Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Trotwood, OH

Photo of Kelly D. Browning, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly D. Browning
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Trotwood, OH 45406
I believe wholeness is the essential nature we are all born with. None of us come into the world feeling unlovable, unworthy or undeserving. Inequities, injustices and trauma pervade our external world. Our individual experiences, environment and the "unknown" may leave us feeling anxious, overwhelmed, depressed and or struggling to manage our emotions, ultimately impacting our relationships, jobs and more. It is never too late to heal. No matter what has happened to us, healing may allow us to find wholeness, balance and flip the script of our lives.
I believe wholeness is the essential nature we are all born with. None of us come into the world feeling unlovable, unworthy or undeserving. Inequities, injustices and trauma pervade our external world. Our individual experiences, environment and the "unknown" may leave us feeling anxious, overwhelmed, depressed and or struggling to manage our emotions, ultimately impacting our relationships, jobs and more. It is never too late to heal. No matter what has happened to us, healing may allow us to find wholeness, balance and flip the script of our lives.
(937) 897-9634 View (937) 897-9634
Photo of Ashley Wormley - Loving Self Counseling Services, LLC, MS, LPCC
Loving Self Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Trotwood, OH 45426  (Online Only)
I specialize in utilizing evidence based techniques to provide treatment for depression, anxiety, school based concerns, anger management, emotion management, social skills, parent child relationships concerns, self esteem, PTSD, adjustments issues and more.
**NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS AT THIS TIME** The decision to seek therapy is a personal investment in your self care. Wounds, whether they are physical, emotional, mental or spiritual, inflicted in the early stages of life can live on and be present in the daily moment to moment life experience. Therapy can help improve your life balance, overall wellness and success in life. I believe in using multiple treatment techniques to assist each individual in working through their difficulties. **EMAIL IS THE BEST WAY TO CONTACT ME**
I specialize in utilizing evidence based techniques to provide treatment for depression, anxiety, school based concerns, anger management, emotion management, social skills, parent child relationships concerns, self esteem, PTSD, adjustments issues and more.
**NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS AT THIS TIME** The decision to seek therapy is a personal investment in your self care. Wounds, whether they are physical, emotional, mental or spiritual, inflicted in the early stages of life can live on and be present in the daily moment to moment life experience. Therapy can help improve your life balance, overall wellness and success in life. I believe in using multiple treatment techniques to assist each individual in working through their difficulties. **EMAIL IS THE BEST WAY TO CONTACT ME**
(937) 828-4071 View (937) 828-4071
Photo of Rodney Lewis Hunter - New Beginnings Therapeutic Services, LLC, MS, LSW, LICDC, CCTP, CYMHS
New Beginnings Therapeutic Services, LLC
MS, LSW, LICDC, CCTP, CYMHS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Trotwood, OH 45426
Services are designed to be brief and solution-focused in nature. The goal is to assist clients in identifying and mobilizing their own coping skills and natural supports as well as learning new skills and ways of dealing with their environment. The goal of treatment is not solution of problems, but rather the enhancement and development of skills to enable the client to engage in effective problem solving once out of the office.
Services are designed to be brief and solution-focused in nature. The goal is to assist clients in identifying and mobilizing their own coping skills and natural supports as well as learning new skills and ways of dealing with their environment. The goal of treatment is not solution of problems, but rather the enhancement and development of skills to enable the client to engage in effective problem solving once out of the office.
(937) 556-4508 View (937) 556-4508
Photo of Belinda M Preston-Cash, Chaplin, MS , LI*CDC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Belinda M Preston-Cash
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, Chaplin, MS , LI*CDC
Verified Verified
Trotwood, OH 45416
As a therapist my first goal is setting the stage by introducing myself as a therapist, who is here to supply support and resources for clients seeking therapy and life coaching changes. My voice tone and smile, along with twenty-seven plus years of experience, is everything and an immensely powerful tool when engaging with my clients. I must assure the client is aware, I am present, implementing my counseling skills of validating and confirming clients' purpose for counseling, with a non-judgmental clinical counseling approach. Please empower yourself to the desired steps toward positive, healthy, mind, body, and soul counseling.
As a therapist my first goal is setting the stage by introducing myself as a therapist, who is here to supply support and resources for clients seeking therapy and life coaching changes. My voice tone and smile, along with twenty-seven plus years of experience, is everything and an immensely powerful tool when engaging with my clients. I must assure the client is aware, I am present, implementing my counseling skills of validating and confirming clients' purpose for counseling, with a non-judgmental clinical counseling approach. Please empower yourself to the desired steps toward positive, healthy, mind, body, and soul counseling.
