Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Westbrook, ME
Katie Dolinsky
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Westbrook, ME 04092
I am also trained in Gottmans couple therapy, Imago, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, Mindfulness based techniques and several other trauma modalities.
Friends. Partners. Parents. Children. Relationships are one of the most important and enjoyable parts of being human. My practice is focused on connecting people and guiding them toward feeling more satisfied in their relationships. Therapy is highly focused on communication, healing relational wounds, gaining awareness of relationship patterns and understanding needs so that you can feel more understood and fulfilled in all relationships in your life. I also offer coaching for professionals, athletes and creatives who are seeking to meet their goals or work through blocks in their career, sport or creative space.
I am also trained in Gottmans couple therapy, Imago, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, Mindfulness based techniques and several other trauma modalities.
Friends. Partners. Parents. Children. Relationships are one of the most important and enjoyable parts of being human. My practice is focused on connecting people and guiding them toward feeling more satisfied in their relationships. Therapy is highly focused on communication, healing relational wounds, gaining awareness of relationship patterns and understanding needs so that you can feel more understood and fulfilled in all relationships in your life. I also offer coaching for professionals, athletes and creatives who are seeking to meet their goals or work through blocks in their career, sport or creative space.
I strive to create a safe environment, one that will enable you achieve your goals with specialized training in mood disorders, trauma treatment, and a comprehensive understanding of family systems and relationship dynamics.
Life can be so difficult at times. With so much going on in the world around and often within us it’s all too easy to lose your balance, feel lost and isolated. You may be experiencing increased feelings of anxiety, depression, fear or anger and resentment. Relationship conflicts may intensify or reinforce past traumas. As a professional with over 20 years of practice treating trauma and other mental health conditions, I can provide the guidance and support to help you make the changes you need to move beyond this challenging period of your life, toward something that feels more authentic and true for you.
I strive to create a safe environment, one that will enable you achieve your goals with specialized training in mood disorders, trauma treatment, and a comprehensive understanding of family systems and relationship dynamics.
Life can be so difficult at times. With so much going on in the world around and often within us it’s all too easy to lose your balance, feel lost and isolated. You may be experiencing increased feelings of anxiety, depression, fear or anger and resentment. Relationship conflicts may intensify or reinforce past traumas. As a professional with over 20 years of practice treating trauma and other mental health conditions, I can provide the guidance and support to help you make the changes you need to move beyond this challenging period of your life, toward something that feels more authentic and true for you.
Julie Holden, MSW, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Westbrook, ME 04092
Specialties include addictions/recovery, trauma, loss/grief, women's issues, tween/adolescent population, college students and young adults.
Welcome to my practice. With over 25 years of experience, I have assisted children, adolescents and adults with challenging life transitions, self-improvement, substance use, aging, grief and losses, coaching and consultation services, addictions/recovery, anxiety and depression. I have worked in settings including middle and high school, community outpatient mental health, private practice, The Department of Defense and Veterans Administration. I genuinely care about developing a partnership with you to help you gain momentum, oftentimes including humor along the way.
Specialties include addictions/recovery, trauma, loss/grief, women's issues, tween/adolescent population, college students and young adults.
Welcome to my practice. With over 25 years of experience, I have assisted children, adolescents and adults with challenging life transitions, self-improvement, substance use, aging, grief and losses, coaching and consultation services, addictions/recovery, anxiety and depression. I have worked in settings including middle and high school, community outpatient mental health, private practice, The Department of Defense and Veterans Administration. I genuinely care about developing a partnership with you to help you gain momentum, oftentimes including humor along the way.
Shelby Briggs
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADC, CCS
Verified Verified
Westbrook, ME 04092 (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.
I am trained in several evidence-based modalities of treatment for individuals, children and families: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused CBT, Modular Approach to Therapy for Children with Anxiety , Depression, Trauma and Conduct Problems.
Hello, Hola, my name is Maite. Are you feeling stuck in life? Are you experiencing difficulties within your relationships? Are you feeling overwhelmed by the stress in your life? I would like to help by assisting you in learning skills to reach awareness and healing. Counseling is a safe place to share your concerns, dreams and to implement coping skills to deal with stress, anxiety, depression and/or trauma. I specialize in helping clients through challenging life transitions.
I am trained in several evidence-based modalities of treatment for individuals, children and families: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused CBT, Modular Approach to Therapy for Children with Anxiety , Depression, Trauma and Conduct Problems.
Hello, Hola, my name is Maite. Are you feeling stuck in life? Are you experiencing difficulties within your relationships? Are you feeling overwhelmed by the stress in your life? I would like to help by assisting you in learning skills to reach awareness and healing. Counseling is a safe place to share your concerns, dreams and to implement coping skills to deal with stress, anxiety, depression and/or trauma. I specialize in helping clients through challenging life transitions.
