Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Rocky Mount, NC

Photo of Keisha Ward, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Keisha Ward
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rocky Mount, NC 27803
I support clients processing through many different places in life - trauma, grief, life transitions, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, symptom reductions, and more.
One Christmas season it had rained a lot. I attempted to circle my yard with my car to slide out of my drive way, and I got stuck. The more I tried to get out the more stuck I became. Finally, I had to do what I was dreading and call a tow truck to get me out of my own yard! Well, sometimes in life, we get stuck in our own mud, and we have to call help to get us out.
I support clients processing through many different places in life - trauma, grief, life transitions, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, symptom reductions, and more.
One Christmas season it had rained a lot. I attempted to circle my yard with my car to slide out of my drive way, and I got stuck. The more I tried to get out the more stuck I became. Finally, I had to do what I was dreading and call a tow truck to get me out of my own yard! Well, sometimes in life, we get stuck in our own mud, and we have to call help to get us out.
(252) 557-8562 View (252) 557-8562
Photo of Tita Johnson, LCMHC, LPC/S, MAC, CCTP, Counselor
Tita Johnson
Counselor, LCMHC, LPC/S, MAC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Rocky Mount, NC 27804  (Online Only)
Life can be challenging and those challenges can make it difficult to build a rich and meaningful life. Those challenges can also be opportunities for growth and transformation. If you are navigating anxiety, trauma, or depression, I want you to know that you are not alone. You deserve a life not defined by your past or present challenges, but by your strength and resilience in overcoming them. I want to partner with you on your healing journey. Contact me today to get started.
Life can be challenging and those challenges can make it difficult to build a rich and meaningful life. Those challenges can also be opportunities for growth and transformation. If you are navigating anxiety, trauma, or depression, I want you to know that you are not alone. You deserve a life not defined by your past or present challenges, but by your strength and resilience in overcoming them. I want to partner with you on your healing journey. Contact me today to get started.
(843) 428-6596 View (843) 428-6596
Photo of Erin L Joyner
Erin L Joyner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rocky Mount, NC 27803  (Online Only)
My name is Erin Joyner, and I am a Master’s Intern Therapist at Breaking Cycles Counseling. I have experience working with depression, anxiety, trauma, interpersonal relationships, life changes, and grief. I also specialize in helping clients living with chronic pain, illness, and disability. I can happily provide for a broad spectrum of needs for individual adults, seniors, teens, couples, and families, via telehealth. I always aim to help people by tailoring my approach to your individual needs. I have a nonjudgmental perspective on everyone and have yet to meet anyone from whom I can’t learn something, too!
My name is Erin Joyner, and I am a Master’s Intern Therapist at Breaking Cycles Counseling. I have experience working with depression, anxiety, trauma, interpersonal relationships, life changes, and grief. I also specialize in helping clients living with chronic pain, illness, and disability. I can happily provide for a broad spectrum of needs for individual adults, seniors, teens, couples, and families, via telehealth. I always aim to help people by tailoring my approach to your individual needs. I have a nonjudgmental perspective on everyone and have yet to meet anyone from whom I can’t learn something, too!
(336) 715-0047 View (336) 715-0047
Photo of Valerie Gottula, MS, LCMHCA, Counselor
Valerie Gottula
Counselor, MS, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rocky Mount, NC 27804
My specialty areas include: general mental health, dissociation, trauma and PTSD (C- PTSD), weight/obesity, and behavioral addiction.
If you've had difficulty finding therapy that is effective, you may want to consider working with a specialist. Traumatic or adverse life experiences may lead to a myriad of psychological and physiological symptoms.
My specialty areas include: general mental health, dissociation, trauma and PTSD (C- PTSD), weight/obesity, and behavioral addiction.
If you've had difficulty finding therapy that is effective, you may want to consider working with a specialist. Traumatic or adverse life experiences may lead to a myriad of psychological and physiological symptoms.
(984) 214-7492 View (984) 214-7492
Photo of Ruby I Sims, LCMHC, Counselor
Ruby I Sims
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rocky Mount, NC 27804
I have an array of interest stemming from Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Life Transitions, Self Esteem and Anger Management.