(937) 863-9744 View (937) 863-9744

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Karen Scott-Pine, MSW, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Scott-Pine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45415
My Training includes: Structural Family Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, With a long history in working in the community mental health setting, my areas of expertise include parent-child relationships, anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD , school avoidance, social skills teaching and developmental transitions.
“You’ve always had the power my dear, you just had to learn to learn it for yourself”– The Wizard of Oz – Frank Baum". As a clinician, I believe that counseling is about providing youth, adults, and their families a safe, dedicated space to “Learn it for yourself”. A Licensed Independent Social Worker for 25 years, my passion for supporting youth and families through their personal journeys only continues to grow. Starting with the belief that the relationship is the basis of therapy, I will work with you, your child, and your family to develop strategies that allow you to overcome or manage your own unique situation.
My Training includes: Structural Family Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, With a long history in working in the community mental health setting, my areas of expertise include parent-child relationships, anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD , school avoidance, social skills teaching and developmental transitions.
“You’ve always had the power my dear, you just had to learn to learn it for yourself”– The Wizard of Oz – Frank Baum". As a clinician, I believe that counseling is about providing youth, adults, and their families a safe, dedicated space to “Learn it for yourself”. A Licensed Independent Social Worker for 25 years, my passion for supporting youth and families through their personal journeys only continues to grow. Starting with the belief that the relationship is the basis of therapy, I will work with you, your child, and your family to develop strategies that allow you to overcome or manage your own unique situation.
(937) 634-7817 View (937) 634-7817
Photo of Kristy S Dillon, MS, LPCC-S
Kristy S Dillon
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45415
I have significant experience working with adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse (both men and women), PTSD, depression, anxiety, gay and lesbian issues, or those questioning their sexual orientation, relationship issues, parenting, and HIV/AIDS.
If you are looking for a safe, compassionate, nonjudgemental person to talk to about the problems you are having, I can help. I have 20+ years of experience in the counseling field. I have worked in a variety of settings including a community mental health center, a private psychiatric office, a school setting, and an alcohol and drug treatment center. My goal is to help you achieve your goals, which might include helping you identify your strengths, improve your relationships, reduce negative symptoms, teach coping skills, enhance your self esteem, help you express your emotions, and provide support and guidance.
I have significant experience working with adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse (both men and women), PTSD, depression, anxiety, gay and lesbian issues, or those questioning their sexual orientation, relationship issues, parenting, and HIV/AIDS.
If you are looking for a safe, compassionate, nonjudgemental person to talk to about the problems you are having, I can help. I have 20+ years of experience in the counseling field. I have worked in a variety of settings including a community mental health center, a private psychiatric office, a school setting, and an alcohol and drug treatment center. My goal is to help you achieve your goals, which might include helping you identify your strengths, improve your relationships, reduce negative symptoms, teach coping skills, enhance your self esteem, help you express your emotions, and provide support and guidance.
(937) 817-4823 View (937) 817-4823
Photo of Taylor Williams, LPCC
Taylor Williams
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45406  (Online Only)
Hello, I am Taylor Williams, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with over 9 years of clinical experience. I am trauma certified and DBT-focused on helping diverse individuals who have Borderline Personality, Trauma, PTSD, Life Transitions, Family Conflict, and LGBTQIA+ issues. I utilize a combination of Dialectical (DBT), Trauma Focused, Existential, Feminist, and Holistic therapies. From my experiences, I believe life can improve after learning healthy coping skills and processing the past.
Hello, I am Taylor Williams, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with over 9 years of clinical experience. I am trauma certified and DBT-focused on helping diverse individuals who have Borderline Personality, Trauma, PTSD, Life Transitions, Family Conflict, and LGBTQIA+ issues. I utilize a combination of Dialectical (DBT), Trauma Focused, Existential, Feminist, and Holistic therapies. From my experiences, I believe life can improve after learning healthy coping skills and processing the past.
(740) 631-6471 View (740) 631-6471
Photo of Charlotte Denyelle Harris, RN, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Charlotte Denyelle Harris
Licensed Professional Counselor, RN, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45406
As a Registered Nurse for the past 27 years, I have had the unique opportunity to care for patients in various stages of their physical, emotional, and mental health. It has been my calling to walk with patients as they navigate through difficult times. Unfortunately, people of color have been subjected to systemic disenfranchisement and social injustice, which has often resulted in trauma. As a therapist, I understand how this trauma can affect you mentally, spiritually, and emotionally. My goal is to accompany you on your journey, to help you unravel life's complexities, and to empower you to fulfill your destiny.
