Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Hampden, ME

Photo of Salena King Caruso, PhD, Psychologist
Salena King Caruso
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Hampden, ME 04444
I’m a licensed psychologist who works with individuals, couples, and siblings. In the past 19 years, I’ve helped clients with a wide variety of issues, but I specialize in working with those who have experienced trauma in their lives. I have a particular interest in supporting people who endured trauma or neglect as children, which can manifest in adulthood as difficulties with relationships, issues with self-worth, and feelings of responsibility for everyone and everything. I primarily approach counseling through an insight-oriented lens, attempting to help clients uncover core, underlying issues that can lead to true healing.
I’m a licensed psychologist who works with individuals, couples, and siblings. In the past 19 years, I’ve helped clients with a wide variety of issues, but I specialize in working with those who have experienced trauma in their lives. I have a particular interest in supporting people who endured trauma or neglect as children, which can manifest in adulthood as difficulties with relationships, issues with self-worth, and feelings of responsibility for everyone and everything. I primarily approach counseling through an insight-oriented lens, attempting to help clients uncover core, underlying issues that can lead to true healing.
(207) 492-5066 View (207) 492-5066
Photo of Wally Fraser, PhD, LCPC, CCS, Counselor
Wally Fraser
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, CCS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hampden, ME 04444  (Online Only)
I use Cognitive Processing Therapy which is a structured 8-12 session focused on addressing areas from past trauma that are keeping you stuck.
I am working with clients on addressing underlying trauma and other causes of anxiety. I also specialize in working with first responders on a variety of issues. Currently, I am accepting referrals from first responders. These referrals will be prioritized. All other referrals will go on my waitlist.
I use Cognitive Processing Therapy which is a structured 8-12 session focused on addressing areas from past trauma that are keeping you stuck.
I am working with clients on addressing underlying trauma and other causes of anxiety. I also specialize in working with first responders on a variety of issues. Currently, I am accepting referrals from first responders. These referrals will be prioritized. All other referrals will go on my waitlist.
(207) 690-6474 View (207) 690-6474
Photo of Aric P Rice, LCPC, CADC, MA, MEd, Counselor
Aric P Rice
Counselor, LCPC, CADC, MA, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hampden, ME 04444
I find that EMDR is a unique and exciting way to deal with the negative effects of trauma on the brain.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and certified as an Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I offer a cognitive behavioral orientation which focuses on a goal orientated client centered approach and I am certified as a level two EMDR therapist. I have experience at both the inpatient and outpatient levels and have worked with a wide range of mental health and substance abuse topics. I currently hold a master's degree in both education and professional counseling and in the process of pursuing my PhD in psychology. I work with adolescents and adults and provide treatment for depression, anxiety, trauma, and dual diagnosis.
I find that EMDR is a unique and exciting way to deal with the negative effects of trauma on the brain.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and certified as an Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I offer a cognitive behavioral orientation which focuses on a goal orientated client centered approach and I am certified as a level two EMDR therapist. I have experience at both the inpatient and outpatient levels and have worked with a wide range of mental health and substance abuse topics. I currently hold a master's degree in both education and professional counseling and in the process of pursuing my PhD in psychology. I work with adolescents and adults and provide treatment for depression, anxiety, trauma, and dual diagnosis.
(207) 518-7605 View (207) 518-7605
Photo of Denise M. Nickerson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Denise M. Nickerson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hampden, ME 04444  (Online Only)
I have experience working with those affected by trauma, depression, anxiety and life transitions. I have worked in the Bangor community for most of my career with a local agency, as well as a mental health hospital providing intensive outpatient counseling. I will teach you strategies to help you manage your symptoms and emotions. I will be your biggest cheerleader and support. I will provide guidance and suggestions during your healing journey. We are a team.
I have experience working with those affected by trauma, depression, anxiety and life transitions. I have worked in the Bangor community for most of my career with a local agency, as well as a mental health hospital providing intensive outpatient counseling. I will teach you strategies to help you manage your symptoms and emotions. I will be your biggest cheerleader and support. I will provide guidance and suggestions during your healing journey. We are a team.
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Photo of Rachel R Benson, LMSW-CC, CCS, LADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel R Benson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-CC, CCS, LADC
Verified Verified
Hampden, ME 04444
I am trained in both cognitive behavioral therapy a trauma-informed CBT, expressive art therapy, motivational interviewing, solution-focused brief therapy, eclectic therapy, and a few others.
