Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Melville, NY

Photo of Maria Kefalas, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maria Kefalas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Melville, NY 11747
Specializes in anxiety, depression, mood disorders, self-esteem, trauma, and stress management.
Join me as you embark on a new experience in your life. I will provide you with a safe space to be your authentic self. Together we will explore who you are and any challenges you may face. I will help you learn to manage life as we know it and set achievable goals. I look forward to supporting and empowering you on your journey.
Specializes in anxiety, depression, mood disorders, self-esteem, trauma, and stress management.
Join me as you embark on a new experience in your life. I will provide you with a safe space to be your authentic self. Together we will explore who you are and any challenges you may face. I will help you learn to manage life as we know it and set achievable goals. I look forward to supporting and empowering you on your journey.
(516) 604-7166 View (516) 604-7166
Photo of Ana Muller-Spina, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ana Muller-Spina
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Melville, NY 11747
Grief and bereavement, Depresion, Anxiety, PTSD and Family, School and Work related conflicts.
I am a Psychologist from Argentina and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker graduated from NYU. I had the opportunity to work with patients from different socio-cultural backgrounds who were born here or came to this country with hopes for a better life. I speak Spanish and English, and I learned about life transitions and about ways to heal emotional pain.
Grief and bereavement, Depresion, Anxiety, PTSD and Family, School and Work related conflicts.
I am a Psychologist from Argentina and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker graduated from NYU. I had the opportunity to work with patients from different socio-cultural backgrounds who were born here or came to this country with hopes for a better life. I speak Spanish and English, and I learned about life transitions and about ways to heal emotional pain.
(516) 346-5373 View (516) 346-5373
Photo of Kimberly Meere, LCSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimberly Meere
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Melville, NY 11747
Life can be easier! Learn specific tools in each session to reduce anxiety, stress, depression, and simply work through life's challenges. Over the last 10 years I have guided many individuals, families, couples, and groups to a new state of understanding and personal growth in their lives. I specialize in helping adults and children struggling with issues related to anxiety, panic attacks, depression, school refusal, divorce, and PTSD.. My style of counseling fosters personal growth and family cohesion in a warm, friendly, and safe environment.
Life can be easier! Learn specific tools in each session to reduce anxiety, stress, depression, and simply work through life's challenges. Over the last 10 years I have guided many individuals, families, couples, and groups to a new state of understanding and personal growth in their lives. I specialize in helping adults and children struggling with issues related to anxiety, panic attacks, depression, school refusal, divorce, and PTSD.. My style of counseling fosters personal growth and family cohesion in a warm, friendly, and safe environment.
(516) 490-8108 View (516) 490-8108
Photo of Bill Solz - Stress Solutions of New York, LCSW, CASAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stress Solutions of New York
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CASAC
Verified Verified
Melville, NY 11747
I also utilize the Developmental Needs Meeting Strategy, to effectively address trauma, anxiety, depression, and the healing of inner child wounds.
Selected by NASW as Nassau County's "Social Worker of the Year for 2013", I have been providing quick symptom relief and comprehensive healing for 32 years. As I believe in "different strokes for different folks," I utilize Havening, EMDR, and DNMS to achieve these results. Clients experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and panic attacks have all benefitted. I also provide counseling for alcohol and substance abusers where I specialize in relapse prevention. Child and adolescent issues are also actively addressed, along with parenting concerns. Relief is available for those experiencing grief and other trauma i.e. car crash victims.
I also utilize the Developmental Needs Meeting Strategy, to effectively address trauma, anxiety, depression, and the healing of inner child wounds.
Selected by NASW as Nassau County's "Social Worker of the Year for 2013", I have been providing quick symptom relief and comprehensive healing for 32 years. As I believe in "different strokes for different folks," I utilize Havening, EMDR, and DNMS to achieve these results. Clients experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and panic attacks have all benefitted. I also provide counseling for alcohol and substance abusers where I specialize in relapse prevention. Child and adolescent issues are also actively addressed, along with parenting concerns. Relief is available for those experiencing grief and other trauma i.e. car crash victims.
(631) 527-3114 View (631) 527-3114
Photo of Linda A Wilk, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Linda A Wilk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Melville, NY 11747
I believe everyone struggle with emotional issues during their lifetime and can benefit from therapy. I strive to create a warm, inviting and safe environment to explore those issues. I specialize in mood disorders, trauma issues, PTSD and substance abuse. I have over 30 years experience helping individuals and couples work through the struggles of daily life and address any underlying emotions or behaviors that effect obtaining balance and success. I am an active listener; I provide extensive feedback and education regarding genetic, emotional and family of origin factors that contribute or interfere with emotional well-being.
