Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Cedar Grove, NJ
![Photo of Sarah Friedland, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/22b19850-01cb-4e35-ada4-34482b4e1360/1/320x400.jpeg)
My background includes the special education field, psychiatric rehabilitation, crisis intervention, trauma, substance abuse, and program management.
I see the counseling experience as being similar to solving a jigsaw puzzle. When an individual enters my office with a box of pieces, maybe having a partial picture, maybe some of the pieces seem lost; I see it as my responsibility to provide a safe and nurturing environment that allows the individual to explore the most difficult aspects of themselves so together the missing pieces can be found and the individual can create the whole picture they want to see.
My background includes the special education field, psychiatric rehabilitation, crisis intervention, trauma, substance abuse, and program management.
I see the counseling experience as being similar to solving a jigsaw puzzle. When an individual enters my office with a box of pieces, maybe having a partial picture, maybe some of the pieces seem lost; I see it as my responsibility to provide a safe and nurturing environment that allows the individual to explore the most difficult aspects of themselves so together the missing pieces can be found and the individual can create the whole picture they want to see.
![Photo of Dr. Mike Filiaci, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ec9f5c0-a956-4447-9ec2-dd55c0425d63/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship distress, but also treat a wide range of mental-health related conditions.
I believe that developing a genuinely trusting and real connection with your therapist is one of the most important aspects of psychotherapy. Coping with any form of emotional distress can be a lonely and overwhelming experience, and trying to manage life’s demands while feeling physically or mentally exhausted may seem impossible. My first priority is to develop a collaborative plan together, to directly address your individualized treatment needs. I will provide an authentic, nonjudgmental environment that can help promote a sense of safety, support, positive change, and genuine insight into some of your presenting concerns.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship distress, but also treat a wide range of mental-health related conditions.
I believe that developing a genuinely trusting and real connection with your therapist is one of the most important aspects of psychotherapy. Coping with any form of emotional distress can be a lonely and overwhelming experience, and trying to manage life’s demands while feeling physically or mentally exhausted may seem impossible. My first priority is to develop a collaborative plan together, to directly address your individualized treatment needs. I will provide an authentic, nonjudgmental environment that can help promote a sense of safety, support, positive change, and genuine insight into some of your presenting concerns.
![Photo of Brendan Guarino, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1e5c77a1-2163-4ecf-9809-8940a859aa0f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Grounded in evidence-based modalities like DBT and CBT, I specialize in treating anxiety and trauma with expertise in working with first responders.
The human experience is characterized by a blend of uncertainty and challenges that arise, demanding our attention and resilience. These challenges manifest in various forms, often triggering feelings of anxiety, sadness, and a sense of loss and overwhelm. However, what if amidst these struggles lies an opportunity for empowerment? What if we could reframe our perspective, viewing each day as an avenue for growth, learning, and self-discovery? By harnessing the power within our everyday difficulties, we have the potential to transform our mindset, cultivate resilience, and ultimately thrive amidst life's uncertainties.
Grounded in evidence-based modalities like DBT and CBT, I specialize in treating anxiety and trauma with expertise in working with first responders.
The human experience is characterized by a blend of uncertainty and challenges that arise, demanding our attention and resilience. These challenges manifest in various forms, often triggering feelings of anxiety, sadness, and a sense of loss and overwhelm. However, what if amidst these struggles lies an opportunity for empowerment? What if we could reframe our perspective, viewing each day as an avenue for growth, learning, and self-discovery? By harnessing the power within our everyday difficulties, we have the potential to transform our mindset, cultivate resilience, and ultimately thrive amidst life's uncertainties.
![Photo of Leora Perlman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d292369-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Leora Perlman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cedar Grove, NJ 07009
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with individuals coping with trauma, sensitive sexual issues, and challenges faced by LGBTQ individuals.
