Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Shirley, MA

Photo of Melanie Zibit, MEd, LADC1, MBA, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Melanie Zibit
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MEd, LADC1, MBA
Verified Verified
Shirley, MA 01464
Traumatic experiences often underlie addiction and lead to anxiety and depression.
If you or a loved one has problems with substance, I can help. I work with people and families with substance issues- misuse of alcohol, cannabis, stimulants, and other addictive substances. My approach moves at your own pace, without pushing, digging, or agendas. I work with family members and loved ones to provide education and support to reduce feelings of isolation. I specialize in addiction, alcoholism, as well as co-occurring issues underlying addiction such as depression, mood disorders, anxiety, and trauma. Through therapy things start to seem possible that didn’t seem that way before.
Traumatic experiences often underlie addiction and lead to anxiety and depression.
If you or a loved one has problems with substance, I can help. I work with people and families with substance issues- misuse of alcohol, cannabis, stimulants, and other addictive substances. My approach moves at your own pace, without pushing, digging, or agendas. I work with family members and loved ones to provide education and support to reduce feelings of isolation. I specialize in addiction, alcoholism, as well as co-occurring issues underlying addiction such as depression, mood disorders, anxiety, and trauma. Through therapy things start to seem possible that didn’t seem that way before.
(339) 674-6669 View (339) 674-6669
Photo of Katherine Arno, MEd, LMHC
Katherine Arno
Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
Shirley, MA 01464  (Online Only)
Anyone who has flown in an airplane knows the instruction to "put on your own oxygen mask before helping others" and that advice can be applied broadly to general life, but it's difficult to know what that looks like! If you want to learn more about how to balance your own needs/wants/self-care with the demands of fast paced daily life and family needs, we can figure out what "putting on your mask first" would be for your life. Whatever the problem, if you need more calm moments throughout your day, less conflict in your parenting, or ways to reduce stress for improved work-life balance, we can find solutions together.
Anyone who has flown in an airplane knows the instruction to "put on your own oxygen mask before helping others" and that advice can be applied broadly to general life, but it's difficult to know what that looks like! If you want to learn more about how to balance your own needs/wants/self-care with the demands of fast paced daily life and family needs, we can figure out what "putting on your mask first" would be for your life. Whatever the problem, if you need more calm moments throughout your day, less conflict in your parenting, or ways to reduce stress for improved work-life balance, we can find solutions together.
(978) 734-4796 View (978) 734-4796
Photo of William B Jaffee, PhD, LLC, Psychologist
William B Jaffee
Psychologist, PhD, LLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shirley, MA 01464  (Online Only)
I am a cognitive-behavioral therapist specializing in the treatment of anxiety, mood and substance use disorders in adults and young adults. I am also certified in EMDR. While a grounding in the science of treatment informs all of my work, compassion and empathy are at its foundation. I am a Clinical Instructor of Psychology at the Harvard Medical School and Clinical Associate of Psychology at McLean Hospital.
I am a cognitive-behavioral therapist specializing in the treatment of anxiety, mood and substance use disorders in adults and young adults. I am also certified in EMDR. While a grounding in the science of treatment informs all of my work, compassion and empathy are at its foundation. I am a Clinical Instructor of Psychology at the Harvard Medical School and Clinical Associate of Psychology at McLean Hospital.
(617) 446-3239 View (617) 446-3239
Photo of Tracy Grant - Grant Empowerment Counseling, MA, LMHC, CMHC, Counselor
Grant Empowerment Counseling
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CMHC
Verified Verified
Shirley, MA 01464  (Online Only)
It is not only care for the individual physically and emotionally, but also care for the "whole" person in order to live a well adjusted life in all stages of development, pursuing interests and hobbies, interacting with one's community, utilize social supports and spiritual beliefs, achieve healthy self-expression, achieve academic and/or vocational goals, manage health needs, and manage healthy relationships.
It is not only care for the individual physically and emotionally, but also care for the "whole" person in order to live a well adjusted life in all stages of development, pursuing interests and hobbies, interacting with one's community, utilize social supports and spiritual beliefs, achieve healthy self-expression, achieve academic and/or vocational goals, manage health needs, and manage healthy relationships.
(978) 487-6680 View (978) 487-6680

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Catharine (Cat) Landrigan-Paiva, MSW, LICSW, RYT-200, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Catharine (Cat) Landrigan-Paiva
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, RYT-200
Verified Verified
Harvard, MA 01451  (Online Only)
I treat a range of concerns including depression, anxiety, chronic stress, trauma, substance abuse & life transitions by guiding my clients to learn more about themselves while also exploring a variety of brain-based exercises, lifestyle changes & body-based practices.
