Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Grand Rapids, MI

Photo of Ashley Nichols Vanbemmelen, PhD, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Ashley Nichols Vanbemmelen
Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
I will journey with you as you share deep wounds, past trauma, relational pain, and any frustrations with making it through each day.
While life can bring great joy and success - it can also bring sadness and worry. It is in these times that a counselor can be most beneficial. I would be glad to provide you with a safe place to open up and explore the challenges you've faced. I believe that healing is possible and that life really can get better. Together, we can process how difficult life has been and we can begin to build hope and healing for your future.
I will journey with you as you share deep wounds, past trauma, relational pain, and any frustrations with making it through each day.
While life can bring great joy and success - it can also bring sadness and worry. It is in these times that a counselor can be most beneficial. I would be glad to provide you with a safe place to open up and explore the challenges you've faced. I believe that healing is possible and that life really can get better. Together, we can process how difficult life has been and we can begin to build hope and healing for your future.
(616) 818-0773 View (616) 818-0773
Photo of Anna Gerard, DSW, LCSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anna Gerard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49506  (Online Only)
I believe the most well-adjusted individuals have found contentment through the brave exploration of themselves. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Doctorate in Clinical Social Work from the University of Pennsylvania. For over fifteen years, I have worked with a variety of populations, including children, adolescents, families and adults. My experience supporting clients through Substance Abuse, Anxiety, Depression, Eating Disorders, Grief and Loss, PTSD and OCD is vast. I also have specialized expertise working with adolescents and young adults.
I believe the most well-adjusted individuals have found contentment through the brave exploration of themselves. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Doctorate in Clinical Social Work from the University of Pennsylvania. For over fifteen years, I have worked with a variety of populations, including children, adolescents, families and adults. My experience supporting clients through Substance Abuse, Anxiety, Depression, Eating Disorders, Grief and Loss, PTSD and OCD is vast. I also have specialized expertise working with adolescents and young adults.
(616) 577-7890 View (616) 577-7890
Photo of Susan Morozowich - Telebehavioral Health.US, LMSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Telebehavioral Health.US
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546  (Online Only)
Whether you're dealing with stress, anxiety, trauma, or other challenges, we’ll work together to explore the thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that may be affecting your mental health.
At Telebehavioral Health.US, we make quality behavioral health care accessible and affordable—right from the comfort of your home. Using secure, HIPAA-compliant video conferencing technology, we offer compassionate outpatient psychotherapy designed to fit into your life.
Whether you're dealing with stress, anxiety, trauma, or other challenges, we’ll work together to explore the thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that may be affecting your mental health.
At Telebehavioral Health.US, we make quality behavioral health care accessible and affordable—right from the comfort of your home. Using secure, HIPAA-compliant video conferencing technology, we offer compassionate outpatient psychotherapy designed to fit into your life.
(616) 253-6118 View (616) 253-6118
Photo of Billy Robinson, MDiv, MA , LPC, Counselor
Billy Robinson
Counselor, MDiv, MA , LPC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49504
Life can be bleak, challenging, and overwhelming at times. Life can also be joyful, life-giving, and hopeful. Holding tensions is a major facet of who we are as human beings. Often feeling in crisis on this journey, trying to balance our approach, and maintaining contradictions of brokenness and wholeness. My own journey has reflected much of this- in many ways I have suffered indescribable trauma; while in others I have experienced life altering joy. Each journey is incredibly unique and complex, and as human beings we have an innate desire to navigate our stories with the love, support, and friendship of others.
Life can be bleak, challenging, and overwhelming at times. Life can also be joyful, life-giving, and hopeful. Holding tensions is a major facet of who we are as human beings. Often feeling in crisis on this journey, trying to balance our approach, and maintaining contradictions of brokenness and wholeness. My own journey has reflected much of this- in many ways I have suffered indescribable trauma; while in others I have experienced life altering joy. Each journey is incredibly unique and complex, and as human beings we have an innate desire to navigate our stories with the love, support, and friendship of others.
(616) 439-2646 View (616) 439-2646
Photo of Tristen Davis, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tristen Davis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49512
I’m trained in special types of therapy (Emotionally Focused and Internal Family Systems) that help you build stronger relationships and heal from trauma.
Immediate evening availability. My new couples workbook is now available on our website! I work hard to understand your unique background, ensuring therapy is a space where you feel respected and heard. I use methods that are more inclusive and sensitive to different cultures. I'm committed to making therapy affordable, especially for LGBTQ+ folks, because I believe everyone deserves good mental health care. My passion is providing supportive and affirming services that help you heal and grow.