As a Registered Nurse for the past 27 years, I have had the unique opportunity to care for patients in various stages of their physical, emotional, and mental health. It has been my calling to walk with patients as they navigate through difficult times. Unfortunately, people of color have been subjected to systemic disenfranchisement and social injustice, which has often resulted in trauma. As a therapist, I understand how this trauma can affect you mentally, spiritually, and emotionally. My goal is to accompany you on your journey, to help you unravel life's complexities, and to empower you to fulfill your destiny.
(937) 898-4942 View (937) 898-4942
Photo of Jessica Williams, PsyD, Psychologist
Jessica Williams
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45415
She is trained as a generalist, and her areas of special interest include anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, LGBTQ+ concerns, women's issues and identity concerns.
Dr. Williams received her doctoral degree in clinical psychology from Wright State University's School of Professional Psychology. She completed an American Psychological Association-approved internship and holds a bachelor's degree in psychology from Stetson University. Her previous work experience includes providing individual therapy, group therapy, and testing services in university counseling center settings. She practices from an assimilative integrative Feminist approach to therapy, incorporating techniques from Interpersonal Process Approach, CBT, ACT, DBT, CPT, CFT, and other theories as appropriate to suit client needs.
She is trained as a generalist, and her areas of special interest include anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, LGBTQ+ concerns, women's issues and identity concerns.
Dr. Williams received her doctoral degree in clinical psychology from Wright State University's School of Professional Psychology. She completed an American Psychological Association-approved internship and holds a bachelor's degree in psychology from Stetson University. Her previous work experience includes providing individual therapy, group therapy, and testing services in university counseling center settings. She practices from an assimilative integrative Feminist approach to therapy, incorporating techniques from Interpersonal Process Approach, CBT, ACT, DBT, CPT, CFT, and other theories as appropriate to suit client needs.
(937) 752-5272 View (937) 752-5272
Photo of Taylor Shear, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Taylor Shear
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45415
In addition to trauma therapy, Taylor offers expertise in treating a range of mental health concerns, including ADHD, anxiety, childhood behavior issues, couple’s issues, depression, gender identity exploration, grief, midlife transitions, post-partum depression/anxiety, PTSD/trauma, and women's issues.
Taylor Shear provides a safe space for individuals to process their thoughts and emotions, whether navigating difficult times or seeking support in general. With a warm and compassionate approach, Taylor empowers her clients to explore their feelings and experiences, fostering healing and growth. Specializing in trauma therapy, Taylor is deeply passionate about helping clients overcome past traumas and rebuild their lives with resilience and strength. She understands the unique challenges that individuals face and tailors her therapy sessions to meet the specific needs of each person.
In addition to trauma therapy, Taylor offers expertise in treating a range of mental health concerns, including ADHD, anxiety, childhood behavior issues, couple’s issues, depression, gender identity exploration, grief, midlife transitions, post-partum depression/anxiety, PTSD/trauma, and women's issues.
Taylor Shear provides a safe space for individuals to process their thoughts and emotions, whether navigating difficult times or seeking support in general. With a warm and compassionate approach, Taylor empowers her clients to explore their feelings and experiences, fostering healing and growth. Specializing in trauma therapy, Taylor is deeply passionate about helping clients overcome past traumas and rebuild their lives with resilience and strength. She understands the unique challenges that individuals face and tailors her therapy sessions to meet the specific needs of each person.
(937) 882-5262 View (937) 882-5262
Lauren Barber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LPC
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45415
Lauren Barber is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2020. She has a Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, a Bachelors in Psychology, and an Associates in Communication. Lauren specializes in helping clients unlock their inner confidence to assist in treating substance use disorders, unresolved trauma, anxiety/depression, and other stressors. Outside of work, Lauren loves spending time with her family outdoors.
Lauren Barber is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2020. She has a Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, a Bachelors in Psychology, and an Associates in Communication. Lauren specializes in helping clients unlock their inner confidence to assist in treating substance use disorders, unresolved trauma, anxiety/depression, and other stressors. Outside of work, Lauren loves spending time with her family outdoors.
