Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Asbury, NJ

Photo of Sasha R Berger, PhD, Psychologist
Sasha R Berger
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asbury, NJ 08802
I specialize in relationally-oriented trauma-focused therapy.
You may find yourself feeling "stuck" in your current experience, repeating patterns that no longer serve you, and are unsure of how to get out of the cycle.  You may be new to therapy, and unsure of what you would even talk about, but have a sense that you are impacted by past events in your life that you haven't fully addressed.  Or, you may be arriving here after years of therapy, frustrated with a lack of progress with previous treatment that, while perhaps helpful, did not seem to address some of your core issues.  Regardless of your history, or how long you've been struggling, meaningful change and growth is possible.
I specialize in relationally-oriented trauma-focused therapy.
You may find yourself feeling "stuck" in your current experience, repeating patterns that no longer serve you, and are unsure of how to get out of the cycle.  You may be new to therapy, and unsure of what you would even talk about, but have a sense that you are impacted by past events in your life that you haven't fully addressed.  Or, you may be arriving here after years of therapy, frustrated with a lack of progress with previous treatment that, while perhaps helpful, did not seem to address some of your core issues.  Regardless of your history, or how long you've been struggling, meaningful change and growth is possible.
(908) 860-9623 View (908) 860-9623
Photo of Wanda Y Quezada - Dr. Wanda Y. Quezada, Ed D, LPC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Wanda Y. Quezada
Licensed Professional Counselor, Ed D, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Asbury, NJ 08802  (Online Only)
Our mission at Faithlift and Hope, LLC is to instill a seed of hope in each of our clients while lifting them up in their emotional, mental and even spiritual life. We welcome all people of gender, ages, and spiritual backgrounds.
Our mission at Faithlift and Hope, LLC is to instill a seed of hope in each of our clients while lifting them up in their emotional, mental and even spiritual life. We welcome all people of gender, ages, and spiritual backgrounds.
(848) 208-8513 View (848) 208-8513
Photo of Ilona (Missy) Giordano, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ilona (Missy) Giordano
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Asbury, NJ 08802  (Online Only)
I am a down to earth counselor whose style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I do not believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, client-centered and mindfulness therapy's. I am always open to more approaches if the direction is necessary. I am kind and pride myself on being open and honest with my clients. Connection and Understanding produce trust. As trust begins to happen, Validation can start to begin and then the changing/healing whatever process you need to go through can and will begin.
I am a down to earth counselor whose style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I do not believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, client-centered and mindfulness therapy's. I am always open to more approaches if the direction is necessary. I am kind and pride myself on being open and honest with my clients. Connection and Understanding produce trust. As trust begins to happen, Validation can start to begin and then the changing/healing whatever process you need to go through can and will begin.
(908) 676-6892 View (908) 676-6892
Photo of Israel Martinez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Israel Martinez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Asbury, NJ 08802  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in work with the LGBTQ+, consensually non-monogamous, and kink/BDSM communities. Are you worried that most therapists will not truly understand you or that you will have to censor yourself in therapy because of your sexual and/or gender minority status? I had these same concerns and they motivated me to become a psychotherapist who could help others like me. We will work together in a safe and relaxing environment to discover and actualize the solutions you need in order to live a more fulfilling life.
I specialize in work with the LGBTQ+, consensually non-monogamous, and kink/BDSM communities. Are you worried that most therapists will not truly understand you or that you will have to censor yourself in therapy because of your sexual and/or gender minority status? I had these same concerns and they motivated me to become a psychotherapist who could help others like me. We will work together in a safe and relaxing environment to discover and actualize the solutions you need in order to live a more fulfilling life.
(973) 617-2618 View (973) 617-2618
Photo of Olivia Pruznick - Olivia Pruznick - Mind & Body CCS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Olivia Pruznick - Mind & Body CCS
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Asbury, NJ 08802
I have an approach that is strength based, person-centered, and motivational. I try to take an inquisitive approach to identify and help you overcome barriers with empowerment and encouragement. My goal is to create a nonjudgmental, brave space where clients feel safe to process and find compassion for the unhealed parts of themselves. While my most common treatment modalities are attachment based, existential, internal family systems, and motivational interviewing; I will incorporate treatments best fit for each individual. I respect that your journey with change over time and our sessions will always accommodate that.