Trauma, PTSD, eating disorders, anxiety, and bipolar disorder are some of my specialties.
The most important aspect of my work as a therapist is the relationship between therapist and client. This allows the therapuetic alliance to be formed. My focus is on teaching adults and seniors new coping skills and life skills to help alleviate their symptoms of depression, anxiety, fears or phobias. I also help people who are struggling with traumatic memories using EMDR as a treatment modality. I have been trained in cognitive-behavioral therapy, teaching one to change existing thought processes thus leading to positive thinking and coping skills. I use a holistic bio-psycho-social model which incorporates mindfulness therapy using relaxation techniques.
Trauma, PTSD, eating disorders, anxiety, and bipolar disorder are some of my specialties.
The most important aspect of my work as a therapist is the relationship between therapist and client. This allows the therapuetic alliance to be formed. My focus is on teaching adults and seniors new coping skills and life skills to help alleviate their symptoms of depression, anxiety, fears or phobias. I also help people who are struggling with traumatic memories using EMDR as a treatment modality. I have been trained in cognitive-behavioral therapy, teaching one to change existing thought processes thus leading to positive thinking and coping skills. I use a holistic bio-psycho-social model which incorporates mindfulness therapy using relaxation techniques.
Jon Petruschke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Westbrook, ME 04092
I specialize in adults and professionals. Life challenges everyone and sometimes we feel stuck. Stuck in sadness, worry, or doubt. Struggling in challenging relationship patterns, old habits or overwhelming stress. I can support you in getting unstuck - overcoming loss, depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship and family challenges, career difficulties, transitions and burnout. We sometimes struggle to find meaning and purpose in our work and personal lives. We sometimes feel broken, different or like we’re not enough. I can help you reconnect to what matters to you, what you love about life, and find a way forward.
I specialize in adults and professionals. Life challenges everyone and sometimes we feel stuck. Stuck in sadness, worry, or doubt. Struggling in challenging relationship patterns, old habits or overwhelming stress. I can support you in getting unstuck - overcoming loss, depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship and family challenges, career difficulties, transitions and burnout. We sometimes struggle to find meaning and purpose in our work and personal lives. We sometimes feel broken, different or like we’re not enough. I can help you reconnect to what matters to you, what you love about life, and find a way forward.
My approach is Present-oriented, Trauma informed and Experiential.
Tired of having the same arguments over and over? Wondering why you seem to be stuck in cycles with your partner, friends, colleagues or yourself? How often do you find yourself wondering, "what happened to that sweet loving person I fell in love with? How did Godzilla end up in my bed? Or worse yet, is that Medusa staring back at me in the mirror"? OK then.....welcome. I'm Joni Altshuler and after 30yrs in practice, I continue to be inspired and often awe struck by the people who walk thru my door.
My approach is Present-oriented, Trauma informed and Experiential.
Tired of having the same arguments over and over? Wondering why you seem to be stuck in cycles with your partner, friends, colleagues or yourself? How often do you find yourself wondering, "what happened to that sweet loving person I fell in love with? How did Godzilla end up in my bed? Or worse yet, is that Medusa staring back at me in the mirror"? OK then.....welcome. I'm Joni Altshuler and after 30yrs in practice, I continue to be inspired and often awe struck by the people who walk thru my door.
Sharie Ann Peacock
Counselor, RN, MEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westbrook, ME 04092 (Online Only)
I have used TIR/LSR successfully with hundreds of clients, including combat vets and women assaulted in the military, who are now free of suffering from the debilitating effects of trauma and other difficult issues.
I have successfully used Traumatic Incident Reduction with my clients for 23 years. TIR is an Evidence-Based Practice. It is a rapid (compared to traditional therapy) method of effectively reducing traumatic stress from emotionally or physically painful past events resulting in permanent elimination of PTSD symptomatology, enabling you to move on with a greatly improved quality of life. I use Life Stress Reduction which makes use of an array of techniques designed to relieve issues such as depression, anxiety, anger problems, relationship difficulties, job/career concerns, financial problems, health concerns, grief/loss and more.
I have used TIR/LSR successfully with hundreds of clients, including combat vets and women assaulted in the military, who are now free of suffering from the debilitating effects of trauma and other difficult issues.
I have successfully used Traumatic Incident Reduction with my clients for 23 years. TIR is an Evidence-Based Practice. It is a rapid (compared to traditional therapy) method of effectively reducing traumatic stress from emotionally or physically painful past events resulting in permanent elimination of PTSD symptomatology, enabling you to move on with a greatly improved quality of life. I use Life Stress Reduction which makes use of an array of techniques designed to relieve issues such as depression, anxiety, anger problems, relationship difficulties, job/career concerns, financial problems, health concerns, grief/loss and more.