I believe everyone struggle with emotional issues during their lifetime and can benefit from therapy. I strive to create a warm, inviting and safe environment to explore those issues. I specialize in mood disorders, trauma issues, PTSD and substance abuse. I have over 30 years experience helping individuals and couples work through the struggles of daily life and address any underlying emotions or behaviors that effect obtaining balance and success. I am an active listener; I provide extensive feedback and education regarding genetic, emotional and family of origin factors that contribute or interfere with emotional well-being.
(631) 593-0239 View (631) 593-0239
Photo of Anjali Papaiacovou - Anjali Papaiacovou, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anjali Papaiacovou
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Melville, NY 11747  (Online Only)
My specialties are life transition issues, anxiety, depression, conflict, grief/bereavement, self esteem/social skills, trauma/ PTSD, work/career matters, post partum depression and overall, personal growth.
Therapy is the first step in investing in yourself. I am a NYS licensed clinical social worker. My mission is to provide guidance and support to you without judgement in a safe, therapeutic environment so that you can focus your sessions on creating the positive life and perspective that you seek. Starting at the first session, I will work with you on creating a treatment plan as step one in order to gain a healthy perspective on your priorities.
My specialties are life transition issues, anxiety, depression, conflict, grief/bereavement, self esteem/social skills, trauma/ PTSD, work/career matters, post partum depression and overall, personal growth.
Therapy is the first step in investing in yourself. I am a NYS licensed clinical social worker. My mission is to provide guidance and support to you without judgement in a safe, therapeutic environment so that you can focus your sessions on creating the positive life and perspective that you seek. Starting at the first session, I will work with you on creating a treatment plan as step one in order to gain a healthy perspective on your priorities.
(631) 593-0464 View (631) 593-0464
Photo of Leslie Portillo, MA, LCAT, ATR-BC, Art Therapist
Leslie Portillo
Art Therapist, MA, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Melville, NY 11747
I draw from a variety of therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Existential, Holistic, Person-Centered, and Trauma Focused.
Do you feel intimidated to express your personal life and struggles? Does this leave you feeling overwhelmed or stressed? You are not alone and I encourage you to take this next step in your healing journey. I'm here to remind you that you deserve a fulfilling future full of peace, self-love, and happiness. I am passionate about creating healing spaces where one can connect with their higher self. I utilize art therapy and the creative process to explore emotions, reduce anxiety, increase self-esteem, and resolve other psychological conflicts.
I draw from a variety of therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Existential, Holistic, Person-Centered, and Trauma Focused.
Do you feel intimidated to express your personal life and struggles? Does this leave you feeling overwhelmed or stressed? You are not alone and I encourage you to take this next step in your healing journey. I'm here to remind you that you deserve a fulfilling future full of peace, self-love, and happiness. I am passionate about creating healing spaces where one can connect with their higher self. I utilize art therapy and the creative process to explore emotions, reduce anxiety, increase self-esteem, and resolve other psychological conflicts.
(631) 840-6733 View (631) 840-6733
Photo of Elana Rimler, PsyD, Psychologist
Elana Rimler
Psychologist, PsyD
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Melville, NY 11747
I enjoy working with children, adolescents & adults, particularly with life transitions, depression, anxiety, Tourette and trauma.
As your therapist, I will help you share your story to better understand how it may be presenting problems for you in the present, as "There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you”(Maya Angelou). You may have patterns of handling relationships/situations & want to get unstuck from your usual patterns. We will practice new ways of thinking & doing in a non-judgmental and safe atmosphere. Whatever you are facing, I am here to help you through it. I have flexible hours to help people via telehealth, particularly for overwhelmed parents. I work around you/your child's hectic schedules.
I enjoy working with children, adolescents & adults, particularly with life transitions, depression, anxiety, Tourette and trauma.
As your therapist, I will help you share your story to better understand how it may be presenting problems for you in the present, as "There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you”(Maya Angelou). You may have patterns of handling relationships/situations & want to get unstuck from your usual patterns. We will practice new ways of thinking & doing in a non-judgmental and safe atmosphere. Whatever you are facing, I am here to help you through it. I have flexible hours to help people via telehealth, particularly for overwhelmed parents. I work around you/your child's hectic schedules.
(631) 759-5519 View (631) 759-5519
Photo of Zuhal K. Abrar, LMHC, MS, Counselor
Zuhal K. Abrar
Counselor, LMHC, MS
Verified Verified
Melville, NY 11747  (Online Only)
As a clinician specialized in trauma and trauma affected populations, I understand the delicate and vulnerable nature of every individual under my care.