I believe that therapy begins with an open and trusting environment where a client feels safe and respected. I find it important to always put the needs of the client first, supporting them and helping them discover the positive attributes they have inside. I believe in a welcoming and relaxed therapeutic approach to help support individuals on their life journey. By providing empathy and a judge free environment, I hope to diligently work with others and support them along their journey and help meet their goals.
I have an array of interest stemming from Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Life Transitions, Self Esteem and Anger Management.
I believe that therapy begins with an open and trusting environment where a client feels safe and respected. I find it important to always put the needs of the client first, supporting them and helping them discover the positive attributes they have inside. I believe in a welcoming and relaxed therapeutic approach to help support individuals on their life journey. By providing empathy and a judge free environment, I hope to diligently work with others and support them along their journey and help meet their goals.
(919) 646-6560 View (919) 646-6560
Photo of Daniel Daughtridge, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Daniel Daughtridge
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rocky Mount, NC 27804
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I’m qualified to work both with couples dealing with relationship issues, as well as individuals who may be dealing with mental health concerns, relational issues, trauma, and many other situations.
A personal, face-to-face encounter with a therapist can help you figure out what is happening in your life and give you tools to get you headed back in the right direction. Whether you're struggling with a relationship, work-family life out of balance, or feeling depressed and anxious, therapy can be a brief solution to help you get back to being at your best. In your first visit with me, we'll get to know each other and start defining the problem. Later, I'll give you some specialized assessments, and then we will create goals together and begin the process of fixing the problem.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I’m qualified to work both with couples dealing with relationship issues, as well as individuals who may be dealing with mental health concerns, relational issues, trauma, and many other situations.
A personal, face-to-face encounter with a therapist can help you figure out what is happening in your life and give you tools to get you headed back in the right direction. Whether you're struggling with a relationship, work-family life out of balance, or feeling depressed and anxious, therapy can be a brief solution to help you get back to being at your best. In your first visit with me, we'll get to know each other and start defining the problem. Later, I'll give you some specialized assessments, and then we will create goals together and begin the process of fixing the problem.
(252) 518-4448 View (252) 518-4448
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
Rocky Mount, NC 27801
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
Photo of Phyllis J Wright-West - Institute of Behavior Management-IBHM, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Institute of Behavior Management-IBHM
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Rocky Mount, NC 27802  (Online Only)
Experiencing problems with anger, depression anxiety, emotional dis- regulation, trauma, hyperactivity or problems with social anxiety or low self-esteem? the Institute might be a good fit. I assess clients for readiness for bariatric surgery. I draw upon different models to explain mental health difficulties and find the biopsychosocial model particularly useful in understanding what might be contributory factors to presenting issues. I use cognitive, emotive therapy and other evidence based practices to bring about change. I also utilize holistic interventions to reduce depression, anxiety and excessive anger symptoms.
Experiencing problems with anger, depression anxiety, emotional dis- regulation, trauma, hyperactivity or problems with social anxiety or low self-esteem? the Institute might be a good fit. I assess clients for readiness for bariatric surgery. I draw upon different models to explain mental health difficulties and find the biopsychosocial model particularly useful in understanding what might be contributory factors to presenting issues. I use cognitive, emotive therapy and other evidence based practices to bring about change. I also utilize holistic interventions to reduce depression, anxiety and excessive anger symptoms.
(919) 364-6455 View (919) 364-6455
Photo of Annette Thomas - Heal and Restore PLLC, MSW, LCSW, LCAS-A, SSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heal and Restore PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS-A, SSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rocky Mount, NC 27801
I personalize in trauma, behavioral issues, self-confidence, anxieties and how to set goals to have a better life.
My treatment method is to aid in progress and provide feedback to help clients address current life challenges. My priority is to listen, understand, design therapy around my client’s needs and to help individuals find resolution to a wide range of personal concerns and psychological issues. I believe the foundation of success in therapy is based on the creation of the relationship between client and therapist. My goal is to make sure each person feels comfortable, heard, understood, and is working toward healing.
I personalize in trauma, behavioral issues, self-confidence, anxieties and how to set goals to have a better life.
My treatment method is to aid in progress and provide feedback to help clients address current life challenges. My priority is to listen, understand, design therapy around my client’s needs and to help individuals find resolution to a wide range of personal concerns and psychological issues. I believe the foundation of success in therapy is based on the creation of the relationship between client and therapist. My goal is to make sure each person feels comfortable, heard, understood, and is working toward healing.
