Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Smithville, MO
![Photo of Christina Dunn Carpenter, LPC, NCC, CCTP, PhD, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5320a930-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christina Dunn Carpenter
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CCTP, PhD
Verified Verified
Smithville, MO 64089
I am certified in trauma care and family systems therapy; working with individuals to strengthen their resolves; assist in bonding families and overcome trauma and grief is my passion.
I am a counselor who enjoys helping others to see their potential, work through their struggles, bond families together again, and help individuals reach their personal goals! There is nothing more gratifying to me than to see someone take the courageous step to work through a difficult situation and grow in their self-esteem, self-worth, and identity.
I am certified in trauma care and family systems therapy; working with individuals to strengthen their resolves; assist in bonding families and overcome trauma and grief is my passion.
I am a counselor who enjoys helping others to see their potential, work through their struggles, bond families together again, and help individuals reach their personal goals! There is nothing more gratifying to me than to see someone take the courageous step to work through a difficult situation and grow in their self-esteem, self-worth, and identity.
![Photo of Michele Roberts, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a008e196-3737-48ab-831b-8303bc0f9311/1/320x400.png)
I recognize that you might be facing pain, whether it's from past trauma, the weight of anxiety, or the profound sorrow of grief and loss.
I want to acknowledge the courage it takes to seek help, especially when life's challenges seem overwhelming. If you're reading this, it's likely because you're looking for someone who can understand, support, and guide you on your path to healing. I want you to know that you are not alone. I offer more than just professional expertise; I provide a warm, empathetic, and safe space where you can openly share your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Together, we will navigate the intricate landscape of your emotions with care and sensitivity.
I recognize that you might be facing pain, whether it's from past trauma, the weight of anxiety, or the profound sorrow of grief and loss.
I want to acknowledge the courage it takes to seek help, especially when life's challenges seem overwhelming. If you're reading this, it's likely because you're looking for someone who can understand, support, and guide you on your path to healing. I want you to know that you are not alone. I offer more than just professional expertise; I provide a warm, empathetic, and safe space where you can openly share your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Together, we will navigate the intricate landscape of your emotions with care and sensitivity.
![Photo of Lisa James, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0b2a28db-8422-4feb-b927-477db0c6729b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa James
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Smithville, MO 64089 (Online Only)
I see clients with Depression, Anxiety, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, grief issues, and many other issues.
I want you to know what an important step you are taking to make changes in your life. Counseling can be amazing and scary at times but well worth the effort you put into it. Choosing a counselor is the first step in taking charge of your emotional health. I believe that our mind, body, and soul are connected and when one is out of step, the others are too. Life can be rough at times but I would love to help you through it. I also conduct speaking engagements to educate different groups on mental health topics.
I see clients with Depression, Anxiety, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, grief issues, and many other issues.
I want you to know what an important step you are taking to make changes in your life. Counseling can be amazing and scary at times but well worth the effort you put into it. Choosing a counselor is the first step in taking charge of your emotional health. I believe that our mind, body, and soul are connected and when one is out of step, the others are too. Life can be rough at times but I would love to help you through it. I also conduct speaking engagements to educate different groups on mental health topics.
![Photo of Megan Chapman, MA, LPC, CMNCS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fdec141f-0e3c-410b-a7b7-c1e15c0b79d1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Megan Chapman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CMNCS
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Smithville, MO 64089 (Online Only)
I am currently being trained in basic EMDR, a treatment for trauma.
Counseling is a very personal endeavor, therefore finding the right counselor is a big decision. You'll want someone who can understand what you're going through. Maybe right now you are in a place in your life where you're not sure what the next step is to take. Maybe you have found that your relationships are unsatisfying, you are unhappy in your career, or your kids are stressing you out. I would like to work with you through your challenging situation and help you live a more fulfilling life.
I am currently being trained in basic EMDR, a treatment for trauma.
Counseling is a very personal endeavor, therefore finding the right counselor is a big decision. You'll want someone who can understand what you're going through. Maybe right now you are in a place in your life where you're not sure what the next step is to take. Maybe you have found that your relationships are unsatisfying, you are unhappy in your career, or your kids are stressing you out. I would like to work with you through your challenging situation and help you live a more fulfilling life.
