Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Searsport, ME

Photo of Diana Laite, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diana Laite
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Searsport, ME 04974  (Online Only)
I use a strength based, client lead, talk therapy approach and incorporate modalities such as, trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, internal family systems techniques, mindfulness and relaxation techniques, exploration of feelings and emotions, supportive reflection, and structured problem-solving techniques.
Please note: Telehealth practice only. Limited openings available. Thank you for considering working with me as you take this step in a new direction. My goal is to provide an overall atmosphere where you feel comfortable and welcomed. LGBTQIA+ affirming and inclusive therapist. Ideally for individuals who are comfortable in a space that centers the experiences of all women, (assigned female at birth or otherwise), in life transitions, working on self discovery, eating disorders, anxiety, depression and trauma.
I use a strength based, client lead, talk therapy approach and incorporate modalities such as, trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, internal family systems techniques, mindfulness and relaxation techniques, exploration of feelings and emotions, supportive reflection, and structured problem-solving techniques.
Please note: Telehealth practice only. Limited openings available. Thank you for considering working with me as you take this step in a new direction. My goal is to provide an overall atmosphere where you feel comfortable and welcomed. LGBTQIA+ affirming and inclusive therapist. Ideally for individuals who are comfortable in a space that centers the experiences of all women, (assigned female at birth or otherwise), in life transitions, working on self discovery, eating disorders, anxiety, depression and trauma.
(207) 218-0340 View (207) 218-0340

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Heather Gaylor, LMSW-cc, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Gaylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-cc
Verified Verified
Belfast, ME 04915  (Online Only)
I take a somatic, attachment-based, trauma-informed approach to therapy.
Welcome! I’m a humanistic, relational therapist dedicated to creating a space where you can safely explore and heal. As humans, we are deeply wired for connection, and the therapeutic relationship is no different. I strive to provide a compassionate environment where you can be your authentic, vulnerable self—embracing both your strengths and flaws. Together, we’ll collaborate to explore the topics that matter most to you.
I take a somatic, attachment-based, trauma-informed approach to therapy.
Welcome! I’m a humanistic, relational therapist dedicated to creating a space where you can safely explore and heal. As humans, we are deeply wired for connection, and the therapeutic relationship is no different. I strive to provide a compassionate environment where you can be your authentic, vulnerable self—embracing both your strengths and flaws. Together, we’ll collaborate to explore the topics that matter most to you.
(207) 709-0861 View (207) 709-0861
Photo of Arthenaea Westwood-Perkins - Well Rooted Counseling, LCPC, Counselor
Well Rooted Counseling
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Belfast, ME 04915  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My therapy practice focuses on the intersection of empowerment and healing, with specialized training and experience in recovery from trauma, LGBTQ+ specific issues, maternal wellness, and issues related to intimate aggression/domestic violence. As an LCPC, I strive to create a therapeutic environment that allows me to help others navigate the path toward their best mental health and well being. I work with you to help and support you finding your path to achieve your own goals by being fully present, and building a constructive relationship that will help you navigate your own process of growth and change.
My therapy practice focuses on the intersection of empowerment and healing, with specialized training and experience in recovery from trauma, LGBTQ+ specific issues, maternal wellness, and issues related to intimate aggression/domestic violence. As an LCPC, I strive to create a therapeutic environment that allows me to help others navigate the path toward their best mental health and well being. I work with you to help and support you finding your path to achieve your own goals by being fully present, and building a constructive relationship that will help you navigate your own process of growth and change.
(207) 656-1483 View (207) 656-1483
Photo of Lisa Audino, LCSW, CADC, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Audino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Belfast, ME 04915  (Online Only)
My education and experience have centered on trauma, disordered personalities, gender identity challenges, child and domestic violence.
I specialize in Borderline personality disorder, PTSD/ Trauma, and co-occurring challenges. My scope of practice includes LGBTQ+ concerns, couples (nonmonogamy), and mood disorders. A desire to change is often forged in hardships that are overwhelming, painful, and cause suffering. It can be a difficult path to navigate alone. A therapeutic relationship based on trust, open communication, respect, and empathy is fundamental to overcoming struggles. Whether it is during a transition, an acute stressor, or severe mental illness, I provide a supportive, safe, and non-judgmental environment for youth, adults, families, and couples.
My education and experience have centered on trauma, disordered personalities, gender identity challenges, child and domestic violence.
