Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Summerfield, NC

Photo of Dr. Juan B Santos Working With Adults, PhD, CRC, LCMHC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Juan B Santos Working With Adults
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, CRC, LCMHC-S
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Summerfield, NC 27358
I am dedicated to helping adults find healing and balance in their unique time of uncertainty. Text 336-663-6570 if you are interested in counseling. I also work to help couples enhance their lives and relationships by guiding them through challenges such as communication difficulties, emotional disconnection, disagreements, or recovering from affairs. My clients express that they count on me for professional guidance and as a compassionate companion. I bring over a decade of experience, trauma certification, doctorate-level training, and a culturally affirming foundation. I incorporate a safe LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC-affirming space.
I am dedicated to helping adults find healing and balance in their unique time of uncertainty. Text 336-663-6570 if you are interested in counseling. I also work to help couples enhance their lives and relationships by guiding them through challenges such as communication difficulties, emotional disconnection, disagreements, or recovering from affairs. My clients express that they count on me for professional guidance and as a compassionate companion. I bring over a decade of experience, trauma certification, doctorate-level training, and a culturally affirming foundation. I incorporate a safe LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC-affirming space.
(336) 223-8253 View (336) 223-8253
Photo of Sheryl Reto, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sheryl Reto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Summerfield, NC 27358  (Online Only)
We all have the capacity to heal from trauma and emerge stronger and more resilient.
I specialize in helping people achieve healing and peace from trauma and anxiety. I also help people struggling with depression, grief, and life transitions. It can be difficult to find joy, confidence, and hope when daily life feels overwhelming, and you are often stuck in ruminating about the past or worrying about the future. You may struggle to manage strong thoughts and emotions that seem to come from nowhere. Imagine finally leaving the past behind you and having more joy and hope in your life. We can work together to make it a reality.
We all have the capacity to heal from trauma and emerge stronger and more resilient.
I specialize in helping people achieve healing and peace from trauma and anxiety. I also help people struggling with depression, grief, and life transitions. It can be difficult to find joy, confidence, and hope when daily life feels overwhelming, and you are often stuck in ruminating about the past or worrying about the future. You may struggle to manage strong thoughts and emotions that seem to come from nowhere. Imagine finally leaving the past behind you and having more joy and hope in your life. We can work together to make it a reality.
(704) 741-4763 View (704) 741-4763
Photo of April Fjeld, MEd, MA, LCMHC-A, NCC, Counselor
April Fjeld
Counselor, MEd, MA, LCMHC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Summerfield, NC 27358
Life is hard. Are you like 2018 me-always giving & doing for others, while putting yourself last? Ready to snap if one more person suggests self-care as the magic cure & all you need (oh thank you friend, if only I had taken a bubble bath..)? Counseling may have been an idea for a while, but just taking the next step feels exhausting? You've heard things like "work through your problems & past," but you have no clue what that looks like? I thought putting trauma in a box was me working through it. From the outside it appeared like I had it all together, until I didn't. You are not meant to carry this weight alone.
Life is hard. Are you like 2018 me-always giving & doing for others, while putting yourself last? Ready to snap if one more person suggests self-care as the magic cure & all you need (oh thank you friend, if only I had taken a bubble bath..)? Counseling may have been an idea for a while, but just taking the next step feels exhausting? You've heard things like "work through your problems & past," but you have no clue what that looks like? I thought putting trauma in a box was me working through it. From the outside it appeared like I had it all together, until I didn't. You are not meant to carry this weight alone.
(336) 439-1964 View (336) 439-1964
Photo of Krystin Fullwood, MS, LCMHCA, Counselor
Krystin Fullwood
Counselor, MS, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Summerfield, NC 27358
I possess the tools to assist you in navigating trauma, tackling unhealthy patterns, establishing vital boundaries, and mastering self-care, enabling you to be present for your loved ones.