![Photo of Crystal C Richardson, BSP, MSc, PLPC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b4462b9a-0213-4d1d-b9e8-298aac8d042a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Crystal C Richardson
Pre-Licensed Professional, BSP, MSc, PLPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Smithville, MO 64089
- I am a trauma survivor of my youth and young adulthood years.
Sometimes the path in life is confusing or even a bit of a struggle. When it seems like the road is up hill, I am here for you. I work with clients from all walks of life on the path to living again after trauma and I have worked clients who were having trouble finding their paths. I work with all ages with evening and Saturday hours for the convenience of the clients I serve. I would like to help your light shine on the path to your story.
- I am a trauma survivor of my youth and young adulthood years.
Sometimes the path in life is confusing or even a bit of a struggle. When it seems like the road is up hill, I am here for you. I work with clients from all walks of life on the path to living again after trauma and I have worked clients who were having trouble finding their paths. I work with all ages with evening and Saturday hours for the convenience of the clients I serve. I would like to help your light shine on the path to your story.
![Photo of Bethany Black, LPC, CPT, MA, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/36c98c61-2ad8-478a-abee-740255e228db/1/320x400.jpeg)
Bethany Black
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPT, MA, MEd
Verified Verified
Smithville, MO 64089
I have extensive experience in working with issues such as trauma, behavioral issues, family transitions, anxiety and depression.
Hi there! At the the core of great therapy is the therapeutic relationship between the client and their therapist. I believe very strongly in the positive changes that can occur as a result of therapy. We all have various emotional needs that can be addressed and benefit from the therapeutic process. I am passionate about serving children, adolescents, adults and families. By partnering with my clients, I see tremendous growth towards their goals and improvement in general well being. When working with children and teens, I take a systems approach and work closely with caregivers to provide the most comprehensive care possible.
I have extensive experience in working with issues such as trauma, behavioral issues, family transitions, anxiety and depression.
Hi there! At the the core of great therapy is the therapeutic relationship between the client and their therapist. I believe very strongly in the positive changes that can occur as a result of therapy. We all have various emotional needs that can be addressed and benefit from the therapeutic process. I am passionate about serving children, adolescents, adults and families. By partnering with my clients, I see tremendous growth towards their goals and improvement in general well being. When working with children and teens, I take a systems approach and work closely with caregivers to provide the most comprehensive care possible.
![Photo of Devin Utz, LCSW , LMSW , CTRP-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/12ae6033-d18a-447a-9f02-2f50264d6f74/1/320x400.jpeg)
Devin Utz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW , LMSW , CTRP-C
Verified Verified
Smithville, MO 64089
Life can be difficult to navigate. Do you or your teen wish you could find the strength and confidence to push through the pressures and challenges of life? Do you or your teen struggle with overthinking, negative self talk or thoughts of not feeling good enough? Do you feel shame for not being able to perform, enjoy relationships, or cope with everyday life? Do you or your teen wish you could wake up happy and go to bed satisfied? You might even remember a time when you didn’t feel this way. Are you ready to feel confident again and make goals in life without the need to power through exhaustion or maladaptive coping.
Life can be difficult to navigate. Do you or your teen wish you could find the strength and confidence to push through the pressures and challenges of life? Do you or your teen struggle with overthinking, negative self talk or thoughts of not feeling good enough? Do you feel shame for not being able to perform, enjoy relationships, or cope with everyday life? Do you or your teen wish you could wake up happy and go to bed satisfied? You might even remember a time when you didn’t feel this way. Are you ready to feel confident again and make goals in life without the need to power through exhaustion or maladaptive coping.
![Photo of Dr. Alex Roberts, PhD, HSP-P, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dacbc5a9-1d18-4747-815e-cb62ed967011/4/320x400.jpeg)
Do you or your child struggle in school? Have problems paying attention or learning? Or need help identifying what accommodations can help you or your child succeed in school, college, or on exams (AP/IB, ACT/SAT)? I specialize in psychological and psychoeducational testing to help you pinpoint the root cause of these issues and what to do about them. Then, I partner with you to ensure you receive the help and support necessary to succeed in school and do your best. Let’s collaborate to identify what supports or treatments are best to highlight your strengths, reduce your struggles, and help you achieve your goals.