I specialize in Borderline personality disorder, PTSD/ Trauma, and co-occurring challenges. My scope of practice includes LGBTQ+ concerns, couples (nonmonogamy), and mood disorders. A desire to change is often forged in hardships that are overwhelming, painful, and cause suffering. It can be a difficult path to navigate alone. A therapeutic relationship based on trust, open communication, respect, and empathy is fundamental to overcoming struggles. Whether it is during a transition, an acute stressor, or severe mental illness, I provide a supportive, safe, and non-judgmental environment for youth, adults, families, and couples.
(207) 806-5383 View (207) 806-5383
Photo of Jonathan Holmes, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jonathan Holmes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Belfast, ME 04915  (Online Only)
My practice involves work with youth and families to address mental health needs, including trauma informed practice, increasing healthy relationships and helping clients gain a greater sense of empowerment.
My name is Jonathan Holmes, LCSW and I am licensed in the State of Maine and will soon be offering individual therapy services to address symptoms related to anxiety, depression, and trauma.
My practice involves work with youth and families to address mental health needs, including trauma informed practice, increasing healthy relationships and helping clients gain a greater sense of empowerment.
My name is Jonathan Holmes, LCSW and I am licensed in the State of Maine and will soon be offering individual therapy services to address symptoms related to anxiety, depression, and trauma.
(207) 742-7307 View (207) 742-7307
Photo of Michael Wright, PhD, LCSW, MS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michael Wright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, MS
Verified Verified
Belfast, ME 04915
Waitlist for new clients
Life is filled with surprises and challenges. Sometimes it can seem overwhelming. Talking to a professional can help you and those you care about find new options. I have experience working with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, family problems, couples' problems, life transitions, questions of sexual and gender identity, and concerns related to health issues, death, and dying.
Life is filled with surprises and challenges. Sometimes it can seem overwhelming. Talking to a professional can help you and those you care about find new options. I have experience working with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, family problems, couples' problems, life transitions, questions of sexual and gender identity, and concerns related to health issues, death, and dying.
(207) 383-1841 View (207) 383-1841
Photo of Katherine Elizabeth Box - Kaleidoscope Therapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kaleidoscope Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Belfast, ME 04915
"Without good advice everything goes wrong— it takes careful planning for things to go right."- Proverbs 15:22 As the owner of Kaleidoscope Therapy, I work with adults ages 18-110. I engage in mental health treatment with individuals around a variety of issues, specifically for depression and anxiety, and trauma.
"Without good advice everything goes wrong— it takes careful planning for things to go right."- Proverbs 15:22 As the owner of Kaleidoscope Therapy, I work with adults ages 18-110. I engage in mental health treatment with individuals around a variety of issues, specifically for depression and anxiety, and trauma.
(207) 618-9189 View (207) 618-9189
Photo of Ericka Travers, LCPC-C, MBA, LADC, CCS, NCC, Counselor
Ericka Travers
Counselor, LCPC-C, MBA, LADC, CCS, NCC
Verified Verified
Belfast, ME 04915
My areas of expertise include trauma, interpersonal relationship dysfunction, anxiety, substance use, and addictive disorders.
Trauma can be defined as our emotional and psychological response to a distressing event. It can be difficult to resolve traumatic memories when the event and emotional response validate a negative core belief we hold about ourselves. I am an EMDR trained therapist and I believe strongly in the efficacy of EMDR in resolving trauma and negative core beliefs. I also use existential philosophy to inform my practice, meaning I focus on self-awareness, relationships, personal power, free will, and self-determined choices.
My areas of expertise include trauma, interpersonal relationship dysfunction, anxiety, substance use, and addictive disorders.
Trauma can be defined as our emotional and psychological response to a distressing event. It can be difficult to resolve traumatic memories when the event and emotional response validate a negative core belief we hold about ourselves. I am an EMDR trained therapist and I believe strongly in the efficacy of EMDR in resolving trauma and negative core beliefs. I also use existential philosophy to inform my practice, meaning I focus on self-awareness, relationships, personal power, free will, and self-determined choices.
(207) 721-2926 View (207) 721-2926
Photo of Michael Daniel Crespi - Michael Crespi Counseling, LCPC, Counselor
Michael Crespi Counseling
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Belfast, ME 04915
Extensive trauma experience healing/guiding individuals, parents, teens, couples, immigrants, war atrocity, sojourners.