I’m trained in special types of therapy (Emotionally Focused and Internal Family Systems) that help you build stronger relationships and heal from trauma.
Immediate evening availability. My new couples workbook is now available on our website! I work hard to understand your unique background, ensuring therapy is a space where you feel respected and heard. I use methods that are more inclusive and sensitive to different cultures. I'm committed to making therapy affordable, especially for LGBTQ+ folks, because I believe everyone deserves good mental health care. My passion is providing supportive and affirming services that help you heal and grow.
(616) 522-8593 View (616) 522-8593
Photo of Ashley K. Castro, LMSW, CAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley K. Castro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49525
Waitlist for new clients
Are you struggling with anxiety or feeling depressed? Are family or life difficulties leaving you stressed? Are you feeling burned out? Have you experienced trauma? I believe we all need a supportive space to be open without judgement as we talk through our thoughts and feelings and process stress. I'd love to help support you with these or other concerns such as relationship issues, job stresses and faith related difficulties. Working together we will work toward peace and personal growth for a more vibrant life through mental wellness, stress management and healthy boundaries. Request an appointment at www.ashleycastrolmsw.com
Are you struggling with anxiety or feeling depressed? Are family or life difficulties leaving you stressed? Are you feeling burned out? Have you experienced trauma? I believe we all need a supportive space to be open without judgement as we talk through our thoughts and feelings and process stress. I'd love to help support you with these or other concerns such as relationship issues, job stresses and faith related difficulties. Working together we will work toward peace and personal growth for a more vibrant life through mental wellness, stress management and healthy boundaries. Request an appointment at www.ashleycastrolmsw.com
(616) 201-3192 View (616) 201-3192
Photo of Courtney Perkins, LLMSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Courtney Perkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49544
Courtney graduated with her Master’s degree in Social Work from Western Michigan University, and received a specialization in Trauma Across the Lifespan.
Courtney is a compassionate and dedicated therapist specializing in adolescents and young adults. As a therapist, Courtney believes in creating a non-judgmental, supportive space where clients feel heard, understood, and valued. By empowering clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, she helps guide clients toward healing, resilience, and a renewed sense of wholeness. Courtney recognizes the influence of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, disability, and culture on our life journeys, and she validates the unique experience of clients from diverse backgrounds and identities.
Courtney graduated with her Master’s degree in Social Work from Western Michigan University, and received a specialization in Trauma Across the Lifespan.
Courtney is a compassionate and dedicated therapist specializing in adolescents and young adults. As a therapist, Courtney believes in creating a non-judgmental, supportive space where clients feel heard, understood, and valued. By empowering clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, she helps guide clients toward healing, resilience, and a renewed sense of wholeness. Courtney recognizes the influence of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, disability, and culture on our life journeys, and she validates the unique experience of clients from diverse backgrounds and identities.
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Photo of Andrea Dieleman, LMSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrea Dieleman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49504  (Online Only)
I work with clients from all backgrounds, religions, gender identity, and sexual orientation. I believe that as we move through life we encounter moments that cause us to adapt; whether from trauma, unmet expectations, humiliation, lack of nurturing, societal pressure, or our role within our family. We cultivate these adaptations and carry them with us, applying them to new parts of life where they may no longer be needed. If we learn to meet ourselves with compassion, gratitude, and curiosity, getting to know the parts of us that work so diligently to protect us, we can begin to uncover and heal the deeper wounds that they shield.
I work with clients from all backgrounds, religions, gender identity, and sexual orientation. I believe that as we move through life we encounter moments that cause us to adapt; whether from trauma, unmet expectations, humiliation, lack of nurturing, societal pressure, or our role within our family. We cultivate these adaptations and carry them with us, applying them to new parts of life where they may no longer be needed. If we learn to meet ourselves with compassion, gratitude, and curiosity, getting to know the parts of us that work so diligently to protect us, we can begin to uncover and heal the deeper wounds that they shield.
(616) 522-4017 View (616) 522-4017
Photo of Lindsay James, LLMSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lindsay James
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49525
I individualize therapy to each client and use a trauma-informed, strengths-based approach.