As an experienced and dedicated mental health clinician I take pride in providing a genuine and compassionate environment for my patients. I am highly committed to the success and well-being of every individual who walks in through our doors. My goal is to provide a safe space and healing for patients to work through their issues and I do so with a deep level of compassion towards each and every individual. I have experience in both clinical and non-profit based work with diagnoses varying from anxiety and depressive disorders, mood disorders, to trauma afflicted individuals with both acute and complex levels of trauma.
As a clinician specialized in trauma and trauma affected populations, I understand the delicate and vulnerable nature of every individual under my care.
As an experienced and dedicated mental health clinician I take pride in providing a genuine and compassionate environment for my patients. I am highly committed to the success and well-being of every individual who walks in through our doors. My goal is to provide a safe space and healing for patients to work through their issues and I do so with a deep level of compassion towards each and every individual. I have experience in both clinical and non-profit based work with diagnoses varying from anxiety and depressive disorders, mood disorders, to trauma afflicted individuals with both acute and complex levels of trauma.
(516) 217-3861 View (516) 217-3861
Photo of Abigail Ridgeway, MHC-LP
Abigail Ridgeway
MHC-LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Melville, NY 11775
She has experience working with Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Intimate Partner and Family Violence, Chronic Stress, Life Transitions, Identity Exploration, School Refusal, and Climate/Eco-Anxiety.
Abby is a Mental Health Counselor who appreciates the complexities of the Individuals, Couples, and Families (10 years old and above) that she works with. Her clinical practice is comprised of compassion, curiosity, and an understanding of the systems that individuals engage with. Abby prioritizes collaboration with all her clients to create a unique therapeutic space that is tailored specifically to their needs and comfort levels.
She has experience working with Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Intimate Partner and Family Violence, Chronic Stress, Life Transitions, Identity Exploration, School Refusal, and Climate/Eco-Anxiety.
Abby is a Mental Health Counselor who appreciates the complexities of the Individuals, Couples, and Families (10 years old and above) that she works with. Her clinical practice is comprised of compassion, curiosity, and an understanding of the systems that individuals engage with. Abby prioritizes collaboration with all her clients to create a unique therapeutic space that is tailored specifically to their needs and comfort levels.
(646) 907-6262 View (646) 907-6262
Photo of Amy Houghton, LCSW, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Houghton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
Melville, NY 11747
I am a trained crises prevention counselor, as well as being Nationally Certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Do you ever feel weighted down by feelings of anxiety, depression, grief, or interpersonal struggles? Life can be tough at times and finding a trusted person to support you is important. I strive to build a therapeutic relationship through trust, caring and respect. I utilize a holistic approach to meet you where you are at. I am trained in various modalities including: cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused brief therapy, motivational interviewing and trauma focused approaches. I offer individual, group, couples, and family counseling in person therapy or via telehealth (HIPAA compliant video counseling).
I am a trained crises prevention counselor, as well as being Nationally Certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Do you ever feel weighted down by feelings of anxiety, depression, grief, or interpersonal struggles? Life can be tough at times and finding a trusted person to support you is important. I strive to build a therapeutic relationship through trust, caring and respect. I utilize a holistic approach to meet you where you are at. I am trained in various modalities including: cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused brief therapy, motivational interviewing and trauma focused approaches. I offer individual, group, couples, and family counseling in person therapy or via telehealth (HIPAA compliant video counseling).
(607) 600-9162 View (607) 600-9162
Photo of Liana Ross, LMHC, CASAC, Counselor
Liana Ross
Counselor, LMHC, CASAC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Melville, NY 11747
I have training in Gottman level 1, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), solution-focused therapy, CBT, dialectical behavior therapy, In each of these instances, and particularly with trauma and EMDR, my mission is to loosen the grip of what holds you back, enabling you to create a new life that serves you better.
As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), my goal is to be a supportive and empathetic guide, helping you use your strengths to work through the barriers that hold you back and develop the tools you need to set healthy boundaries. With experience treating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, life transitions, body image and disordered eating, and addiction, I recognize that no two people are alike, so finding the right combination of techniques and tools for each person is essential to healing.
I have training in Gottman level 1, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), solution-focused therapy, CBT, dialectical behavior therapy, In each of these instances, and particularly with trauma and EMDR, my mission is to loosen the grip of what holds you back, enabling you to create a new life that serves you better.
As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), my goal is to be a supportive and empathetic guide, helping you use your strengths to work through the barriers that hold you back and develop the tools you need to set healthy boundaries. With experience treating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, life transitions, body image and disordered eating, and addiction, I recognize that no two people are alike, so finding the right combination of techniques and tools for each person is essential to healing.