Do you or your child struggle in school? Have problems paying attention or learning? Or need help identifying what accommodations can help you or your child succeed in school, college, or on exams (AP/IB, ACT/SAT)? I specialize in psychological and psychoeducational testing to help you pinpoint the root cause of these issues and what to do about them. Then, I partner with you to ensure you receive the help and support necessary to succeed in school and do your best. Let’s collaborate to identify what supports or treatments are best to highlight your strengths, reduce your struggles, and help you achieve your goals.
![Photo of Victoria Ford, MS, LMFT, SEP, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5314a5b7-407f-4f02-9515-e8450b3c30a0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Victoria Ford
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Smithville, MO 64089
Not accepting new clients
I help women 35 + find more capacity for ease, joy and healthy relationships. I specifically help women navigate menopause phases and life transitions. I also support women with womb-related trauma: from infertility, miscarriage, assault, history of period symptoms, birth trauma, medical procedures or other impactful experiences.
I help women 35 + find more capacity for ease, joy and healthy relationships. I specifically help women navigate menopause phases and life transitions. I also support women with womb-related trauma: from infertility, miscarriage, assault, history of period symptoms, birth trauma, medical procedures or other impactful experiences.
![Photo of Andrea Peck - Peck Counseling, LLC , LCSW, LSCSW, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/81a9796a-1258-48bb-b3b2-63c4a034dd63/1/320x400.png)
Peck Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
Smithville, MO 64089
Not accepting new clients
Most of the kids, teens, families and adults I have helped over the years have felt stuck, unsure, lost, angry, anxious and pained by what has happened to them in their life. I have helped people that have experienced intimate partner violence, family violence, sexual abuse, neglect, and many other experiences in early childhood/adulthood. I can help you or your child find relief in current symptoms, understanding the many layers of hard experiences, making those feelings and experiences smaller, find peace, and feel safe and okay in life again. We all need a space to feel heard, seen, and noticed.
Most of the kids, teens, families and adults I have helped over the years have felt stuck, unsure, lost, angry, anxious and pained by what has happened to them in their life. I have helped people that have experienced intimate partner violence, family violence, sexual abuse, neglect, and many other experiences in early childhood/adulthood. I can help you or your child find relief in current symptoms, understanding the many layers of hard experiences, making those feelings and experiences smaller, find peace, and feel safe and okay in life again. We all need a space to feel heard, seen, and noticed.
![Photo of Emily Roe, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b35907a-02d0-4463-bceb-2739ab4273d3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Emily Roe
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Smithville, MO 64089
Not accepting new clients
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or constantly overthinking? Are you someone who tends to get lost in work, caregiving, or the fast pace rate of life that you forget to focus on yourself? Does taking time for yourself feel like a foreign activity? Do you desire to find your sense of purpose again? To learn to slow down and exist in the here and now for a while. Perhaps you are ready to process the loss of a loved one, to find peace with grief or unexpected news. Perhaps seek support in your own end of life journey, to explore the process of death and dying and the thoughts and emotions that may come.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or constantly overthinking? Are you someone who tends to get lost in work, caregiving, or the fast pace rate of life that you forget to focus on yourself? Does taking time for yourself feel like a foreign activity? Do you desire to find your sense of purpose again? To learn to slow down and exist in the here and now for a while. Perhaps you are ready to process the loss of a loved one, to find peace with grief or unexpected news. Perhaps seek support in your own end of life journey, to explore the process of death and dying and the thoughts and emotions that may come.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Jill Robinson, LSCSW, LCSW, CAAPT, RPT-S™, CAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fa56886d-44d4-42c3-af70-2a2e0d41df5d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jill Robinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCSW, CAAPT, RPT-S™, CAS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64157
I specialize in treating depression, eating disorders, trauma/PTSD, autism, grief (including loss of a pet), and child/adolescent issues.
Hi! My name is Jill and I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in Missouri, a licensed specialist clinical social worker (LSCSW) in Kansas, and a registered play therapist supervisor (RPT-S). I am also a Certified AutPlay Therapy Provider, a Certified Autism Specialist (CAS), an EMDR certified therapist, and a Certified Animal Assisted Play Therapist (CAAPT). I am passionate about helping individuals meet their goals and enhance their well-being. I work with children, adolescents, and adults. I also provide supervision for social workers (LMSWs) in Kansas and play therapy supervision towards the RPT credential.