When was the last time that you felt truly listened to, heard & understood? You more than likely talk to many people throughout your day but how often are you making connections with others that feel truly authentic? Many people are currently feeling isolated even when surrounded by others because they do not have someone in their life creating a welcoming and safe space that allows them to feel comfortable enough to share their worries & struggles. Therapy can be this place, where building a trusting relationship with a compassionate practitioner can allow you to feel seen & can support improvements in your health & well-being.
I treat a range of concerns including depression, anxiety, chronic stress, trauma, substance abuse & life transitions by guiding my clients to learn more about themselves while also exploring a variety of brain-based exercises, lifestyle changes & body-based practices.
When was the last time that you felt truly listened to, heard & understood? You more than likely talk to many people throughout your day but how often are you making connections with others that feel truly authentic? Many people are currently feeling isolated even when surrounded by others because they do not have someone in their life creating a welcoming and safe space that allows them to feel comfortable enough to share their worries & struggles. Therapy can be this place, where building a trusting relationship with a compassionate practitioner can allow you to feel seen & can support improvements in your health & well-being.
(978) 440-3951 View (978) 440-3951
Photo of Tiffany Trombley, Counselor
Tiffany Trombley
Counselor
Verified Verified
Leominster, MA 01453  (Online Only)
My approach is client centered and combines acceptance and commitment therapy with cognitive behavioral therapy from a trauma informed lens and at times adopts strategies from motivational interviewing and solution focused modalities to support you to meet your goals.
Welcome! Do you struggle with anxiety, stress, trauma impacts or burnout? I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in the state of Vermont and Massachusetts with over a decade of experience in telehealth, school based and outpatient settings. I have worked with a wide range of needs including anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, ADHD, relational issues and parenting problems. During this time I have become very proficient in the areas of trauma informed care and supporting clients who've experienced complex stressors in their lives. My counseling approach is thoughtful, warm, inquisitive and collaborative.
My approach is client centered and combines acceptance and commitment therapy with cognitive behavioral therapy from a trauma informed lens and at times adopts strategies from motivational interviewing and solution focused modalities to support you to meet your goals.
Welcome! Do you struggle with anxiety, stress, trauma impacts or burnout? I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in the state of Vermont and Massachusetts with over a decade of experience in telehealth, school based and outpatient settings. I have worked with a wide range of needs including anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, ADHD, relational issues and parenting problems. During this time I have become very proficient in the areas of trauma informed care and supporting clients who've experienced complex stressors in their lives. My counseling approach is thoughtful, warm, inquisitive and collaborative.
(866) 738-3081 View (866) 738-3081
Photo of Kirsten Jettinghoff, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Kirsten Jettinghoff
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Littleton, MA 01460  (Online Only)
Treatment provided for issues of depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, self-esteem, codependency, addiction and Recovery, ACOA (Adult Children of Alcoholics).
I enjoy helping adults of all ages move through issues to gain greater satisfaction in relationships, including the most important- with oneself. If our relationships are not supportive, it may feel we are missing out on the sweetness of life. I often use a cognitive behavioral approach, which is a way we gain greater control over what happens to us, and access greater choice in how we respond to events. It can help us strengthen communication skills, deepen intimacy and heal codependency. We can grow beyond lifelong issues; and replace feeling overwhelmed with feeling peace, learning to celebrate every step we take on our journey.
Treatment provided for issues of depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, self-esteem, codependency, addiction and Recovery, ACOA (Adult Children of Alcoholics).
I enjoy helping adults of all ages move through issues to gain greater satisfaction in relationships, including the most important- with oneself. If our relationships are not supportive, it may feel we are missing out on the sweetness of life. I often use a cognitive behavioral approach, which is a way we gain greater control over what happens to us, and access greater choice in how we respond to events. It can help us strengthen communication skills, deepen intimacy and heal codependency. We can grow beyond lifelong issues; and replace feeling overwhelmed with feeling peace, learning to celebrate every step we take on our journey.
(207) 618-8101 View (207) 618-8101
Photo of Kerry Rollins - Rollins Counseling Center , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rollins Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Westford, MA 01886
We treat a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, ADHD, substance use, relationship issues, OCD, mood disorders and more.
Rollins Counseling Center offers individual and family counseling to children, adolescents, and adults. We offer Telehealth or in-person visits in our Westford and Shrewsbury locations. Our clinicians utilize evidence-based therapies to effectively treat a wide range of issues that affect one’s quality of life. Treatment modalities include psychodynamic therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, family systems, mind-body approaches, animal-assisted therapy, EMDR and trauma-focused therapies.
