Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Lewiston, ME

Photo of Eric Rollins, MA, LCPC, LPCC, Counselor
Eric Rollins
Counselor, MA, LCPC, LPCC
Verified Verified
Lewiston, ME 04240
I am certified in Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) that aims to cure PTSD, typically in 12 sessions.
My clients are seeking relief from their mental and emotional ailments. They are typically contemplating changes they want to make and looking for someone to help motivate and hold them accountable, or they want someone to collaborate with to see what options are available. Therapy only works if there is a solid therapeutic relationship between the counselor and their client. If you're needing help and willing to let me walk with you for a bit on your journey, please reach out. I also offer clinical supervision for new or conditionally licensed counselors.
I am certified in Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) that aims to cure PTSD, typically in 12 sessions.
My clients are seeking relief from their mental and emotional ailments. They are typically contemplating changes they want to make and looking for someone to help motivate and hold them accountable, or they want someone to collaborate with to see what options are available. Therapy only works if there is a solid therapeutic relationship between the counselor and their client. If you're needing help and willing to let me walk with you for a bit on your journey, please reach out. I also offer clinical supervision for new or conditionally licensed counselors.
(207) 531-5371 View (207) 531-5371
Photo of Tiffany Manson, MS, LCPC, CADC, CGP
Tiffany Manson
Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, CADC, CGP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lewiston, ME 04240
Waitlist for new clients
I provide integrative clinical services. A pragmatic, humanistic and non-pathologizing approach is the foundation of my theoretical orientation. Also, I incorporate the use of alternative therapies to meet each individuals' unique needs of mind/body/heart/soul. I am here to help you cultivate healing and wellness through the use of collaborative, person-centered, strength-based, and trauma-informed interventions. My philosophy is that life can be arduous, at times, and it's those mountains, valleys, hills, and tough terrains that provide us with the opportunities to learn, grow, and triumph.
I provide integrative clinical services. A pragmatic, humanistic and non-pathologizing approach is the foundation of my theoretical orientation. Also, I incorporate the use of alternative therapies to meet each individuals' unique needs of mind/body/heart/soul. I am here to help you cultivate healing and wellness through the use of collaborative, person-centered, strength-based, and trauma-informed interventions. My philosophy is that life can be arduous, at times, and it's those mountains, valleys, hills, and tough terrains that provide us with the opportunities to learn, grow, and triumph.
(207) 204-3956 View (207) 204-3956
Photo of Rose Heikkinen, LCPC, Counselor
Rose Heikkinen
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lewiston, ME 04240
Waitlist for new clients
My focus is working with anxiety, depression, trauma, self esteem and self image.
At times an individual may want extra support to talk about and or explore areas in their life that are causing stress: It can lead to anxiety, depression, mood changes, substance use, compulsive behaviors, and anger. If anyone of these emotional or behavioral issues become significant it can affect relationships, education, finances or day to day functioning. In session, the individual will examine past, present and future experiences that impact thoughts, behaviors, and emotions. There are appropriate and inappropriate ways to better cope with stressors in our life and in session the client will examine which strategies work best.
My focus is working with anxiety, depression, trauma, self esteem and self image.
At times an individual may want extra support to talk about and or explore areas in their life that are causing stress: It can lead to anxiety, depression, mood changes, substance use, compulsive behaviors, and anger. If anyone of these emotional or behavioral issues become significant it can affect relationships, education, finances or day to day functioning. In session, the individual will examine past, present and future experiences that impact thoughts, behaviors, and emotions. There are appropriate and inappropriate ways to better cope with stressors in our life and in session the client will examine which strategies work best.
(207) 506-0247 View (207) 506-0247
Photo of Amanda Morais - Farside Counseling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Farside Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lewiston, ME 04240  (Online Only)
I specialize in the ways that trauma, attachment wounds, relationship challenges, and stress impact your access to joy + connection, and prevent you from living your life fully.
