Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Pequannock, NJ
![Photo of Michelle Pichardo, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9b636e70-4f61-4293-9aeb-39260ed86ce0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Pichardo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pequannock, NJ 07440
Have you been experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues or recovering from trauma? Perhaps you are experiencing problems with your partner, your family, becoming a parent or your employment and are struggling to cope with the stress of life at the moment. My goal is to help you unpack the major themes and patterns in your life and what they are trying to teach you. My approach utilizes integrative techniques for the mind, body and spirit to build awareness and gain insight to better manage emotions, thoughts, and negative self-talk so that you can improve your quality of your life.
Have you been experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues or recovering from trauma? Perhaps you are experiencing problems with your partner, your family, becoming a parent or your employment and are struggling to cope with the stress of life at the moment. My goal is to help you unpack the major themes and patterns in your life and what they are trying to teach you. My approach utilizes integrative techniques for the mind, body and spirit to build awareness and gain insight to better manage emotions, thoughts, and negative self-talk so that you can improve your quality of your life.
Cherilyn Balchan Paladino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BA, MSW, LSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pequannock, NJ 07440 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am confident that I can help you recover from trauma, manage stress, depression, and address challenges associated with life changes.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over fifteen years of experience working with adults, children, and families. I provide individual, couples, and family therapy. I work with children, adolescents, and adults. I have extensive experience working with survivors of trauma (children and adults), child abuse and neglect, domestic abuse, foster/adoption issues, parenting, relationship issues, depression, and anxiety. I have worked in crisis centers, children's system of care, adult and children's group homes, ran therapeutic and psycho-educational groups, and have done intensive in home clinical work.
I am confident that I can help you recover from trauma, manage stress, depression, and address challenges associated with life changes.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over fifteen years of experience working with adults, children, and families. I provide individual, couples, and family therapy. I work with children, adolescents, and adults. I have extensive experience working with survivors of trauma (children and adults), child abuse and neglect, domestic abuse, foster/adoption issues, parenting, relationship issues, depression, and anxiety. I have worked in crisis centers, children's system of care, adult and children's group homes, ran therapeutic and psycho-educational groups, and have done intensive in home clinical work.
![Photo of Dr. Alexis Ferguson, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e507ef41-39c5-4a68-ad5d-9dadd9928825/1/320x400.jpeg)
At times it can be difficult to navigate challenges that one may face, but with collaboration from a provider who is empathetic and understanding, it is possible to work through one’s difficulties. I am dedicated to helping uplift, empower, and support others. Whether it be through therapy or assessment, I strive to create a space for my clients to be seen and heard, all while taking steps towards building confidence, resiliency, self-awareness, and coping skills.
At times it can be difficult to navigate challenges that one may face, but with collaboration from a provider who is empathetic and understanding, it is possible to work through one’s difficulties. I am dedicated to helping uplift, empower, and support others. Whether it be through therapy or assessment, I strive to create a space for my clients to be seen and heard, all while taking steps towards building confidence, resiliency, self-awareness, and coping skills.
![Photo of Karen Glick, EdS, LMFT, LPC, LCADC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bf5f013-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Karen Glick
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdS, LMFT, LPC, LCADC
Verified Verified
Pequannock, NJ 07440 (Online Only)
I am a psychoanalyst and look forward to treating people who enjoy understanding their feelings and behaviors on a deeper level. I work with people for as long as desired and work with a wide range of problems in treating adolescents and adults.
The Chinese word for crisis carries two elements, danger and opportunity. I truly believe that with crisis comes opportunity. I live my life by this and help people to do the same.
I am a psychoanalyst and look forward to treating people who enjoy understanding their feelings and behaviors on a deeper level. I work with people for as long as desired and work with a wide range of problems in treating adolescents and adults.
The Chinese word for crisis carries two elements, danger and opportunity. I truly believe that with crisis comes opportunity. I live my life by this and help people to do the same.
![Photo of Melissa Ferra Allen, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d076786-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Ferra Allen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Pequannock, NJ 07440
You cannot change the past, but you can take control of your future. Together we will uncover long-standing behavioral and thought patterns that may be holding you, your child, or your family, back. We will work on new ways to cope, and help you move forward to a more exciting and fulfilling life.
You cannot change the past, but you can take control of your future. Together we will uncover long-standing behavioral and thought patterns that may be holding you, your child, or your family, back. We will work on new ways to cope, and help you move forward to a more exciting and fulfilling life.
