Trauma and PTSD Therapists in South Portland, ME

Photo of Julien Mario Powers-Candelmo - Powers of the Healing Arts Therapy and Training, LCSW, CCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Powers of the Healing Arts Therapy and Training
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Portland, ME 04106
Waitlist for new clients
Issues that I specialize in working with include trauma, depression, anxiety, substance use, LGBTQIA+ issues, Schizophrenia, and relationships.
I believe that healing the wounds of the past is the key to moving forward and having a happy and successful life. I focus on integrating the emotional, physical, cognitive and spiritual health of each person with compassionate and individualized care. I have 27 years of experience in the Social Work field and have developed a therapeutic style that is characterized by empathy, approachability, transparency and non-judgment.
Issues that I specialize in working with include trauma, depression, anxiety, substance use, LGBTQIA+ issues, Schizophrenia, and relationships.
I believe that healing the wounds of the past is the key to moving forward and having a happy and successful life. I focus on integrating the emotional, physical, cognitive and spiritual health of each person with compassionate and individualized care. I have 27 years of experience in the Social Work field and have developed a therapeutic style that is characterized by empathy, approachability, transparency and non-judgment.
(207) 274-7633 View (207) 274-7633
Photo of Liz Mack, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Liz Mack
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
South Portland, ME 04106
I began my clinical work with non-profit and community mental health organizations where I had the honor to work with some of the most underserved families and young adults in Los Angeles County. I am new to Maine and beyond thrilled to have the chance to bring more excellent mental heath services to the East Coast! Since opening my private practice in 2017, I have developed specific expertise in working with those struggling with ADHD (adults, adolescents and families), folks in recovery, LGBTQI+ issues, codependence, and trauma focused treatment for those affected by narcissistic abuse or narcissistic family systems.
I began my clinical work with non-profit and community mental health organizations where I had the honor to work with some of the most underserved families and young adults in Los Angeles County. I am new to Maine and beyond thrilled to have the chance to bring more excellent mental heath services to the East Coast! Since opening my private practice in 2017, I have developed specific expertise in working with those struggling with ADHD (adults, adolescents and families), folks in recovery, LGBTQI+ issues, codependence, and trauma focused treatment for those affected by narcissistic abuse or narcissistic family systems.
(207) 203-9984 View (207) 203-9984
Photo of Leah Ciffolillo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leah Ciffolillo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
South Portland, ME 04106
I currently have availability for new clients! I am a Psychotherapist and Licensed Clinical Social Worker located in South Portland. I work with individuals affected by trauma, transitions, anxiety, depression, stress, big life questions, and more. While the therapy process can seem daunting, I find that it also leaves folks feeling much more capable of handling life’s challenges. I aim to provide a container for whatever you need the space to explore, process, heal, or change.
I currently have availability for new clients! I am a Psychotherapist and Licensed Clinical Social Worker located in South Portland. I work with individuals affected by trauma, transitions, anxiety, depression, stress, big life questions, and more. While the therapy process can seem daunting, I find that it also leaves folks feeling much more capable of handling life’s challenges. I aim to provide a container for whatever you need the space to explore, process, heal, or change.
(207) 489-8191 View (207) 489-8191
Photo of Luana Carroll, LCSW, EMDR, , CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Luana Carroll
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
South Portland, ME 04106  (Online Only)
EMDR Certified Therapist specializing in the treatment of anxiety, historical Trauma/ PTSD, and the grief that accompanies trauma by providing evidence-based techniques. Improve your quality of life, relationships, communication, self-talk/self-image, and connect to a calmer place in your body and mind. Please send an email or leave a voicemail message and receive a response within 24-hours.
EMDR Certified Therapist specializing in the treatment of anxiety, historical Trauma/ PTSD, and the grief that accompanies trauma by providing evidence-based techniques. Improve your quality of life, relationships, communication, self-talk/self-image, and connect to a calmer place in your body and mind. Please send an email or leave a voicemail message and receive a response within 24-hours.
(207) 553-3978 View (207) 553-3978
Photo of Lisa Keller, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Keller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Portland, ME 04106
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize EMDR and Polyvagal approaches to teach you how trauma and anxiety impacts you and help you heal.
I help women who have been negatively affected by trauma and other adverse experiences. The women I work with struggle with self doubt, overwhelm, and anxiety. I build real connections with my clients and support them in finding their own strength and resilience. Through our work together we will facilitate healing and change. Nothing gives me greater satisfaction than watching women realize that they are stronger than they believe and that they can heal.
I utilize EMDR and Polyvagal approaches to teach you how trauma and anxiety impacts you and help you heal.