We are each gifted... We are each wounded... Nobody escapes the extraordinary challenges of being human. What is it that is precious about my clients? How can they heal and release their unique gifts into this world? My passion is to support your life's imperative to transform injuries, and become fully energized to all that life has to offer. Within our journey lies the revelation of your most empowered Self. I've raised three children in the wilds of Maine and trekked in remote cultures and wildernesses around the world; yet it is within us that lies the greatest wilderness... its adversities, challenges, and wonders to behold.
Extensive trauma experience healing/guiding individuals, parents, teens, couples, immigrants, war atrocity, sojourners.
We are each gifted... We are each wounded... Nobody escapes the extraordinary challenges of being human. What is it that is precious about my clients? How can they heal and release their unique gifts into this world? My passion is to support your life's imperative to transform injuries, and become fully energized to all that life has to offer. Within our journey lies the revelation of your most empowered Self. I've raised three children in the wilds of Maine and trekked in remote cultures and wildernesses around the world; yet it is within us that lies the greatest wilderness... its adversities, challenges, and wonders to behold.
(207) 747-0697 View (207) 747-0697
Photo of Gwen M Ackley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gwen M Ackley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Belfast, ME 04915
I can help with challenges related to trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, issues of attachment and relationship difficulties.
Hi, thanks for checking out my profile. Please email me as this allows me to respond more quickly to your questions. I absolutely enjoy providing thoughtful caring therapy focused on your needs. I specialize in individualized care for adults. I can help you change your thought patterns and behaviors to have an increased sense of inner calm and improved well-being.
I can help with challenges related to trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, issues of attachment and relationship difficulties.
Hi, thanks for checking out my profile. Please email me as this allows me to respond more quickly to your questions. I absolutely enjoy providing thoughtful caring therapy focused on your needs. I specialize in individualized care for adults. I can help you change your thought patterns and behaviors to have an increased sense of inner calm and improved well-being.
(207) 560-0732 View (207) 560-0732
Photo of Denise H. Horton - Integrative Psychotherapy & EMDR, PhD, Psychologist
Integrative Psychotherapy & EMDR
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Belfast, ME 04915
Trauma/EMDR Therapist, Harvard-trained: PTSD, Grief & Loss, Childhood Abuse, Medical/Dental, Military, Police/EMS Critical Incident, Hospital Staff/ICU. Psychological Evaluation for Adults 18+. Holistic Approach: Mind-Body-Spirit. Member, Harvard University Healthcare Professionals Group.
Trauma/EMDR Therapist, Harvard-trained: PTSD, Grief & Loss, Childhood Abuse, Medical/Dental, Military, Police/EMS Critical Incident, Hospital Staff/ICU. Psychological Evaluation for Adults 18+. Holistic Approach: Mind-Body-Spirit. Member, Harvard University Healthcare Professionals Group.
(540) 609-2579 View (540) 609-2579
Photo of Tanya Shan, PhD, Psychologist
Tanya Shan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Belfast, ME 04915  (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
Photo of Dennis Baker, LCPC
Dennis Baker
Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Belfast, ME 04915
Whether you’re living with trauma, dealing with depression, struggling with anger, or just searching for something you know is missing, therapy can help.
Now Accepting New Clients - There’s no denying it, sometimes life can be really hard. And in addition to the many things happening outside ourselves, we all tend to get in our own way as well. We all sometimes think, feel, or do things that aren’t consistent with the person we want to be. This is completely normal, but it doesn’t have to be that way, and I’d like to help you make it better.
Whether you’re living with trauma, dealing with depression, struggling with anger, or just searching for something you know is missing, therapy can help.
Now Accepting New Clients - There’s no denying it, sometimes life can be really hard. And in addition to the many things happening outside ourselves, we all tend to get in our own way as well. We all sometimes think, feel, or do things that aren’t consistent with the person we want to be. This is completely normal, but it doesn’t have to be that way, and I’d like to help you make it better.
(207) 994-8632 View (207) 994-8632
Photo of Avery Laderer, MA, LCPC-C, Counselor
Avery Laderer
Counselor, MA, LCPC-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Belfast, ME 04915  (Online Only)
I work with individuals who are facing challenges related to anxiety, depression, mood disorders, personality disorders, and post-traumatic stress.