![Photo of Erin Scheidle, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/927b00e2-28d5-40af-ad34-5f19a07fd4cc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Erin Scheidle
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pequannock, NJ 07440 (Online Only)
Life can be like an arrow. The only way to move forward is by being drawn backwards, letting go, and then launching towards success. My goal while working with you, is to guide you and show you how you are the expert in your own life; by embracing the pull back, accepting that it is okay to let go, and to move yourself towards success. "The good life is a process, not a state of being. It is a direction, not a destination." - Carl Rogers
Life can be like an arrow. The only way to move forward is by being drawn backwards, letting go, and then launching towards success. My goal while working with you, is to guide you and show you how you are the expert in your own life; by embracing the pull back, accepting that it is okay to let go, and to move yourself towards success. "The good life is a process, not a state of being. It is a direction, not a destination." - Carl Rogers
![Photo of Maria Salvanto - The Parent TRAIN, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d2b76dc2-27c4-4f1a-b43f-fd996b642dde/2/320x400.jpeg)
My desire to and appreciation of helping children and families led me to join forces with other like-minded professionals to create the ParentTrain. With several licensed therapists available, we can usually find the unique fit for your family's needs. Our staff includes: behaviorists, clinicians, and learning consultants as well as therapists that specialize in adoption and foster care issues. Whether you need assistance with behavioral issues at home or school or just need some tools for your parenting toolbox, we can help. We even can provide services in your own home!
My desire to and appreciation of helping children and families led me to join forces with other like-minded professionals to create the ParentTrain. With several licensed therapists available, we can usually find the unique fit for your family's needs. Our staff includes: behaviorists, clinicians, and learning consultants as well as therapists that specialize in adoption and foster care issues. Whether you need assistance with behavioral issues at home or school or just need some tools for your parenting toolbox, we can help. We even can provide services in your own home!
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Samantha Kopacki, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1e3ae05f-0bb8-4aa5-be3e-a7d59059fa9c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Samantha Kopacki
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wayne, NJ 07470
I take a trauma-informed and solutions-focused approach, holding space for you to express your needs and identify steps toward healing.
I am a curious, inquisitive, and open-minded therapist with a history of working with a variety of clients within multiple clinical settings. I have experience working with individuals who have struggled with addiction, anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief/loss, and PTSD.
I take a trauma-informed and solutions-focused approach, holding space for you to express your needs and identify steps toward healing.
I am a curious, inquisitive, and open-minded therapist with a history of working with a variety of clients within multiple clinical settings. I have experience working with individuals who have struggled with addiction, anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief/loss, and PTSD.
![Photo of Susan A Fishlock, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d45fffb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am certified and experienced in the following areas including but not limited to; Family Therapy (Multicultural Family Institute), adoptive/foster children and their families (Rutgers), victims of sex abuse and domestic violence (JBWS), children and families that have experienced trauma, anxiety and other related disorders.
Do you feel overwhelmed, frustrated, anxious, or depressed dealing with life's difficulties? You are not alone as many people in different stages of their lives come across a bump in the road. I have the expertise to help you deal with these issues. Working from a strengths based perspective, I believe it is important to recognize the progress you have already made dealing with these life issues. Often, I have been told by clients I have worked with that I am approachable with any issue, whether it be a hard day at work or a serious long term issue.
I am certified and experienced in the following areas including but not limited to; Family Therapy (Multicultural Family Institute), adoptive/foster children and their families (Rutgers), victims of sex abuse and domestic violence (JBWS), children and families that have experienced trauma, anxiety and other related disorders.
Do you feel overwhelmed, frustrated, anxious, or depressed dealing with life's difficulties? You are not alone as many people in different stages of their lives come across a bump in the road. I have the expertise to help you deal with these issues. Working from a strengths based perspective, I believe it is important to recognize the progress you have already made dealing with these life issues. Often, I have been told by clients I have worked with that I am approachable with any issue, whether it be a hard day at work or a serious long term issue.
