Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Bayboro, NC

Photo of Stephanie Griggs, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Griggs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bayboro, NC 28515  (Online Only)
I have experience with counseling a diverse variety of children, adolescents, families and adults as they adjust to transitions, address trauma, and work towards wellness. I specialize in working within family systems, believing that our relationships and connections are an integral part of our wellness. Not a fan of the traditional idea of talk therapy?
I have experience with counseling a diverse variety of children, adolescents, families and adults as they adjust to transitions, address trauma, and work towards wellness. I specialize in working within family systems, believing that our relationships and connections are an integral part of our wellness. Not a fan of the traditional idea of talk therapy?
(252) 421-5656 View (252) 421-5656
Photo of Stephanie Pauley, MA, LCMHCA
Stephanie Pauley
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Bayboro, NC 28515
I specialize in grief and trauma, (EMDR) though I have worked across a broad spectrum of issues and diagnoses, employing various psychological and creative modalities.
Hello, I’m Stephanie Pauley. My life’s journey has taken me through a wide range of experiences, education, and careers. With a foundation in elementary and early childhood education, along with social work, I have found my calling as a licensed mental health counselor. I have had the privilege of working closely with children, adolescents, and their families, and I am passionate about supporting clients of all ages through a variety of challenges. As a veteran, I hold a deep respect for the sacrifices of our service members and am honored to provide them with the care they deserve.
I specialize in grief and trauma, (EMDR) though I have worked across a broad spectrum of issues and diagnoses, employing various psychological and creative modalities.
Hello, I’m Stephanie Pauley. My life’s journey has taken me through a wide range of experiences, education, and careers. With a foundation in elementary and early childhood education, along with social work, I have found my calling as a licensed mental health counselor. I have had the privilege of working closely with children, adolescents, and their families, and I am passionate about supporting clients of all ages through a variety of challenges. As a veteran, I hold a deep respect for the sacrifices of our service members and am honored to provide them with the care they deserve.
(252) 410-3513 View (252) 410-3513
Photo of Eric Buell, LMHC
Eric Buell
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bayboro, NC 28515
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with six years of experience. I specialize in the areas of depression, anxiety, addiction, relationship issues, trauma, and PTSD. I utilize a range of modalities, including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, narrative therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, interpersonal therapy, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused brief therapy. My purpose is to provide a place to show up exactly as you are, feeling welcome to share and process your experiences.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with six years of experience. I specialize in the areas of depression, anxiety, addiction, relationship issues, trauma, and PTSD. I utilize a range of modalities, including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, narrative therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, interpersonal therapy, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused brief therapy. My purpose is to provide a place to show up exactly as you are, feeling welcome to share and process your experiences.
(980) 325-3639 View (980) 325-3639
Photo of Stacy T. Connor - Butterfly Wishes Therapy PLLC (Stacy Connor LCSW), LCSW, LCAS, CCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Butterfly Wishes Therapy PLLC (Stacy Connor LCSW)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
Bayboro, NC 28515  (Online Only)
Stacy Connor; Executive/Clinical Director employs 6 clinicians, ready to serve you; days, evenings & weekends. This is Stacy's profile: Everyone should know what it's like to feel Lovable, Capable, and Worthwhile. Instead of narrowing in on individual problems, psychotherapy considers overall patterns, chronic issues, and recurrent feelings. This requires an openness to exploring the past and its impact on the present. Psychotherapy resolves the underlying issues which fuel ongoing complaint/distress. I will work to get you on your way to wellness. Serving all of NC. I also offer clinical supervision for LCSW-A & LCAS-A & CSI.
Stacy Connor; Executive/Clinical Director employs 6 clinicians, ready to serve you; days, evenings & weekends. This is Stacy's profile: Everyone should know what it's like to feel Lovable, Capable, and Worthwhile. Instead of narrowing in on individual problems, psychotherapy considers overall patterns, chronic issues, and recurrent feelings. This requires an openness to exploring the past and its impact on the present. Psychotherapy resolves the underlying issues which fuel ongoing complaint/distress. I will work to get you on your way to wellness. Serving all of NC. I also offer clinical supervision for LCSW-A & LCAS-A & CSI.