My approach to therapy is client-centered, intuitive, integrative, and honors the holistic being of each person for whom I hold space. The therapeutic relationship is profound in its ability to create a container of safety for exploration and healing of the self through connection. I am dedicated to providing a relational dynamic of non-judgment, acceptance, and compassion in which you can securely process, investigate, and discover new ways of engaging with your inner and outer worlds. Using expressive, narrative, skills-based, and somatic interventions, I support clients in cultivating empowerment for values-aligned change.
I work with individuals who are facing challenges related to anxiety, depression, mood disorders, personality disorders, and post-traumatic stress.
My approach to therapy is client-centered, intuitive, integrative, and honors the holistic being of each person for whom I hold space. The therapeutic relationship is profound in its ability to create a container of safety for exploration and healing of the self through connection. I am dedicated to providing a relational dynamic of non-judgment, acceptance, and compassion in which you can securely process, investigate, and discover new ways of engaging with your inner and outer worlds. Using expressive, narrative, skills-based, and somatic interventions, I support clients in cultivating empowerment for values-aligned change.
(207) 819-8630 View (207) 819-8630
Photo of Marit Denham Wilson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marit Denham Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Belfast, ME 04915
I work with trauma through an embodied, non-pathologizing, experiential approach, resourcing clients through knowledge of the nervous system and somatic practices.
Welcome! I am interested in how a therapeutic partnership can be a laboratory and a refuge; a place for you to engage curiously with yourself and your relational capacity. I find that over time this practice of being together and being curious can catalyze our intuition and rearrange patterns of stuckness. I believe we can learn to relate more clearly, deeply, and kindly with ourselves through being witnessed and attended to with care. I find that intimacy with our own emotional landscape can be the bedrock of a grounded relationship to self and others.
I work with trauma through an embodied, non-pathologizing, experiential approach, resourcing clients through knowledge of the nervous system and somatic practices.
Welcome! I am interested in how a therapeutic partnership can be a laboratory and a refuge; a place for you to engage curiously with yourself and your relational capacity. I find that over time this practice of being together and being curious can catalyze our intuition and rearrange patterns of stuckness. I believe we can learn to relate more clearly, deeply, and kindly with ourselves through being witnessed and attended to with care. I find that intimacy with our own emotional landscape can be the bedrock of a grounded relationship to self and others.
(207) 223-3150 View (207) 223-3150
Photo of Kristen Sheppard, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristen Sheppard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Belfast, ME 04915
I take an interactive approach that involves teaching therapeutic strategies and supports processing stressors or trauma through use of hands-on activities .
I have experience working with clients as young as toddlers and as old as older teens transitioning into adulthood. Many of the children and teens I've worked with have experienced symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, or other life stressors. Being a child and teen comes with so many transitions and changes that can be very overwhelming and stressful at times. Having someone neutral to talk with, receive additional support from, and work on strategies that can help with can be beneficial. I really enjoy helping children and teens to find what works and is helpful for them.
I take an interactive approach that involves teaching therapeutic strategies and supports processing stressors or trauma through use of hands-on activities .
I have experience working with clients as young as toddlers and as old as older teens transitioning into adulthood. Many of the children and teens I've worked with have experienced symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, or other life stressors. Being a child and teen comes with so many transitions and changes that can be very overwhelming and stressful at times. Having someone neutral to talk with, receive additional support from, and work on strategies that can help with can be beneficial. I really enjoy helping children and teens to find what works and is helpful for them.
(207) 436-8313 View (207) 436-8313
Photo of Maggie Q. Karoff, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maggie Q. Karoff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Belfast, ME 04915
A trauma informed lens is absolutely central with every client.
I understand myself in this role as a fellow traveler along the road who has devoted particular time and attention to learning the skills necessary to hold the kind of space that most effectively evokes the healing, release, and the profound wisdom that we all carry within. I work primarily with Internal Family Systems therapy. I believe this to be a particularly appropriate approach for our times as it is inherently a consent-based practice that moves precisely at the pace we are each ready for, and also creates space for touching the burdens we inherited intergenerationally/ancestrally.
A trauma informed lens is absolutely central with every client.
I understand myself in this role as a fellow traveler along the road who has devoted particular time and attention to learning the skills necessary to hold the kind of space that most effectively evokes the healing, release, and the profound wisdom that we all carry within. I work primarily with Internal Family Systems therapy. I believe this to be a particularly appropriate approach for our times as it is inherently a consent-based practice that moves precisely at the pace we are each ready for, and also creates space for touching the burdens we inherited intergenerationally/ancestrally.