![Photo of Lysandra Perez-Strumolo - New Beginnings Psychological Services, LLC, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/af0e5d0b-341e-411c-b295-9cafa45ad26e/2/320x400.jpeg)
New Beginnings Psychological Services, LLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wayne, NJ 07470
Dr. Lysandra Perez-Strumolo is a NJ licensed psychologist, an EMDRIA certified EMDR therapist, & bilingual (Spanish). Services aim to promote healing & development and to help clients experience a meaningful & healthy life, and further develop skills for coping with difficult challenges. Dr. Perez-Strumolo has specialized training the treatment of children, adolescents & adults with anxiety and symptoms related to psychological trauma (single, complex, or relationship-related trauma). Dr. Perez also offers couples therapy for those interested in improving communication, commitment and enjoyment in their intimate relationships.
Dr. Lysandra Perez-Strumolo is a NJ licensed psychologist, an EMDRIA certified EMDR therapist, & bilingual (Spanish). Services aim to promote healing & development and to help clients experience a meaningful & healthy life, and further develop skills for coping with difficult challenges. Dr. Perez-Strumolo has specialized training the treatment of children, adolescents & adults with anxiety and symptoms related to psychological trauma (single, complex, or relationship-related trauma). Dr. Perez also offers couples therapy for those interested in improving communication, commitment and enjoyment in their intimate relationships.
![Photo of Eli Muhrer - Charlie Health](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/af632e1c-ee8e-4b09-926a-1a63fd559bcf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Charlie Health is a leading provider of virtual mental health treatment for people in need of more than once-weekly therapy. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-harm, suicidal ideation, or any ongoing mental health issue, Charlie Health’s Clinical Team is ready to help you start your healing journey today. You don’t have to struggle alone – we’re here for you. To get started today, reach out at t.ly/ch-nj
Charlie Health is a leading provider of virtual mental health treatment for people in need of more than once-weekly therapy. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-harm, suicidal ideation, or any ongoing mental health issue, Charlie Health’s Clinical Team is ready to help you start your healing journey today. You don’t have to struggle alone – we’re here for you. To get started today, reach out at t.ly/ch-nj
![Photo of Tyler Hogan, NCC, BC-TMH](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35251cb0-91b5-4e71-b504-fb49fe1b602e/2/320x400.jpeg)
My clients are adolescents and young adults (ages 13-40) with C-PTSD and trauma, mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder, possible suicidality, anxiety, and substance use and addiction. Struggling with life transitions, fitting in or dealing with peers and co-workers, feeling a lack of control over your life, or finding reasons to stay alive—let alone thrive, can feel very intimidating. However, you don’t have to face these moments alone or feel afraid to speak up. When you feel isolated or in the dark, I'll be in your corner without an ounce of judgment, strictly compassion and all the support I can offer.
My clients are adolescents and young adults (ages 13-40) with C-PTSD and trauma, mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder, possible suicidality, anxiety, and substance use and addiction. Struggling with life transitions, fitting in or dealing with peers and co-workers, feeling a lack of control over your life, or finding reasons to stay alive—let alone thrive, can feel very intimidating. However, you don’t have to face these moments alone or feel afraid to speak up. When you feel isolated or in the dark, I'll be in your corner without an ounce of judgment, strictly compassion and all the support I can offer.
![Photo of Luciann Marie Cooke, LCSW, LCADC, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e6ef68dd-836e-49e2-ae4c-545951725905/2/320x400.jpeg)
Luciann Marie Cooke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Wayne, NJ 07470
Everyone is so different,so I have extended my education, and trained deeper in trauma,EMDR, substance use,and PTSD.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor in the state of New Jersey treating a range of mental health disorders. (I have a bunch of stuff I specialize in, I'll get into that later). My unique style is what sets me apart from the rest. Clients have told me that I am so different than any other therapist they have ever seen. I will probably be in sweats and you will be greeted by Nelly, my therapy puppy.Food, Drinks, Massage Chair, Fountains, TV, Music, is all in the waiting room to make you feel comfy and more relaxed. I know the 1st time can be scary. We welcome you with open arms.
Everyone is so different,so I have extended my education, and trained deeper in trauma,EMDR, substance use,and PTSD.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor in the state of New Jersey treating a range of mental health disorders. (I have a bunch of stuff I specialize in, I'll get into that later). My unique style is what sets me apart from the rest. Clients have told me that I am so different than any other therapist they have ever seen. I will probably be in sweats and you will be greeted by Nelly, my therapy puppy.Food, Drinks, Massage Chair, Fountains, TV, Music, is all in the waiting room to make you feel comfy and more relaxed. I know the 1st time can be scary. We welcome you with open arms.