(252) 229-9665 View (252) 229-9665
Photo of Nicole Leigh Bettis, EdS, LMFT, RPT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nicole Leigh Bettis
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdS, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
Bayboro, NC 28515
I am a marriage & family therapist and a registered play therapist. I have a wide range of experience in working with children, adolescents, couples, individuals, and families. My areas of specialization working with issues related to divorce, child custody, parenting, co-parenting, infidelity, family loss/grief, military family issues, school or work related problems, adoption, infertility, emotion regulation, trust and abandonment issues. My goal is to provide a private, safe place for you to better understand your situation and to help you make the changes necessary to live the life you desire.
I am a marriage & family therapist and a registered play therapist. I have a wide range of experience in working with children, adolescents, couples, individuals, and families. My areas of specialization working with issues related to divorce, child custody, parenting, co-parenting, infidelity, family loss/grief, military family issues, school or work related problems, adoption, infertility, emotion regulation, trust and abandonment issues. My goal is to provide a private, safe place for you to better understand your situation and to help you make the changes necessary to live the life you desire.
(252) 377-4047 View (252) 377-4047

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Caroline Connor, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caroline Connor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Merritt, NC 28556  (Online Only)
I work with individuals with several different diagnoses, such as, Depression, Generalized Anxiety, OCD, PTSD, Substance Use Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, etc.
“Success as a therapist is not found in doing something for the patient but rather in being someone for the patient.” Ili Rivera Walter. This quote is a great way to describe who I am as a person and my style of therapy. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist, and a EMDR Trained Clinician. I have worked in several different settings and levels of care within the mental health field. I enjoy being myself to be able to connect with my patients on a real level. I am the same person in session as I am in real life. I am very down to earth, calm, positive, and empathetic.
I work with individuals with several different diagnoses, such as, Depression, Generalized Anxiety, OCD, PTSD, Substance Use Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, etc.
“Success as a therapist is not found in doing something for the patient but rather in being someone for the patient.” Ili Rivera Walter. This quote is a great way to describe who I am as a person and my style of therapy. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist, and a EMDR Trained Clinician. I have worked in several different settings and levels of care within the mental health field. I enjoy being myself to be able to connect with my patients on a real level. I am the same person in session as I am in real life. I am very down to earth, calm, positive, and empathetic.
(252) 670-2073 View (252) 670-2073
Photo of Lori Brinkley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lori Brinkley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oriental, NC 28571
Hi, I'm so happy you're here! My name is Lori Brinkley and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 23 years of clinical experience. I treat a wide range of areas including trauma, abuse, depression, anxiety, postpartum, adult children of alcoholics, co-dependency, parenting/co-parenting, boundaries, divorce, caretaking, work-life balance, adoptees, and couples feeling disconnected and isolated. I also provide "couple's counseling for one" which is when one partner is not ready for therapy, where I meet with the willing participant to learn new tools, coping skills, & boundaries to implement in their relationship.
Hi, I'm so happy you're here! My name is Lori Brinkley and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 23 years of clinical experience. I treat a wide range of areas including trauma, abuse, depression, anxiety, postpartum, adult children of alcoholics, co-dependency, parenting/co-parenting, boundaries, divorce, caretaking, work-life balance, adoptees, and couples feeling disconnected and isolated. I also provide "couple's counseling for one" which is when one partner is not ready for therapy, where I meet with the willing participant to learn new tools, coping skills, & boundaries to implement in their relationship.
(980) 372-7110 View (980) 372-7110
Photo of Jessica Williford, MSW, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Williford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oriental, NC 28571  (Online Only)
I’ll help you process the effects of trauma on your relationships and work toward healthier connections with yourself and others.
Has trauma impacted your relationship with your body, your intimacy, or how you connect with others? Do you feel disconnected from your sexuality or struggle with trust and being touched by those close to you? Trauma can deeply affect not only how we relate to ourselves, but also how we experience intimacy and relationships. It can make you feel numb, distant, or as if you're not fully present in your body. If you’re feeling isolated, uncertain in your relationships, or unsure how to navigate these challenges, you’re not alone. Healing from trauma is possible, and it begins with understanding how it has affects you.
I’ll help you process the effects of trauma on your relationships and work toward healthier connections with yourself and others.
Has trauma impacted your relationship with your body, your intimacy, or how you connect with others? Do you feel disconnected from your sexuality or struggle with trust and being touched by those close to you? Trauma can deeply affect not only how we relate to ourselves, but also how we experience intimacy and relationships. It can make you feel numb, distant, or as if you're not fully present in your body. If you’re feeling isolated, uncertain in your relationships, or unsure how to navigate these challenges, you’re not alone. Healing from trauma is possible, and it begins with understanding how it has affects you.