(937) 915-2735 View (937) 915-2735
Photo of De'Asia L. Thompson - Rise Counseling Group, MSW, LISW-S, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rise Counseling Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dayton, OH 45406
EMDR therapy is offered & is an excellent way to help push through stuck trauma.
"My mission in life is not to merely survive, but to thrive and do so with some passion, compassion, some humor, and some style." -Maya Angelou As black women we are usually the last on our list- the order is usually kids, partners, parents, family, jobs, friends... then you. All of this and we're barely making it. Why continue to struggle and merely survive, when you can thrive. Depression doesn't always look like tears and pity parties. It can look like overwhelm, anger, unstable emotions, isolation, and anxiety too! Sound like anyone you know? Is it you girl?
EMDR therapy is offered & is an excellent way to help push through stuck trauma.
"My mission in life is not to merely survive, but to thrive and do so with some passion, compassion, some humor, and some style." -Maya Angelou As black women we are usually the last on our list- the order is usually kids, partners, parents, family, jobs, friends... then you. All of this and we're barely making it. Why continue to struggle and merely survive, when you can thrive. Depression doesn't always look like tears and pity parties. It can look like overwhelm, anger, unstable emotions, isolation, and anxiety too! Sound like anyone you know? Is it you girl?
(216) 465-0603 View (216) 465-0603
Photo of Holly Pelphrey- Now Accepting Couples!, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Holly Pelphrey- Now Accepting Couples!
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dayton, OH 45426
Because of this, I have sought out training to better understand betrayal trauma and generalized trauma.
There's a reason you showed up here. Whether it's because something happened to you or you're feeling less than yourself lately, I'm glad you took the first step to getting back to you. Our time together can be how you begin the journey of healing and restoration that you've been hoping to start.
Because of this, I have sought out training to better understand betrayal trauma and generalized trauma.
There's a reason you showed up here. Whether it's because something happened to you or you're feeling less than yourself lately, I'm glad you took the first step to getting back to you. Our time together can be how you begin the journey of healing and restoration that you've been hoping to start.
(513) 613-2305 View (513) 613-2305
Photo of Trena Jenkins, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Trena Jenkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45415
Trena Jenkins is a Licensed Independent Social Worker Supervisor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2000. She has an MSW from The Ohio State University. Trena believes every person should be treated with dignity and respect no matter what challenges they are facing. She will provide you with a supportive environment where you can safely explore and work through the thoughts, feelings, and experiences that are interfering with your quality of life. By working together, Trena will help you to gain the strength and personal growth needed for you to move forward with life and living.
Trena Jenkins is a Licensed Independent Social Worker Supervisor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2000. She has an MSW from The Ohio State University. Trena believes every person should be treated with dignity and respect no matter what challenges they are facing. She will provide you with a supportive environment where you can safely explore and work through the thoughts, feelings, and experiences that are interfering with your quality of life. By working together, Trena will help you to gain the strength and personal growth needed for you to move forward with life and living.
(937) 884-3970 View (937) 884-3970
Photo of Karen A Henderson, IMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Karen A Henderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, IMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45415
Tired of feeling "stuck" or helpless? It's time to take back your life! This is not how you wanted it to be...overwhelmed, anxious, discouraged. From conflict in relationships to struggling with your own peace of mind.… it can seem like a cycle of chaos in your head that won't stop. Things might trigger you from something painful in the past. Fear and worry may make it hard to breathe, or hopelessness may overcome you. Maybe you think it will never get better and it's too much to bear. If pain from the past is affecting your happiness and you're ready to make a change, take action now and contact me, I know how to help you!
Tired of feeling "stuck" or helpless? It's time to take back your life! This is not how you wanted it to be...overwhelmed, anxious, discouraged. From conflict in relationships to struggling with your own peace of mind.… it can seem like a cycle of chaos in your head that won't stop. Things might trigger you from something painful in the past. Fear and worry may make it hard to breathe, or hopelessness may overcome you. Maybe you think it will never get better and it's too much to bear. If pain from the past is affecting your happiness and you're ready to make a change, take action now and contact me, I know how to help you!