I help women who have been negatively affected by trauma and other adverse experiences. The women I work with struggle with self doubt, overwhelm, and anxiety. I build real connections with my clients and support them in finding their own strength and resilience. Through our work together we will facilitate healing and change. Nothing gives me greater satisfaction than watching women realize that they are stronger than they believe and that they can heal.
(207) 389-3327 View (207) 389-3327
Photo of Mary C Hazzard, LCPC, Counselor
Mary C Hazzard
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Portland, ME 04106
You don't have to struggle alone. Anxiety, trauma, and stress are part of life for everyone and, at times, can be overwhelming. But relief is possible. If you've never felt comfortable about sharing your difficulties, I can offer you a safe place to find what works for you. Even if you've tried counseling before, new research, new strategies emerge all the time.
You don't have to struggle alone. Anxiety, trauma, and stress are part of life for everyone and, at times, can be overwhelming. But relief is possible. If you've never felt comfortable about sharing your difficulties, I can offer you a safe place to find what works for you. Even if you've tried counseling before, new research, new strategies emerge all the time.
(207) 767-4600 View (207) 767-4600
Photo of Dr. Natasha Wilson, PhD, LCSW, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Natasha Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Portland, ME 04106  (Online Only)
I am a skilled humanistic therapist who specializes in helping people heal from interpersonal and cultural trauma, grief, loss, life transitions (work/career, family, school, relationships, and identity), depression, and anxiety.
Hi my name is Dr. Natasha Wilson and I'm trained as both a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and a cultural anthropologist (PhD) and I blend the skills I have gained in both these fields to work with individuals, couples and communities to realize their inherent strengths. I operate from a philosophy that people have the ability to recover and heal and the power to do so lies within them. My job is simply to facilitate the process. You are the answer! I specialize in online therapy and counseling services using HIPPA compliant video and tele-mental health technology. To schedule: www.thejourneyhome11.com
I am a skilled humanistic therapist who specializes in helping people heal from interpersonal and cultural trauma, grief, loss, life transitions (work/career, family, school, relationships, and identity), depression, and anxiety.
Hi my name is Dr. Natasha Wilson and I'm trained as both a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and a cultural anthropologist (PhD) and I blend the skills I have gained in both these fields to work with individuals, couples and communities to realize their inherent strengths. I operate from a philosophy that people have the ability to recover and heal and the power to do so lies within them. My job is simply to facilitate the process. You are the answer! I specialize in online therapy and counseling services using HIPPA compliant video and tele-mental health technology. To schedule: www.thejourneyhome11.com
(207) 536-2507 View (207) 536-2507
Photo of Emily Van Cannon, LCPC, LADC, CCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily Van Cannon
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, LADC, CCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Portland, ME 04106
I help people find new ways of relating to their problems by asking very specific types of questions drawn from Narrative Therapy and also by utilizing a brain-based approach called Brainspotting for accelerated insights and resolution of the effects of trauma, loss, and anxiety.
A clouded, anxious mind, a broken heart, a body that won’t quiet down. You have tried things and made progress, but you are still waiting for life to feel brighter and lighter. Maybe you are a young person under so much pressure, uncertain about the future, or you are someone who has endured so many hard things. Maybe you are just tired of feeling so much, of not feeling anything at all. You are wondering if a new path is possible. It is.
I help people find new ways of relating to their problems by asking very specific types of questions drawn from Narrative Therapy and also by utilizing a brain-based approach called Brainspotting for accelerated insights and resolution of the effects of trauma, loss, and anxiety.
A clouded, anxious mind, a broken heart, a body that won’t quiet down. You have tried things and made progress, but you are still waiting for life to feel brighter and lighter. Maybe you are a young person under so much pressure, uncertain about the future, or you are someone who has endured so many hard things. Maybe you are just tired of feeling so much, of not feeling anything at all. You are wondering if a new path is possible. It is.
(207) 544-4242 View (207) 544-4242
Photo of Susan Elizabeth Shaw, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Susan Elizabeth Shaw
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
South Portland, ME 04106
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with offices in South Portland, Maine. I received a Masters Degree from Lesley University in Cambridge and have completed additional training in several fields including: Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy; Dialectical Behavior Therapy; Suicide Prevention; Culturally Competent Care for Adolescents; Assessment and Treatment of Attachment, Trauma, and Addiction; The Impact of Childhood Trauma on Brain Development; and Clinical Management of Sleep Disorders. I have post-graduate training in filial therapy and play therapy. I welcome adults and adolescents.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with offices in South Portland, Maine. I received a Masters Degree from Lesley University in Cambridge and have completed additional training in several fields including: Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy; Dialectical Behavior Therapy; Suicide Prevention; Culturally Competent Care for Adolescents; Assessment and Treatment of Attachment, Trauma, and Addiction; The Impact of Childhood Trauma on Brain Development; and Clinical Management of Sleep Disorders. I have post-graduate training in filial therapy and play therapy. I welcome adults and adolescents.