(252) 713-5198 View (252) 713-5198
Photo of Veronica McKay, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Veronica McKay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oriental, NC 28571  (Online Only)
Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, or have a history of trauma there is a way forward.
Whether you have been in therapy in the past or you're new to the process I welcome the opportunity to assist you in creating the change you are seeking in your life. My years of training and experience as a therapist allow for an eclectic, holistic approach that can assist you in gaining insight and practical skills to move forward effectively.
Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, or have a history of trauma there is a way forward.
Whether you have been in therapy in the past or you're new to the process I welcome the opportunity to assist you in creating the change you are seeking in your life. My years of training and experience as a therapist allow for an eclectic, holistic approach that can assist you in gaining insight and practical skills to move forward effectively.
(252) 600-2099 View (252) 600-2099

Online Therapists

Photo of Chrissy Napowsa Schlude - Chrissy's Empowering Counseling Services, PLLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chrissy's Empowering Counseling Services, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Swansboro, NC 28584
Ever felt like things are getting out of control in your life, and you're having trouble slowing things down? I have a passion to help people who are dealing with anxiety symptoms, whether they be from trauma related issues, including domestic violence or the ups and downs of dealing with life's expectations.
Now accepting new clients! Whether you are having a bad day or just need someone to talk to, finding the right therapist can be extremely difficult. Please take the time to take advantage of my 15 minute free consultation. During this consultation, we can take time to discuss and highlight the areas of concern and decide if we are a good fit to work together in order to gain the maximum benefit from your therapy. I take the time to actively listen so that education and empowerment can be used to assist in solving many of life’s challenges.
Ever felt like things are getting out of control in your life, and you're having trouble slowing things down? I have a passion to help people who are dealing with anxiety symptoms, whether they be from trauma related issues, including domestic violence or the ups and downs of dealing with life's expectations.
Now accepting new clients! Whether you are having a bad day or just need someone to talk to, finding the right therapist can be extremely difficult. Please take the time to take advantage of my 15 minute free consultation. During this consultation, we can take time to discuss and highlight the areas of concern and decide if we are a good fit to work together in order to gain the maximum benefit from your therapy. I take the time to actively listen so that education and empowerment can be used to assist in solving many of life’s challenges.
(910) 541-9052 View (910) 541-9052
K Silinsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, MFA
Verified Verified
Greenville, NC 27858
I specialize in working with children to adults experiencing depression, life changes, trauma, self-esteem & identity concerns.
Please reach out for a free consultation. Together, we will navigate a path of discovery, healing, and transformation. I am committed to providing personalized care tailored to your unique needs. I am honored to walk alongside you as you embark on your journey towards greater fulfillment and well-being.
I specialize in working with children to adults experiencing depression, life changes, trauma, self-esteem & identity concerns.
Please reach out for a free consultation. Together, we will navigate a path of discovery, healing, and transformation. I am committed to providing personalized care tailored to your unique needs. I am honored to walk alongside you as you embark on your journey towards greater fulfillment and well-being.
(252) 231-2105 View (252) 231-2105
Photo of Shanna W Dickens, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shanna W Dickens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28409  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in treating trauma, normal responses to those awful things that happen to us in the span of a life.
As humans, we are always gravitating towards healing, trying to right ourselves and to shift from surviving back into living. But sometimes, we get stuck with uncomfortable emotions that we aren't exactly sure what to do with. In therapy, I offer a safe place to unpack all of that uncomfortable stuff and decide what is worth keeping and what is just too heavy to keep lugging around day after day. If you are ready to unpack, I am here for it. If you want to learn how to be assertive, how to set boundaries effectively and how to show up for yourself even when others can't or don't, I am absolutely on board.
I specialize in treating trauma, normal responses to those awful things that happen to us in the span of a life.
As humans, we are always gravitating towards healing, trying to right ourselves and to shift from surviving back into living. But sometimes, we get stuck with uncomfortable emotions that we aren't exactly sure what to do with. In therapy, I offer a safe place to unpack all of that uncomfortable stuff and decide what is worth keeping and what is just too heavy to keep lugging around day after day. If you are ready to unpack, I am here for it. If you want to learn how to be assertive, how to set boundaries effectively and how to show up for yourself even when others can't or don't, I am absolutely on board.
(910) 335-9101 View (910) 335-9101
Photo of Ryan McFall, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ryan McFall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
I work with clients to address trauma, anxiety, depression, and life transitions, using methods such as EMDR, DBT, CBT, and TF-CBT.