My work is dedicated to helping you embrace who you are in order to live a fulfilling and balanced life. I focus on developing your ability to understand the powerful connection between your mind and body. This insight facilitates a path toward healing from current and past challenges. During the course of our work, I will help you develop your "Emotional Intelligence" (understanding of what motivates feelings and actions) and acquire the tools needed to overcome barriers blocking growth and change. Once you gain these coping skills, you will find yourself open to loving relationships, living in the present and creating a more fulfilling life.
I specialize in working with individuals coping with trauma, sensitive sexual issues, and challenges faced by LGBTQ individuals.
My work is dedicated to helping you embrace who you are in order to live a fulfilling and balanced life. I focus on developing your ability to understand the powerful connection between your mind and body. This insight facilitates a path toward healing from current and past challenges. During the course of our work, I will help you develop your "Emotional Intelligence" (understanding of what motivates feelings and actions) and acquire the tools needed to overcome barriers blocking growth and change. Once you gain these coping skills, you will find yourself open to loving relationships, living in the present and creating a more fulfilling life.
![Photo of Christopher J Ratte, LCSW, LCADC, IFS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fb0f51d2-9c9b-43df-a85d-5794202dcc26/2/320x400.jpeg)
Christopher J Ratte
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC, IFS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cedar Grove, NJ 07009
This experience has allowed me to cultivate a comfort and confidence in treating numerous client concerns; be it emotional, interpersonal, psychiatric, addictions (early and advanced recovery enhancement needs), trauma recovery, adjustment, sexual identity, eating disorders, compulsive gambling, mood disorders, self-esteem, anger management, spiritual concerns and creativity enhancement.
Recovery is not a solitary journey; it is about connection with self and others. As we enter into the process of therapy you will have the opportunity to experience inner connection and awareness leading to Self expansion and outer growth. I believe strongly that our primary task is to continue your journey of self exploration; to seek the wealth of potential, strength, compassion, understanding, and openness that lies within. It is your ability to connect with these that will serve as your greatest asset in obtaining whatever goals you have coming into therapy.
This experience has allowed me to cultivate a comfort and confidence in treating numerous client concerns; be it emotional, interpersonal, psychiatric, addictions (early and advanced recovery enhancement needs), trauma recovery, adjustment, sexual identity, eating disorders, compulsive gambling, mood disorders, self-esteem, anger management, spiritual concerns and creativity enhancement.
Recovery is not a solitary journey; it is about connection with self and others. As we enter into the process of therapy you will have the opportunity to experience inner connection and awareness leading to Self expansion and outer growth. I believe strongly that our primary task is to continue your journey of self exploration; to seek the wealth of potential, strength, compassion, understanding, and openness that lies within. It is your ability to connect with these that will serve as your greatest asset in obtaining whatever goals you have coming into therapy.
![Photo of Kathy Lutz, LCSW, LCADC, CTRI, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c36afa6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kathy Lutz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC, CTRI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cedar Grove, NJ 07009 (Online Only)
Childhood trauma, physical and emotional abuse, and PTSD contribute to the dysregulation of the brain's response to stress.
If addiction has taken over your life, now is the time to do something about it. Life is too short to be unhappy. I offer a warm, confidential environment to help you find the clarity you need to break the cycle of addiction so you and those around you may lead happier lives. I also offer help for co-occurring issues: mood regulation, anxiety, anger management, trauma, and high functioning autism. I am trained in EMDR, Mindfulness Practices and Stress Reduction. In addition, I frequently work in consultation with other therapists' clients, providing EMDR and substance abuse assessments and treatment.
Childhood trauma, physical and emotional abuse, and PTSD contribute to the dysregulation of the brain's response to stress.
If addiction has taken over your life, now is the time to do something about it. Life is too short to be unhappy. I offer a warm, confidential environment to help you find the clarity you need to break the cycle of addiction so you and those around you may lead happier lives. I also offer help for co-occurring issues: mood regulation, anxiety, anger management, trauma, and high functioning autism. I am trained in EMDR, Mindfulness Practices and Stress Reduction. In addition, I frequently work in consultation with other therapists' clients, providing EMDR and substance abuse assessments and treatment.