I have an approach that is strength based, person-centered, and motivational. I try to take an inquisitive approach to identify and help you overcome barriers with empowerment and encouragement. My goal is to create a nonjudgmental, brave space where clients feel safe to process and find compassion for the unhealed parts of themselves. While my most common treatment modalities are attachment based, existential, internal family systems, and motivational interviewing; I will incorporate treatments best fit for each individual. I respect that your journey with change over time and our sessions will always accommodate that.
(908) 402-1627 View (908) 402-1627

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Ana Diaz Lopez, MA, DSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Ana Diaz Lopez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annandale, NJ 08801
Waitlist for new clients
I provide a trauma-informed, client centered space that supports healing and empowerment.
I am a NJ Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Doctoral Degree in Social Work. For the last decade I have worked with youth, adults, and families healing from trauma and PTSD. I specialize in working with individuals who have been impacted by child sexual abuse, sexual violence, and domestic violence as well as those coping with grief and loss, anxiety, and depression.
I provide a trauma-informed, client centered space that supports healing and empowerment.
I am a NJ Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Doctoral Degree in Social Work. For the last decade I have worked with youth, adults, and families healing from trauma and PTSD. I specialize in working with individuals who have been impacted by child sexual abuse, sexual violence, and domestic violence as well as those coping with grief and loss, anxiety, and depression.
(908) 869-8257 View (908) 869-8257
Photo of Danielle E Marino - Creative Growth Arts Therapy, MA, LPAT, ATR-BC, Art Therapist
Creative Growth Arts Therapy
Art Therapist, MA, LPAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Hampton, NJ 08827
Clients and I will engage in a variety of art modalities and techniques, intertwined with diverse psychological approaches striving to alleviate the effects of stress, trauma and anxiety on the mind, body, and soul.
The first step is where growth begins. I am a NJ Licensed Professional Art Therapist & a Registered-Board Certified Art Therapist. I am passionately dedicated to encouraging clients to utilize the creative arts, music, relaxation techniques and verbal expression to help persevere life challenges, identify and understand emotions, increase self-esteem, develop and/or enhance coping strategies, improve mood regulation, decrease problematic symptoms related to a diagnosis and provide support as clients let go of limitations in a safe non-judgmental space.
Clients and I will engage in a variety of art modalities and techniques, intertwined with diverse psychological approaches striving to alleviate the effects of stress, trauma and anxiety on the mind, body, and soul.
The first step is where growth begins. I am a NJ Licensed Professional Art Therapist & a Registered-Board Certified Art Therapist. I am passionately dedicated to encouraging clients to utilize the creative arts, music, relaxation techniques and verbal expression to help persevere life challenges, identify and understand emotions, increase self-esteem, develop and/or enhance coping strategies, improve mood regulation, decrease problematic symptoms related to a diagnosis and provide support as clients let go of limitations in a safe non-judgmental space.
(908) 540-6940 View (908) 540-6940
Photo of Gwen Blake Birch Tree Therapeutic Arts, EdS, LPC, MFT, ICST, SAC, SAC,CZT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gwen Blake Birch Tree Therapeutic Arts
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC, MFT, ICST, SAC, SAC,CZT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Clinton, NJ 08809
Together we explore stressors and increase your ability to clear anxiety, trauma, loss, behavior, attention, and relationship struggles.
New Clients welcome! It is wonderful to live a meaningful, congruent and focused life. Creating clarity and identifying what needs change in your life opens new ways to cope, creating space for amazing changes in you today and tomorrows. Managing stress is a critical part of therapeutic healing in our life struggles which cause avoidance, overthinking, big emotions, or unhelpful habits and attitudes, which cycle and leave you feeling frustrated and feeling ineffective. Individuals (child-adults), couples, and families are welcome. I offer appointments (8am - 8pm) in my new office space (and online).
Together we explore stressors and increase your ability to clear anxiety, trauma, loss, behavior, attention, and relationship struggles.
New Clients welcome! It is wonderful to live a meaningful, congruent and focused life. Creating clarity and identifying what needs change in your life opens new ways to cope, creating space for amazing changes in you today and tomorrows. Managing stress is a critical part of therapeutic healing in our life struggles which cause avoidance, overthinking, big emotions, or unhelpful habits and attitudes, which cycle and leave you feeling frustrated and feeling ineffective. Individuals (child-adults), couples, and families are welcome. I offer appointments (8am - 8pm) in my new office space (and online).
(908) 838-4184 View (908) 838-4184
Photo of Jackie Coburger, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jackie Coburger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lebanon, NJ 08833
Waitlist for new clients
If you want to work through a current issue or heal from a past experience or trauma, I can help you meet your goals.
