Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Merrick, NY

Photo of Christina Murphy - Counseling For You Long Island, Counselor
Counseling For You Long Island
Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Merrick, NY 11566
The therapists in our practice specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, anger management, domestic violence, couples, adolescents, and personality disorders.
Counseling For You Long Island is a group of therapists that have a passion for helping others. They are devoted to helping people through difficulties they are experiencing and are nonjudgemental, supportive and knowledgeable about the issues people face in the world today. Whether you are dealing with trauma, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, or any other issues that cause stress or get in the way of leading a healthy and happy life, there is someone here to help you.
The therapists in our practice specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, anger management, domestic violence, couples, adolescents, and personality disorders.
Counseling For You Long Island is a group of therapists that have a passion for helping others. They are devoted to helping people through difficulties they are experiencing and are nonjudgemental, supportive and knowledgeable about the issues people face in the world today. Whether you are dealing with trauma, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, or any other issues that cause stress or get in the way of leading a healthy and happy life, there is someone here to help you.
(516) 613-2830 View (516) 613-2830
Photo of Beatrijs Van Steertegem, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Beatrijs Van Steertegem
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Merrick, NY 11566
Witnessing the prevalence of trauma among clients led me to advance my training in trauma studies at the Manhattan Institute for Psychoanalysis.
As a therapist I deeply value the journey of gaining self-knowledge. Through a collaborative effort we can improve your self-awareness by identifying blind spots, relational patterns, and automatic thoughts. Unhelpful behaviors can cause you to feel stuck and may interfere with your ability to experience joy. My therapeutic approach is warm, open, and supportive. During sessions I pay careful attention to your personal history, current circumstances and goals so we can begin to map a meaningful way forward that is uniquely tailored to your needs.
Witnessing the prevalence of trauma among clients led me to advance my training in trauma studies at the Manhattan Institute for Psychoanalysis.
As a therapist I deeply value the journey of gaining self-knowledge. Through a collaborative effort we can improve your self-awareness by identifying blind spots, relational patterns, and automatic thoughts. Unhelpful behaviors can cause you to feel stuck and may interfere with your ability to experience joy. My therapeutic approach is warm, open, and supportive. During sessions I pay careful attention to your personal history, current circumstances and goals so we can begin to map a meaningful way forward that is uniquely tailored to your needs.
(516) 261-6389 View (516) 261-6389
Photo of Dr. Jacqueline Faison-Harry, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Jacqueline Faison-Harry
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Merrick, NY 11566  (Online Only)
Faison-Harry is an expert in trauma who helps her clients to face past experiences, develop strategies to reduce worry and doubt, and manage new stages.
You are at the start of a major transition in your life. Something that you have wanted and imagined for some time is about to become a reality. You are unsure and worried despite being “ready” on paper. Yes, you have had some difficult experiences in the past, but because you are intelligent and resilient, you have gotten by without truly addressing these experiences or exploring them fully in therapy. You feel that now is the time to really delve into your past and consider how you arrived at this current place in your life so that you can move on to this next step with a calm confidence.
Faison-Harry is an expert in trauma who helps her clients to face past experiences, develop strategies to reduce worry and doubt, and manage new stages.
You are at the start of a major transition in your life. Something that you have wanted and imagined for some time is about to become a reality. You are unsure and worried despite being “ready” on paper. Yes, you have had some difficult experiences in the past, but because you are intelligent and resilient, you have gotten by without truly addressing these experiences or exploring them fully in therapy. You feel that now is the time to really delve into your past and consider how you arrived at this current place in your life so that you can move on to this next step with a calm confidence.
(516) 908-9739 View (516) 908-9739
Photo of Dr. Jacqueline Kerner, PsyD, MS, MA, Psychologist
Dr. Jacqueline Kerner
Psychologist, PsyD, MS, MA
Verified Verified
Merrick, NY 11566  (Online Only)
I know that trauma, depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues play a big role in creating and sustaining challenges in life, and often deters people from a path of optimal functioning.
For nearly a decade, I have been working with clients struggling with varying degrees of mental health issues. I specialize in both childhood and adult trauma, as well as the various coexisting conditions that often coincide with it - including but not limited to: domestic violence, depression, anxiety, gender identity issues, sexuality, self-harm, suicidality, anger and aggression, familial and relationship issues, and substance use. Alongside my focus on trauma and domestic violence, I separately specialize in the treatment of anxiety and depression, all while working closely with the LGBTQ+ community.