Farside Counseling: a space for healing + exploration. At Farside Counseling, each session is a new opportunity to dive into your inner knowing, illuminate + embrace your strengths , and bring your shadows to light in pursuit of transformation. Change in session is accomplished through the power of relationship and non-judgmental exploration of your inner truth(s). The experiences held in our minds + bodies make up the way we show up and respond to the world/in our relationships. Together we will explore new skills and strategies to manage stressors, improve communication, and build self-awareness + self-compassion.
I specialize in the ways that trauma, attachment wounds, relationship challenges, and stress impact your access to joy + connection, and prevent you from living your life fully.
Farside Counseling: a space for healing + exploration. At Farside Counseling, each session is a new opportunity to dive into your inner knowing, illuminate + embrace your strengths , and bring your shadows to light in pursuit of transformation. Change in session is accomplished through the power of relationship and non-judgmental exploration of your inner truth(s). The experiences held in our minds + bodies make up the way we show up and respond to the world/in our relationships. Together we will explore new skills and strategies to manage stressors, improve communication, and build self-awareness + self-compassion.
(888) 410-7295 View (888) 410-7295
Photo of Colleen Jillson, LCSW, LADC, CCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Colleen Jillson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LADC, CCS
Verified Verified
Lewiston, ME 04240
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize narrative therapy to assist individuals to re-author their lives and recover from trauma and addiction.
Trauma and adverse childhood experiences can lead to substance use disorders, toxic relationships and a variety of maladaptive behaviors. Recovery is possible.
I utilize narrative therapy to assist individuals to re-author their lives and recover from trauma and addiction.
Trauma and adverse childhood experiences can lead to substance use disorders, toxic relationships and a variety of maladaptive behaviors. Recovery is possible.
(207) 805-8938 View (207) 805-8938
Photo of Amy Trask, MAT, MSW, LMSW-CC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Trask
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MAT, MSW, LMSW-CC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lewiston, ME 04240
To fit your unique situation, I will draw from an array of therapeutic techniques, including CBT, ACT, EMDR/ trauma-focused care, and mindfulness.
Therapy provides a unique opportunity to delve into your inner world. Recognizing clients as the true experts of their lives, I view my role as offering guidance and support. My aim is to ensure that you feel seen, heard, and understood in a non-judgmental space where you can process emotions, understand behaviors, and develop healthy coping strategies. Together, we will explore your past experiences, recognize patterns, and gain insights to help you cultivate a more empowered and authentic self.
To fit your unique situation, I will draw from an array of therapeutic techniques, including CBT, ACT, EMDR/ trauma-focused care, and mindfulness.
Therapy provides a unique opportunity to delve into your inner world. Recognizing clients as the true experts of their lives, I view my role as offering guidance and support. My aim is to ensure that you feel seen, heard, and understood in a non-judgmental space where you can process emotions, understand behaviors, and develop healthy coping strategies. Together, we will explore your past experiences, recognize patterns, and gain insights to help you cultivate a more empowered and authentic self.
(207) 223-7499 View (207) 223-7499
Photo of Glenn J Simpson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Glenn J Simpson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lewiston, ME 04240  (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 Carol Despres, LCSW, EMDR II, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carol Despres
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR II
Verified Verified
Lewiston, ME 04240
Specializing in PTSD/Anxiety/Depression, I work to facilitate your body's innate healing response through possible EMDR, CBT & Eclectic applications.
Welcome! In this very moment you're choosing to be on your journey. My therapeutic philosophy is to facilitate and support your body's innate healing response through the applications of EMDR, (EMDRIA.ORG) and heart-centered therapies. EMDR in particular works to liberate clients from past trauma memories whether that be small "t" trauma or big 'T" trauma and to transform a person's subconscious beliefs thus "turning down the volume" on negative memories/negative beliefs and transforming those subconscious beliefs back into positive core beliefs so that you may become your highest aspect of yourself.
Specializing in PTSD/Anxiety/Depression, I work to facilitate your body's innate healing response through possible EMDR, CBT & Eclectic applications.