Life is full of peaks and valleys, and sometimes we all need a little support or guidance. I am passionate about supporting kids, teens, young adults, women, and parents in periods of struggle or transition. I have training and lived experience with anxiety, depression, trauma, pain, child and family issues, and perinatal mood disorders. I have worked with survivors of sexual abuse, clients struggling with suicidal ideation and self-harm, and parents/caregivers trying their best to raise strong and healthy children. I can relate to people from all different walks of life, cultures, religious backgrounds, and sexual orientations.
I individualize therapy to each client and use a trauma-informed, strengths-based approach.
Life is full of peaks and valleys, and sometimes we all need a little support or guidance. I am passionate about supporting kids, teens, young adults, women, and parents in periods of struggle or transition. I have training and lived experience with anxiety, depression, trauma, pain, child and family issues, and perinatal mood disorders. I have worked with survivors of sexual abuse, clients struggling with suicidal ideation and self-harm, and parents/caregivers trying their best to raise strong and healthy children. I can relate to people from all different walks of life, cultures, religious backgrounds, and sexual orientations.
(616) 512-1422 View (616) 512-1422
Photo of Nicolette McGahey, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicolette McGahey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546  (Online Only)
In addition to trauma and substance use, I also work with depression, anxiety, OCD, criminal justice system involvement (past or present), depersonalization, and love working with queer, indigenous, poly, and neurodivergent folks.
Are you looking to heal from past traumas but not sure where to start and/or are you looking to explore your relationship with a substance that may no longer be serving you? You are not alone. As a therapist specializing in trauma and substance use, I am here to support you on your journey towards healing and recovery. Together, we will create a safe and nonjudgmental space for you to explore your past traumas and take steps towards healing and true happiness.
In addition to trauma and substance use, I also work with depression, anxiety, OCD, criminal justice system involvement (past or present), depersonalization, and love working with queer, indigenous, poly, and neurodivergent folks.
Are you looking to heal from past traumas but not sure where to start and/or are you looking to explore your relationship with a substance that may no longer be serving you? You are not alone. As a therapist specializing in trauma and substance use, I am here to support you on your journey towards healing and recovery. Together, we will create a safe and nonjudgmental space for you to explore your past traumas and take steps towards healing and true happiness.
(248) 289-9546 View (248) 289-9546
Photo of Raechel Morrow, MA, IAYT, E-RYT, CTS, SDP
Raechel Morrow
MA, IAYT, E-RYT, CTS, SDP
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
A certified trauma specialist, with 900 hours as a C-IAYT Yoga Therapist through IAYT.
Now accepting new clients. Your body is talking; are you listening? Do you desire a therapy that considers the wisdom of the body in treatment? Experience healing from a somatic and emotional process that merges with psychotherapy. A trauma-informed, embodied process that intersects mindfulness-based therapy, Jungian psychoanalytical therapy, spirituality, meditation, and self-exploration. Are you the person you feel like you are? Is the real you partially unknown, even to yourself? If you desire deep connection, ready to uncover your true Self, and use your body-based self-awareness to grow, then this work is for you!
A certified trauma specialist, with 900 hours as a C-IAYT Yoga Therapist through IAYT.
Now accepting new clients. Your body is talking; are you listening? Do you desire a therapy that considers the wisdom of the body in treatment? Experience healing from a somatic and emotional process that merges with psychotherapy. A trauma-informed, embodied process that intersects mindfulness-based therapy, Jungian psychoanalytical therapy, spirituality, meditation, and self-exploration. Are you the person you feel like you are? Is the real you partially unknown, even to yourself? If you desire deep connection, ready to uncover your true Self, and use your body-based self-awareness to grow, then this work is for you!
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Photo of Ann Goodfellow, LLC, Counselor
Ann Goodfellow
Counselor, LLC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49504
I enjoy working with individuals of all ages, as well as couples and families. I have over 20 years of experience working with children and families, including over a decade of experience working within the child welfare system. Some of the issues I have experience with include child behavioral and parenting concerns, attachment/trust issues, Autism, abuse and neglect, and generational trauma. I offer traditional talk therapy, Play Therapy, and Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy. I work collaboratively with my clients to help them identify underlying barriers, find empowerment, and take action to achieve their goals.
I enjoy working with individuals of all ages, as well as couples and families. I have over 20 years of experience working with children and families, including over a decade of experience working within the child welfare system. Some of the issues I have experience with include child behavioral and parenting concerns, attachment/trust issues, Autism, abuse and neglect, and generational trauma. I offer traditional talk therapy, Play Therapy, and Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy. I work collaboratively with my clients to help them identify underlying barriers, find empowerment, and take action to achieve their goals.