I know that trauma, depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues play a big role in creating and sustaining challenges in life, and often deters people from a path of optimal functioning.
For nearly a decade, I have been working with clients struggling with varying degrees of mental health issues. I specialize in both childhood and adult trauma, as well as the various coexisting conditions that often coincide with it - including but not limited to: domestic violence, depression, anxiety, gender identity issues, sexuality, self-harm, suicidality, anger and aggression, familial and relationship issues, and substance use. Alongside my focus on trauma and domestic violence, I separately specialize in the treatment of anxiety and depression, all while working closely with the LGBTQ+ community.
(516) 366-2312 View (516) 366-2312
Photo of Amy Fink, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Fink
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Merrick, NY 11566
Loss, trauma and negative experiences may impact us more than we realize. As we navigate life with such challenges, we may become overwhelmed and feel a variety of unwanted symptoms such as anxiety, fear, restlessness, confusion, guilt and depression. In therapy, I will help you gain clarity and eliminate these unwanted symptoms as you discover empowerment, hope, motivation and healing.
Loss, trauma and negative experiences may impact us more than we realize. As we navigate life with such challenges, we may become overwhelmed and feel a variety of unwanted symptoms such as anxiety, fear, restlessness, confusion, guilt and depression. In therapy, I will help you gain clarity and eliminate these unwanted symptoms as you discover empowerment, hope, motivation and healing.
(516) 447-8616 View (516) 447-8616
Photo of Loretta Kelly, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Loretta Kelly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Merrick, NY 11566
I work with people from many different walks of life, and specialize in depression, anxiety, and trauma.
Everyone goes through periods of sadness, loss, anger, and adjustment to new situations. You are not alone in your struggles. Don’t allow anger, and resentment that grows from adversity to impair your ability to live your true life! Life can throw some curve balls and having the skills to maneuver these unpredictable situations is paramount in the healing process. Realizing you are not alone and finding a compassionate person to assist you through your struggle are the first steps. The next step is being present in therapy, willing to engage as we learn new skills to navigate this unpredictable world together. I will stand with you.
I work with people from many different walks of life, and specialize in depression, anxiety, and trauma.
Everyone goes through periods of sadness, loss, anger, and adjustment to new situations. You are not alone in your struggles. Don’t allow anger, and resentment that grows from adversity to impair your ability to live your true life! Life can throw some curve balls and having the skills to maneuver these unpredictable situations is paramount in the healing process. Realizing you are not alone and finding a compassionate person to assist you through your struggle are the first steps. The next step is being present in therapy, willing to engage as we learn new skills to navigate this unpredictable world together. I will stand with you.
(631) 601-2981 View (631) 601-2981
Photo of Ariana Purnell, NCC, MHC-LP, Psyd c
Ariana Purnell
NCC, MHC-LP, Psyd c
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Merrick, NY 11566
Hi! I'm Ariana, a Mental Health Therapist and Clinical Psy.D Doctoral student. Welcome to the beginning of this beautiful journey of therapy! You are simply, a human, wanting freedom from past trauma, pain, and the daily stressors that threaten to take you down. I can relate in more ways than one and promise to be with you every step of the way. There will be challenging times, exhausting even. However, you deserve to live a life that is authentic, joy-filled, and open to receiving all of life's blessings. Don't doubt yourself, doubt your doubts. Be unapologetically you and you will experience a freedom that you've only dreamt of.
Hi! I'm Ariana, a Mental Health Therapist and Clinical Psy.D Doctoral student. Welcome to the beginning of this beautiful journey of therapy! You are simply, a human, wanting freedom from past trauma, pain, and the daily stressors that threaten to take you down. I can relate in more ways than one and promise to be with you every step of the way. There will be challenging times, exhausting even. However, you deserve to live a life that is authentic, joy-filled, and open to receiving all of life's blessings. Don't doubt yourself, doubt your doubts. Be unapologetically you and you will experience a freedom that you've only dreamt of.
(516) 591-3484 View (516) 591-3484
Photo of Cathy C Kreuscher, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cathy C Kreuscher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Merrick, NY 11566
As a therapist, my goal is to help you better understand, resolve and find solutions to the challenges and/or trauma in your life. Depression, fears and anxieties can dull our ability to experience joy and lead a more fulfilling and meaningful life. By applying complementary therapeutic approaches, we can unearth behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from realizing your true potential while maintaining and protecting all that you have already achieved. I work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues, providing services in a private office in a comfortable and supportive atmosphere.