We treat a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, ADHD, substance use, relationship issues, OCD, mood disorders and more.
Rollins Counseling Center offers individual and family counseling to children, adolescents, and adults. We offer Telehealth or in-person visits in our Westford and Shrewsbury locations. Our clinicians utilize evidence-based therapies to effectively treat a wide range of issues that affect one’s quality of life. Treatment modalities include psychodynamic therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, family systems, mind-body approaches, animal-assisted therapy, EMDR and trauma-focused therapies.
(978) 999-2165 View (978) 999-2165
Photo of Laura Ucci - Serenity Pathways Counseling, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Serenity Pathways Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ayer, MA 01432  (Online Only)
Client-focused, trauma informed and holistic approaches to therapy .
Now accepting new TUFTS clients.My focus is on revealing the inherent strength, resilience, and capabilities within each of my clients. Despite life's challenges, I believe in fostering hope for a brighter future. My therapeutic approach offers client-centered and trauma-informed individual therapy. I tailor each session to address the unique needs of my clients. Specializing in PTSD, bereavement (grief) and loss, bipolar disorder, and schizoaffective disorder, I bring a holistic perspective to my practice.
Client-focused, trauma informed and holistic approaches to therapy .
Now accepting new TUFTS clients.My focus is on revealing the inherent strength, resilience, and capabilities within each of my clients. Despite life's challenges, I believe in fostering hope for a brighter future. My therapeutic approach offers client-centered and trauma-informed individual therapy. I tailor each session to address the unique needs of my clients. Specializing in PTSD, bereavement (grief) and loss, bipolar disorder, and schizoaffective disorder, I bring a holistic perspective to my practice.
(978) 543-1447 View (978) 543-1447
Photo of Suzanne Dirstine, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Suzanne Dirstine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Littleton, MA 01460
I have specialized training in the treatment of sexual abuse, attachment trauma and traumatic exposures.
Welcome. I believe that your experience of the therapeutic relationship should be comfortable and feel secure. I utilize an attachment based approach and believe that once feelings of safety are established in therapy that real changes in thoughts, feelings and relationships are possible. I have a warm and interested style of interacting with others and it is always important to me that you feel heard and valued in our time together. Please don't hesitate to get in touch if you'd like to know more or have any questions.
I have specialized training in the treatment of sexual abuse, attachment trauma and traumatic exposures.
Welcome. I believe that your experience of the therapeutic relationship should be comfortable and feel secure. I utilize an attachment based approach and believe that once feelings of safety are established in therapy that real changes in thoughts, feelings and relationships are possible. I have a warm and interested style of interacting with others and it is always important to me that you feel heard and valued in our time together. Please don't hesitate to get in touch if you'd like to know more or have any questions.
(978) 598-3355 View (978) 598-3355
Photo of Smita Chaddha, MA, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Smita Chaddha
Counselor, MA, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Littleton, MA 01460
I have done a nine-month training in Trauma under renowned trauma guru, Bessel van der Kolk, certification/consultant in EMDR, and a year-long Sensorimotor Psychotherapy training, which helps clients get unstuck from certain issues/ trauma-based memories.
I am a Trauma and EMDR specialist/consultant and Mindfulness-based therapist, who will help identify past/current distress, Anxiety & Trauma using EMDR, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, and Internal Family Systems. My focus is to help change thinking patterns and unhealthy coping techniques based on current research in Neuroscience, Positive Neuroplasticity, DBT and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy. This helps clients with PTSD, High Anxiety, Phobia, Grief, Depression or Impulsivity. My goal is to increase mindfulness in thought and action, to effectively increase Emotional Regulation, Distress Tolerance & better Communication.
I have done a nine-month training in Trauma under renowned trauma guru, Bessel van der Kolk, certification/consultant in EMDR, and a year-long Sensorimotor Psychotherapy training, which helps clients get unstuck from certain issues/ trauma-based memories.
I am a Trauma and EMDR specialist/consultant and Mindfulness-based therapist, who will help identify past/current distress, Anxiety & Trauma using EMDR, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, and Internal Family Systems. My focus is to help change thinking patterns and unhealthy coping techniques based on current research in Neuroscience, Positive Neuroplasticity, DBT and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy. This helps clients with PTSD, High Anxiety, Phobia, Grief, Depression or Impulsivity. My goal is to increase mindfulness in thought and action, to effectively increase Emotional Regulation, Distress Tolerance & better Communication.