(207) 503-2348 View (207) 503-2348
Photo of Cecilia Kinast, PhD, ABPdN, Psychologist
Cecilia Kinast
Psychologist, PhD, ABPdN
Verified Verified
Belfast, ME 04915  (Online Only)
I have extensive training and experience with complex psychological issues, autism, adoption related, prenatal complications and trauma.
Expertise in Pediatric Neuropsychological testing especially in autism, adoption related, FAS, prenatal exposure to Opioids and other medications and substances, Concussions, Learning Disabilities, ADHD. My practice is general, although expertise in children.. and i test and see Children, Adolescents, Adults, Couples and Families. My treatment approaches include Psychotherapy includes CBT, insight oriented, play, Behavior Management, Parent Training. Cliental are of various psychological issues including anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, obsessions/compulsions, conflict resolution, autism related, post traumatic stress disorder, emotional..physical.. sexual abuse. Often and familiar with working with local and state wide schools, physicians, psychiatrists, social agencies, multiple service providers.
I have extensive training and experience with complex psychological issues, autism, adoption related, prenatal complications and trauma.
Expertise in Pediatric Neuropsychological testing especially in autism, adoption related, FAS, prenatal exposure to Opioids and other medications and substances, Concussions, Learning Disabilities, ADHD. My practice is general, although expertise in children.. and i test and see Children, Adolescents, Adults, Couples and Families. My treatment approaches include Psychotherapy includes CBT, insight oriented, play, Behavior Management, Parent Training. Cliental are of various psychological issues including anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, obsessions/compulsions, conflict resolution, autism related, post traumatic stress disorder, emotional..physical.. sexual abuse. Often and familiar with working with local and state wide schools, physicians, psychiatrists, social agencies, multiple service providers.
(207) 747-3983 View (207) 747-3983
Photo of Liz Marshall: Emdr Intensives, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Liz Marshall: Emdr Intensives
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Belfast, ME 04915
I offer Intensive EMDR & IFS with an attachment & polyvagal lens & my areas of specialization are relational, religious & spiritual trauma.
My approach as a therapist is relational & warm & I deeply honor the intentional time set aside by each of my clients to engage in the courageous work of change. As a trauma-informed provider, I work to co-create a compassionate and non-judgmental space & value offering clients transparency, power, & choice in our work together. Clients have shared that our work together has empowered them to feel safer in their bodies & emotions, set healthier boundaries & advocate for their needs, understand origins of beliefs & behaviors, create space to discover & practice new responses, & ultimately reclaim agency in their voice & life story.
I offer Intensive EMDR & IFS with an attachment & polyvagal lens & my areas of specialization are relational, religious & spiritual trauma.
My approach as a therapist is relational & warm & I deeply honor the intentional time set aside by each of my clients to engage in the courageous work of change. As a trauma-informed provider, I work to co-create a compassionate and non-judgmental space & value offering clients transparency, power, & choice in our work together. Clients have shared that our work together has empowered them to feel safer in their bodies & emotions, set healthier boundaries & advocate for their needs, understand origins of beliefs & behaviors, create space to discover & practice new responses, & ultimately reclaim agency in their voice & life story.
(732) 641-6814 View (732) 641-6814
Photo of Stephanie Chmielewski Francis, LCPC, RPT, NCC, Counselor
Stephanie Chmielewski Francis
Counselor, LCPC, RPT, NCC
Verified Verified
Belfast, ME 04915
My present focus is with children 4-12+ years of age. Specific areas of mental health training have included ADHD, Learning Disorders, Mood and Anxiety Disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (ND-PAE), trauma and grief/loss as well as methods for working with angry and/or dys-regulated children. Treatment modalities include Child-Centered Play Therapy and Synergetic Play Therapy. Cognitive Behavioral approaches are utilized when deemed appropriate. Since my practice is with children, a special focus is additionally placed on working directly with the child’s parent (s)/caregiver (s).
My present focus is with children 4-12+ years of age. Specific areas of mental health training have included ADHD, Learning Disorders, Mood and Anxiety Disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (ND-PAE), trauma and grief/loss as well as methods for working with angry and/or dys-regulated children. Treatment modalities include Child-Centered Play Therapy and Synergetic Play Therapy. Cognitive Behavioral approaches are utilized when deemed appropriate. Since my practice is with children, a special focus is additionally placed on working directly with the child’s parent (s)/caregiver (s).
(207) 517-2031 View (207) 517-2031
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.