(207) 489-8603 View (207) 489-8603
Photo of Pam Schubert, LCPC, RPT-S, EMDR, Counselor
Pam Schubert
Counselor, LCPC, RPT-S, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Portland, ME 04106
I have specialized training in the treatment of trauma including Trauma Sensitive Yoga, TFCBT and I am certified in EMDR.
After thirty years of practice, I am amazed by the strength of the human spirit and seek to create a safe atmosphere for optimum healing. I specialize in child and adult treatment of anxiety, depression and trauma. I believe therapy is a collaborative process that can be enhanced by somatic approaches such as EMDR, expressive therapy, and play therapy. In my work with children I utilize play therapy, play is the natural language of children and it is how they heal and learn new skills. I also incorporate the treatment of childhood anxiety and provide parenting skills that are specifically tailored to the needs of the child.
I have specialized training in the treatment of trauma including Trauma Sensitive Yoga, TFCBT and I am certified in EMDR.
After thirty years of practice, I am amazed by the strength of the human spirit and seek to create a safe atmosphere for optimum healing. I specialize in child and adult treatment of anxiety, depression and trauma. I believe therapy is a collaborative process that can be enhanced by somatic approaches such as EMDR, expressive therapy, and play therapy. In my work with children I utilize play therapy, play is the natural language of children and it is how they heal and learn new skills. I also incorporate the treatment of childhood anxiety and provide parenting skills that are specifically tailored to the needs of the child.
(207) 331-3095 View (207) 331-3095
Photo of Amy K Cummings-Aponte - New Pathways Counseling LLC, LCPC, LMHC, Counselor
New Pathways Counseling LLC
Counselor, LCPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
South Portland, ME 04106  (Online Only)
New Pathways is dedicated to providing quality counseling services to those living in the beautiful State of Maine. Amy is an LPC with 13+ years serving the community and she believes in the healing nature of connection. She states, "I am grateful to be invited into the lives of each individual, to witness their lived experiences, and walk beside them as they journey toward their goal." New Pathways helps those who may be experiencing or have experienced depression , anxiety, trauma and relationship difficulties.
New Pathways is dedicated to providing quality counseling services to those living in the beautiful State of Maine. Amy is an LPC with 13+ years serving the community and she believes in the healing nature of connection. She states, "I am grateful to be invited into the lives of each individual, to witness their lived experiences, and walk beside them as they journey toward their goal." New Pathways helps those who may be experiencing or have experienced depression , anxiety, trauma and relationship difficulties.
(207) 746-0689 View (207) 746-0689
Photo of Kate Kinney, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kate Kinney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
South Portland, ME 04106
What you want is simple - a meaningful, authentic, and connected life. But you’re stuck somehow - in relationship patterns or difficulties, unsustainable roles or jobs, ways of relating to yourself or others that don’t serve you, cycles or behavior you’re not proud of. I offer individual and EMDR intensive therapy. I work with people experiencing life transitions, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, unresolved trauma, relationship issues, social alienation, and loneliness. Whether or not you know exactly what’s getting in the way, we’ll start where you are and work together to understand and move through what’s holding you back.
What you want is simple - a meaningful, authentic, and connected life. But you’re stuck somehow - in relationship patterns or difficulties, unsustainable roles or jobs, ways of relating to yourself or others that don’t serve you, cycles or behavior you’re not proud of. I offer individual and EMDR intensive therapy. I work with people experiencing life transitions, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, unresolved trauma, relationship issues, social alienation, and loneliness. Whether or not you know exactly what’s getting in the way, we’ll start where you are and work together to understand and move through what’s holding you back.
(207) 803-6540 View (207) 803-6540
Photo of Sarah Dugas, MA, LCSW, CSTT, NATC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Dugas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW, CSTT, NATC
Verified Verified
South Portland, ME 04106
I am a Certified Brainspotting Therapist, Certified Sexual Trauma Therapist, and a Certified Narcissistic Abuse Treatment Clinician.
Are you struggling with anxiety, processing a painful life event, or moving through a major life transition? Is it time to start putting your wellbeing first? I aspire to create a space where you feel empowered to get comfortable with the uncomfortable and take the lead in your healing, while my role is to be a partner in your process. I am dedicated to client-centered, trauma-informed care and approach my work with the belief that we grow from our painful experiences, life transitions, and challenges. We can use the awareness and strength that comes from those experiences to become who we are meant to be.