Welcome! In this very moment you're choosing to be on your journey. My therapeutic philosophy is to facilitate and support your body's innate healing response through the applications of EMDR, (EMDRIA.ORG) and heart-centered therapies. EMDR in particular works to liberate clients from past trauma memories whether that be small "t" trauma or big 'T" trauma and to transform a person's subconscious beliefs thus "turning down the volume" on negative memories/negative beliefs and transforming those subconscious beliefs back into positive core beliefs so that you may become your highest aspect of yourself.
(207) 426-4205 View (207) 426-4205
Photo of Charles McKay, LCPC, Counselor
Charles McKay
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lewiston, ME 04240
I offer both individual and relationship healing, particularly in context of trauma recovery, anger management, burnout, and addiction. Usually all of those issues connect and we all can find layers of work to do in each area. I can't promise to fix your relationship or heal all your wounds, but I can offer support, encouragement, and honest feedback about the challenges and opportunities you are facing.
I offer both individual and relationship healing, particularly in context of trauma recovery, anger management, burnout, and addiction. Usually all of those issues connect and we all can find layers of work to do in each area. I can't promise to fix your relationship or heal all your wounds, but I can offer support, encouragement, and honest feedback about the challenges and opportunities you are facing.
(207) 464-2598 View (207) 464-2598
Photo of Danielle Austin, LCPC, CCS, NCC, Counselor
Danielle Austin
Counselor, LCPC, CCS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lewiston, ME 04240  (Online Only)
I utilize Attachment Therapy, Trauma Focused CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Person Centered and many other modalities.
Accepting clients! Email works best. I work with adults who are struggling with PTSD/ trauma, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, and several other mental health disorders to navigate life's daily challenges, and interpersonal relationships and to find healing and growth. I will help you navigate and overcome your current struggles, challenge your internal values and belief systems, and provide a safe and judgment-free space so you can heal. I am also a Certified Clinical Supervisor (CCS) and am offering clinical supervision to conditionally licensed LMSW-CC and LCPC-C individuals in the state of Maine.
I utilize Attachment Therapy, Trauma Focused CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Person Centered and many other modalities.
Accepting clients! Email works best. I work with adults who are struggling with PTSD/ trauma, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, and several other mental health disorders to navigate life's daily challenges, and interpersonal relationships and to find healing and growth. I will help you navigate and overcome your current struggles, challenge your internal values and belief systems, and provide a safe and judgment-free space so you can heal. I am also a Certified Clinical Supervisor (CCS) and am offering clinical supervision to conditionally licensed LMSW-CC and LCPC-C individuals in the state of Maine.
(207) 466-6436 View (207) 466-6436
Photo of Shelby Briggs, LADC, CCS, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Shelby Briggs
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADC, CCS
Verified Verified
Lewiston, ME 04240  (Online Only)
I specialize in trauma-aware individual, family, & group counseling for those who struggle with addiction & for their loved ones.
If you've made it this far and you're reading this, you must be a Warrior. Really. Having Substance Use Disorder (SUD), or loving someone who has SUD, is not for the weak at heart. I liken it's reach to a tornado, an EF5 tornado actually. But here's the thing; You and I working together - we are to SUD what FEMA is to a tornado. Together, we can pick up the wreckage, organize it, decide what parts you want to keep, which ones you want to fix, and where to start fresh. You are not alone. In fact, 1 in 3 American families are struggling with SUD in the home. 22 Million Americans are in long-term recovery. All of them needed help too.
I specialize in trauma-aware individual, family, & group counseling for those who struggle with addiction & for their loved ones.
If you've made it this far and you're reading this, you must be a Warrior. Really. Having Substance Use Disorder (SUD), or loving someone who has SUD, is not for the weak at heart. I liken it's reach to a tornado, an EF5 tornado actually. But here's the thing; You and I working together - we are to SUD what FEMA is to a tornado. Together, we can pick up the wreckage, organize it, decide what parts you want to keep, which ones you want to fix, and where to start fresh. You are not alone. In fact, 1 in 3 American families are struggling with SUD in the home. 22 Million Americans are in long-term recovery. All of them needed help too.