As a licensed clinical therapist and alcohol and drug counselor with over 16 years of experience, I employ an eclectic approach to therapy, allowing the client to be in control. I specialize in Trauma, Addiction, LGBTQ+ issues, and Depression/Anxiety counseling. I work with individuals, couples, families, and groups aged 8+. I believe the most important facet of the counseling process is a positive therapeutic relationship and utilize empathy and compassion, along with a non-judgmental stance, to facilitate healthy therapeutic relationships with my clients. I look forward to working with you soon!
I am trained in both cognitive behavioral therapy a trauma-informed CBT, expressive art therapy, motivational interviewing, solution-focused brief therapy, eclectic therapy, and a few others.
As a licensed clinical therapist and alcohol and drug counselor with over 16 years of experience, I employ an eclectic approach to therapy, allowing the client to be in control. I specialize in Trauma, Addiction, LGBTQ+ issues, and Depression/Anxiety counseling. I work with individuals, couples, families, and groups aged 8+. I believe the most important facet of the counseling process is a positive therapeutic relationship and utilize empathy and compassion, along with a non-judgmental stance, to facilitate healthy therapeutic relationships with my clients. I look forward to working with you soon!
(207) 204-3998 View (207) 204-3998
Photo of Kelly Redmond - The Wise Mind Counseling - Kelly Redmond, LCPC, LADC, CCS, CCTP, Counselor
The Wise Mind Counseling - Kelly Redmond
Counselor, LCPC, LADC, CCS, CCTP
Verified Verified
Hampden, ME 04444  (Online Only)
Reaching out for help is the first step in taking back control, breaking the cycle, and becoming empowered. It takes strength and courage to say "I want better...I deserve better." That journey begins here. While life can present difficulties, hardships, and uncertainty, there is resilience in you - that ability to adapt, bounce back, and overcome. Depending on what you have been through, that resilience might feel buried or unreachable. We will find it, strengthen it, and utilize it to break down barriers. Together.
Reaching out for help is the first step in taking back control, breaking the cycle, and becoming empowered. It takes strength and courage to say "I want better...I deserve better." That journey begins here. While life can present difficulties, hardships, and uncertainty, there is resilience in you - that ability to adapt, bounce back, and overcome. Depending on what you have been through, that resilience might feel buried or unreachable. We will find it, strengthen it, and utilize it to break down barriers. Together.
(207) 506-0029 View (207) 506-0029
Photo of Priscilla M Goss - Priscilla M. Goss, LCSW, LADC, CCS, MSW, LCSW, LADC, CCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Priscilla M. Goss, LCSW, LADC, CCS
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LADC, CCS
Not Verified Not Verified
Hampden, ME 04444
Are you ready for change in your life? Do you want healing from past traumas, disappointments or losses? Do you want to feel your in control of your life, and be able to deal with issues causing distress? As your Therapist, I am committed to working with you to progress toward meeting your goals. I believe in your ability to achieve them. I offer you a genuine, caring, non-judgmental, professional relationship where you will feel comfortable and be able to accomplish positive growth. I welcome a call from you with any questions. Let's work together toward your wellness!
Are you ready for change in your life? Do you want healing from past traumas, disappointments or losses? Do you want to feel your in control of your life, and be able to deal with issues causing distress? As your Therapist, I am committed to working with you to progress toward meeting your goals. I believe in your ability to achieve them. I offer you a genuine, caring, non-judgmental, professional relationship where you will feel comfortable and be able to accomplish positive growth. I welcome a call from you with any questions. Let's work together toward your wellness!
(207) 613-0405 View (207) 613-0405
Photo of Holly Costar, PhD, Psychologist
Holly Costar
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Hampden, ME 04444
Waitlist for new clients
Thank you for reading about my practice. I hope this profile gives you a glimpse of how I view the experience of therapy and what it might be like to work with me. Often when we seek out psychotherapy, it's because we feel stuck in patterns that are restrictive and frustrating. Perhaps we've lost sight of what is meaningful in our lives or need space or encouragement to articulate what we want for ourselves. Unsure how to make our daily lives reflect what we most value, we may feel sad, anxious, or overwhelmed.
Thank you for reading about my practice. I hope this profile gives you a glimpse of how I view the experience of therapy and what it might be like to work with me. Often when we seek out psychotherapy, it's because we feel stuck in patterns that are restrictive and frustrating. Perhaps we've lost sight of what is meaningful in our lives or need space or encouragement to articulate what we want for ourselves. Unsure how to make our daily lives reflect what we most value, we may feel sad, anxious, or overwhelmed.