(516) 619-1236 View (516) 619-1236
Photo of Renee Siebert, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Renee Siebert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Melville, NY 11775
I practice person-centered, strength-based approaches, cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, and trauma-informed care.
Often wonder about your purpose? Have you experienced outcomes in life that have not aligned with who you are? Are obstacles blocking your pathway? Do you need to express your thoughts, feelings, and emotional experiences -freely without fear of judgment? My strength is viewing individuals openly, and working collaboratively towards finding joy, discovering and honoring your unique true self. New experiences can bring challenges however, with that comes the chance for open opportunities to illuminate self-empowerment and create the life you deserve.
I practice person-centered, strength-based approaches, cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, and trauma-informed care.
Often wonder about your purpose? Have you experienced outcomes in life that have not aligned with who you are? Are obstacles blocking your pathway? Do you need to express your thoughts, feelings, and emotional experiences -freely without fear of judgment? My strength is viewing individuals openly, and working collaboratively towards finding joy, discovering and honoring your unique true self. New experiences can bring challenges however, with that comes the chance for open opportunities to illuminate self-empowerment and create the life you deserve.
(631) 614-5470 View (631) 614-5470
Photo of Marcie May Soland-Mastrelli, MA, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Marcie May Soland-Mastrelli
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Melville, NY 11747
I specialize in identity issues, trauma, life transitions, relationship issues, managing anxiety and depression, self-esteem, ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder, managing anger, divorce, parenting, blended families, grief and loss and finding your life purpose.
As a licensed mental health counselor with over fifteen years in the counseling field, I understand the importance of living a life filled with joy. I believe that the key to a successful therapeutic relationship is in the connection made between therapist and client. My hope is that I can connect with you and that we can work in a safe and supportive environment to help you deal with any issues of concern in your life. I am here to support you in finding your true self and to help you find what brings the most meaning into your life.
I specialize in identity issues, trauma, life transitions, relationship issues, managing anxiety and depression, self-esteem, ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder, managing anger, divorce, parenting, blended families, grief and loss and finding your life purpose.
As a licensed mental health counselor with over fifteen years in the counseling field, I understand the importance of living a life filled with joy. I believe that the key to a successful therapeutic relationship is in the connection made between therapist and client. My hope is that I can connect with you and that we can work in a safe and supportive environment to help you deal with any issues of concern in your life. I am here to support you in finding your true self and to help you find what brings the most meaning into your life.
(516) 537-9750 View (516) 537-9750
Photo of Jade Shell, LMHC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jade Shell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMHC
Verified Verified
Melville, NY 11747
Jade Shell is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York who has been practicing since 2020. Jade works primarily with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and substance misuse. She obtained both her undergraduate and graduate degrees from CUNY Queens College. Jade has clinical experience in a variety of settings, including community-based, reintegration, residential, and outpatient facilities. She also has experience working with BIPOC and LGBTQ+ populations. Jade is very passionate about ending the stigma surrounding mental illness, especially within underserved communities.
Jade Shell is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York who has been practicing since 2020. Jade works primarily with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and substance misuse. She obtained both her undergraduate and graduate degrees from CUNY Queens College. Jade has clinical experience in a variety of settings, including community-based, reintegration, residential, and outpatient facilities. She also has experience working with BIPOC and LGBTQ+ populations. Jade is very passionate about ending the stigma surrounding mental illness, especially within underserved communities.
(631) 825-8390 View (631) 825-8390
Photo of Kathleen MacKenna, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathleen MacKenna
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Melville, NY 11747
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have many years of experience helping individuals cope with grief, trauma, anxiety, depression, emerging adulthood issues, life transitions and all areas that impact the quality of everyday life.
You are right...life can be messy and at times, hard and overwhelming. It doesn't have to be this difficult, draining and challenging. The experience of stress, anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions and trauma all impact our ability to be fully present in our lives. As we move forward in an uncertain world, now is the time to empower self care, healing, inner peace, and confidence. Searching for support is an important step towards living an authentic and positive life experience. You, your feelings, and your goals are a priority. Together we can work toward rising above the mess and helping you achieve your best self.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have many years of experience helping individuals cope with grief, trauma, anxiety, depression, emerging adulthood issues, life transitions and all areas that impact the quality of everyday life.