![Photo of George Smith, LPC, LCADC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/289c74f6-8871-43d2-b546-79e8e1ec3184/2/320x400.jpeg)
George Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC, ACS
Verified Verified
Cedar Grove, NJ 07009
I have experience treating trauma and PTSD and have facilitated a trauma based and currently a Program Supervisor of a Mental Health OP.
You have already made the first step in a what can be a very overwhelming process. Deciding to enter therapy and finding the right therapist is difficult. I want to ensure you that I will listen to your issues and help you develop appropriate coping strategies. I will provide a safe environment that promotes a comfortable atmosphere. My goal is to utilize my mental health and addiction experience to ease your pain and increase your well being.
I have experience treating trauma and PTSD and have facilitated a trauma based and currently a Program Supervisor of a Mental Health OP.
You have already made the first step in a what can be a very overwhelming process. Deciding to enter therapy and finding the right therapist is difficult. I want to ensure you that I will listen to your issues and help you develop appropriate coping strategies. I will provide a safe environment that promotes a comfortable atmosphere. My goal is to utilize my mental health and addiction experience to ease your pain and increase your well being.
![Photo of Elaina Benedetto, LAC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/488b956a-60e3-4dab-9d8f-13a1d38f8a07/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sometimes, life can be overwhelming, and counseling is a positive first step toward overcoming these challenges. My objective is to help you acknowledge your strengths, celebrate them, and build on them while exploring any daily issues you encounter. I believe in developing meaningful and trustworthy relationships with my clients, and I will adapt to meet you wherever you are on your journey, allowing you to work towards your goals at your own pace. I have experience working with youth through adults in areas such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, social skills, trauma, relationship problems, stress, and family conflicts.
Sometimes, life can be overwhelming, and counseling is a positive first step toward overcoming these challenges. My objective is to help you acknowledge your strengths, celebrate them, and build on them while exploring any daily issues you encounter. I believe in developing meaningful and trustworthy relationships with my clients, and I will adapt to meet you wherever you are on your journey, allowing you to work towards your goals at your own pace. I have experience working with youth through adults in areas such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, social skills, trauma, relationship problems, stress, and family conflicts.
![Photo of Susan J Hodos, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bb92023-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Susan J Hodos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cedar Grove, NJ 07009 (Online Only)
Listening to the narrative of every person's life is fascinating to me. I am empathic, interactive and am a firm believer that good therapy brings results that make people feel more comfortable, empowered, and gives you the strength that is needed to grow. Therapy begins with identifying destructive themes that repeatedly arise, and interfere with one's life. I believe that therapy should be transformative, and provide a healing experience. I am particularly skilled in working with panic disorder/, depression, divorce conflict, and trauma, including sexual abuse.
Listening to the narrative of every person's life is fascinating to me. I am empathic, interactive and am a firm believer that good therapy brings results that make people feel more comfortable, empowered, and gives you the strength that is needed to grow. Therapy begins with identifying destructive themes that repeatedly arise, and interfere with one's life. I believe that therapy should be transformative, and provide a healing experience. I am particularly skilled in working with panic disorder/, depression, divorce conflict, and trauma, including sexual abuse.
![Photo of Tessa A. Vining, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c0431c3a-e7aa-474b-96ec-e7d4af441ec4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tessa A. Vining
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cedar Grove, NJ 07009
About Me: I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC), and an Accredited Clinical Supervisor in NJ with over 20 years of experience working with adolescents, young adults, families, and couples. My work over the years, particularly with people struggling with addiction, has demonstrated how physical and emotional trauma can affect our well-being and how a holistic approach can offer long-lasting healing and transformation.