Justin Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LADC, CCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westbrook, ME 04092
I specialize in working with people who experience substance use disorders and developmental trauma.
Please note that I am currently at capacity and unable to accept new patients at this time. There is wisdom in the ways we adapt to our environments, but they do not always serve us in the present moment. My aim is to help people identify their adaptive patterns and view them with compassion, while also learning what to hold and what to let go. As a neurobiological informed therapist, I aim to help people move from judgement, shame and isolation to curiosity, acceptance and connection.
I specialize in working with people who experience substance use disorders and developmental trauma.
Please note that I am currently at capacity and unable to accept new patients at this time. There is wisdom in the ways we adapt to our environments, but they do not always serve us in the present moment. My aim is to help people identify their adaptive patterns and view them with compassion, while also learning what to hold and what to let go. As a neurobiological informed therapist, I aim to help people move from judgement, shame and isolation to curiosity, acceptance and connection.
I see you scrolling, checking out all these profiles. Bit overwhelming huh? How do you choose? Who is right? Will they judge you? The cool thing is that it's so trendy to have a therapist; weren't you aware? That's why it's so hard to find one these days! But, it is still kind of scary to take the plunge. That's not how it's supposed to be you know; when you enter my office, my one and only goal is to help you feel accepted just how you are, no matter what you're bringing through the door. Kids making you crazy? Partner on your last nerve? Memories or old trauma preventing your from feeling like you can move forward? I can help.
I see you scrolling, checking out all these profiles. Bit overwhelming huh? How do you choose? Who is right? Will they judge you? The cool thing is that it's so trendy to have a therapist; weren't you aware? That's why it's so hard to find one these days! But, it is still kind of scary to take the plunge. That's not how it's supposed to be you know; when you enter my office, my one and only goal is to help you feel accepted just how you are, no matter what you're bringing through the door. Kids making you crazy? Partner on your last nerve? Memories or old trauma preventing your from feeling like you can move forward? I can help.
I have availability in office or via video. I work with people who have trouble with relationships, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, rage fits, struggle with addiction/alcohol, have gone through trauma, and grew up in unhealthy homes. People who at times wish they could escape life and need support to remember how to smile, or sometimes learn how to smile (for real) for the first time. If someone uses legal and/or illegal substances and wants to quit or not, I support your decision. If you want to ease your anxiety, anger, and/or sadness and want to feel happy, I believe you deserve that! :)
I have availability in office or via video. I work with people who have trouble with relationships, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, rage fits, struggle with addiction/alcohol, have gone through trauma, and grew up in unhealthy homes. People who at times wish they could escape life and need support to remember how to smile, or sometimes learn how to smile (for real) for the first time. If someone uses legal and/or illegal substances and wants to quit or not, I support your decision. If you want to ease your anxiety, anger, and/or sadness and want to feel happy, I believe you deserve that! :)
Justin Michaud is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LCPC) with over 7 years of professional experience working with clients of all ages to help them cope with family conflict, couple's issues, PTSD, trauma, depression, stress, and more.
Justin Michaud is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LCPC) with over 7 years of professional experience working with clients of all ages to help them cope with family conflict, couple's issues, PTSD, trauma, depression, stress, and more.
Blanca Iris Santiago
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westbrook, ME 04092
I have been trained in trauma focused and narrative therapy and bring lived experience as a BIPOC therapist.
We all have a story that we tell ourselves about why we’re unhappy, dissatisfied or feeling overwhelmed. Together we will discover and explore more than the single story of what brought you to me and uncover hidden truths, hopes, values, desires and dreams that will help you orient a future path. We are more than what happened to us and so much more than a diagnosis. We are all doing the best we can and this is the first step. I'm here to help shine a light on your path and help you create your true story.
I have been trained in trauma focused and narrative therapy and bring lived experience as a BIPOC therapist.
We all have a story that we tell ourselves about why we’re unhappy, dissatisfied or feeling overwhelmed. Together we will discover and explore more than the single story of what brought you to me and uncover hidden truths, hopes, values, desires and dreams that will help you orient a future path. We are more than what happened to us and so much more than a diagnosis. We are all doing the best we can and this is the first step. I'm here to help shine a light on your path and help you create your true story.
Randi Bruneau
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westbrook, ME 04092
Waitlist for new clients
Previous career experiences include crisis intervention; structural family work; intensive work with recovery from addiction, mental health and trauma.
As a therapist I am genuine, compassionate, sensitive and honest. I believe that people need a safe space to be validated for their life experience wherever they are at. My passion and profession is helping people rebuild healthier foundations and having the gift of being a part of individuals healing their own life story and recreating their lives into something new. I believe it is an honor to work with my clients... The Answer for life's changes is inside you and being willing to take the journey...and its the greatest gift you can give yourself...