(978) 808-7269 View (978) 808-7269
Photo of Michelle Grasso - Synergy Wellness Center, LMHC, Counselor
Synergy Wellness Center
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bolton, MA 01740
Synergy's clinical team has the following specialties and can assist you with: Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Mood Disorders, Chronic Pain/Illness, Addiction, Relationship Issues, Parenting Concerns, Identity Exploration, Grief/Bereavement, Life Review, Academic and Career Transitions, Racial Identity Development, Racial Trauma.
Synergy Wellness Center supports the emotional, physical, and spiritual health of wellness seekers, with a distinct focus on caregiver support. Whether you are caring for loved ones, or are a caregiver by profession, Synergy's seasoned team of mental health clinicians offer an eclectic array of clinical approaches to address anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief and many other areas. Areas of expertise include DBT, DBT, Expressive Arts Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and more. Our team serves adults, youth, couples, and families. We look forward to serving you at our Hudson and Bolton locations and via telehealth.
Synergy's clinical team has the following specialties and can assist you with: Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Mood Disorders, Chronic Pain/Illness, Addiction, Relationship Issues, Parenting Concerns, Identity Exploration, Grief/Bereavement, Life Review, Academic and Career Transitions, Racial Identity Development, Racial Trauma.
Synergy Wellness Center supports the emotional, physical, and spiritual health of wellness seekers, with a distinct focus on caregiver support. Whether you are caring for loved ones, or are a caregiver by profession, Synergy's seasoned team of mental health clinicians offer an eclectic array of clinical approaches to address anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief and many other areas. Areas of expertise include DBT, DBT, Expressive Arts Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and more. Our team serves adults, youth, couples, and families. We look forward to serving you at our Hudson and Bolton locations and via telehealth.
(978) 310-3740 View (978) 310-3740
Photo of Kerry Rollins, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kerry Rollins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Westford, MA 01886
I specialize in the treatment of First Responders, Trauma, PTSD, Anxiety and Performance Enhancement.
My goal is to provide a safe, respectful and healing environment in which to support your growth. Through our work together, you will learn to develop your inner abilities and strengths to heal from the past, enjoy the present and create the future that you want. Treatment approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, IFS, AEDP, Mind-Body Approaches, EMDR, and Clinical Hypnosis.
I specialize in the treatment of First Responders, Trauma, PTSD, Anxiety and Performance Enhancement.
My goal is to provide a safe, respectful and healing environment in which to support your growth. Through our work together, you will learn to develop your inner abilities and strengths to heal from the past, enjoy the present and create the future that you want. Treatment approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, IFS, AEDP, Mind-Body Approaches, EMDR, and Clinical Hypnosis.
(978) 999-2165 View (978) 999-2165
Photo of Michelle Calabro, LMHC, Counselor
Michelle Calabro
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Littleton, MA 01460  (Online Only)
Hello! My name’s Michelle and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I have been working in the mental health field for 8 years, with 4 years being a therapist. I have experience with a variety of concerns, but my primary focus is on working with individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, parenting and grief.
Hello! My name’s Michelle and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I have been working in the mental health field for 8 years, with 4 years being a therapist. I have experience with a variety of concerns, but my primary focus is on working with individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, parenting and grief.
(978) 494-5934 View (978) 494-5934
Photo of Rollins Counseling Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rollins Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Westford, MA 01886
We treat depression, anxiety, substance use, stress-related issues, trauma, self-esteem issues, mood disorders, grief and loss, LGBTQ, and first responders.
Rollins Counseling Center offers individual and family counseling to adolescents and adults. We offer Telehealth! In-person visits are available in our Westford location and will be available in our Marlborough location in December, 2021. We have a team of licensed clinicians that utilize evidenced based therapies to effectively treat a wide range of issues that affect one’s quality of life. Treatment modalities include psychodynamic therapy, CBT, family systems, mind-body approaches, hypnotherapy and EMDR.
We treat depression, anxiety, substance use, stress-related issues, trauma, self-esteem issues, mood disorders, grief and loss, LGBTQ, and first responders.
Rollins Counseling Center offers individual and family counseling to adolescents and adults. We offer Telehealth! In-person visits are available in our Westford location and will be available in our Marlborough location in December, 2021. We have a team of licensed clinicians that utilize evidenced based therapies to effectively treat a wide range of issues that affect one’s quality of life. Treatment modalities include psychodynamic therapy, CBT, family systems, mind-body approaches, hypnotherapy and EMDR.
(978) 999-2165 View (978) 999-2165
Photo of Denise Dellasanta, LMHC, Counselor
Denise Dellasanta
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Littleton, MA 01460
I have clinical experience working with self-injury and trauma and am trained in DBT, CBT and CR for PTSD.