(207) 230-6957 View (207) 230-6957
Photo of Colleen M Smith, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Colleen M Smith
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Lewiston, ME 04240
I believe in rewriting the story to release pain from trauma.
I specialize in helping Christian women integrate their faith into clinical practice and solutions. I am here to support and empower women who have lost their sense of self. There are many obstacles we encounter in life and sometimes it takes someone sitting with us and exploring what is making the mountain seem immovable. I specialize in helping set up goals and develop a path to achieve them. I enjoy working with married couples, to help them develop healthy ways to handle conflict, and also those trying to blend a family. Currently using EFT for couples as well! I also do premarital counseling for engaged couples.
I believe in rewriting the story to release pain from trauma.
I specialize in helping Christian women integrate their faith into clinical practice and solutions. I am here to support and empower women who have lost their sense of self. There are many obstacles we encounter in life and sometimes it takes someone sitting with us and exploring what is making the mountain seem immovable. I specialize in helping set up goals and develop a path to achieve them. I enjoy working with married couples, to help them develop healthy ways to handle conflict, and also those trying to blend a family. Currently using EFT for couples as well! I also do premarital counseling for engaged couples.
(207) 672-1079 View (207) 672-1079
Photo of Taylor York, PhD, Psychologist
Taylor York
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Lewiston, ME 04240  (Online Only)
I frequently work with individuals who have experienced traumatic events, childhood trauma, and racial trauma.
My primary goal is to provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals to explore how their experiences impact their view of the world, interpersonal relationships, and how they regulate their reactions to events. By fostering exploration and curiosity about our mental health and personal growth I hope to provide therapy that helps individuals meet their goals and flourish.
I frequently work with individuals who have experienced traumatic events, childhood trauma, and racial trauma.
My primary goal is to provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals to explore how their experiences impact their view of the world, interpersonal relationships, and how they regulate their reactions to events. By fostering exploration and curiosity about our mental health and personal growth I hope to provide therapy that helps individuals meet their goals and flourish.
(866) 716-3597 View (866) 716-3597
Photo of Shelby Prevatt, LCPC, Counselor
Shelby Prevatt
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lewiston, ME 04240  (Online Only)
In my work, I draw from ACT (acceptance and commitment therapy), mindfulness, Gestalt therapy, expressive arts, internal family systems (IFS) and other trauma-informed practices through a social justice lens.
I’m so glad you’re taking the step to reach out and connect with someone familiar with helping people navigate the challenges life often throws at us. From depression to burnout, and anything in between, I’m here to help you not only work on the issues at hand, but help you uncover the core reason why you're no longer feeling like yourself. While I specialize in working with clients 13+ struggling with eating disorders, and/or ADHD, I’m also passionate about trauma work, neurodivergence, attachment concerns, and mood fluctuations.
In my work, I draw from ACT (acceptance and commitment therapy), mindfulness, Gestalt therapy, expressive arts, internal family systems (IFS) and other trauma-informed practices through a social justice lens.
I’m so glad you’re taking the step to reach out and connect with someone familiar with helping people navigate the challenges life often throws at us. From depression to burnout, and anything in between, I’m here to help you not only work on the issues at hand, but help you uncover the core reason why you're no longer feeling like yourself. While I specialize in working with clients 13+ struggling with eating disorders, and/or ADHD, I’m also passionate about trauma work, neurodivergence, attachment concerns, and mood fluctuations.
(207) 835-3629 View (207) 835-3629
Photo of Garrett Erb, LCPC-c
Garrett Erb
LCPC-c
Verified Verified
Lewiston, ME 04240  (Online Only)
Specializing in grief, depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder, I’ve had the privilege of supporting clients from ages 3 to 98, as well as families and dyads.
I have openings for MaineCare insurance! Drawing from both my personal experiences and professional education, I prioritize understanding the complexities of each individual’s life story. Together, we’ll work to discover what resonates with you, creating a foundation for growth and fulfillment.
Specializing in grief, depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder, I’ve had the privilege of supporting clients from ages 3 to 98, as well as families and dyads.