About Me: I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC), and an Accredited Clinical Supervisor in NJ with over 20 years of experience working with adolescents, young adults, families, and couples. My work over the years, particularly with people struggling with addiction, has demonstrated how physical and emotional trauma can affect our well-being and how a holistic approach can offer long-lasting healing and transformation.
![Photo of Maha Souman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a1f8e643-d2a7-4455-a987-542403960ee3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Obstacles within family relations, romantic relations or friendships may lead to trauma, anxiety, panic or depressive disorders.
My focus and knowledge is directed toward individuals experiencing family conflict and relationship difficulties.
Obstacles within family relations, romantic relations or friendships may lead to trauma, anxiety, panic or depressive disorders.
My focus and knowledge is directed toward individuals experiencing family conflict and relationship difficulties.
15 Second Videos
Sarah Friedland
Mike Filiaci
Brendan Guarino
Elaina Benedetto
Valerie Uehlinger
Stephen Schram
Christopher Thompson
![Photo of Andrew Lerman, MS, LPC, NCC, CCTP-II, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4afb62f7-b3c2-467f-860f-3e311c267a42/2/320x400.jpeg)
Andrew Lerman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Cedar Grove, NJ 07009
If you’ve been feeling discouraged, disconnected, or constantly comparing yourself to others, maybe it’s time to talk to someone. Therapy offers a nonjudgmental space where the priority is building an affirming therapeutic relationship that lets us move at your pace toward your goals. I work with adults of all ages and walks of life who are facing life transitions, struggling with self-esteem, feeling stuck and “going nowhere,” or coping with past trauma. You’ll be able to discover the patterns that show up in your everyday life, identify the tools and wisdom you already possess, and heal the parts of you that need attention.
If you’ve been feeling discouraged, disconnected, or constantly comparing yourself to others, maybe it’s time to talk to someone. Therapy offers a nonjudgmental space where the priority is building an affirming therapeutic relationship that lets us move at your pace toward your goals. I work with adults of all ages and walks of life who are facing life transitions, struggling with self-esteem, feeling stuck and “going nowhere,” or coping with past trauma. You’ll be able to discover the patterns that show up in your everyday life, identify the tools and wisdom you already possess, and heal the parts of you that need attention.
![Photo of Faith Dunkel, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7ebe3a4a-339b-4c3e-aa03-a27de973f7e9/3/320x400.png)
Every day we make choices, big and small. In doing so, we create our ever-unfolding life story. I work with my clients to better understand what their unique "storyline" has been about; how their "script" originally got written; and how their present life challenges can be opportunities for discovering hidden strengths. These strengths are very important, as they will serve my clients in their next life chapter.
Every day we make choices, big and small. In doing so, we create our ever-unfolding life story. I work with my clients to better understand what their unique "storyline" has been about; how their "script" originally got written; and how their present life challenges can be opportunities for discovering hidden strengths. These strengths are very important, as they will serve my clients in their next life chapter.
![Photo of Daniel T. Rowen, MA, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c5eec50-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Daniel T. Rowen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cedar Grove, NJ 07009
Managing relationships, work, family, friends, school, career paths, and/or kids, can be complicated, frustrating, and exhausting. We do our best to navigate these experiences, but there comes a point when we feel stuck, depressed, anxious, confused, and/or lost. We typically do a good job of suppressing these issues, until we just can't do it anymore. When these times arise, which they always do, it is helpful to have a supportive, nonjudgmental guide to walk with you as you explore and navigate your thoughts and feelings.
Managing relationships, work, family, friends, school, career paths, and/or kids, can be complicated, frustrating, and exhausting. We do our best to navigate these experiences, but there comes a point when we feel stuck, depressed, anxious, confused, and/or lost. We typically do a good job of suppressing these issues, until we just can't do it anymore. When these times arise, which they always do, it is helpful to have a supportive, nonjudgmental guide to walk with you as you explore and navigate your thoughts and feelings.