(207) 536-2542 View (207) 536-2542
Photo of Kim Shaffer - Kim Shaffer, LCPC, Counseling Services LLC, LCPC, Counselor
Kim Shaffer, LCPC, Counseling Services LLC
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Hampden, ME 04444
Waitlist for new clients
Most of your friends think that you have a great marriage. You often post pictures of your happy family on social media, but deep down you know something is missing and it has been missing for awhile. Every time you try to talk with your partner, you end up in an argument. It seems that one of you is usually yelling and the other shutting down completely or running away.Both of you are left with no resolution to the problem and feeling angry, sad, and alone. You are not sure if therapy will help, but willing to do whatever it takes.
Most of your friends think that you have a great marriage. You often post pictures of your happy family on social media, but deep down you know something is missing and it has been missing for awhile. Every time you try to talk with your partner, you end up in an argument. It seems that one of you is usually yelling and the other shutting down completely or running away.Both of you are left with no resolution to the problem and feeling angry, sad, and alone. You are not sure if therapy will help, but willing to do whatever it takes.
(207) 209-1621 View (207) 209-1621
Photo of Lisa Lower, LCPC, Counselor
Lisa Lower
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Hampden, ME 04444
Everyone needs support at some time during their lives and trying to find the right match in a counselor can be a daunting task. Whether you are a college student trying to navigate the pressures of school, changing relationships, and responsibilities; a parent trying to do everything for everyone else and feeling like it is impossible; someone adjusting to one of life's major transitions; or maybe you just feel overwhelmed with life in general right now, I would be honored to help.
Everyone needs support at some time during their lives and trying to find the right match in a counselor can be a daunting task. Whether you are a college student trying to navigate the pressures of school, changing relationships, and responsibilities; a parent trying to do everything for everyone else and feeling like it is impossible; someone adjusting to one of life's major transitions; or maybe you just feel overwhelmed with life in general right now, I would be honored to help.
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Photo of April O'Grady - Psychological Services Center, PhD, Psychologist
Psychological Services Center
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Hampden, ME 04444
Hello, we are a clinic based at the University of Maine and serve clients throughout the entire state of Maine community. Our services are primarily in-person and we are also glad to serve clients from more distant areas of Maine through telehealth. We offer research-based psychological treatments, such as cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), for a wide range of ages and difficulties, and are staffed by Clinician-Psychologist teams with specific expertise. Although we don't take insurance, our sliding fee scale means that the session fee is often less than or equal to an insurance copay.
Hello, we are a clinic based at the University of Maine and serve clients throughout the entire state of Maine community. Our services are primarily in-person and we are also glad to serve clients from more distant areas of Maine through telehealth. We offer research-based psychological treatments, such as cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), for a wide range of ages and difficulties, and are staffed by Clinician-Psychologist teams with specific expertise. Although we don't take insurance, our sliding fee scale means that the session fee is often less than or equal to an insurance copay.
(207) 952-8658 View (207) 952-8658
Photo of Carole Bailey, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Carole Bailey
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Hampden, ME 04444
Not accepting new clients
I am passionate about working with individuals & couples who desire to heal past hurts, define future goals, & find effective ways to grow personally, professionally, & in their relationships with others. My prior life experiences in management, full time ministry, as an educator, & in Hospice work, along with specialty training in trauma, bereavement, couples work, & Life Coaching, have given me the experiences & training necessary to provide a wide variety of resources to help clients move forward in their lives more effectively. Those choosing to work with me will find a caring, compassionate therapist & mentor.
I am passionate about working with individuals & couples who desire to heal past hurts, define future goals, & find effective ways to grow personally, professionally, & in their relationships with others. My prior life experiences in management, full time ministry, as an educator, & in Hospice work, along with specialty training in trauma, bereavement, couples work, & Life Coaching, have given me the experiences & training necessary to provide a wide variety of resources to help clients move forward in their lives more effectively. Those choosing to work with me will find a caring, compassionate therapist & mentor.
(207) 370-7901 View (207) 370-7901

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Emily Stultz - Dr. Emily Stultz - Kennebec Counseling Services, DSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Emily Stultz - Kennebec Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bangor, ME 04401  (Online Only)
Emily and the team at Kennebec Counseling offer clinical expertise in veteran and military mental health, at risk youth and their families, substance use treatment, treating co-occurring disorders, trauma-based treatment and outpatient mental health counseling.
Whether you are new to therapy or returning, my goal is to provide a safe space and a balanced therapeutic alliance that will promote healing and personal growth. I believe you are the expert on you, and will support you as you work towards your goals. I view the therapeutic process as a person-centered collaboration in which clients gain new insights, build inner strength, and create desired life changes.