(252) 359-3624 View (252) 359-3624
Photo of LaTia Guyton, MS, LCMHC, Counselor
LaTia Guyton
Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rocky Mount, NC 27803  (Online Only)
If you feel that talk therapy has not helped you, keep reading... There is a point in life when we get tired of not thriving. Trauma. Overwhelming anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem are robbing you of the life that you see. You can see a better life for you in the distance but you have no idea how to get there. Striving for perfectionism, people pleasing, feeling like you are always the problem, that you are not enough. I was an educator for almost 20 years so I know the stressors that teachers experience. No one knows what teachers go through better than a teacher. I offer a 100% judgment-free zone.
If you feel that talk therapy has not helped you, keep reading... There is a point in life when we get tired of not thriving. Trauma. Overwhelming anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem are robbing you of the life that you see. You can see a better life for you in the distance but you have no idea how to get there. Striving for perfectionism, people pleasing, feeling like you are always the problem, that you are not enough. I was an educator for almost 20 years so I know the stressors that teachers experience. No one knows what teachers go through better than a teacher. I offer a 100% judgment-free zone.
(252) 818-5210 View (252) 818-5210
Photo of LaTia Guyton - Our Story Counseling PLLC, MS
Our Story Counseling PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rocky Mount, NC 27803  (Online Only)
If you feel that talk therapy has not helped you, keep reading... There is a point in life when we get tired of not thriving. Trauma. Overwhelming anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem are robbing you of the life that you see. You can see a better life for you in the distance but you have no idea how to get there. Striving for perfectionism, people pleasing, feeling like you are always the problem, that you are not enough. I was an educator for almost 20 years so I know the stressors that teachers experience. No one knows what teachers go through better than a teacher. I offer a 100% judgment-free zone.
If you feel that talk therapy has not helped you, keep reading... There is a point in life when we get tired of not thriving. Trauma. Overwhelming anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem are robbing you of the life that you see. You can see a better life for you in the distance but you have no idea how to get there. Striving for perfectionism, people pleasing, feeling like you are always the problem, that you are not enough. I was an educator for almost 20 years so I know the stressors that teachers experience. No one knows what teachers go through better than a teacher. I offer a 100% judgment-free zone.
(252) 888-6483 View (252) 888-6483
Photo of Ashley Cousar - Your Best Life Awaits Counseling & Coaching Insti , MSW, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Your Best Life Awaits Counseling & Coaching Insti
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Rocky Mount, NC 27804
I hold a Certification in Addiction Counseling and a Master's Degree in Social Work with a specialization in Trauma Informed Care.
Welcome! I am Ashley L. Cousar a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been practicing as a social worker for over 11 years. As a therapist, I believe in creating a safe and comfortable space for my clients to explore their thoughts and feelings. I believe in working in collaboration to empower clients to connect emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. My approach in therapy is meeting each individual where they are to build a rapport that will support each individual's goals to live a happy, healthy holistic life!
I hold a Certification in Addiction Counseling and a Master's Degree in Social Work with a specialization in Trauma Informed Care.
Welcome! I am Ashley L. Cousar a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been practicing as a social worker for over 11 years. As a therapist, I believe in creating a safe and comfortable space for my clients to explore their thoughts and feelings. I believe in working in collaboration to empower clients to connect emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. My approach in therapy is meeting each individual where they are to build a rapport that will support each individual's goals to live a happy, healthy holistic life!
(252) 501-9398 View (252) 501-9398
Photo of Nathaline Ignacio, MA, LCMHC-S, LCAS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nathaline Ignacio
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC-S, LCAS
Verified Verified
Rocky Mount, NC 27804  (Online Only)
My specialties include addressing behavioral, emotional, relationship, and family issues, as well as addiction and trauma.
My ideal client is someone who is navigating through a myriad of complex issues such as trauma, addiction, relationship struggles, and emotional or behavioral challenges. They might be an individual, couple, or family seeking to overcome past trauma, manage addiction, improve communication, or develop healthier coping mechanisms for anxiety and depression. This client is proactive and motivated, recognizing the importance of seeking help to foster personal growth and emotional well-being. They need a compassionate, culturally competent therapist who can provide a safe, non-judgmental space where they feel heard and understood.