(616) 207-2727 View (616) 207-2727
Photo of Holly Przybylski, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Holly Przybylski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49525
I acknowledge individuals as their whole selves, including their culture, trauma, and strengths.
Feeling stuck, incomplete, or helpless is a debilitating place to be. I hope to provide a space for individuals to reflect on and experience their whole selves so they can heal. I have years of experience working with individuals from ages 5 to mid-adulthood. I have helped those who struggle with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, traumatic grief, complex trauma and PTSD, behavioral issues, parenting, and/or family issues. For children, I offer a playful and engaging approach that is conducive to their level of development.
I acknowledge individuals as their whole selves, including their culture, trauma, and strengths.
Feeling stuck, incomplete, or helpless is a debilitating place to be. I hope to provide a space for individuals to reflect on and experience their whole selves so they can heal. I have years of experience working with individuals from ages 5 to mid-adulthood. I have helped those who struggle with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, traumatic grief, complex trauma and PTSD, behavioral issues, parenting, and/or family issues. For children, I offer a playful and engaging approach that is conducive to their level of development.
(616) 236-6524 View (616) 236-6524
Photo of Jennifer DiGennaro, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer DiGennaro
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49506
I help people who are hurting and faced with variety of issues often around their body size or eating behaviors, in addition to symptoms of depression, anxiety, chronic stress, trauma or relationship problems.
Being at war with yourself and your body is exhausting. Maybe it started with your first diet in your teens or maybe it didn't start until later in life dealing with chronic pain or illness, or something else. You are sick of suffering and feeling like your body is an endless problem to be solved. It is hard to feel hopeful. Psychotherapy with me can help you deepen self-trust, self-care and self-acceptance. I have specialized training in trauma-informed approaches, including EMDR and Body Trust® which inform my holistic approach. I can support you to work through your past, honor your present and envision your future.
I help people who are hurting and faced with variety of issues often around their body size or eating behaviors, in addition to symptoms of depression, anxiety, chronic stress, trauma or relationship problems.
Being at war with yourself and your body is exhausting. Maybe it started with your first diet in your teens or maybe it didn't start until later in life dealing with chronic pain or illness, or something else. You are sick of suffering and feeling like your body is an endless problem to be solved. It is hard to feel hopeful. Psychotherapy with me can help you deepen self-trust, self-care and self-acceptance. I have specialized training in trauma-informed approaches, including EMDR and Body Trust® which inform my holistic approach. I can support you to work through your past, honor your present and envision your future.
(616) 201-3324 View (616) 201-3324
Photo of Jennifer Hutchings - Restore Therapy Collective, PhD, LMFT, EMDR, LPC, PMH-C, Marriage & Family Therapist
Restore Therapy Collective
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, EMDR, LPC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
10/1/24 Updated Availability: Accepting New Clients! Telehealth & In-person. Specializing in providing trauma-informed care, Restore therapists can help you navigate the complexities of life. Our dedicated team understands the profound impact of trauma on mental health and well-being and are committed to creating a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment for you. We know how difficult it can be to ask for help.
10/1/24 Updated Availability: Accepting New Clients! Telehealth & In-person. Specializing in providing trauma-informed care, Restore therapists can help you navigate the complexities of life. Our dedicated team understands the profound impact of trauma on mental health and well-being and are committed to creating a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment for you. We know how difficult it can be to ask for help.
(616) 228-9244 View (616) 228-9244
Photo of Christina McPike, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina McPike
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49504
If your child is struggling to cope with life changes, family dynamics, emotional dysregulation, trauma, experiences with the child welfare system, adoption, or other challenges, Christina can help navigate those feelings and experiences and offer a path forward.
Christina specializes in creating safe spaces for children, adolescents, teens, and families to explore their emotions and experiences in order to facilitate a harmonious family system. With over a decade of experience both locally and internationally in the fields of mental health, trauma recovery, and education, Christina utilizes an eclectic therapeutic approach that is uniquely tailored to meet the family’s needs. Christina believes that the relationship between the client and the therapist is the cornerstone of progress and she values those relationships deeply.
If your child is struggling to cope with life changes, family dynamics, emotional dysregulation, trauma, experiences with the child welfare system, adoption, or other challenges, Christina can help navigate those feelings and experiences and offer a path forward.