Emily and the team at Kennebec Counseling offer clinical expertise in veteran and military mental health, at risk youth and their families, substance use treatment, treating co-occurring disorders, trauma-based treatment and outpatient mental health counseling.
Whether you are new to therapy or returning, my goal is to provide a safe space and a balanced therapeutic alliance that will promote healing and personal growth. I believe you are the expert on you, and will support you as you work towards your goals. I view the therapeutic process as a person-centered collaboration in which clients gain new insights, build inner strength, and create desired life changes.
(207) 521-9488 View (207) 521-9488
Photo of Dr. Denise Vagt - Maine Psychological Services, PsyD, Psychologist
Maine Psychological Services
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bangor, ME 04401
Vagt specializes in providing treatment for anxiety and trauma related disorders, including history of physical, sexual, or verbal abuse as well as combat related trauma.
Accepting new patients for work with clinical intern, Ms. Mailena Alicea. Dr. Denise Vagt is a licensed clinical psychologist (Maine License PS1998). She has a broad range of experience treating anxiety and depressive disorders and specializes in the treatment of anxiety, trauma, and stress related disorders. Dr. Vagt completed her Doctorate in Psychology at Florida Institute of Technology and spent the beginning of her career serving as an Active Duty Air Force Psychologist. She now works in the private sector as the owner of Maine Psychological Services.
Vagt specializes in providing treatment for anxiety and trauma related disorders, including history of physical, sexual, or verbal abuse as well as combat related trauma.
Accepting new patients for work with clinical intern, Ms. Mailena Alicea. Dr. Denise Vagt is a licensed clinical psychologist (Maine License PS1998). She has a broad range of experience treating anxiety and depressive disorders and specializes in the treatment of anxiety, trauma, and stress related disorders. Dr. Vagt completed her Doctorate in Psychology at Florida Institute of Technology and spent the beginning of her career serving as an Active Duty Air Force Psychologist. She now works in the private sector as the owner of Maine Psychological Services.
(207) 412-5942 View (207) 412-5942
Photo of Jeanie Rogers - Healing Tree Therapy LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Healing Tree Therapy LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bangor, ME 04401  (Online Only)
Welcome to the start of your healing journey! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in psychotherapy for adults in Maine and New Hampshire. I offer evidenced-based practices to include cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, motivational interviewing, acceptance and commitment therapy, and trauma focused therapy. Additionally, I provide supervision for fully and conditionally licensed counselors.
Welcome to the start of your healing journey! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in psychotherapy for adults in Maine and New Hampshire. I offer evidenced-based practices to include cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, motivational interviewing, acceptance and commitment therapy, and trauma focused therapy. Additionally, I provide supervision for fully and conditionally licensed counselors.
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Photo of Travis C Durepo, LCPC, MSMHC, MSHR, Counselor
Travis C Durepo
Counselor, LCPC, MSMHC, MSHR
Verified Verified
Bangor, ME 04401
I have extensive experience working with Trauma clients, and will work to process the trauma from a strength based perspective.
The decision to enter therapeutic treatment should not be entered lightly, i work to treat all clients professionally, with respect, in an effort to help each client understand their individual situation , and how to see the positives in their less than positive situation, and help each individual help themselves , the treatment focus is always based on the strengths that each individual brings with them.
I have extensive experience working with Trauma clients, and will work to process the trauma from a strength based perspective.
The decision to enter therapeutic treatment should not be entered lightly, i work to treat all clients professionally, with respect, in an effort to help each client understand their individual situation , and how to see the positives in their less than positive situation, and help each individual help themselves , the treatment focus is always based on the strengths that each individual brings with them.
(207) 640-2989 View (207) 640-2989
Photo of Glenn J Simpson, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Glenn J Simpson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bangor, ME 04401  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping with substance use disorder, couples and families in recovery, and trauma/ PTSD.
I believe that at the core of all of us is a desire to feel connected. Many things in life can contribute to a feeling of disconnection, including substance use disorder, trauma, or communication problems within relationships. I think the answers are already within each of us. Therapy is a way to unlock those answers so you can live freely and authentically. I believe in fostering a deeply caring, non-judgmental atmosphere where you can feel heard, seen, and supported. I meet people where they are and together, our work involves making incremental changes that improve your life.
I specialize in helping with substance use disorder, couples and families in recovery, and trauma/ PTSD.