My specialties include addressing behavioral, emotional, relationship, and family issues, as well as addiction and trauma.
My ideal client is someone who is navigating through a myriad of complex issues such as trauma, addiction, relationship struggles, and emotional or behavioral challenges. They might be an individual, couple, or family seeking to overcome past trauma, manage addiction, improve communication, or develop healthier coping mechanisms for anxiety and depression. This client is proactive and motivated, recognizing the importance of seeking help to foster personal growth and emotional well-being. They need a compassionate, culturally competent therapist who can provide a safe, non-judgmental space where they feel heard and understood.
(252) 300-0537 View (252) 300-0537
Photo of Marina Banas Skrabalak, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marina Banas Skrabalak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rocky Mount, NC 27804
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, and trauma.
Hi! I'm Marina Skrabalak, LCSWA. I'm happy that you've taken the first step to becoming your best self. Are you struggling with your mental health and in search of making changes? Are you looking for a supportive, non-judgmental and confidential space to talk openly? I am here for you. L & B Counseling is breaking the stigma of counseling with an outside the box approach. We bring the office outside and engage with clients using creative activities. We are outdoors-oriented, but we do offer in-office and virtual appointments. We have multiple therapists, so if you prefer someone else, we have you covered. (Rocky Mt - Virtual only).
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, and trauma.
Hi! I'm Marina Skrabalak, LCSWA. I'm happy that you've taken the first step to becoming your best self. Are you struggling with your mental health and in search of making changes? Are you looking for a supportive, non-judgmental and confidential space to talk openly? I am here for you. L & B Counseling is breaking the stigma of counseling with an outside the box approach. We bring the office outside and engage with clients using creative activities. We are outdoors-oriented, but we do offer in-office and virtual appointments. We have multiple therapists, so if you prefer someone else, we have you covered. (Rocky Mt - Virtual only).
(704) 459-5722 View (704) 459-5722
Photo of Stephanie Freeman, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Freeman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Rocky Mount, NC 27804  (Online Only)
I work with clients who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma or addiction issues related to their life adjustments, relationships or family. During our initial sessions, we will delve deeply into the issues at hand, and collaborate to create a plan for addressing them in a way that helps you get some relief and balance back.
I work with clients who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma or addiction issues related to their life adjustments, relationships or family. During our initial sessions, we will delve deeply into the issues at hand, and collaborate to create a plan for addressing them in a way that helps you get some relief and balance back.
(727) 604-7471 View (727) 604-7471
Equafinality B, LLC
Verified Verified
Rocky Mount, NC 27804
CBT techniques and interventions such as challenging negative thoughts, modeling, cognitive restructuring and interpersonal skills are effective in treating disorders such as anxiety, depression, eating disorders, sleeping disorders, trauma-related disorder such as Posttraumatic Stress Disorder ( PTSD) along with an array of other issues.
At Equafinality Inc., our mission is to offer high quality mental health and substance abuse services. Our objective is to instruct and help individuals with the opportunity to function at their maximum level of cognitive capability and sustain a substance free life. Our staff at Equafinality Inc., desire to provide resources to our consumers in a manner that will benefit, enrich, and affect their overall quality life and daily living. Our aim is to encourage a constructive and safe community, and to assist our customers reach their personal goals. The population we serve includes individuals ages 10 and up that suffer from an array of disorders that include but are not limited to substance abuse, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and trauma-related disorders.
CBT techniques and interventions such as challenging negative thoughts, modeling, cognitive restructuring and interpersonal skills are effective in treating disorders such as anxiety, depression, eating disorders, sleeping disorders, trauma-related disorder such as Posttraumatic Stress Disorder ( PTSD) along with an array of other issues.
At Equafinality Inc., our mission is to offer high quality mental health and substance abuse services. Our objective is to instruct and help individuals with the opportunity to function at their maximum level of cognitive capability and sustain a substance free life. Our staff at Equafinality Inc., desire to provide resources to our consumers in a manner that will benefit, enrich, and affect their overall quality life and daily living. Our aim is to encourage a constructive and safe community, and to assist our customers reach their personal goals. The population we serve includes individuals ages 10 and up that suffer from an array of disorders that include but are not limited to substance abuse, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and trauma-related disorders.