My expertise lies in supporting those who are ready to confront hidden wounds. Through counseling, we'll collaborate to uncover the path toward wellness. Here, in this sacred space, you have the opportunity to reshape your life narrative according to your aspirations. Trauma manifests differently for each person. For some, it entails the process of seeing life through a lens of healing rather than a clouded one. If you're prepared to embark on the journey towards a brighter future, I'm eager to accompany you every step of the way!
I possess the tools to assist you in navigating trauma, tackling unhealthy patterns, establishing vital boundaries, and mastering self-care, enabling you to be present for your loved ones.
My expertise lies in supporting those who are ready to confront hidden wounds. Through counseling, we'll collaborate to uncover the path toward wellness. Here, in this sacred space, you have the opportunity to reshape your life narrative according to your aspirations. Trauma manifests differently for each person. For some, it entails the process of seeing life through a lens of healing rather than a clouded one. If you're prepared to embark on the journey towards a brighter future, I'm eager to accompany you every step of the way!
(336) 303-8421 View (336) 303-8421
Photo of Electra Byers, LCMHC, PMH-C, Counselor
Electra Byers
Counselor, LCMHC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Summerfield, NC 27358  (Online Only)
My clients are intelligent humans who feel caught in their anxious minds, trauma, or simply desire support in living a more authentic and meaningful life.
Do you feel stuck? Do you feel like you know all the rules and what you are “supposed to do” but somehow can’t get where you want to go? As your therapist, my goal is to help you feel at home in your body, mind, and heart. I can help deconstruct and shift your “shoulds” into something that feels more authentic and meaningful to you. We also can dig into your past and explore how old coping mechanisms that may have helped at one time are now limiting. I am trained in a myriad of techniques—including mindfulness and EMDR—to gently guide your mind and body back to the present moment to a state of well-being and resiliency.
My clients are intelligent humans who feel caught in their anxious minds, trauma, or simply desire support in living a more authentic and meaningful life.
Do you feel stuck? Do you feel like you know all the rules and what you are “supposed to do” but somehow can’t get where you want to go? As your therapist, my goal is to help you feel at home in your body, mind, and heart. I can help deconstruct and shift your “shoulds” into something that feels more authentic and meaningful to you. We also can dig into your past and explore how old coping mechanisms that may have helped at one time are now limiting. I am trained in a myriad of techniques—including mindfulness and EMDR—to gently guide your mind and body back to the present moment to a state of well-being and resiliency.
(336) 443-8576 View (336) 443-8576
Photo of Matthew D McMillan, MS,  LCAS, LCMHC, CHT,  CCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Matthew D McMillan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCAS, LCMHC, CHT, CCS
Verified Verified
Summerfield, NC 27358
Treating Substance Abuse/ Alcohol Abuse, Depression, Anxiety and Trauma in Adults and Teens.
Do you feel overwhelmed, depressed, anxious or unable to get your life on track? Are you an adult or teen stuck in the same pattern/ rut? Have you said I'm going to stop this "bad habit" of drinking/drugs/smoking only to find yourself disappointed again? You've come to the right place! Imagine when you tell your friends or family "My problem is gone!" I am a leader in the treatment of Mental Health & Substance Abuse. I created & ran the Moses Cone Hospital Substance Abuse program for 7 years. My creativity and innovation never stops; ask about our Horse Program for individuals/teams for breakthrough change!
Treating Substance Abuse/ Alcohol Abuse, Depression, Anxiety and Trauma in Adults and Teens.
Do you feel overwhelmed, depressed, anxious or unable to get your life on track? Are you an adult or teen stuck in the same pattern/ rut? Have you said I'm going to stop this "bad habit" of drinking/drugs/smoking only to find yourself disappointed again? You've come to the right place! Imagine when you tell your friends or family "My problem is gone!" I am a leader in the treatment of Mental Health & Substance Abuse. I created & ran the Moses Cone Hospital Substance Abuse program for 7 years. My creativity and innovation never stops; ask about our Horse Program for individuals/teams for breakthrough change!