![Photo of Danielle Helder, MA, SAC, CSP, LCADC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52156162-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Danielle Helder
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, SAC, CSP, LCADC, LPC
Verified Verified
Cedar Grove, NJ 07009 (Online Only)
I am a dedicated and passionate therapist who is invested in helping my clients. My warm and caring demeanor is combined with open and honest feedback, which allows for the processing of thoughts and emotions in a safe, nonjudgmental and validating environment. I consider you to be the expert of your life and I serve as a collaborator and supportive guide in your personal and unique journey. My approach to therapy stems from the importance of increasing self-awareness, identifying unhealthy patterns, and developing an understanding of what is holding you back from achieving happiness, positive self-esteem, and success.
I am a dedicated and passionate therapist who is invested in helping my clients. My warm and caring demeanor is combined with open and honest feedback, which allows for the processing of thoughts and emotions in a safe, nonjudgmental and validating environment. I consider you to be the expert of your life and I serve as a collaborator and supportive guide in your personal and unique journey. My approach to therapy stems from the importance of increasing self-awareness, identifying unhealthy patterns, and developing an understanding of what is holding you back from achieving happiness, positive self-esteem, and success.
![Photo of Sofia Macias, LPC, LCADC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a00e7764-07e4-4142-8d6d-270fca1f4db2/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sofia Macias
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cedar Grove, NJ 07009 (Online Only)
Do you find that you're having difficulty adjusting to new circumstances? Maybe you're feeling overwhelmed or confused by life stressors such as work and/or school. Perhaps you want some assistance in navigating the relationships in your life. Most of us have been there at some point in our lives, including myself. How you experience your world and cope with your feelings influences every part of you. We each deserve a safe place to share these experiences, learn to cope with these feelings, and feel empowered to make a change. I strive to provide a nurturing, non-judgmental environment in which you feel supported to do just that.
Do you find that you're having difficulty adjusting to new circumstances? Maybe you're feeling overwhelmed or confused by life stressors such as work and/or school. Perhaps you want some assistance in navigating the relationships in your life. Most of us have been there at some point in our lives, including myself. How you experience your world and cope with your feelings influences every part of you. We each deserve a safe place to share these experiences, learn to cope with these feelings, and feel empowered to make a change. I strive to provide a nurturing, non-judgmental environment in which you feel supported to do just that.
![Photo of Valerie Uehlinger, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cad3b669-cf84-40f0-aa20-2e9c7802f1b4/1/320x400.png)
Life can be overwhelming, full of surprises, and stressful. We may wonder how to face these struggles, experiences of sadness or anxiety, or difficulties in relationships. Often we find ourselves feeling this way after changes in our family, the loss of a job or retirement, or the death of a loved one. There are times when we all need extra support to make it through the challenges we are facing. Therapy can help empower us to recognize inner strengths, develop effective coping skills, and enable personal growth.
Life can be overwhelming, full of surprises, and stressful. We may wonder how to face these struggles, experiences of sadness or anxiety, or difficulties in relationships. Often we find ourselves feeling this way after changes in our family, the loss of a job or retirement, or the death of a loved one. There are times when we all need extra support to make it through the challenges we are facing. Therapy can help empower us to recognize inner strengths, develop effective coping skills, and enable personal growth.
![Photo of Stephen Schram, LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/993a9fdf-865f-432c-857f-de5a737993f6/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and as a therapist, I act as a mirror to help clients self-examine, reflect, and practice new skills. I start by building a safe and supportive therapeutic environment that fosters the use of interpersonal effectiveness skills, mindfulness practices, and coping skills. These techniques and practices can help each individual feel confident to handle the mental and emotional challenges that occur on a daily basis.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and as a therapist, I act as a mirror to help clients self-examine, reflect, and practice new skills. I start by building a safe and supportive therapeutic environment that fosters the use of interpersonal effectiveness skills, mindfulness practices, and coping skills. These techniques and practices can help each individual feel confident to handle the mental and emotional challenges that occur on a daily basis.