Accepting new clients. Hello! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 20 years of clinical experience helping adults and adolescents overcome depression, anxiety and trauma. I use evidence based practices that help you overcome negative thoughts and feelings that can impact your ability to enjoy life or sustain fulfilling relationships. I can help you or your teen develop coping skills, build self esteem and feel in control of life again.
I have clinical experience working with self-injury and trauma and am trained in DBT, CBT and CR for PTSD.
Accepting new clients. Hello! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 20 years of clinical experience helping adults and adolescents overcome depression, anxiety and trauma. I use evidence based practices that help you overcome negative thoughts and feelings that can impact your ability to enjoy life or sustain fulfilling relationships. I can help you or your teen develop coping skills, build self esteem and feel in control of life again.
(978) 295-2050 View (978) 295-2050
Photo of Allison Heneghan, LMHC, Counselor
Allison Heneghan
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Townsend, MA 01469  (Online Only)
Within this space I am passionate about working alongside my clients in their journey to heal from emotional distress to move past the trauma and live a fulfilling life.
Do you struggle coping with stress, anxiety or depression and feel overwhelmed? Have you experienced traumatic events recently or in your past? If you are ready to take the next step, we can work together in your healing journey.
Within this space I am passionate about working alongside my clients in their journey to heal from emotional distress to move past the trauma and live a fulfilling life.
Do you struggle coping with stress, anxiety or depression and feel overwhelmed? Have you experienced traumatic events recently or in your past? If you are ready to take the next step, we can work together in your healing journey.
View
Photo of Laura Mauroy, MA, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Mauroy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boxborough, MA 01719
Waitlist for new clients
EMDR is an approach to address early childhood trauma or recent trauma.
The journey begins with you. For over 14 years I have assisted individuals with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and terminal illness. I bring a compassionate, mindful and non-judgmental approach to counseling. We will explore the root cause of your discomfort. Together we will engage and explore your goals, thoughts, and feelings. We will look at ways to increase and empower your resourcefulness and positivity while addressing unwanted behaviors and thoughts. Personal transformation and life transitions can be opportunities for reflection, healing, insight, awareness, and newness; a journey toward health and happiness.
EMDR is an approach to address early childhood trauma or recent trauma.
The journey begins with you. For over 14 years I have assisted individuals with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and terminal illness. I bring a compassionate, mindful and non-judgmental approach to counseling. We will explore the root cause of your discomfort. Together we will engage and explore your goals, thoughts, and feelings. We will look at ways to increase and empower your resourcefulness and positivity while addressing unwanted behaviors and thoughts. Personal transformation and life transitions can be opportunities for reflection, healing, insight, awareness, and newness; a journey toward health and happiness.
(978) 297-8318 View (978) 297-8318
Photo of Amy Davidson, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Davidson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ayer, MA 01432
My specialty is helping ages 18+ with a focus on trauma, grief, bereavement, and anxiety.
You can find more information about me at https://www.mcmentalhealth.com - Reaching out for help can often be the hardest step. I strive to cultivate a down to earth and collaborative environment that is based on building trust and connection. Everyone's life experiences are unique and my role is to empower and support you in your process towards achieving your goals.
My specialty is helping ages 18+ with a focus on trauma, grief, bereavement, and anxiety.
You can find more information about me at https://www.mcmentalhealth.com - Reaching out for help can often be the hardest step. I strive to cultivate a down to earth and collaborative environment that is based on building trust and connection. Everyone's life experiences are unique and my role is to empower and support you in your process towards achieving your goals.
(351) 200-4573 View (351) 200-4573
Photo of Christine Musello - Christine Musello, Psy.D., PsyD, MEd, Psychologist
Christine Musello, Psy.D.
Psychologist, PsyD, MEd
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Littleton, MA 01460
Waitlist for new clients
Update November 2020: If you viewed this profile recently, please note that I've moved! In addition, currently most meetings are remote and openings are rare. I currently work with teens, young adults, and adults. Mood disorders, parent guidance, veterans, family relationships, trauma and PTSD are areas of clinical interest. Those who seek to be responsible for their own happiness, whether through acceptance or through efforts to change and grow, are the people I hope to meet.
Update November 2020: If you viewed this profile recently, please note that I've moved! In addition, currently most meetings are remote and openings are rare. I currently work with teens, young adults, and adults. Mood disorders, parent guidance, veterans, family relationships, trauma and PTSD are areas of clinical interest. Those who seek to be responsible for their own happiness, whether through acceptance or through efforts to change and grow, are the people I hope to meet.
(978) 290-4977 View (978) 290-4977

See more therapy options for Shirley

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.