Hello, do any of the these statements sound like what you are going through? Replaying the past or rehearsing the future. Difficulty adjusting to a transition ,even a positive change can be difficult. Struggling in your relationships, or struggling internally. You feel like you can't keep up with all the stressors and pressures in your life. You are barely holding on. These are some of the reasons you may be considering therapy. I know it can be really hard to decide to try therapy, and to take the leap to make that first call/email. Psychotherapy can open the door for you to live your life with clarity and a true sense of peace.
If you want to work through a current issue or heal from a past experience or trauma, I can help you meet your goals.
Hello, do any of the these statements sound like what you are going through? Replaying the past or rehearsing the future. Difficulty adjusting to a transition ,even a positive change can be difficult. Struggling in your relationships, or struggling internally. You feel like you can't keep up with all the stressors and pressures in your life. You are barely holding on. These are some of the reasons you may be considering therapy. I know it can be really hard to decide to try therapy, and to take the leap to make that first call/email. Psychotherapy can open the door for you to live your life with clarity and a true sense of peace.
(732) 538-8233 View (732) 538-8233
Photo of Adrianna R. Daly, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adrianna R. Daly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Phillipsburg, NJ 08865
I am well-versed in treating addiction, depression, anxiety, trauma, LGBTQ+ issues and much more.
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who approaches therapy with a warm and compassionate perspective. My goal is to help empower you to unlock your full potential in a safe, non-judgmental space so you can become the best version of yourself
I am well-versed in treating addiction, depression, anxiety, trauma, LGBTQ+ issues and much more.
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who approaches therapy with a warm and compassionate perspective. My goal is to help empower you to unlock your full potential in a safe, non-judgmental space so you can become the best version of yourself
(908) 545-9744 View (908) 545-9744
Photo of Janet McCulloch - Janet McCulloch at Village Counseling Services, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janet McCulloch at Village Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Frenchtown, NJ 08825
I offer trauma Informed individualized treatment using a holistic approach utilizing client centered, evidenced based practices to promote growth and healthy adaptation to change.
Learning to grieve losses and adapt to life changes are challenges we will all face. A major loss such as the death of a loved one, divorce, or loss of a job can be devastating. Creating a new chapter in your life can be overwhelming. Working with a skilled, compassionate therapist in a safe, nurturing environment can provide critical support and guidance. My goal is to help you find light and hope during a dark time and to teach new coping skills to allow for healing and personal growth. Reaching out is the hardest part. I’d love to talk to you about your unique situation and needs.
I offer trauma Informed individualized treatment using a holistic approach utilizing client centered, evidenced based practices to promote growth and healthy adaptation to change.
Learning to grieve losses and adapt to life changes are challenges we will all face. A major loss such as the death of a loved one, divorce, or loss of a job can be devastating. Creating a new chapter in your life can be overwhelming. Working with a skilled, compassionate therapist in a safe, nurturing environment can provide critical support and guidance. My goal is to help you find light and hope during a dark time and to teach new coping skills to allow for healing and personal growth. Reaching out is the hardest part. I’d love to talk to you about your unique situation and needs.
(609) 844-0452 x713 View (609) 844-0452 x713
Photo of Darryl Coleman, Darryl Coleman, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Darryl Coleman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Darryl Coleman, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Alpha, NJ 08865  (Online Only)
True Healing happens in safe spaces, but also where we can move beyond our limiting beliefs. Creating a space where your values and identity are honored, is paramount. Our trauma-informed approach allows you to reprocess past experiences that are impacting your present life situations, success, and goals. I believe that our childhood and upbringing informs our present but does not hold it prisoner and it is time to become the best version of yourself for you and your loved ones. Specifically I help with mens issues, improving relationships, recommitting to your own success, and helping you to address addiction issues in all forms.
True Healing happens in safe spaces, but also where we can move beyond our limiting beliefs. Creating a space where your values and identity are honored, is paramount. Our trauma-informed approach allows you to reprocess past experiences that are impacting your present life situations, success, and goals. I believe that our childhood and upbringing informs our present but does not hold it prisoner and it is time to become the best version of yourself for you and your loved ones. Specifically I help with mens issues, improving relationships, recommitting to your own success, and helping you to address addiction issues in all forms.
(908) 224-4385 View (908) 224-4385
Photo of Pamela Zamel, PhD, EdM, Psychologist
Pamela Zamel
Psychologist, PhD, EdM
Verified Verified
Clinton, NJ 08809
I work with a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, and grief and loss.