Christina specializes in creating safe spaces for children, adolescents, teens, and families to explore their emotions and experiences in order to facilitate a harmonious family system. With over a decade of experience both locally and internationally in the fields of mental health, trauma recovery, and education, Christina utilizes an eclectic therapeutic approach that is uniquely tailored to meet the family’s needs. Christina believes that the relationship between the client and the therapist is the cornerstone of progress and she values those relationships deeply.
(616) 947-3424 View (616) 947-3424
Photo of Jason Rood, LMSW, MFA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jason Rood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MFA
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49504
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master of Social Work from Grand Valley State University and a Master of Fine Art in Painting from Virginia Commonwealth University. I seeks to provide individuals with a sense of safety, curiosity and platform for growth. Addressing experiences with trauma, chronic medical conditions, pain, depression, understanding identity, and anxiety. The primarily therapeutic processes I uses are Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Somatic Experiencing (SE student with two years of training). The aim being to help individuals work on the relationship between mind, body and action.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master of Social Work from Grand Valley State University and a Master of Fine Art in Painting from Virginia Commonwealth University. I seeks to provide individuals with a sense of safety, curiosity and platform for growth. Addressing experiences with trauma, chronic medical conditions, pain, depression, understanding identity, and anxiety. The primarily therapeutic processes I uses are Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Somatic Experiencing (SE student with two years of training). The aim being to help individuals work on the relationship between mind, body and action.
(616) 303-7626 View (616) 303-7626
Photo of Cindy L. Haner-Velzen, LMSW, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cindy L. Haner-Velzen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Waitlist for new clients
My areas of expertise include assessment and treatment for Trauma, Anxiety and Depression.
I am dedicated to using my education, specialized training and extensive clinical expertise to guide clients in creating the life they desire and deserve to live. I am passionate about collaborating with clients and using evidenced based practices to increase healthy connections to self, life and others. Using Interactive Practices for Healing We, together, design a effective "blue print" for living which restores relationships, increases joy and decreases suffering.
My areas of expertise include assessment and treatment for Trauma, Anxiety and Depression.
I am dedicated to using my education, specialized training and extensive clinical expertise to guide clients in creating the life they desire and deserve to live. I am passionate about collaborating with clients and using evidenced based practices to increase healthy connections to self, life and others. Using Interactive Practices for Healing We, together, design a effective "blue print" for living which restores relationships, increases joy and decreases suffering.
(616) 918-3422 View (616) 918-3422
Photo of Amanda Syverson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amanda Syverson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49525  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have obtained training in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT) and am recognized as a Nationally Certified TFCBT therapist.
Therapy can be a great opportunity to add support for yourself and provide tools that you may not have had access to before. Making the decision to start therapy, either for yourself or for your child, can feel overwhelming. Therapy and therapists are not a one size fits all, so it's important to find the fit that is right for you and/or your family. I believe healing and change can occur, but taking a risk is required to do so. If you or your child are struggling with processing trauma history, grief/loss, parenting issues, stress management, adjustment issues, mood disorders, depression, and anxiety, you don't have to do it alone.
I have obtained training in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT) and am recognized as a Nationally Certified TFCBT therapist.
Therapy can be a great opportunity to add support for yourself and provide tools that you may not have had access to before. Making the decision to start therapy, either for yourself or for your child, can feel overwhelming. Therapy and therapists are not a one size fits all, so it's important to find the fit that is right for you and/or your family. I believe healing and change can occur, but taking a risk is required to do so. If you or your child are struggling with processing trauma history, grief/loss, parenting issues, stress management, adjustment issues, mood disorders, depression, and anxiety, you don't have to do it alone.
(616) 226-9567 View (616) 226-9567
Photo of Marcie Dullea, MA, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Marcie Dullea
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
If you are struggling with issues with anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-esteem, suicidal ideation, PTSD, or OCD I am able to guide you to a better place. I work with individuals, families, and couples. My therapeutic style is eclectic, which means I strive to fit your needs and your lifestyle. I also have over 20 years experience working with families that struggle with parenting skills and children with defiance issues.
If you are struggling with issues with anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-esteem, suicidal ideation, PTSD, or OCD I am able to guide you to a better place. I work with individuals, families, and couples. My therapeutic style is eclectic, which means I strive to fit your needs and your lifestyle. I also have over 20 years experience working with families that struggle with parenting skills and children with defiance issues.
(586) 217-3955 View (586) 217-3955
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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.