As a therapist, my goal is to help you better understand, resolve and find solutions to the challenges and/or trauma in your life. Depression, fears and anxieties can dull our ability to experience joy and lead a more fulfilling and meaningful life. By applying complementary therapeutic approaches, we can unearth behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from realizing your true potential while maintaining and protecting all that you have already achieved. I work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues, providing services in a private office in a comfortable and supportive atmosphere.
(516) 279-2793 View (516) 279-2793
Dinah Levant Mast
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Merrick, NY 11566
I treat patients who suffer from anxiety and depression associated with past experiences of emotional and physical trauma and abuse.
I think of psychotherapy as a joint effort between myself and my patients. My experience is varied. I treat adults, individuals and couples with relationship problems. My expertise in working with patients with post traumatic stress makes me particularly well suited to treating patients impacted by the covid-19 virus.
I treat patients who suffer from anxiety and depression associated with past experiences of emotional and physical trauma and abuse.
I think of psychotherapy as a joint effort between myself and my patients. My experience is varied. I treat adults, individuals and couples with relationship problems. My expertise in working with patients with post traumatic stress makes me particularly well suited to treating patients impacted by the covid-19 virus.
(516) 605-3174 View (516) 605-3174
Photo of Christine Cione - Christine Cione, LMHC, LMHC, Counselor
Christine Cione, LMHC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Merrick, NY 11566  (Online Only)
I am trained in EMDR to assist those who wish to work through trauma and prolonged grief.
Go confidently in the direction of your dreams and live the life you've imagined. Are you at a crossroads in your life? Are you feeling stuck and wish you could change your perspective? Are you overwhelmed by emotions that make it challenging to navigate through life? You might be struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, past or current traumatic events, or everyday life stressors. If so, you probably are seeking peace of mind, gratitude, hope, inner strength, and healthy coping skills. If this sounds like you, I welcome the opportunity to assist you on your path towards healing.
I am trained in EMDR to assist those who wish to work through trauma and prolonged grief.
Go confidently in the direction of your dreams and live the life you've imagined. Are you at a crossroads in your life? Are you feeling stuck and wish you could change your perspective? Are you overwhelmed by emotions that make it challenging to navigate through life? You might be struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, past or current traumatic events, or everyday life stressors. If so, you probably are seeking peace of mind, gratitude, hope, inner strength, and healthy coping skills. If this sounds like you, I welcome the opportunity to assist you on your path towards healing.
(516) 217-2150 View (516) 217-2150
Photo of Tamara Fass, LMSW
Tamara Fass
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Merrick, NY 11566
Envision a life free from the burdens of past trauma, where you connect deeply in your relationships and feel hopeful about your future. This is the transformative power of trauma therapy that focuses on relationships– it's about witnessing your entire life change before your eyes. As human beings, we inherently crave love and connection. When these essential needs are unmet, we may find ourselves feeling unhappy and dysfunctional, wondering why life seems to be missing something crucial. I offer more than just therapy; it's a path toward healing, self-discovery, and authentic connection.
Envision a life free from the burdens of past trauma, where you connect deeply in your relationships and feel hopeful about your future. This is the transformative power of trauma therapy that focuses on relationships– it's about witnessing your entire life change before your eyes. As human beings, we inherently crave love and connection. When these essential needs are unmet, we may find ourselves feeling unhappy and dysfunctional, wondering why life seems to be missing something crucial. I offer more than just therapy; it's a path toward healing, self-discovery, and authentic connection.
(516) 990-1917 View (516) 990-1917
Photo of Otylia 'tilly' McQuay, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Otylia 'tilly' McQuay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Merrick, NY 11566  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) with expertise in trauma recovery.
I provide telehealth services for individuals seeking support with challenging relationships, managing emotions, and overcoming self-sabotage. I empower those who've experienced trauma, helping them regain control amidst feelings of inadequacy, insecure attachment, boundary struggles, and chronic anxiety and depression. With expertise in C-PTSD and trauma recovery, I offer specialized support to survivors, including those of narcissistic abuse. Certified in treating Children of Emotionally Immature Parents with Dr. Lindsay Gibson, I address unique challenges faced by individuals with emotionally immature caregivers.
I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) with expertise in trauma recovery.
I provide telehealth services for individuals seeking support with challenging relationships, managing emotions, and overcoming self-sabotage. I empower those who've experienced trauma, helping them regain control amidst feelings of inadequacy, insecure attachment, boundary struggles, and chronic anxiety and depression. With expertise in C-PTSD and trauma recovery, I offer specialized support to survivors, including those of narcissistic abuse. Certified in treating Children of Emotionally Immature Parents with Dr. Lindsay Gibson, I address unique challenges faced by individuals with emotionally immature caregivers.