I specialize in treating depression, eating disorders, trauma/PTSD, autism, grief (including loss of a pet), and child/adolescent issues.
Hi! My name is Jill and I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in Missouri, a licensed specialist clinical social worker (LSCSW) in Kansas, and a registered play therapist supervisor (RPT-S). I am also a Certified AutPlay Therapy Provider, a Certified Autism Specialist (CAS), an EMDR certified therapist, and a Certified Animal Assisted Play Therapist (CAAPT). I am passionate about helping individuals meet their goals and enhance their well-being. I work with children, adolescents, and adults. I also provide supervision for social workers (LMSWs) in Kansas and play therapy supervision towards the RPT credential.
![Photo of Jesse Masson - Connected Counseling, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bf4d2501-3690-4469-bc09-66c7b3950aca/2/320x400.jpeg)
Connected Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64163
We exist to help you find hope and healing. We provide care for anxiety, depression, grief, marriage/relationships, infidelity, trauma/PTSD. Our competent & caring counselors are able to connect with you, via in-person or virtual sessions.
We exist to help you find hope and healing. We provide care for anxiety, depression, grief, marriage/relationships, infidelity, trauma/PTSD. Our competent & caring counselors are able to connect with you, via in-person or virtual sessions.
![Photo of Jacqueline Keitel, PsyD, LCSW, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d80cf92-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jacqueline Keitel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64155
Have you experienced a trauma such as sexual/physical/emotional abuse, bullying, a shooting, car accident, or combat/military trauma? Did you survive a traumatic/dysfunctional childhood? Do you have a relationship in your life that you want to be healthier? Does perfectionism consume you? Do you feel controlled by anxiety or depression? Some people think seeking help is a sign of weakness. I completely disagree. I believe it takes an inordinate amount of strength to reach out for help and to become your healthiest authentic self. I would be honored to have the opportunity to walk alongside you on your healing journey.
Have you experienced a trauma such as sexual/physical/emotional abuse, bullying, a shooting, car accident, or combat/military trauma? Did you survive a traumatic/dysfunctional childhood? Do you have a relationship in your life that you want to be healthier? Does perfectionism consume you? Do you feel controlled by anxiety or depression? Some people think seeking help is a sign of weakness. I completely disagree. I believe it takes an inordinate amount of strength to reach out for help and to become your healthiest authentic self. I would be honored to have the opportunity to walk alongside you on your healing journey.
![Photo of Sheena Kirkendoll, LSCSW, LCAC , CRAADC, SAP, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ab6492e5-68cb-4d3f-8e20-ba0bc0fe6ec4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sheena Kirkendoll
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCAC , CRAADC, SAP, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64156
My specialties include anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar mood disorder, complex trauma, substance use disorder, military, and first responders.
Therapy is a powerful form of treatment that can be used to make personal improvements while gaining awareness and creating change. I believe we are all working through struggles and obstacles in our lives. Sometimes a little guidance is needed to get to the place we want to be and work to achieve happiness. As a licensed therapist, I am here to not only listen but assist in creating change and making improvements in the lives of others. I strive to create a calm, safe atmosphere and use a non-judgmental, modern approach when providing services.
My specialties include anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar mood disorder, complex trauma, substance use disorder, military, and first responders.
Therapy is a powerful form of treatment that can be used to make personal improvements while gaining awareness and creating change. I believe we are all working through struggles and obstacles in our lives. Sometimes a little guidance is needed to get to the place we want to be and work to achieve happiness. As a licensed therapist, I am here to not only listen but assist in creating change and making improvements in the lives of others. I strive to create a calm, safe atmosphere and use a non-judgmental, modern approach when providing services.
![Photo of Caleb Abrams, CSAT, CCTP, CAIMHP, CASDCS, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6d5013ea-fb9b-4603-a6d0-39a1dfa5ee33/1/320x400.jpeg)
Caleb is Christian Counselor, a Certified Sex Addiction Counselor (CSAT), Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), Certified Addictions-Informed Mental Health Professional (CAIMHP), Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist (CASDCS), with a Masters of Psychology in Counseling and a Bachelors of Arts in Psychology. Caleb specializes in helping men work through addiction recovery, anxiety, addictive behaviors, depression, PTSD, emotional abuse, mental abuse and trauma of various kinds. His passion is to provide a safe space for his clients and to walk hand-in-hand with them, guiding them through the healing process.