![Photo of Talia S Filippelli, MSW, LCSW, CHHC, CPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ef189884-5c14-479d-a17b-601b2258eba6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Talia S Filippelli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CHHC, CPT
Verified Verified
Cedar Grove, NJ 07009
I’m a goal-activating expert at helping people let go of emotional baggage and start living the life of their dreams. My priority in session is to make sure you get what you need out of the experience. Period. How do I do that? By providing a judgement free space to openly discuss and explore your “stuff.” And yes, we all have it! This “stuff” includes stress, anxiety, and other emotional roadblocks that are disrupting your life. I will help you identify faulty thinking patterns, confront your fears, and retrain your brain. This process is so powerful and transformative that it almost seems like a short-cut to achieving goals.
I’m a goal-activating expert at helping people let go of emotional baggage and start living the life of their dreams. My priority in session is to make sure you get what you need out of the experience. Period. How do I do that? By providing a judgement free space to openly discuss and explore your “stuff.” And yes, we all have it! This “stuff” includes stress, anxiety, and other emotional roadblocks that are disrupting your life. I will help you identify faulty thinking patterns, confront your fears, and retrain your brain. This process is so powerful and transformative that it almost seems like a short-cut to achieving goals.
![Photo of Laurye Abraham, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e620066-a053-41b0-907d-404f022371f1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Laurye Abraham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cedar Grove, NJ 07009
Are you dealing with a life change, anxiety, feelings of loss? Feeling stuck and wanting to make positive changes in your life but have no idea where to start? Seeking help is the first step, this is where change begins. I work with adolescents, adults and seniors from diverse backgrounds dealing with a wide range of clinical issues including anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship issues, and adjustments of all kinds.
Are you dealing with a life change, anxiety, feelings of loss? Feeling stuck and wanting to make positive changes in your life but have no idea where to start? Seeking help is the first step, this is where change begins. I work with adolescents, adults and seniors from diverse backgrounds dealing with a wide range of clinical issues including anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship issues, and adjustments of all kinds.
See more therapy options for Cedar Grove
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Trauma and PTSD Therapists
When should I seek treatment for trauma?
Not everyone who undergoes trauma needs therapy to heal, but many do. If, after experiencing a traumatic event, you find yourself struggling with symptoms such as nightmares, dissociation, irritability, or emotional numbness—especially if these symptoms last more than a month and are severe enough to interfere with your daily functioning—you may benefit from seeking out therapy with a trauma-informed provider.
How long does trauma therapy take?
Different types of therapy for trauma unfold on different timelines. Prolonged exposure therapy and cognitive processing therapy, for example, each take about three months, while trauma-informed CBT may last anywhere from 8 to 25 sessions. Other approaches, especially those that are less structured or that incorporate elements from multiple modalities, may be more open-ended, though many patients report feeling better within the first few months of treatment.
What happens if trauma is left untreated?
Unaddressed trauma can have serious—even devastating—effects on relationships, career, and day-to-day functioning. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can lead people to distrust or lash out at others, making it difficult to maintain intimate relationships; it can also trigger symptoms such as flashbacks or hyperreactivity that can interfere with a person’s ability to function effectively, personally and/or professionally. Some sufferers turn to drugs to find relief. Symptoms may lessen on their own with time, but there is no guarantee that PTSD will resolve on its own.
Can PTSD come back after treatment?
It is possible for PTSD symptoms to recur months or years after successful treatment. This is because, like most mental health disorders, it is not possible to “cure” PTSD, and stressful life events may cause symptoms to recur in even the most resilient individuals. There is no shame in re-experiencing PTSD symptoms nor in returning to therapy when such relapses occur; indeed, many forms of trauma therapy explicitly encourage periodic “maintenance sessions” to reinforce coping skills and ensure that symptoms stay manageable.