(516) 271-4162 View (516) 271-4162
Photo of Leo Sullivan, MHC-LP
Leo Sullivan
MHC-LP
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Merrick, NY 11566  (Online Only)
With a varied background spanning several fields, I bring a wealth of experience assisting athletes, children, and professionals struggling with a range of mental health concerns, such as anxiety, anger, trauma, and substance abuse.
Are you tired of feeling like you're not showing up as your best self? As a Sports and Mental Health Counselor and Performance Coach, I recognize the vital role your mental and emotional well-being plays in your overall health. I understand firsthand how challenging it can be to prioritize your mental health and I'm here to help. Drawing from my own experience as a former Division I and professional football player, I intimately understand the physical and mental demands required to excel both on and off the field or court.
With a varied background spanning several fields, I bring a wealth of experience assisting athletes, children, and professionals struggling with a range of mental health concerns, such as anxiety, anger, trauma, and substance abuse.
Are you tired of feeling like you're not showing up as your best self? As a Sports and Mental Health Counselor and Performance Coach, I recognize the vital role your mental and emotional well-being plays in your overall health. I understand firsthand how challenging it can be to prioritize your mental health and I'm here to help. Drawing from my own experience as a former Division I and professional football player, I intimately understand the physical and mental demands required to excel both on and off the field or court.
(516) 614-3347 View (516) 614-3347
Photo of Vincent Franco, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vincent Franco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Merrick, NY 11566
I work with diverse clients and utilize a solution focused approach by integrating Internal Family Systems, Trauma-focused therapy, Mindfulness based stress reduction, Somatic techniques, and Intensive Breath-work.
Highly motivated for self-reflection and personal growth - Recognizes the value of therapy in achieving goals - Willing to explore uncomfortable emotions and thoughts-Open-minded and receptive to new ideas and perspectives - Honest and authentic in sharing thoughts and feelings - Willing to take responsibility for their actions and emotions - Engaged and active participant in the therapy process
I work with diverse clients and utilize a solution focused approach by integrating Internal Family Systems, Trauma-focused therapy, Mindfulness based stress reduction, Somatic techniques, and Intensive Breath-work.
Highly motivated for self-reflection and personal growth - Recognizes the value of therapy in achieving goals - Willing to explore uncomfortable emotions and thoughts-Open-minded and receptive to new ideas and perspectives - Honest and authentic in sharing thoughts and feelings - Willing to take responsibility for their actions and emotions - Engaged and active participant in the therapy process
(727) 607-0098 View (727) 607-0098
Photo of Cristina Murphy - Counseling For You NYC, LMHC, CAMSll, TS, DVS, CASAC
Counseling For You NYC
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, CAMSll, TS, DVS, CASAC
Verified Verified
Merrick, NY 11566
The therapists in our practice specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, anger management, domestic violence, couples, adolescents, and personality disorders.
Counseling For You NYC is a group of therapists that have a passion for helping others. They are devoted to helping people through difficulties they are experiencing and are nonjudgemental, supportive and knowledgeable about the issues people face in the world today. Whether you are dealing with trauma, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, or any other issues that cause stress or get in the way of leading a healthy and happy life, there is someone here to help you.
The therapists in our practice specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, anger management, domestic violence, couples, adolescents, and personality disorders.
Counseling For You NYC is a group of therapists that have a passion for helping others. They are devoted to helping people through difficulties they are experiencing and are nonjudgemental, supportive and knowledgeable about the issues people face in the world today. Whether you are dealing with trauma, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, or any other issues that cause stress or get in the way of leading a healthy and happy life, there is someone here to help you.
(929) 547-9874 View (929) 547-9874
Photo of Christine Sullivan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine Sullivan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Merrick, NY 11566
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome... Together we can "get to- the- heart- of- the- matter " I provide a safe and nurturing environment and have a practiced ability to get to the heart of a problem quickly. My specialties include trauma/PTSD, anxiety/depression, addiction/substance abuse, grief and loss. Let's discover what is causing distress in your life and help you become your best self. I am an EMDRIA approved EMDR trauma therapist.
Welcome... Together we can "get to- the- heart- of- the- matter " I provide a safe and nurturing environment and have a practiced ability to get to the heart of a problem quickly. My specialties include trauma/PTSD, anxiety/depression, addiction/substance abuse, grief and loss. Let's discover what is causing distress in your life and help you become your best self. I am an EMDRIA approved EMDR trauma therapist.