You are right...life can be messy and at times, hard and overwhelming. It doesn't have to be this difficult, draining and challenging. The experience of stress, anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions and trauma all impact our ability to be fully present in our lives. As we move forward in an uncertain world, now is the time to empower self care, healing, inner peace, and confidence. Searching for support is an important step towards living an authentic and positive life experience. You, your feelings, and your goals are a priority. Together we can work toward rising above the mess and helping you achieve your best self.
(631) 201-5191 View (631) 201-5191
Photo of Lori R Alrod, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Lori R Alrod
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Melville, NY 11747
I am a psychotherapist, life coach and consultant with over 23 years of experience in the field of mental health. I completed a Masters of Arts in Counseling Psychology at Lesley University in Cambridge Massachusetts and went on to study and work for The Institute of Contemporary Psychotherapy in New York City . I have maintained a private practice in New York for 30 years. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, codependency parenting problems ,career challenges grief and loss, loneliness, substance abuse, eating disorders and trauma
I am a psychotherapist, life coach and consultant with over 23 years of experience in the field of mental health. I completed a Masters of Arts in Counseling Psychology at Lesley University in Cambridge Massachusetts and went on to study and work for The Institute of Contemporary Psychotherapy in New York City . I have maintained a private practice in New York for 30 years. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, codependency parenting problems ,career challenges grief and loss, loneliness, substance abuse, eating disorders and trauma
(631) 518-3864 View (631) 518-3864
Photo of Dr. Laura Damico, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Laura Damico
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Melville, NY 11747  (Online Only)
I only accept AETNA at this time. I provide psychotherapy for adolescents, college students, and adults; and I have over 20 years of experience working in clinical & academic settings. I address the following concerns: anxiety, depression, relationships, PTSD/ trauma, education/career, grief/loss, marriage/family, separation/divorce, parenting, adoption/fertility, and disabilities. I presented research at the American Psychological Association, and I keep abreast of changes in the field. As a professor, I taught a myriad of graduate courses including psychotherapy, psychological testing, and ethics.
I only accept AETNA at this time. I provide psychotherapy for adolescents, college students, and adults; and I have over 20 years of experience working in clinical & academic settings. I address the following concerns: anxiety, depression, relationships, PTSD/ trauma, education/career, grief/loss, marriage/family, separation/divorce, parenting, adoption/fertility, and disabilities. I presented research at the American Psychological Association, and I keep abreast of changes in the field. As a professor, I taught a myriad of graduate courses including psychotherapy, psychological testing, and ethics.
(631) 570-8858 View (631) 570-8858
Photo of Hafsa Shibli, LMHC
Hafsa Shibli
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Melville, NY 11747
 I utilize a person centered, trauma informed approach and integrate cultural sensitivity into my sessions to create a space where my clients feel seen and understood.
Therapy is like getting a PhD in yourself, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of you. “Why is it so hard for me to say no?” “How do I manage my emotions?” “Will I ever feel better?” “Does everyone overthink or is it just me?” This is the space to heal and process the things that are holding you back from living the life you want. I specialize in complex trauma, attachment and relational issues, depression, and anxiety. I have experience working with individuals and couples as well as children and families of all backgrounds.
 I utilize a person centered, trauma informed approach and integrate cultural sensitivity into my sessions to create a space where my clients feel seen and understood.
Therapy is like getting a PhD in yourself, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of you. “Why is it so hard for me to say no?” “How do I manage my emotions?” “Will I ever feel better?” “Does everyone overthink or is it just me?” This is the space to heal and process the things that are holding you back from living the life you want. I specialize in complex trauma, attachment and relational issues, depression, and anxiety. I have experience working with individuals and couples as well as children and families of all backgrounds.
(718) 550-0478 View (718) 550-0478
Photo of Palesa Ramohlouoane, LMHC, Counselor
Palesa Ramohlouoane
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Melville, NY 11747
Palesa Ramohlouane is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York with three years of experience. She has a Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling. Palesa is passionate about looking at human suffering collectively and helping people make sense of their experiences. Her approach is to work with clients to looking at past trauma, identify core values and move towards acceptance of experience. Palesa brings her clients through process-based therapy to develop the new behavior patterns that move them close to happiness. In her spare time, Palesa enjoys hiking, reading, traveling, nature walks, and art.
Palesa Ramohlouane is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York with three years of experience. She has a Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling. Palesa is passionate about looking at human suffering collectively and helping people make sense of their experiences. Her approach is to work with clients to looking at past trauma, identify core values and move towards acceptance of experience. Palesa brings her clients through process-based therapy to develop the new behavior patterns that move them close to happiness. In her spare time, Palesa enjoys hiking, reading, traveling, nature walks, and art.
(631) 898-5991 View (631) 898-5991
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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.