(336) 814-9243 View (336) 814-9243
Photo of Wendy Douglas Emdr Therapist, MA, LCMHCA, NCC, Counselor
Wendy Douglas Emdr Therapist
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Summerfield, NC 27358
As a compassionate Christian counselor, I specialize in grief, loss & trauma.
Whether you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, confused or a tangled ball of emotions, there is HOPE! If you feel like others don’t understand or judge you for how you are surviving, I am here to help you feel empowered and to grow into the person YOU want to be. Grief seems to accompany so many parts of life, knocking the breath right out of you. What you think about yourself, others, God, and the world around you may have been shattered and left you feeling unsure of yourself. I want to hold space for all you’ve been through - it can be a lot. Using brain science, I can help you overcome old patterns and build a new way of living.
As a compassionate Christian counselor, I specialize in grief, loss & trauma.
Whether you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, confused or a tangled ball of emotions, there is HOPE! If you feel like others don’t understand or judge you for how you are surviving, I am here to help you feel empowered and to grow into the person YOU want to be. Grief seems to accompany so many parts of life, knocking the breath right out of you. What you think about yourself, others, God, and the world around you may have been shattered and left you feeling unsure of yourself. I want to hold space for all you’ve been through - it can be a lot. Using brain science, I can help you overcome old patterns and build a new way of living.
View
Photo of Autumn D Ross, MA, LCMHC
Autumn D Ross
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Summerfield, NC 27358  (Online Only)
Specializing in anxiety, life transitions, trauma, relationships & intimacy, I'll empower you to understand yourself deeply, cultivate self-compassion, and create positive change.
Do you ever feel like you're expected to be Superwoman, always strong and capable, no matter what? It's easy to get overwhelmed when you're carrying that weight day in and day out. And when it comes to relationships, it can feel like you're stuck in a vicious cycle of bad decisions and unsatisfying connections. Maybe you're struggling to connect intimately with your partner, or maybe you're feeling hopeless and empty. That's where I come in. As someone who understands what you're going through, I'm here to help. Let's work together for you to discover a new way forward, one that brings you peace, happiness, and fulfillment.
Specializing in anxiety, life transitions, trauma, relationships & intimacy, I'll empower you to understand yourself deeply, cultivate self-compassion, and create positive change.
Do you ever feel like you're expected to be Superwoman, always strong and capable, no matter what? It's easy to get overwhelmed when you're carrying that weight day in and day out. And when it comes to relationships, it can feel like you're stuck in a vicious cycle of bad decisions and unsatisfying connections. Maybe you're struggling to connect intimately with your partner, or maybe you're feeling hopeless and empty. That's where I come in. As someone who understands what you're going through, I'm here to help. Let's work together for you to discover a new way forward, one that brings you peace, happiness, and fulfillment.
(704) 870-4166 View (704) 870-4166
Photo of Lisa Hathaway - The Oaks Center for Counseling and Wellness, MBA, MA, LCMHCA, Counselor
The Oaks Center for Counseling and Wellness
Counselor, MBA, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Summerfield, NC 27358
I'm here to walk alongside you on your journey towards healing. With specialized training in EMDR, I work with individuals—male and female, ages 8 and up—who have experienced trauma, depression, grief, anxiety, and everything in between. The Oaks is a practice like no other, blending evidence-based techniques with an approach that fosters both worth and wellness. When it's beneficial for clients, I enjoy incorporating a biblical worldview into our sessions, offering a holistic perspective that aligns with their values.
I'm here to walk alongside you on your journey towards healing. With specialized training in EMDR, I work with individuals—male and female, ages 8 and up—who have experienced trauma, depression, grief, anxiety, and everything in between. The Oaks is a practice like no other, blending evidence-based techniques with an approach that fosters both worth and wellness. When it's beneficial for clients, I enjoy incorporating a biblical worldview into our sessions, offering a holistic perspective that aligns with their values.