Hi, I'm Ryan. I know finding the right therapist can be overwhelming and intimidating at times. I hope this introduction provides you with a sense of my approach as a therapist, and who I am as a person. Perhaps we’ll be a great match! I firmly believe that our success together is dependent on being able to make an emotionally safe and secure connection where you feel comfortable being open and vulnerable. I often use humor in my personal and professional life as a means of connection. Once you feel comfortable in the therapeutic relationship, our work together becomes much more effective and efficient.
I work with clients to address trauma, anxiety, depression, and life transitions, using methods such as EMDR, DBT, CBT, and TF-CBT.
Hi, I'm Ryan. I know finding the right therapist can be overwhelming and intimidating at times. I hope this introduction provides you with a sense of my approach as a therapist, and who I am as a person. Perhaps we’ll be a great match! I firmly believe that our success together is dependent on being able to make an emotionally safe and secure connection where you feel comfortable being open and vulnerable. I often use humor in my personal and professional life as a means of connection. Once you feel comfortable in the therapeutic relationship, our work together becomes much more effective and efficient.
(910) 773-5973 View (910) 773-5973
Photo of Alyssa Ann Sugar, MS, LCMHC, LCAS, RYT
Alyssa Ann Sugar
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC, LCAS, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, NC 27858
I am experienced in group or individual work, and assist people who've had past trauma, or health and body issues.
I have been in private practice for 14 years and have worked in mental health for 17 years. I have a Master's Degree in Substance Abuse Clinical Counseling and Rehabilitation Counseling. I have been a Registered Yoga Teacher for 24 years. I see clients with varying issues such as anxiety, depression, grief, OCD, PTSD, phobias, anger, stress, eating disorders, alcohol and drug addictions as well as behavioral addictions. I help people overcome trauma through body/mind work including yoga therapy. I also enjoy working with couples. The counseling process is a collaborative effort and I can help you learn tools to help yourself.
I am experienced in group or individual work, and assist people who've had past trauma, or health and body issues.
I have been in private practice for 14 years and have worked in mental health for 17 years. I have a Master's Degree in Substance Abuse Clinical Counseling and Rehabilitation Counseling. I have been a Registered Yoga Teacher for 24 years. I see clients with varying issues such as anxiety, depression, grief, OCD, PTSD, phobias, anger, stress, eating disorders, alcohol and drug addictions as well as behavioral addictions. I help people overcome trauma through body/mind work including yoga therapy. I also enjoy working with couples. The counseling process is a collaborative effort and I can help you learn tools to help yourself.
(252) 516-1147 View (252) 516-1147
Chiquana Bryant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, NC 27834  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Trauma, anxiety, depression, and any other obstacle won’t have control over you, you’ll have control over it!.
Once a therapeutic relationship has been established, you will experience a safe space to address your most challenging problems, deepest thoughts, and overwhelming anxiety and pain. If you can trust yourself enough to make that first step into therapy, you open the door to explore and reflect on what makes you, YOU! You’ll be able to identify, recall, process, and learn to manage what you thought you never could. Having an open mind and being willing to confront issues head on, though scary, will bring a sense of joy, peace, and relief.
Trauma, anxiety, depression, and any other obstacle won’t have control over you, you’ll have control over it!.
Once a therapeutic relationship has been established, you will experience a safe space to address your most challenging problems, deepest thoughts, and overwhelming anxiety and pain. If you can trust yourself enough to make that first step into therapy, you open the door to explore and reflect on what makes you, YOU! You’ll be able to identify, recall, process, and learn to manage what you thought you never could. Having an open mind and being willing to confront issues head on, though scary, will bring a sense of joy, peace, and relief.
(252) 594-3405 View (252) 594-3405
Photo of Chris Everhart, LPC, LCMHC, LCMHCQS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chris Everhart
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCMHC, LCMHCQS
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28411  (Online Only)
I provide individual, couple's, and family counseling. I am also qualified to provide clinical supervision to LPC / LCMHC associates. I am qualified to work with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, Personality Disorders, Adjustment and Attachment Issues, Emotional Regulation, Grief and Loss/ Trauma. I have 10+ years experience working with children, adolescence, adults.
I provide individual, couple's, and family counseling. I am also qualified to provide clinical supervision to LPC / LCMHC associates. I am qualified to work with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, Personality Disorders, Adjustment and Attachment Issues, Emotional Regulation, Grief and Loss/ Trauma. I have 10+ years experience working with children, adolescence, adults.