I am a Certified Brainspotting Therapist, Certified Sexual Trauma Therapist, and a Certified Narcissistic Abuse Treatment Clinician.
Are you struggling with anxiety, processing a painful life event, or moving through a major life transition? Is it time to start putting your wellbeing first? I aspire to create a space where you feel empowered to get comfortable with the uncomfortable and take the lead in your healing, while my role is to be a partner in your process. I am dedicated to client-centered, trauma-informed care and approach my work with the belief that we grow from our painful experiences, life transitions, and challenges. We can use the awareness and strength that comes from those experiences to become who we are meant to be.
(207) 544-4172 View (207) 544-4172
Photo of James W Lehr III, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
James W Lehr III
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
South Portland, ME 04106  (Online Only)
In response to trauma, loss, or stressors, some people have developed addictions.
In these hectic times, we sometimes find ourselves feeling overwhelmed, disconnected from loved ones, or "stuck" and unsure about where we are headed. Some of us even struggle with past trauma that continues to define our present. As a therapist my responsibility is to provide a safe and supportive environment promoting awareness, cultivating strengths, and encouraging lasting change. My clients would describe me as warm, genuine, non-judgmental, open, and motivating. My style draws upon an experience range including solution-focused, Cognitive Behavioral and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. website: james-lehr.clientsecure.me
In response to trauma, loss, or stressors, some people have developed addictions.
In these hectic times, we sometimes find ourselves feeling overwhelmed, disconnected from loved ones, or "stuck" and unsure about where we are headed. Some of us even struggle with past trauma that continues to define our present. As a therapist my responsibility is to provide a safe and supportive environment promoting awareness, cultivating strengths, and encouraging lasting change. My clients would describe me as warm, genuine, non-judgmental, open, and motivating. My style draws upon an experience range including solution-focused, Cognitive Behavioral and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. website: james-lehr.clientsecure.me
(207) 521-9890 View (207) 521-9890
Photo of Cheyne West, LCPC-C, Counselor
Cheyne West
Counselor, LCPC-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Portland, ME 04106
I specialize in treating people who have experienced trauma, loss, substance use, depression, anxiety, and those going through life transitions including parenthood.
I know life can be hard, and if you have experienced trauma it can be difficult to talk about. Sometimes a different approach is needed. As a trauma-informed, expressive art therapist, building trust and safety is always my first goal. Together, we can find creative ways to understand your inner experience and uncover new coping skills that feel aligned with your current values. I offer individual and group work. My ideal clients are curious, willing to explore, and eager to develop more compassion and a deeper understanding of self. I work with adults ages 18 and older.
I specialize in treating people who have experienced trauma, loss, substance use, depression, anxiety, and those going through life transitions including parenthood.
I know life can be hard, and if you have experienced trauma it can be difficult to talk about. Sometimes a different approach is needed. As a trauma-informed, expressive art therapist, building trust and safety is always my first goal. Together, we can find creative ways to understand your inner experience and uncover new coping skills that feel aligned with your current values. I offer individual and group work. My ideal clients are curious, willing to explore, and eager to develop more compassion and a deeper understanding of self. I work with adults ages 18 and older.
(207) 521-9769 View (207) 521-9769
Photo of Emily Newburn, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Newburn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Portland, ME 04106
I work with clients who experience a variety of challenges including anxiety, depression, trauma, adjustment to parenting, parenting challenges and relationship difficulties.
Please Email for inquires. I am now offering Equine Assisted Therapy addition to my practice ( Monday daytime hours only) . Are you ready for change? I believe in people's resiliency and capacity for growth. Often when we are feeling stressed and overwhelmed, it is difficult to recognize our strengths. I enjoy working with people who are motivated and ready to engage in the therapy process. I can assist you in your journey towards positive change in your life
I work with clients who experience a variety of challenges including anxiety, depression, trauma, adjustment to parenting, parenting challenges and relationship difficulties.
Please Email for inquires. I am now offering Equine Assisted Therapy addition to my practice ( Monday daytime hours only) . Are you ready for change? I believe in people's resiliency and capacity for growth. Often when we are feeling stressed and overwhelmed, it is difficult to recognize our strengths. I enjoy working with people who are motivated and ready to engage in the therapy process. I can assist you in your journey towards positive change in your life
(207) 518-7709 View (207) 518-7709
Photo of Nikki Wetherell Yardy, LCPC, Counselor
Nikki Wetherell Yardy
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Portland, ME 04106
EMDR is a highly effective, researched-backed approach for treating PTSD and trauma.