(336) 396-9002 View (336) 396-9002
Photo of Raven Lee Working With Young Adults, MS, LCMHC-A, Counselor
Raven Lee Working With Young Adults
Counselor, MS, LCMHC-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Summerfield, NC 27358
I specialize in helping young adults ages 18 to 35 years with depression, anxiety, grief, and trauma. I have training in Trauma, Play Therapy, Neurodiversity, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), as well as experience as a K-12 and college-level counselor. Most of my clients see a gradual lifting of symptoms within the first month and sustained improvement after that. I pull from my experience as both a school counselor in the local GSO school system and a college counselor. Text/call 336-663-6570 I offer a FREE 15-minute phone consultation
I specialize in helping young adults ages 18 to 35 years with depression, anxiety, grief, and trauma. I have training in Trauma, Play Therapy, Neurodiversity, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), as well as experience as a K-12 and college-level counselor. Most of my clients see a gradual lifting of symptoms within the first month and sustained improvement after that. I pull from my experience as both a school counselor in the local GSO school system and a college counselor. Text/call 336-663-6570 I offer a FREE 15-minute phone consultation
(336) 800-8660 View (336) 800-8660
Photo of Haley Landry, MA, LCMHCA, Counselor
Haley Landry
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Summerfield, NC 27358
I understand what it is like to take that first step towards therapy, and I am so glad you are here! At RCS, I count it a privilege to partner with you to assist in creating a powerful change in your life and help you reach the goals you desire. I work with individuals (6+), couples, and families on a range of life concerns, including anxiety, stress management, depression, conflicts with life, relationships and love, parental and family concerns, trauma, faith, spirituality, and so much more. Whatever you bring to the counseling room, we will work it out together.
I understand what it is like to take that first step towards therapy, and I am so glad you are here! At RCS, I count it a privilege to partner with you to assist in creating a powerful change in your life and help you reach the goals you desire. I work with individuals (6+), couples, and families on a range of life concerns, including anxiety, stress management, depression, conflicts with life, relationships and love, parental and family concerns, trauma, faith, spirituality, and so much more. Whatever you bring to the counseling room, we will work it out together.
(336) 396-9938 View (336) 396-9938
Photo of Ashton Hicks, MS, LCMHC, LCAS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashton Hicks
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
Summerfield, NC 27358
My goal as a counselor is to support individuals as they discover their purpose, learn how to solve their own problems, and build lasting relationships. Through our counseling relationship, we will identify avenues to overcome obstacles in your life, and help you to reach your areas for success! We will learn how to communicate your needs, feelings, and thoughts to those around you in a healthy way. I provide a safe and nurturing environment to freely share and explore past and current thoughts. I specialize in eating disorders, mood disorders, trauma, attachment-related issues, anxiety and depression. Let's find a resolution!
My goal as a counselor is to support individuals as they discover their purpose, learn how to solve their own problems, and build lasting relationships. Through our counseling relationship, we will identify avenues to overcome obstacles in your life, and help you to reach your areas for success! We will learn how to communicate your needs, feelings, and thoughts to those around you in a healthy way. I provide a safe and nurturing environment to freely share and explore past and current thoughts. I specialize in eating disorders, mood disorders, trauma, attachment-related issues, anxiety and depression. Let's find a resolution!
(336) 361-1268 View (336) 361-1268
Photo of Rebecca Stone, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rebecca Stone
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Summerfield, NC 27358  (Online Only)
I am an integrative therapist utilizing a variety of psychological modalities along with trauma therapy and psychoeducation to help you reach your goals and heal internally and in relationships.