I have openings for MaineCare insurance! Drawing from both my personal experiences and professional education, I prioritize understanding the complexities of each individual’s life story. Together, we’ll work to discover what resonates with you, creating a foundation for growth and fulfillment.
(844) 618-0112 View (844) 618-0112
Photo of Michelle Darby-O'Bar, LCSW, LISW-CP, LICSW, CCTP-2, BC-TMH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Darby-O'Bar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW-CP, LICSW, CCTP-2, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Lewiston, ME 04240  (Online Only)
I am also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional.
I support adults experiencing a variety of life challenges including anxiety, depression, trauma, gender dysphoria, and other day to day life struggles. Proudly serving the LGBTQIA+ community (including letters for gender affirming surgery).
I am also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional.
I support adults experiencing a variety of life challenges including anxiety, depression, trauma, gender dysphoria, and other day to day life struggles. Proudly serving the LGBTQIA+ community (including letters for gender affirming surgery).
(207) 275-6430 View (207) 275-6430
Photo of Grace Ripperger, LPC, LCPC
Grace Ripperger
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lewiston, ME 04240  (Online Only)
I'm passionate about helping individuals and couples navigate life's challenges, strengthen their relationships, and increase self-confidence. I support clients in healing from relationship issues, trauma, divorce, anxiety, and depression. Specializing in neurodivergence and High Sensitivity (HSP), I empower my clients to fully embrace themselves and move through life with greater confidence to be themselves. I believe in bringing my whole self into the therapeutic space, fostering an atmosphere of trust and authenticity. My style is gentle yet direct, and I love incorporating spiritual practices, like guided meditations.
I'm passionate about helping individuals and couples navigate life's challenges, strengthen their relationships, and increase self-confidence. I support clients in healing from relationship issues, trauma, divorce, anxiety, and depression. Specializing in neurodivergence and High Sensitivity (HSP), I empower my clients to fully embrace themselves and move through life with greater confidence to be themselves. I believe in bringing my whole self into the therapeutic space, fostering an atmosphere of trust and authenticity. My style is gentle yet direct, and I love incorporating spiritual practices, like guided meditations.
(207) 548-5764 View (207) 548-5764
Photo of Kurt Nelson, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kurt Nelson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lewiston, ME 04240
I am an empathic, client-centered, strengths-based licensed clinical social worker with 18 years of experience providing collaborative trauma-informed care.
Accepting new clients I look forward to understanding your goals and values and offering the best scientific and humanistic practice to help you reach your desired outcomes. I have helped children, adolescents, transition-age youth and adults address traumatic experiences, loss, anxiety, depression, adjustment to psychiatric disability, and other stressful life transitions.
I am an empathic, client-centered, strengths-based licensed clinical social worker with 18 years of experience providing collaborative trauma-informed care.
Accepting new clients I look forward to understanding your goals and values and offering the best scientific and humanistic practice to help you reach your desired outcomes. I have helped children, adolescents, transition-age youth and adults address traumatic experiences, loss, anxiety, depression, adjustment to psychiatric disability, and other stressful life transitions.
(617) 996-7423 View (617) 996-7423
Photo of Joel Lavenson -  Advanced Counseling and Therapy  Ctr, MA, NCC, LCPC, LPC, BCPC, Counselor
Advanced Counseling and Therapy Ctr
Counselor, MA, NCC, LCPC, LPC, BCPC
Verified Verified
Lewiston, ME 04240
Board Certified PTSD Clinician, Board Certified Professional Counselor, Certified IMAGO Relationship Therapist and EMDR specialist helping relationships.
Caring, competent and effective counseling, A Trauma Relief Center for Couples and Individuals with Anxiety, PTSD, Performance Anxiety, depression, couples power struggles & alienation; career and business issues. Feeling Lost? I can help you meet your most challenging issues. Feel connected and joyful again. Manage stress from PTSD, trauma, anxiety, unresolvedcircular issues, depression, anger infidelity. As your coach / therapist we work together to help you find Your way back to loving your life again. "With courage and new skills you CAN do anything!" Wonderful help for couples, families, individuals, veterans. Confidential
Board Certified PTSD Clinician, Board Certified Professional Counselor, Certified IMAGO Relationship Therapist and EMDR specialist helping relationships.