![Photo of Shefali Mittal, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bdc10412-3c1f-422a-b70d-f62547566d36/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new clients and can schedule in a week. There is a Psychiatrist in office if medication management needed. I work with adults wanting to resolve their issues. Most of my work as a therapist is with those who experienced trauma. I work with multiple issues that include depression, anxiety, self-esteem, trauma and PTSD. I am trained in EMDR and DBT and encourage my clients to create their own coping skills. I can help you learn techniques to manage your symptoms, increase mindfulness, enhance self-care, and promote healing. I want to help empower my clients and give them hope to feel more encouraged, motivated and confident.
Accepting new clients and can schedule in a week. There is a Psychiatrist in office if medication management needed. I work with adults wanting to resolve their issues. Most of my work as a therapist is with those who experienced trauma. I work with multiple issues that include depression, anxiety, self-esteem, trauma and PTSD. I am trained in EMDR and DBT and encourage my clients to create their own coping skills. I can help you learn techniques to manage your symptoms, increase mindfulness, enhance self-care, and promote healing. I want to help empower my clients and give them hope to feel more encouraged, motivated and confident.
![Photo of Alexandra Cerbone, LMHC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2ececd86-dcdf-4d77-81f2-b11b915066c8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alexandra Cerbone
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wayne, NJ 07470
Are you struggling with managing the different areas of your life? Do you find yourself overwhelmed, anxious or stressed out often? Are you irritable or "snappy" with your loved ones? I specialize in working with teens and adults coping with anxiety, depression, trauma and overall life stressors.
Are you struggling with managing the different areas of your life? Do you find yourself overwhelmed, anxious or stressed out often? Are you irritable or "snappy" with your loved ones? I specialize in working with teens and adults coping with anxiety, depression, trauma and overall life stressors.
![Photo of Judy Vartelas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e412fcd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Energy Psychology can be very helpful in working with a variety of issues such as trauma, anxiety and stress, that I believe talk therapy alone cannot always do.
I am a unique therapist in that I am classically trained and deeply rooted in formal psychoanalysis, yet I am also certified in the complementary techniques of energy psychology to help heal trauma and personal blocks. I have experience with individuals and couples in private practice for over 30 years. Therapy sessions with me allow you the choice of incorporating energy psychology or using only traditional talk therapy.
Energy Psychology can be very helpful in working with a variety of issues such as trauma, anxiety and stress, that I believe talk therapy alone cannot always do.
I am a unique therapist in that I am classically trained and deeply rooted in formal psychoanalysis, yet I am also certified in the complementary techniques of energy psychology to help heal trauma and personal blocks. I have experience with individuals and couples in private practice for over 30 years. Therapy sessions with me allow you the choice of incorporating energy psychology or using only traditional talk therapy.
![Photo of Luciann Cooke - Counseling & Consulting Services of North Jersey , LPC, LCSW, LCADC, CCS, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4859e2bc-260b-4a5f-8675-75ebf14b1c80/1/320x400.jpeg)
Counseling & Consulting Services of North Jersey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LPC, LCSW, LCADC, CCS, CCTP
Verified Verified
Wayne, NJ 07470
We offer the highest quality of care providing therapy services for adults, couples, families, and children. CCSNJ s a beautiful and established facility that individualizes ALL our patients.You will have direct access to your therapist and can contact them at any time. Offering both in person and tele-health, you will receive the highest quality of therapy from a fully licensed clinician (no intern or trainee's).Our therapists specialize in Addictions, Trauma, PTSD & EMDR Therapy, Anxiety, Depression, OCD, ADHD, Grief, & Family/Couples counseling. We have an in-house prescriber if you are in need of medications as well.
We offer the highest quality of care providing therapy services for adults, couples, families, and children. CCSNJ s a beautiful and established facility that individualizes ALL our patients.You will have direct access to your therapist and can contact them at any time. Offering both in person and tele-health, you will receive the highest quality of therapy from a fully licensed clinician (no intern or trainee's).Our therapists specialize in Addictions, Trauma, PTSD & EMDR Therapy, Anxiety, Depression, OCD, ADHD, Grief, & Family/Couples counseling. We have an in-house prescriber if you are in need of medications as well.
![Photo of Jose J Nieves - Connections Counseling Center, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49940368-03f9-4c88-aa3e-a8c3e2f907cc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Connections Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pompton Plains, NJ 07444
As an Infant Mental Health Specialist I incorporate therapeutic play, Dyadic, CPP, with Trauma Focus and CBT approaches.