Are you recovering from narcissistic abuse? Have you fallen out of love with your spouse? Are you having the same arguments over and over again or recovering from an affair? Are you having trouble with your teenagers or children? Are you experiencing anxiety or depression, overcoming an addiction, grieving or recovering from a painful divorce? Life's challenges can seem overwhelming, but you don't have have to face your (or your family's) challenges alone. My passion is to bring hope and healing to the most hopeless of circumstances. I am licensed in both North Carolina and Alabama and see clients via telehealth in both states.
I am an integrative therapist utilizing a variety of psychological modalities along with trauma therapy and psychoeducation to help you reach your goals and heal internally and in relationships.
Are you recovering from narcissistic abuse? Have you fallen out of love with your spouse? Are you having the same arguments over and over again or recovering from an affair? Are you having trouble with your teenagers or children? Are you experiencing anxiety or depression, overcoming an addiction, grieving or recovering from a painful divorce? Life's challenges can seem overwhelming, but you don't have have to face your (or your family's) challenges alone. My passion is to bring hope and healing to the most hopeless of circumstances. I am licensed in both North Carolina and Alabama and see clients via telehealth in both states.
(256) 286-5456 View (256) 286-5456
Photo of Mindy K Warguez, MEd, NCC, LCMHCA
Mindy K Warguez
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MEd, NCC, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Summerfield, NC 27358  (Online Only)
Are you feeling like something isn’t quite right? Maybe you know why, maybe you don’t—either way, I can help. We'll get to the root together, gain clarity and explore areas for growth. I specialize in helping individuals navigate anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief, and various traumas. I also see couples seeking conflict resolution or improved communication & connection. My sessions promote self-exploration through curiosity & compassion, & learning customized skills for your unique needs and desired goals. I’m trained in EMDR, and am competent in military & veteran issues. You don’t have to do this alone. I can help.
Are you feeling like something isn’t quite right? Maybe you know why, maybe you don’t—either way, I can help. We'll get to the root together, gain clarity and explore areas for growth. I specialize in helping individuals navigate anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief, and various traumas. I also see couples seeking conflict resolution or improved communication & connection. My sessions promote self-exploration through curiosity & compassion, & learning customized skills for your unique needs and desired goals. I’m trained in EMDR, and am competent in military & veteran issues. You don’t have to do this alone. I can help.
(336) 828-2544 View (336) 828-2544
Photo of Kristen Spell, MA, LCMHC, RPT, NCC
Kristen Spell
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, RPT, NCC
Verified Verified
Summerfield, NC 27358  (Online Only)
I am passionate about working with clients with ADHD who are anxious, overwhelmed, and want more out of life. I want to help ADHDers learn how to be connected to their body and improve their relationship with themselves. I work with clients to process their experiences while also sharing realistic tools, skills, and techniques to support anxiety, ADHD, and depression symptoms. During sessions, we may review relationships/attachments, childhood, traumas, family cycles, etc. My goal is to bring awareness to ADHD symptoms, connect clients to appropriate supports, and process emotional responses.
I am passionate about working with clients with ADHD who are anxious, overwhelmed, and want more out of life. I want to help ADHDers learn how to be connected to their body and improve their relationship with themselves. I work with clients to process their experiences while also sharing realistic tools, skills, and techniques to support anxiety, ADHD, and depression symptoms. During sessions, we may review relationships/attachments, childhood, traumas, family cycles, etc. My goal is to bring awareness to ADHD symptoms, connect clients to appropriate supports, and process emotional responses.
(980) 243-4083 View (980) 243-4083
Photo of Vanessa Talley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vanessa Talley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Summerfield, NC 27358
I believe in the process of collaborative work toward healing. I use a compassionate, strengths-based, and nonjudgmental approach. I utilize EMDR, CBT, Grief Counseling, Strength-centered, MBSR, and Positive Psychology.
I believe in the process of collaborative work toward healing. I use a compassionate, strengths-based, and nonjudgmental approach. I utilize EMDR, CBT, Grief Counseling, Strength-centered, MBSR, and Positive Psychology.