(252) 424-7975 View (252) 424-7975
Photo of Glenda Clare, PhD, LCMHC, LCAS, LPC, Counselor
Glenda Clare
Counselor, PhD, LCMHC, LCAS, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Rocky Mount, NC 27803  (Online Only)
I use motivational interviewing, and trauma-informed, solution-focused practices to help you explore strategies that fit your unique needs.
Hello - My name is Dr. Glenda Clare. I am licensed in mental health and addictions counseling. I work with individuals, families and groups to achieve mental wellness. Let's work together to figure out strategies that are appropriate for you. Think Possibilities!
I use motivational interviewing, and trauma-informed, solution-focused practices to help you explore strategies that fit your unique needs.
Hello - My name is Dr. Glenda Clare. I am licensed in mental health and addictions counseling. I work with individuals, families and groups to achieve mental wellness. Let's work together to figure out strategies that are appropriate for you. Think Possibilities!
(984) 207-1082 View (984) 207-1082
Photo of Nicole Benjamin - Healthy Transformations Counseling, MSCE, LCMHC, TF-CBT
Healthy Transformations Counseling
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MSCE, LCMHC, TF-CBT
Verified Verified
Rocky Mount, NC 27801
My formal education has prepared me to counsel individual adolescents, children, adults, groups, and the multicultural population. My approach to counseling is best described as one that is person-centered and family systems oriented. I believe people are capable of reaching their best potential given the right support and tools for change, and that whenever possible treatment should involve the family not just the individual child or adult.
My formal education has prepared me to counsel individual adolescents, children, adults, groups, and the multicultural population. My approach to counseling is best described as one that is person-centered and family systems oriented. I believe people are capable of reaching their best potential given the right support and tools for change, and that whenever possible treatment should involve the family not just the individual child or adult.
(252) 262-2029 View (252) 262-2029
Photo of Katrina Porter - Your Best Life Awaits Counseling & Coaching, PLLC, MSW , C-SWHC, CAMS-II, LCSW, CEO, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Your Best Life Awaits Counseling & Coaching, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW , C-SWHC, CAMS-II, LCSW, CEO
Verified Verified
Rocky Mount, NC 27804
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, self doubt, anger, resentment, or hurt? Are you the “strong" one? Do you feel overwhelmed trying to juggle the demands of family, work or school, and relationships? Is there a sense that something needs to change but you can’t figure out what? Are you interested in learning more? You deserve to be understood, valued, and given the opportunity to gain the tools for a more fulfilling life. I offer services that empower my clients with tools to live their best life! My goal is to create a counseling & coaching environment that is relaxed and safe so you can feel comfortable talking openly.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, self doubt, anger, resentment, or hurt? Are you the “strong" one? Do you feel overwhelmed trying to juggle the demands of family, work or school, and relationships? Is there a sense that something needs to change but you can’t figure out what? Are you interested in learning more? You deserve to be understood, valued, and given the opportunity to gain the tools for a more fulfilling life. I offer services that empower my clients with tools to live their best life! My goal is to create a counseling & coaching environment that is relaxed and safe so you can feel comfortable talking openly.
(252) 297-6656 View (252) 297-6656
Photo of Danielle Evans, MS, LMFT-A, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Danielle Evans
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rocky Mount, NC 27801
Beginning therapy can be the most vulnerable and brave step a person can take towards getting the help they deserve. It can be overwhelming to think of opening up to a new therapist about one’s innermost challenges without knowing if they will judge you or invalidate you altogether. That is why I strive to provide all my clients with a safe and affirming space. As a contextual therapist, I believe that change is best facilitated by exploring your family-of-origin relationships and tracking patterns in current relationships to help you understand how to work towards healing past wounds and strengthening those relationships.
Beginning therapy can be the most vulnerable and brave step a person can take towards getting the help they deserve. It can be overwhelming to think of opening up to a new therapist about one’s innermost challenges without knowing if they will judge you or invalidate you altogether. That is why I strive to provide all my clients with a safe and affirming space. As a contextual therapist, I believe that change is best facilitated by exploring your family-of-origin relationships and tracking patterns in current relationships to help you understand how to work towards healing past wounds and strengthening those relationships.
(252) 410-2885 View (252) 410-2885
1

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.