At times life become daunting, leaving you feeling uncertain, depressed, confused or anxious. Other times you experienced a life altering event or have some relational difficulties that seem overwhelming. When your goal is to find positive solutions that help you see a brighter future and the best of you who you are, our office offers you a safe place based on trust and understanding, without judgment. You will feel secure to share your difficulties, but also to wonder on the possibilities for your life. In our office we welcome you, we embrace and celebrate each person, and validate the contributions you bring to our world.
As an Infant Mental Health Specialist I incorporate therapeutic play, Dyadic, CPP, with Trauma Focus and CBT approaches.
At times life become daunting, leaving you feeling uncertain, depressed, confused or anxious. Other times you experienced a life altering event or have some relational difficulties that seem overwhelming. When your goal is to find positive solutions that help you see a brighter future and the best of you who you are, our office offers you a safe place based on trust and understanding, without judgment. You will feel secure to share your difficulties, but also to wonder on the possibilities for your life. In our office we welcome you, we embrace and celebrate each person, and validate the contributions you bring to our world.
![Photo of David Cuozzo, MEd, LPC, LMHC, CCMHC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/15c85d6e-23a7-4791-a5e3-04511012d863/2/320x400.jpeg)
David Cuozzo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, LMHC, CCMHC, ACS
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Wayne, NJ 07470
I am a board certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor(CCMHC) licensed in both NJ and NY and specialize in the treatment of anxiety and trauma with a focus on Generalized Anxiety, OCD, Acute Stress Disorder, PTSD, and Social Anxiety Disorder in adults and adolescents.
The purpose of counseling is to help people cope with problems in daily living and to deal with inner conflicts which hinder various aspects of their personal satisfaction and functioning. This purpose is usually accomplished by increasing the client's personal awareness, increasing the client's acceptance of self and others, and having the client make behavioral and cognitive changes to attain personal goals. To achieve this, I utilize a combination of research-based practices such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectic behavior therapy, solution focused therapy, reality therapy, motivational interviewing, and client-centered therapy.
I am a board certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor(CCMHC) licensed in both NJ and NY and specialize in the treatment of anxiety and trauma with a focus on Generalized Anxiety, OCD, Acute Stress Disorder, PTSD, and Social Anxiety Disorder in adults and adolescents.
The purpose of counseling is to help people cope with problems in daily living and to deal with inner conflicts which hinder various aspects of their personal satisfaction and functioning. This purpose is usually accomplished by increasing the client's personal awareness, increasing the client's acceptance of self and others, and having the client make behavioral and cognitive changes to attain personal goals. To achieve this, I utilize a combination of research-based practices such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectic behavior therapy, solution focused therapy, reality therapy, motivational interviewing, and client-centered therapy.
![Photo of Heather Koenigsfest, MA, LPC, LCADC, ACS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/495275a8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Heather Koenigsfest
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCADC, ACS, NCC
Verified Verified
Wayne, NJ 07470 (Online Only)
Heather believes in having the mind, body and spirit work through the trauma and heal.
Heather is an empathetic, nonjudgmental clinician with a passion to support others in their healing process in a safe environment. She is goal oriented and trauma focused in working with individuals, groups and families. Her previous professional experiences have shaped her work and made her extremely sensitive to the needs of individuals in crisis. Heather's approach assists in collaboratively working together to foster a supportive environment for growth and empowerment. Heather has extensive experience providing counseling in various treatment settings, working with various diagnosis and clientele from children to adults.
Heather believes in having the mind, body and spirit work through the trauma and heal.
Heather is an empathetic, nonjudgmental clinician with a passion to support others in their healing process in a safe environment. She is goal oriented and trauma focused in working with individuals, groups and families. Her previous professional experiences have shaped her work and made her extremely sensitive to the needs of individuals in crisis. Heather's approach assists in collaboratively working together to foster a supportive environment for growth and empowerment. Heather has extensive experience providing counseling in various treatment settings, working with various diagnosis and clientele from children to adults.
See more therapy options for Pequannock
Nearby Trauma and PTSD Therapists Searches for Pequannock
- Bloomingdale
- Butler
- Fairfield
- Kinnelon
- Lincoln Park
- Montville
- Pompton Lakes
- Pompton Plains
- Riverdale
- Towaco
- Watchung
- Wayne
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.