seeking treatment and is aware of the reason why he/she/they want help. The person can be self-referred or referred by a provider, family, etc. The client is aware of their goals and objectives. The client is also okay with meeting weekly for 50 minutes and understands/agrees with the policies of the agency. The client is aware of and agrees with the limitations therapists have.
(857) 520-9503 View (857) 520-9503
Photo of Ashley Restalli, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Restalli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cambridge, MA 02141
My ideal client is someone who is experiencing anxiety, depression, and the effects of trauma. Ideal clients experiencing these challenges will want to grow, utilize self-reflection, and find ways to cope with personal challenges. Goals could include establishing and maintaining relationships, practicing coping skills, changing behaviors, healing from trauma, and building positive habits. By incorporating CBT and DBT techniques, I will help you develop healthier thought patterns, establish and maintain healthy relationships with yourself and others, and develop skills to manage and tolerate stress.
My ideal client is someone who is experiencing anxiety, depression, and the effects of trauma. Ideal clients experiencing these challenges will want to grow, utilize self-reflection, and find ways to cope with personal challenges. Goals could include establishing and maintaining relationships, practicing coping skills, changing behaviors, healing from trauma, and building positive habits. By incorporating CBT and DBT techniques, I will help you develop healthier thought patterns, establish and maintain healthy relationships with yourself and others, and develop skills to manage and tolerate stress.
(857) 314-2752 View (857) 314-2752
Photo of Alice Clark, PhD, Psychologist
Alice Clark
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Cambridge, MA 02140
It's finally time to make changes... It takes great courage to recognize that you're caught in patterns that keep you stuck and unhappy. And even more courage to reach out for support. I have worked with many people during difficult times to create meaning, ease and clarity in their lives, even in their darkest moments. I specialize in working with people who struggle with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, chronic pain, and eating disorders as well as those who suffer in the aftermath of trauma. I also work with the GLBTQ community.
It's finally time to make changes... It takes great courage to recognize that you're caught in patterns that keep you stuck and unhappy. And even more courage to reach out for support. I have worked with many people during difficult times to create meaning, ease and clarity in their lives, even in their darkest moments. I specialize in working with people who struggle with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, chronic pain, and eating disorders as well as those who suffer in the aftermath of trauma. I also work with the GLBTQ community.
(802) 546-0700 View (802) 546-0700
Photo of Katherine Tighe, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katherine Tighe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Cambridge, MA 02141
My warm and empathic clinical style and trauma-informed approach create a safe and supportive space for individuals seeking empowerment and healing.
I love working with people who have come to therapy because they really want to change something about their lives that isn't working. Being in therapy takes a certain amount of courage, and those who show up openly to the experience and bravely start working are satisfying to work with. I'm also interested in those who can commit to having a real relationship in therapy. Based on my own personal and clinical experience, the development of a warm, empathic, safe relationship is key to therapeutic success.
My warm and empathic clinical style and trauma-informed approach create a safe and supportive space for individuals seeking empowerment and healing.
I love working with people who have come to therapy because they really want to change something about their lives that isn't working. Being in therapy takes a certain amount of courage, and those who show up openly to the experience and bravely start working are satisfying to work with. I'm also interested in those who can commit to having a real relationship in therapy. Based on my own personal and clinical experience, the development of a warm, empathic, safe relationship is key to therapeutic success.
(857) 367-1215 View (857) 367-1215
Photo of Lindsay Scola, LICSW, LADC-I, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lindsay Scola
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LADC-I
Verified Verified
Cambridge, MA 02141  (Online Only)
I work with individuals and couples utilizing a highly trauma-informed approach.
Acknowledging that we cannot face life’s challenges alone and making the decision to ask for help is one of the most scary and courageous actions a person can take. I work from the perspective that all behaviors, thoughts, and feelings make sense within the context of our lives. At times though, things that once helped us cope with our circumstances no longer serve their purpose, but the thought of letting go or healing can feel overwhelming. My goal is to help clients gain better insight into their experiences while empowering a greater capacity for self-compassion and change.
I work with individuals and couples utilizing a highly trauma-informed approach.
Acknowledging that we cannot face life’s challenges alone and making the decision to ask for help is one of the most scary and courageous actions a person can take. I work from the perspective that all behaviors, thoughts, and feelings make sense within the context of our lives. At times though, things that once helped us cope with our circumstances no longer serve their purpose, but the thought of letting go or healing can feel overwhelming. My goal is to help clients gain better insight into their experiences while empowering a greater capacity for self-compassion and change.
(617) 657-2249 View (617) 657-2249
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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.