Caleb is Christian Counselor, a Certified Sex Addiction Counselor (CSAT), Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), Certified Addictions-Informed Mental Health Professional (CAIMHP), Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist (CASDCS), with a Masters of Psychology in Counseling and a Bachelors of Arts in Psychology. Caleb specializes in helping men work through addiction recovery, anxiety, addictive behaviors, depression, PTSD, emotional abuse, mental abuse and trauma of various kinds. His passion is to provide a safe space for his clients and to walk hand-in-hand with them, guiding them through the healing process.
![Photo of Cali Donegan, MA, PLPC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d3bbf7b9-d1f4-4683-b8a4-897d2e906bf8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sometimes you just need someone to talk to. Someone to listen and try to understand rather than “fix.” My goal is to provide a safe, nonjudgmental atmosphere for you to process thoughts and emotions, heal from trauma, learn to cope with life’s challenges, and hopefully even share some laughs. Understanding that you are the unique product of your life experiences, I utilize a holistic approach to treatment, ensuring individualized care.
Sometimes you just need someone to talk to. Someone to listen and try to understand rather than “fix.” My goal is to provide a safe, nonjudgmental atmosphere for you to process thoughts and emotions, heal from trauma, learn to cope with life’s challenges, and hopefully even share some laughs. Understanding that you are the unique product of your life experiences, I utilize a holistic approach to treatment, ensuring individualized care.
![Photo of Sohna Shook, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2be2c909-ed64-468b-9c44-7b2bd2d259a2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sohna Shook
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64155 (Online Only)
Everyone has something to work through. My goal is to help those who experience Racial Trauma, General Trauma, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Depression, Grief and Loss, Stress and Anxiety, Trauma, and Abuse find their strength and hope.
Everyone has something to work through. My goal is to help those who experience Racial Trauma, General Trauma, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Depression, Grief and Loss, Stress and Anxiety, Trauma, and Abuse find their strength and hope.
![Photo of Dr. Jessica Waters, PhD, CRADC, CCTP, ADDC, CMHIMP, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/34e8dc46-f6d9-4d15-96f0-6e040a4f912d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jessica Waters
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, PhD, CRADC, CCTP, ADDC, CMHIMP
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64155
As a survivor and someone recovered from my own substance use addictions, trauma and grief, I can relate to many struggles and challenges.
Embark on a soul-soothing odyssey with our immersive program, "Harmony Within." offering psychotherapy, holistic addiction counseling and restorative arts coaching. Specifically trained in multiple holistic and alternative health modalities, mental health (grief, palliative care, end of life, addiction and trauma) and indigenous folk medicine, I use the expressive arts as a tool for healing processes and self regulation. My targeted interventions also include: Guided Visualizations/Meditations, Hypnotherapy, Expressive Arts, Plant Medicines, Movement, Sound Therapy, HRV and Energywork.
As a survivor and someone recovered from my own substance use addictions, trauma and grief, I can relate to many struggles and challenges.
Embark on a soul-soothing odyssey with our immersive program, "Harmony Within." offering psychotherapy, holistic addiction counseling and restorative arts coaching. Specifically trained in multiple holistic and alternative health modalities, mental health (grief, palliative care, end of life, addiction and trauma) and indigenous folk medicine, I use the expressive arts as a tool for healing processes and self regulation. My targeted interventions also include: Guided Visualizations/Meditations, Hypnotherapy, Expressive Arts, Plant Medicines, Movement, Sound Therapy, HRV and Energywork.
![Photo of Kimberly Whitman - MY-E LLC, PhD, LCSW, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b856d5c5-6a7a-4652-8cd8-2273bf5464ac/1/320x400.jpeg)
MY-E LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, LSCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64153
Clients typically arrive with guilt, shame, grief, loss, depression, anxiety, PTSD symptoms, and a loss of identity. My goal is to free you from negative past experiences and gain empowerment to live your life freely.
Clients typically arrive with guilt, shame, grief, loss, depression, anxiety, PTSD symptoms, and a loss of identity. My goal is to free you from negative past experiences and gain empowerment to live your life freely.
See more therapy options for Smithville
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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.