(704) 389-2302 View (704) 389-2302
Photo of Kathryn Brown, LCMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kathryn Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Wilson, NC 27893  (Online Only)
Trained in EMDR and other trauma-focused approaches, I specialize in supporting survivors of sexual trauma, domestic violence, painful childhoods, veterans and military families, and neurodivergent individuals.
It's easy to feel disconnected from ourselves and our loved ones, leading to stress, anxiety, depression, and strained relationships. You might feel exhausted, trapped by the past or caught up in worries about the future. You're tired of questioning yourself and where you're headed. You're ready to feel at ease and confident in yourself. You want to break free from the past and THRIVE rather than just survive.
Trained in EMDR and other trauma-focused approaches, I specialize in supporting survivors of sexual trauma, domestic violence, painful childhoods, veterans and military families, and neurodivergent individuals.
It's easy to feel disconnected from ourselves and our loved ones, leading to stress, anxiety, depression, and strained relationships. You might feel exhausted, trapped by the past or caught up in worries about the future. You're tired of questioning yourself and where you're headed. You're ready to feel at ease and confident in yourself. You want to break free from the past and THRIVE rather than just survive.
(252) 397-3185 View (252) 397-3185
Photo of Nicole Wagoner, MA, LCMHC, ASDCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicole Wagoner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, ASDCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Burgaw, NC 28425
Hi! My name is Nicole. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor working at Ocean's Crest Counseling Center, PLLC in Burgaw, NC. I am accepting new clients with BCBS, United Healthcare, Tricare, United Healthcare Community Plan, and Healthy Blue, Amerihealth, and Wellcare. I am certified as an Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist. I have experience with a variety of mental health diagnoses. I have experience working with children, young adults, and military with a variety of mental health diagnoses. Some of these diagnoses have included PTSD, anxiety, depression, ODD, ADHD, and Conduct Disorder.
Hi! My name is Nicole. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor working at Ocean's Crest Counseling Center, PLLC in Burgaw, NC. I am accepting new clients with BCBS, United Healthcare, Tricare, United Healthcare Community Plan, and Healthy Blue, Amerihealth, and Wellcare. I am certified as an Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist. I have experience with a variety of mental health diagnoses. I have experience working with children, young adults, and military with a variety of mental health diagnoses. Some of these diagnoses have included PTSD, anxiety, depression, ODD, ADHD, and Conduct Disorder.
(252) 765-4397 View (252) 765-4397
Photo of Matrice Evelyena Morrison, MA, LCMHC
Matrice Evelyena Morrison
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28412  (Online Only)
The client that will feel the best served by me will come with a need for someone to listen and can provide practical coping skills, sound advice and allow you to feel heard. The issues that they will come with can regard relationship issues such as problems with Communication, Intimacy and Combat Trauma. They can also have challenges with the changes that life brings. This can range from Career changes, Retirement, caring for aging parents, children leaving the nest and starting over again.
The client that will feel the best served by me will come with a need for someone to listen and can provide practical coping skills, sound advice and allow you to feel heard. The issues that they will come with can regard relationship issues such as problems with Communication, Intimacy and Combat Trauma. They can also have challenges with the changes that life brings. This can range from Career changes, Retirement, caring for aging parents, children leaving the nest and starting over again.
(910) 684-4604 View (910) 684-4604
Photo of Jess Cooper Ahlum, MA, NBC-HWC
Jess Cooper Ahlum
MA, NBC-HWC
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
Relationships are complicated; family is hard, and communication breaks down. I support people who are ready to grow by looking at their behavioral and communication patterns, practice new tools, and make healthy changes to feel better in their most important relationships. My clients want to spend less energy recovering from unnecessary drama and more time having fun together. They are doing the work to shift unhealthy intergenerational patterns, heal and prevent trauma, and develop confidence to love themselves and others deeply.
Relationships are complicated; family is hard, and communication breaks down. I support people who are ready to grow by looking at their behavioral and communication patterns, practice new tools, and make healthy changes to feel better in their most important relationships. My clients want to spend less energy recovering from unnecessary drama and more time having fun together. They are doing the work to shift unhealthy intergenerational patterns, heal and prevent trauma, and develop confidence to love themselves and others deeply.
(910) 386-0147 View (910) 386-0147

See more therapy options for Bayboro

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.