Ready to heal from past experiences and stop white-knuckling it? Ready to reduce anxiety, intrusive thoughts, and disturbing memories? Get relief from trauma symptoms in days not months or years! EMDR is a research-backed approach offering faster treatment outcomes than traditional talk therapy by targeting specific memories and negative belief systems to decrease reduce symptoms and process trauma. Now accepting clients for half-day, full-day EMDR intensives, my waitlist for hour-long appt. is closed (returning clients, please contact me directly). I have additional training in recent event protocols to help prevent PTSD.
EMDR is a highly effective, researched-backed approach for treating PTSD and trauma.
Ready to heal from past experiences and stop white-knuckling it? Ready to reduce anxiety, intrusive thoughts, and disturbing memories? Get relief from trauma symptoms in days not months or years! EMDR is a research-backed approach offering faster treatment outcomes than traditional talk therapy by targeting specific memories and negative belief systems to decrease reduce symptoms and process trauma. Now accepting clients for half-day, full-day EMDR intensives, my waitlist for hour-long appt. is closed (returning clients, please contact me directly). I have additional training in recent event protocols to help prevent PTSD.
(207) 387-8130 View (207) 387-8130
Photo of Kassy Sweet, LCPC, Counselor
Kassy Sweet
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Portland, ME 04106  (Online Only)
In addition to mindfulness and stress management strategies, I have specialized training in Trauma, Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders, Domestic Violence, Child Abuse, Sexual Assault.
I currently offer individual therapy to clients in both Maine and Wisconsin. Many clients I work with carry day to day stress and anxiety that is rooted in trauma. We tend to think of trauma as one big moment, but it can also be a culmination of moments leading to a negative narrative of the self and a shift in the way we see and interact in the world. My goal is to teach new skills that will help promote control over ones thoughts, feelings and behaviors that can improve health and happiness across multiple settings- emotionally, psychosomatically, in families or relationships and other areas of life.
In addition to mindfulness and stress management strategies, I have specialized training in Trauma, Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders, Domestic Violence, Child Abuse, Sexual Assault.
I currently offer individual therapy to clients in both Maine and Wisconsin. Many clients I work with carry day to day stress and anxiety that is rooted in trauma. We tend to think of trauma as one big moment, but it can also be a culmination of moments leading to a negative narrative of the self and a shift in the way we see and interact in the world. My goal is to teach new skills that will help promote control over ones thoughts, feelings and behaviors that can improve health and happiness across multiple settings- emotionally, psychosomatically, in families or relationships and other areas of life.
(608) 650-6304 View (608) 650-6304
Photo of Owen Campbell, Counselor
Owen Campbell
Counselor
Verified Verified
South Portland, ME 04106
My name is Owen Campbell, I am a licensed conditional Clinical Professional Counselor. I have worked in the public school system as a teacher and coach for over 15 years. My life experiences have equipped me to support and understand trauma, behavioral issues, and relationship struggles. I bring wisdom, humor, and warmth to the counseling room, along with my clinical training.
My name is Owen Campbell, I am a licensed conditional Clinical Professional Counselor. I have worked in the public school system as a teacher and coach for over 15 years. My life experiences have equipped me to support and understand trauma, behavioral issues, and relationship struggles. I bring wisdom, humor, and warmth to the counseling room, along with my clinical training.
(207) 204-3707 View (207) 204-3707
Photo of Renee C Cross, MA, LCPC, LPC, ACS, Counselor
Renee C Cross
Counselor, MA, LCPC, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
South Portland, ME 04106  (Online Only)
I am an EMDR trained therapist working with clients who are looking for relief from feelings of self-criticism, perfectionism, difficulties in relationships, people pleasing, and worry. These issues are often rooted in trauma, depression and anxiety. We will work together to identify areas of growth, while creating a path forward to increasing feelings of empowerment, connection and self worth. I take a holistic approach to therapy, combining evidence based practices such as EMDR, CBT and Ego state therapy creating a tailored approach to meet each individuals needs.
I am an EMDR trained therapist working with clients who are looking for relief from feelings of self-criticism, perfectionism, difficulties in relationships, people pleasing, and worry. These issues are often rooted in trauma, depression and anxiety. We will work together to identify areas of growth, while creating a path forward to increasing feelings of empowerment, connection and self worth. I take a holistic approach to therapy, combining evidence based practices such as EMDR, CBT and Ego state therapy creating a tailored approach to meet each individuals needs.
(475) 284-8620 View (475) 284-8620

See more therapy options for South Portland

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.