I embrace a client-centered, strength based, integrative style of therapy. My goal is to provide a compassionate space where clients can move towards greater mental and emotional balance and wholeness. My clinical approach is an integration of somatic therapy, internal family systems, eco-psychology and polyvagal theory . This model supports embodiment, self-acceptance and regulation as keys to balance, vitality and creative self- expression.
I work with a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, and grief and loss.
I embrace a client-centered, strength based, integrative style of therapy. My goal is to provide a compassionate space where clients can move towards greater mental and emotional balance and wholeness. My clinical approach is an integration of somatic therapy, internal family systems, eco-psychology and polyvagal theory . This model supports embodiment, self-acceptance and regulation as keys to balance, vitality and creative self- expression.
(908) 395-7205 View (908) 395-7205
Photo of Melissa Von Der Heide, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melissa Von Der Heide
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Clinton, NJ 08809
I have worked extensively with children in the foster care system, victims of trauma, and those who are grieving.
Thank you so much for visiting my page. Unfortunately at this time, I am unable to accept new clients. Counseling is not for the broken, it's for the breathing- Josh Shipp. I work with children, adolescents, couples, and families and approach therapy from a systems perspective. Therapy is client centered but a collaborative approach is used to help you meet your goals. I have created an environment that provides comfort and allows you to speak freely about your concerns while helping you to come to a place of peace and a better understanding of yourself.
I have worked extensively with children in the foster care system, victims of trauma, and those who are grieving.
Thank you so much for visiting my page. Unfortunately at this time, I am unable to accept new clients. Counseling is not for the broken, it's for the breathing- Josh Shipp. I work with children, adolescents, couples, and families and approach therapy from a systems perspective. Therapy is client centered but a collaborative approach is used to help you meet your goals. I have created an environment that provides comfort and allows you to speak freely about your concerns while helping you to come to a place of peace and a better understanding of yourself.
(908) 546-1355 View (908) 546-1355
Photo of Francis Leonard Guenther - Guenther Therapeutic Services LLC, PhD, Psychologist
Guenther Therapeutic Services LLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Pittstown, NJ 08867
Executive functioning training, cognitive behavioral work, and trauma inoculation work.
Clients with overlapping issues such as ADHD and mood disorders, Families in need of IEP and school advocacy. Individuals struggling with lingering effects of trauma.
Executive functioning training, cognitive behavioral work, and trauma inoculation work.
Clients with overlapping issues such as ADHD and mood disorders, Families in need of IEP and school advocacy. Individuals struggling with lingering effects of trauma.
(908) 883-3541 View (908) 883-3541
Photo of Amy E. Glaser, MA,  LPC, LPAT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy E. Glaser
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LPAT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Clinton, NJ 08809
I treat anxiety, trauma, PTSD, grief, loss and provide LGBTQIA-affirming care.
Overwhelming emotions such as fear and anxiety, and sadness and loss can make each day a struggle. Alternately, feeling numb may cause a hollowness in living. Perhaps you wonder what has happened to you or your life. However, becoming more at ease, stronger, and more vibrant is possible. You can find a sense of peaceful empowerment, inner strength, and an increased capacity for living. Imagine trusting yourself to handle what life may bring. There are practices to help you achieve these outcomes. I am experienced with these practices and will share them with you.
I treat anxiety, trauma, PTSD, grief, loss and provide LGBTQIA-affirming care.
Overwhelming emotions such as fear and anxiety, and sadness and loss can make each day a struggle. Alternately, feeling numb may cause a hollowness in living. Perhaps you wonder what has happened to you or your life. However, becoming more at ease, stronger, and more vibrant is possible. You can find a sense of peaceful empowerment, inner strength, and an increased capacity for living. Imagine trusting yourself to handle what life may bring. There are practices to help you achieve these outcomes. I am experienced with these practices and will share them with you.
(908) 345-5554 View (908) 345-5554
Photo of Kelly Ciardiello, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelly Ciardiello
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Clinton, NJ 08809
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in New Jersey with 8 years of experience working with children, teens and adults struggling with various issues such as depression, anxiety, mood disorders and trauma.
Daytime openings before 2 available! Licensed in NJ and PA—-It takes courage to seek out mental health treatment, so I am glad you are here! I believe that people are doing the best they can with what they have and coping the best way they know how based on past experiences. Are you tired of dysfunctional relationships, negative coping mechanisms and negative thought patterns? If you are looking to make positive changes in your life I would love to connect with you to help you on your journey!
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in New Jersey with 8 years of experience working with children, teens and adults struggling with various issues such as depression, anxiety, mood disorders and trauma.