(516) 714-3134 View (516) 714-3134
Photo of Cynthia Dunn, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cynthia Dunn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Merrick, NY 11566  (Online Only)
Cynthia Dunn LCSW-R is an experienced telehealth therapist who has expertise working with people of all ages. She is licensed and trained to provide guidance and encouragement to adolescents and their families as well as adults who are struggling with social and emotional issues, stress management, behavioral problems, trauma, bereavement and much more. She guides all of her clients using evidence based therapeutic practices and prides herself in helping her clients to maintain accountability, develop self-reliance, and achieve healthy interdependence.
Cynthia Dunn LCSW-R is an experienced telehealth therapist who has expertise working with people of all ages. She is licensed and trained to provide guidance and encouragement to adolescents and their families as well as adults who are struggling with social and emotional issues, stress management, behavioral problems, trauma, bereavement and much more. She guides all of her clients using evidence based therapeutic practices and prides herself in helping her clients to maintain accountability, develop self-reliance, and achieve healthy interdependence.
(516) 307-0850 View (516) 307-0850
Photo of Elizabeth O'Keefe-Morse, PsyD, Psychologist
Elizabeth O'Keefe-Morse
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Merrick, NY 11566  (Online Only)
I am a trauma informed therapist who offers an inclusive, safe space to process life's challenges.
When you feel anxious, overwhelmed, or mentally stuck, it can impact every aspect of your life. These difficult emotions can get in the way of experiencing and participating in your life the way you want to. I specialize in helping people cope with anxiety, depression, and the effects of trauma. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and mindfulness strategies to teach new ways to cope with painful thoughts and feelings.
I am a trauma informed therapist who offers an inclusive, safe space to process life's challenges.
When you feel anxious, overwhelmed, or mentally stuck, it can impact every aspect of your life. These difficult emotions can get in the way of experiencing and participating in your life the way you want to. I specialize in helping people cope with anxiety, depression, and the effects of trauma. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and mindfulness strategies to teach new ways to cope with painful thoughts and feelings.
(516) 277-6121 View (516) 277-6121
Photo of Renee Maggiore, LMHC, Counselor
Renee Maggiore
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Merrick, NY 11566
I have years of experience in treating clients with a wide variety of issues, including but not limited to, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, trauma, and grief.
I became a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with the purpose of helping people as they navigate through life’s many ups and downs. I am passionate about helping clients increase their self-awareness and recognize their inner strengths. I aim to provide a non-judgmental, safe space for clients to feel supported and validated. I utilize a client-centered approach to therapy, tailored to suit the needs of my client. I use an eclectic therapeutic approach including EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Strength-Based Therapy.
I have years of experience in treating clients with a wide variety of issues, including but not limited to, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, trauma, and grief.
I became a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with the purpose of helping people as they navigate through life’s many ups and downs. I am passionate about helping clients increase their self-awareness and recognize their inner strengths. I aim to provide a non-judgmental, safe space for clients to feel supported and validated. I utilize a client-centered approach to therapy, tailored to suit the needs of my client. I use an eclectic therapeutic approach including EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Strength-Based Therapy.
(516) 260-4839 View (516) 260-4839
Photo of Tiffani Smith, LMHC, Counselor
Tiffani Smith
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Merrick, NY 11566
As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I have training and experience working with teens/adolescents, adults, and families dealing with diverse challenges including depression, anxiety, trauma, anger, life stressors, low self-esteem, and justice involvement.
Each of us have a unique story that reflects our life experiences and helps to shape our perspective of the world around us and how we view ourselves. Therapy is an opportunity to explore and understand your life story, heal from painful emotions, identify and build upon your strengths, and create lasting change to improve your overall sense of well-being. As your therapist, I aim to foster a warm, supportive, and collaborative therapeutic environment where you feel safe to engage in self-exploration and reach your goals.
As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I have training and experience working with teens/adolescents, adults, and families dealing with diverse challenges including depression, anxiety, trauma, anger, life stressors, low self-esteem, and justice involvement.
Each of us have a unique story that reflects our life experiences and helps to shape our perspective of the world around us and how we view ourselves. Therapy is an opportunity to explore and understand your life story, heal from painful emotions, identify and build upon your strengths, and create lasting change to improve your overall sense of well-being. As your therapist, I aim to foster a warm, supportive, and collaborative therapeutic environment where you feel safe to engage in self-exploration and reach your goals.
(516) 614-3568 View (516) 614-3568
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.