(937) 764-9919 View (937) 764-9919
Photo of Angela M Lowe - Battle For Your Life Christian Counseling Service, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Battle For Your Life Christian Counseling Service
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45415
As a Christian, deciding to pursue counseling can be a difficult step. Many judge themselves, or fear judgment from others, for not “having enough faith” or “praying enough” to resolve the situation themselves. Others have sought counseling in the past without success, and worry that trying again will only disappoint. At Battle for Your Life Christian Counseling & Training Services (BFYL), we know that all believers –Yes, ALL believers – have seasons of struggle in their life when they need others to come alongside them. Whether you are struggling with marital problems, battling anxiety or depression, are a wounded believer, or are simply in need of fresh guidance and counsel for the direction of your life, we are here to help you. If you are tired of counsel that relies on the limited wisdom, knowledge and experience of yet another person, and if you do not simply want to learn “how to deal” but how to have victory in your life, we exist to help you.
As a Christian, deciding to pursue counseling can be a difficult step. Many judge themselves, or fear judgment from others, for not “having enough faith” or “praying enough” to resolve the situation themselves. Others have sought counseling in the past without success, and worry that trying again will only disappoint. At Battle for Your Life Christian Counseling & Training Services (BFYL), we know that all believers –Yes, ALL believers – have seasons of struggle in their life when they need others to come alongside them. Whether you are struggling with marital problems, battling anxiety or depression, are a wounded believer, or are simply in need of fresh guidance and counsel for the direction of your life, we are here to help you. If you are tired of counsel that relies on the limited wisdom, knowledge and experience of yet another person, and if you do not simply want to learn “how to deal” but how to have victory in your life, we exist to help you.
(937) 669-7912 View (937) 669-7912
Photo of Brenda Howell, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brenda Howell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45406
Clients who see me often struggle with feeling hopeless, alone, trouble getting out of bed. Or some are in relationships and having trouble communicating. Some have children with issues at school and not sure how to help them. They are tried of feeling the way they do and want help. This is not how they envisioned life to be like. They want so much more out of their marriage, for their kids, for themselves. They want to be done fighting and carrying everything on their shoulders alone. They want help with the worrisome thoughts and controlling emotions. They would like to know they are not alone dealing with life struggles.
Clients who see me often struggle with feeling hopeless, alone, trouble getting out of bed. Or some are in relationships and having trouble communicating. Some have children with issues at school and not sure how to help them. They are tried of feeling the way they do and want help. This is not how they envisioned life to be like. They want so much more out of their marriage, for their kids, for themselves. They want to be done fighting and carrying everything on their shoulders alone. They want help with the worrisome thoughts and controlling emotions. They would like to know they are not alone dealing with life struggles.
(937) 502-3858 View (937) 502-3858
Photo of Ruth A McKowen, LISW-S, LICDC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ruth A McKowen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, LICDC
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45415  (Online Only)
I believe people want to be heard, need to be heard. I believe it takes courage to reach out for help. I am very interested in my client's story, as I believe our story helps us process the past. I am honored to be a part of helping my client heal from the past and gain the skills to be in the present moment as well as work towards emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual wholeness.
I believe people want to be heard, need to be heard. I believe it takes courage to reach out for help. I am very interested in my client's story, as I believe our story helps us process the past. I am honored to be a part of helping my client heal from the past and gain the skills to be in the present moment as well as work towards emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual wholeness.
(937) 806-5340 View (937) 806-5340
Photo of Brenda G Haney, LISW-S, LCDCIII, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brenda G Haney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, LCDCIII
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45406  (Online Only)
I work with diverse populations that include but are not limited to Couples/partners the LGBTQ community, Polyamorous relationships, Elder populations, teenagers, etc. I will work to help you address your concerns and reach your goals.
I work with diverse populations that include but are not limited to Couples/partners the LGBTQ community, Polyamorous relationships, Elder populations, teenagers, etc. I will work to help you address your concerns and reach your goals.
(937) 857-6005 View (937) 857-6005
Photo of Cody Jaques, LPCC
Cody Jaques
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45415
Cody Jaques is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2016. Cody enjoys working with clients to help them build lasting skills and tools that they can rely on for a lifetime! He believes we don't rise to the occasion; we build and prepare ourselves every day to be ready for all of life's challenges! Outside of work, Cody enjoys hiking, traveling, his dog and cat, and finding all of life's adventures!.
Cody Jaques is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2016. Cody enjoys working with clients to help them build lasting skills and tools that they can rely on for a lifetime! He believes we don't rise to the occasion; we build and prepare ourselves every day to be ready for all of life's challenges! Outside of work, Cody enjoys hiking, traveling, his dog and cat, and finding all of life's adventures!.
(937) 633-1052 View (937) 633-1052

See more therapy options for Trotwood

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.