Previous career experiences include crisis intervention; structural family work; intensive work with recovery from addiction, mental health and trauma.
As a therapist I am genuine, compassionate, sensitive and honest. I believe that people need a safe space to be validated for their life experience wherever they are at. My passion and profession is helping people rebuild healthier foundations and having the gift of being a part of individuals healing their own life story and recreating their lives into something new. I believe it is an honor to work with my clients... The Answer for life's changes is inside you and being willing to take the journey...and its the greatest gift you can give yourself...
Megan Lancaster
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, CCS
Verified Verified
Westbrook, ME 04092 (Online Only)
I have experience in helping clients with trauma, relational issues, motivation, self esteem, & mood disorders. I believe you are the expert of your story and have strengths that will assist you in overcoming challenges. My hope is to help you re-write your story, provide mentorship and guidance as you move towards your healing journey.
I have experience in helping clients with trauma, relational issues, motivation, self esteem, & mood disorders. I believe you are the expert of your story and have strengths that will assist you in overcoming challenges. My hope is to help you re-write your story, provide mentorship and guidance as you move towards your healing journey.
The emotions you've been carrying are heavy, and you're searching for something we all need: a conversation with someone who can tune in, make you feel safe, and help you make sense of your feelings. My practice is devoted to women's wellbeing, and my clients often come to me experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, the effects of trauma, or postpartum depression or anxiety. I'll be there for you while we give language to the emotions that have felt overwhelming and confusing. You don't have to carry this alone!
The emotions you've been carrying are heavy, and you're searching for something we all need: a conversation with someone who can tune in, make you feel safe, and help you make sense of your feelings. My practice is devoted to women's wellbeing, and my clients often come to me experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, the effects of trauma, or postpartum depression or anxiety. I'll be there for you while we give language to the emotions that have felt overwhelming and confusing. You don't have to carry this alone!
I consider myself a generalist and have worked with those experiencing depression, anxiety, the after-effects of trauma, behavior problems, domestic violence, and anger issues among others.
I am a seasoned clinican with over thirty years expericence in the field. I seek to create a comfortable, professional, and safe environment. My style is personal, informal, and direct. I endeavor to use humor, when appropriate, to put clients at ease, and provide perspective in order to move our work forward. My orientation is psychodynamic though I rely heavily on cognitive behavioral approaches because they have been shown to be effective and because the concepts can be readily understood.
I consider myself a generalist and have worked with those experiencing depression, anxiety, the after-effects of trauma, behavior problems, domestic violence, and anger issues among others.
I am a seasoned clinican with over thirty years expericence in the field. I seek to create a comfortable, professional, and safe environment. My style is personal, informal, and direct. I endeavor to use humor, when appropriate, to put clients at ease, and provide perspective in order to move our work forward. My orientation is psychodynamic though I rely heavily on cognitive behavioral approaches because they have been shown to be effective and because the concepts can be readily understood.
Emily Morse
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Westbrook, ME 04092
Waitlist for new clients
My specialities include depression, anxiety, ADHD, sexual abuse, and trauma.
Therapy is a process which focuses in part on the relationship between the therapist and client. I strive to create a non-judgmental, safe, and relaxing environment to help therapy feel like a comfortable and natural process. I use a variety of different modalities to best meet the client's needs.
My specialities include depression, anxiety, ADHD, sexual abuse, and trauma.
Therapy is a process which focuses in part on the relationship between the therapist and client. I strive to create a non-judgmental, safe, and relaxing environment to help therapy feel like a comfortable and natural process. I use a variety of different modalities to best meet the client's needs.
Heather Pollard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, ASDCS
Verified Verified
Westbrook, ME 04092
Waitlist for new clients
I use evidence-based practices and am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional.
Welcome. I am happy that you are considering yourself and thinking about your needs. Despite challenges, I do believe that the first goal has already been met in that you are seeking support. This, I realize, is not always easy. I assure you progress starts here, in this step, and in your consideration to yourself. It would be my pleasure and privilege to support you.
I use evidence-based practices and am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional.
Welcome. I am happy that you are considering yourself and thinking about your needs. Despite challenges, I do believe that the first goal has already been met in that you are seeking support. This, I realize, is not always easy. I assure you progress starts here, in this step, and in your consideration to yourself. It would be my pleasure and privilege to support you.
See more therapy options for Westbrook
Nearby Trauma and PTSD Therapists Searches for Westbrook
- Cape Elizabeth
- Cumberland
- Cumberland Foreside
- Falmouth
- Gorham
- Old Orchard Beach
- Portland
- Saco
- Scarborough
- South Portland
- Standish
- Windham
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.