Caring, competent and effective counseling, A Trauma Relief Center for Couples and Individuals with Anxiety, PTSD, Performance Anxiety, depression, couples power struggles & alienation; career and business issues. Feeling Lost? I can help you meet your most challenging issues. Feel connected and joyful again. Manage stress from PTSD, trauma, anxiety, unresolvedcircular issues, depression, anger infidelity. As your coach / therapist we work together to help you find Your way back to loving your life again. "With courage and new skills you CAN do anything!" Wonderful help for couples, families, individuals, veterans. Confidential
(207) 358-4004 View (207) 358-4004
Photo of Annette Williams, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Annette Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lewiston, ME 04240
Together we will navigate challenges that include: depression, anxiety, domestic violence, grief and loss, relationship struggles, health challenges, adoption, impacts of trauma, historical or current, and secondary trauma.
When we have life experiences that shake us, we believe having a supportive place and person is important. Our agency offers you an authentic, integrative and holistic space to process your current or historical challenges. With over 15 years of experience in social work and extensive trauma informed knowledge, we bring a person-centered, evidence-based approach including CBT, TF-CBT, Problem Solving Therapy, Mindfulness, Stress Reduction and Solution-Focused Brief. We are currently offering Telehealth and in-person sessions in Lewiston, Maine.
Together we will navigate challenges that include: depression, anxiety, domestic violence, grief and loss, relationship struggles, health challenges, adoption, impacts of trauma, historical or current, and secondary trauma.
When we have life experiences that shake us, we believe having a supportive place and person is important. Our agency offers you an authentic, integrative and holistic space to process your current or historical challenges. With over 15 years of experience in social work and extensive trauma informed knowledge, we bring a person-centered, evidence-based approach including CBT, TF-CBT, Problem Solving Therapy, Mindfulness, Stress Reduction and Solution-Focused Brief. We are currently offering Telehealth and in-person sessions in Lewiston, Maine.
(207) 610-7133 View (207) 610-7133
1
Trauma and PTSD Therapists

When should I seek treatment for trauma?

Not everyone who undergoes trauma needs therapy to heal, but many do. If, after experiencing a traumatic event, you find yourself struggling with symptoms such as nightmares, dissociation, irritability, or emotional numbness—especially if these symptoms last more than a month and are severe enough to interfere with your daily functioning—you may benefit from seeking out therapy with a trauma-informed provider.

How long does trauma therapy take?

Different types of therapy for trauma unfold on different timelines. Prolonged exposure therapy and cognitive processing therapy, for example, each take about three months, while trauma-informed CBT may last anywhere from 8 to 25 sessions. Other approaches, especially those that are less structured or that incorporate elements from multiple modalities, may be more open-ended, though many patients report feeling better within the first few months of treatment.

What happens if trauma is left untreated?

Unaddressed trauma can have serious—even devastating—effects on relationships, career, and day-to-day functioning. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can lead people to distrust or lash out at others, making it difficult to maintain intimate relationships; it can also trigger symptoms such as flashbacks or hyperreactivity that can interfere with a person’s ability to function effectively, personally and/or professionally. Some sufferers turn to drugs to find relief. Symptoms may lessen on their own with time, but there is no guarantee that PTSD will resolve on its own.

Can PTSD come back after treatment?

It is possible for PTSD symptoms to recur months or years after successful treatment. This is because, like most mental health disorders, it is not possible to “cure” PTSD, and stressful life events may cause symptoms to recur in even the most resilient individuals. There is no shame in re-experiencing PTSD symptoms nor in returning to therapy when such relapses occur; indeed, many forms of trauma therapy explicitly encourage periodic “maintenance sessions” to reinforce coping skills and ensure that symptoms stay manageable.