Daytime openings before 2 available! Licensed in NJ and PA—-It takes courage to seek out mental health treatment, so I am glad you are here! I believe that people are doing the best they can with what they have and coping the best way they know how based on past experiences. Are you tired of dysfunctional relationships, negative coping mechanisms and negative thought patterns? If you are looking to make positive changes in your life I would love to connect with you to help you on your journey!
(908) 386-3100 View (908) 386-3100
Photo of Katherine L. Dorfman, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katherine L. Dorfman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Frenchtown, NJ 08825
Katherine co-authored award winning, published research that explored the efficacy of EMDR therapy on survivors of domestic violence and sexual trauma.
Somewhere along the way life started feeling like an unwanted gift with a no-return policy. It continues to feel hard, heavy and burdensome. You want something better than the status quo because what you feel is unhappy, overwhelmed, and misunderstood. You are ready to feel heard in a safe and warm space. I work to help my clients find relief from their difficult feelings that are rooted in some of the most painful moments of their lives. Together we will explore the chapters of your life - uncovering where you are feeling “stuck”- or why that random thing about that random person is still gnawing at you years later.
Katherine co-authored award winning, published research that explored the efficacy of EMDR therapy on survivors of domestic violence and sexual trauma.
Somewhere along the way life started feeling like an unwanted gift with a no-return policy. It continues to feel hard, heavy and burdensome. You want something better than the status quo because what you feel is unhappy, overwhelmed, and misunderstood. You are ready to feel heard in a safe and warm space. I work to help my clients find relief from their difficult feelings that are rooted in some of the most painful moments of their lives. Together we will explore the chapters of your life - uncovering where you are feeling “stuck”- or why that random thing about that random person is still gnawing at you years later.
(609) 739-7038 View (609) 739-7038
Photo of Rebekah McCarver, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebekah McCarver
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phillipsburg, NJ 08865  (Online Only)
I have experience working with people with DID, OSDD, PTSD, as well as eating disorders, depression, and anxiety.
Therapy can be a new and scary addition to life’s routine, or chaos, and I'm excited to see you here! I come from a place of authenticity, genuine human connection, and kindness with each person I meet. I want to help build a genuine connection where you feel comfortable and let down the walls to explore your needs within the realm of mental health.
I have experience working with people with DID, OSDD, PTSD, as well as eating disorders, depression, and anxiety.
Therapy can be a new and scary addition to life’s routine, or chaos, and I'm excited to see you here! I come from a place of authenticity, genuine human connection, and kindness with each person I meet. I want to help build a genuine connection where you feel comfortable and let down the walls to explore your needs within the realm of mental health.
(512) 768-4219 View (512) 768-4219
Photo of Susan Brody, MA,  LAC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Susan Brody
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phillipsburg, NJ 08865
Whether it's stress, trauma, PTSD, grief/loss, ADD/ADHD, adoptee struggles, or creative & performance blocks, together, we can discover those patterns of behavior/thought that no longer protect you or the triggers & blocks that get in your way.
Do you sometimes feel isolated, invisible, stuck, or uncertain of what's next? Perhaps I can help! Clients have told me that I am not a typical talk therapist. I work with adults of all ages and specialize in the concerns of trauma survivors, older adults and aging, and adult women with ADD/ADHD using an eclectic toolbox of proven counseling methods and the latest from neuro-science. I combine talk therapy with mind-body and somatic approaches such as Mindfulness, Polyvagal techniques and NET (Neuro-Emotional Technique). My wellness approach encompasses mind, body and spirit with a feminist and multi-cultural perspective.
Whether it's stress, trauma, PTSD, grief/loss, ADD/ADHD, adoptee struggles, or creative & performance blocks, together, we can discover those patterns of behavior/thought that no longer protect you or the triggers & blocks that get in your way.
Do you sometimes feel isolated, invisible, stuck, or uncertain of what's next? Perhaps I can help! Clients have told me that I am not a typical talk therapist. I work with adults of all ages and specialize in the concerns of trauma survivors, older adults and aging, and adult women with ADD/ADHD using an eclectic toolbox of proven counseling methods and the latest from neuro-science. I combine talk therapy with mind-body and somatic approaches such as Mindfulness, Polyvagal techniques and NET (Neuro-Emotional Technique). My wellness approach encompasses mind, body and spirit with a feminist and multi-cultural perspective.
(610) 632-7359 View (610) 632-7359

See more therapy options for Asbury

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.