(980) 341-2712 View (980) 341-2712
Photo of Chris Elliott, NCC, LPCA, Counselor
Chris Elliott
Counselor, NCC, LPCA
Verified Verified
Summerfield, NC 27358
I have worked with children, teens, and families for the past sixteen years, first in an educational capacity and then in counseling and mentorship. While in graduate school for counseling, coursework has included family systems, marital conflict, crisis, career, human sexuality, and addictive behaviors. My practicum has involved domestic violence and sexual assault victims and perpetrators. My internship has included a very diverse population and a variety of concerns, but I have developed my focus toward teenagers, families, and couples. My passion is to help teens and families achieve their potential and live from a perspective of optimal holistic wellness.
I have worked with children, teens, and families for the past sixteen years, first in an educational capacity and then in counseling and mentorship. While in graduate school for counseling, coursework has included family systems, marital conflict, crisis, career, human sexuality, and addictive behaviors. My practicum has involved domestic violence and sexual assault victims and perpetrators. My internship has included a very diverse population and a variety of concerns, but I have developed my focus toward teenagers, families, and couples. My passion is to help teens and families achieve their potential and live from a perspective of optimal holistic wellness.
(336) 777-7499 View (336) 777-7499
Photo of Hannah Cox - Triad Child & Family Counseling, PLLC, LCMHC
Triad Child & Family Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Summerfield, NC 27358
Triad Child & Family Counseling, PLLC is a specialty practice dedicated to providing counseling and consultative services to children, adolescents and their families. We are focused on the family. Childhood and adolescence is time of tremendous growth and change, with a multitude of opportunities to learn. Often times during development, children and teens need support adapting and navigating through life's struggles in order to maintain a healthy path.
Triad Child & Family Counseling, PLLC is a specialty practice dedicated to providing counseling and consultative services to children, adolescents and their families. We are focused on the family. Childhood and adolescence is time of tremendous growth and change, with a multitude of opportunities to learn. Often times during development, children and teens need support adapting and navigating through life's struggles in order to maintain a healthy path.
(336) 792-3346 View (336) 792-3346
Photo of Jennifer Kiszely-Ainbinder, MS, LCMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Kiszely-Ainbinder
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Summerfield, NC 27358
Feeling stuck? Stressed? Counseling may be your answer. Working together, I help my clients find relief from their emotional pain and assist them in finding a path they can feel good about. Superior therapy is dependent on the quality of the relationship between therapist and client. I prefer to treat my clients the way I want to be treated by my health care providers; with respect for their time, a warm personality, and with a positive attitude. Please note I formerly practiced under the surname Bressler.
Feeling stuck? Stressed? Counseling may be your answer. Working together, I help my clients find relief from their emotional pain and assist them in finding a path they can feel good about. Superior therapy is dependent on the quality of the relationship between therapist and client. I prefer to treat my clients the way I want to be treated by my health care providers; with respect for their time, a warm personality, and with a positive attitude. Please note I formerly practiced under the surname Bressler.
(336) 310-6487 View (336) 310-6487
Photo of Amanda Davis Whicker, LCMHCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amanda Davis Whicker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
Summerfield, NC 27358
Do you ever feel something is just off and you can't put your finger on it? Do you know something is wrong and you want to talk with someone, but you don't feel comfortable talking with your friends and/or family? Are you fighting anxiety, stress, anger, grief and maybe some other issues and you want to feel better? AW Counseling is a safe place to be able to come and talk out those feelings, thoughts and emotions and be able to devleop new skills.
Do you ever feel something is just off and you can't put your finger on it? Do you know something is wrong and you want to talk with someone, but you don't feel comfortable talking with your friends and/or family? Are you fighting anxiety, stress, anger, grief and maybe some other issues and you want to feel better? AW Counseling is a safe place to be able to come and talk out those feelings, thoughts and emotions and be able to devleop new skills.
(336) 551-8135 View (336) 551-8135
1

See more therapy options for Summerfield

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.