I believe that at the core of all of us is a desire to feel connected. Many things in life can contribute to a feeling of disconnection, including substance use disorder, trauma, or communication problems within relationships. I think the answers are already within each of us. Therapy is a way to unlock those answers so you can live freely and authentically. I believe in fostering a deeply caring, non-judgmental atmosphere where you can feel heard, seen, and supported. I meet people where they are and together, our work involves making incremental changes that improve your life.
(207) 387-8104 View (207) 387-8104
Photo of Michelle R Varra-White - Seed of Life Psychotherapy, MSS, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Seed of Life Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Bangor, ME 04401  (Online Only)
The focus of my work includes collaborating with clients in the healing and understanding of trauma and emotional wounds, sexual health, relationships and connections, depression and anxiety, and other life challenges and transitions that one might encounter, through which we can bring wisdom, compassion, empathy and a deeper insight into our unique journey.
It is with sincere gratitude and warm greetings that I welcome you! My name is Michelle Varra-White. Inspired by authentic connection, kindness, vulnerability, humor, and joy, I strive to collaborate with you in creating a brave, non-judgmental space where you can be curious and explore your healing journey, which is often times the hardest to start alone. I consider it a privilege to hold your confidence and as such I honor your self determination to choose the therapeutic vibe that is right for you. I also pay much attention to the healing pace, while being aware of when immediate relief is needed.
The focus of my work includes collaborating with clients in the healing and understanding of trauma and emotional wounds, sexual health, relationships and connections, depression and anxiety, and other life challenges and transitions that one might encounter, through which we can bring wisdom, compassion, empathy and a deeper insight into our unique journey.
It is with sincere gratitude and warm greetings that I welcome you! My name is Michelle Varra-White. Inspired by authentic connection, kindness, vulnerability, humor, and joy, I strive to collaborate with you in creating a brave, non-judgmental space where you can be curious and explore your healing journey, which is often times the hardest to start alone. I consider it a privilege to hold your confidence and as such I honor your self determination to choose the therapeutic vibe that is right for you. I also pay much attention to the healing pace, while being aware of when immediate relief is needed.
(484) 246-8244 View (484) 246-8244
Photo of Jeff Walter, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Jeff Walter
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bangor, ME 04401
I have a record of success helping adults and couples heal from anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship conflict and more.
I provide therapy personalized to address your unique goals and needs. My therapeutic approach is integrative and relationship-focused, influenced by liberation psychology, feminist/multicultural, and humanistic/existential lenses. I trained as a generalist and also have extensive experience working with overlapping healthcare needs, trauma survivors, people coping with experiences of domestic violence and abuse, and students addressing topics such as academic success, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, identity development, and healthy relationships. I continue to refine a culturally humble approach to psychotherapy work.
I have a record of success helping adults and couples heal from anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship conflict and more.
I provide therapy personalized to address your unique goals and needs. My therapeutic approach is integrative and relationship-focused, influenced by liberation psychology, feminist/multicultural, and humanistic/existential lenses. I trained as a generalist and also have extensive experience working with overlapping healthcare needs, trauma survivors, people coping with experiences of domestic violence and abuse, and students addressing topics such as academic success, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, identity development, and healthy relationships. I continue to refine a culturally humble approach to psychotherapy work.
(612) 439-2189 View (612) 439-2189
Photo of Tanya Shan, PhD, Psychologist
Tanya Shan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bangor, ME 04401  (Online Only)
I provide treatment for individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, adjustment and transition issues, relationship concerns, substance abuse disorders and post-traumatic stress.
Whatever brings someone to therapy, it generally includes some form of pain, dissatisfaction, or discomfort, and a disconnect between what is happening their life and what they want. Our work together will help to shed light on why you are struggling, and support you as you make changes, drawing on your strengths to find an approach that is more effective and aligned with how you want your life to be. I believe that effective therapy starts with a safe, compassionate, non-judgmental emotional space where clients can feel heard and understood and my work is grounded in developing a strong therapeutic relationship.
I provide treatment for individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, adjustment and transition issues, relationship concerns, substance abuse disorders and post-traumatic stress.
Whatever brings someone to therapy, it generally includes some form of pain, dissatisfaction, or discomfort, and a disconnect between what is happening their life and what they want. Our work together will help to shed light on why you are struggling, and support you as you make changes, drawing on your strengths to find an approach that is more effective and aligned with how you want your life to be. I believe that effective therapy starts with a safe, compassionate, non-judgmental emotional space where clients can feel heard and understood and my work is grounded in developing a strong therapeutic relationship.
(207) 204-3879 View (207) 204-3879

See more therapy options for Hampden

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.