Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Lake Oswego, OR

Photo of Dr. Nicole La Verne, PsyD, LPC, MAC, CADCIII, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Nicole La Verne
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC, MAC, CADCIII, ACS
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
I use a client-centered, trauma informed approach when working with people.
Is life becoming challenging, overwhelming, confusing, unfair, and more? I understand! I have over 30 years of experience supporting people struggling with a variety of issues - depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma & PTSD, grief & loss, life changes, abuse, and more. I personally and professionally understand the dynamics that accompany many of these life challenges.
I use a client-centered, trauma informed approach when working with people.
Is life becoming challenging, overwhelming, confusing, unfair, and more? I understand! I have over 30 years of experience supporting people struggling with a variety of issues - depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma & PTSD, grief & loss, life changes, abuse, and more. I personally and professionally understand the dynamics that accompany many of these life challenges.
(503) 342-7764 View (503) 342-7764
Photo of Carolyn S Hughes, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carolyn S Hughes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97034  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I currently specialize in treating trauma of all kinds, depression, anxiety, women’s issues and pain management.
I enjoy working with individuals who are seeking a real change in their life. Sometimes you are "tired of the rut I am in" or feeling that "something needs to change..I do not want to feel like this anymore." Sometimes you are struggling with "old issues" and sometimes it is more current stresses like anxiety, relationships, or just do not know what to do next; I believe when you are ready to make a change, having a supportive push can really work!
I currently specialize in treating trauma of all kinds, depression, anxiety, women’s issues and pain management.
I enjoy working with individuals who are seeking a real change in their life. Sometimes you are "tired of the rut I am in" or feeling that "something needs to change..I do not want to feel like this anymore." Sometimes you are struggling with "old issues" and sometimes it is more current stresses like anxiety, relationships, or just do not know what to do next; I believe when you are ready to make a change, having a supportive push can really work!
(719) 387-0439 View (719) 387-0439
Photo of Meegan F Harp - Still Waters Counseling Services, LLC, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Still Waters Counseling Services, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
I have extensive experience in navigating relationship issues (including but not limited to infidelity, communication, parenting, blended families, attachment), PTSD, spiritual trauma, attachment trauma, career changes, depression, anxiety, loneliness, stress, and emotional regulation.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the State of Oregon providing mental health services in Oregon since 2010. I provide in-person and virtual trauma-informed therapy, respecting diversity and multiculturalism. My philosophy and approach towards treatment is person-centered, with the belief that each person has all the answers, and the ability to solve their problems within themselves. I see my role as an assistant in reaching the best solution for each person’s unique situation. I specialize in working with couples, families, individuals, digital nomads, entrepreneurs, and those who work from home.
I have extensive experience in navigating relationship issues (including but not limited to infidelity, communication, parenting, blended families, attachment), PTSD, spiritual trauma, attachment trauma, career changes, depression, anxiety, loneliness, stress, and emotional regulation.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the State of Oregon providing mental health services in Oregon since 2010. I provide in-person and virtual trauma-informed therapy, respecting diversity and multiculturalism. My philosophy and approach towards treatment is person-centered, with the belief that each person has all the answers, and the ability to solve their problems within themselves. I see my role as an assistant in reaching the best solution for each person’s unique situation. I specialize in working with couples, families, individuals, digital nomads, entrepreneurs, and those who work from home.
(458) 218-8694 View (458) 218-8694
Photo of Paige McIlraith, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Paige McIlraith
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
I offer a trauma-informed, person-centered, and collaborative approach.
Are you, your family, or your children struggling? Are you looking for additional support? I provide nurturing, customized, and effective psychotherapy to children, teens, and adults. I offer in person and tele-health. I offer play therapy in a room dedicated to children and adolescents. Clients tell me they experience full acceptance, empathy, and positive change in our work together. We find glimmers of hope, and strategies for change to make life better for you, your child, or your family. I look forward to hearing from you!
I offer a trauma-informed, person-centered, and collaborative approach.
Are you, your family, or your children struggling? Are you looking for additional support? I provide nurturing, customized, and effective psychotherapy to children, teens, and adults. I offer in person and tele-health. I offer play therapy in a room dedicated to children and adolescents. Clients tell me they experience full acceptance, empathy, and positive change in our work together. We find glimmers of hope, and strategies for change to make life better for you, your child, or your family. I look forward to hearing from you!
(503) 994-1112 View (503) 994-1112
Photo of Amber M. Ornelas Senger, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amber M. Ornelas Senger
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97035  (Online Only)
How we feel is central to how we live our lives. Whether you are struggling within a relationship, looking to overcome childhood trauma or navigating stressors in your life, I can help you to identify patterns and empower the change within yourself to alter your path. Give me a call or send me an email to see if we are a good match. Having a strong therapeutic alliance is key to promoting change. I am also a Hispanic identified therapist and have a strong understanding of the cultural influences of Hispanic culture.
How we feel is central to how we live our lives. Whether you are struggling within a relationship, looking to overcome childhood trauma or navigating stressors in your life, I can help you to identify patterns and empower the change within yourself to alter your path. Give me a call or send me an email to see if we are a good match. Having a strong therapeutic alliance is key to promoting change. I am also a Hispanic identified therapist and have a strong understanding of the cultural influences of Hispanic culture.
(971) 267-3704 View (971) 267-3704
Photo of Melisa Finch, PhD, Psychologist
Melisa Finch
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
Common issues I work with include anxiety, depression, trauma, sleep issues, and relationship and quality of life concerns.
I believe therapy is a collaboration between the therapist and client who work together to help the client reach a greater understanding of themselves so they can live a richer, more fulfilling life. Together, we can work to improve your ability to overcome daily adversities and life’s greater challenges. My communication style is compassionate, encouraging, and solution-focused, tailored to your specific needs, and my goal is to ensure that you feel safe, heard and supported in your journey toward a greater sense of well-being.
Common issues I work with include anxiety, depression, trauma, sleep issues, and relationship and quality of life concerns.
I believe therapy is a collaboration between the therapist and client who work together to help the client reach a greater understanding of themselves so they can live a richer, more fulfilling life. Together, we can work to improve your ability to overcome daily adversities and life’s greater challenges. My communication style is compassionate, encouraging, and solution-focused, tailored to your specific needs, and my goal is to ensure that you feel safe, heard and supported in your journey toward a greater sense of well-being.
(503) 994-2914 View (503) 994-2914
Photo of David E Blakeslee - David E. Blakeslee, Psy.D., PC, MA, PsyD, Psychologist
David E. Blakeslee, Psy.D., PC
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97034
Waitlist for new clients
Taking the first step to get help is often the most difficult, but it is often a hopeful sign that you are ready for growth and ready for change. Finding a compassionate, experienced psychologist at such a time will have the powerful benefit of moving you in a focused way on your needed areas of growth and discovering new areas of strength. Dr. Blakeslee has helped hundreds of individuals, scores of couples and dozens of families in his 20+ years of practice. The science of psychology has made treatment for depression, anxiety, trauma and dysfunctional relationships more successful.
Taking the first step to get help is often the most difficult, but it is often a hopeful sign that you are ready for growth and ready for change. Finding a compassionate, experienced psychologist at such a time will have the powerful benefit of moving you in a focused way on your needed areas of growth and discovering new areas of strength. Dr. Blakeslee has helped hundreds of individuals, scores of couples and dozens of families in his 20+ years of practice. The science of psychology has made treatment for depression, anxiety, trauma and dysfunctional relationships more successful.
(503) 925-6313 View (503) 925-6313
Photo of Phillipa Jagla - Therapy for BIMPOC persons, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Therapy for BIMPOC persons
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
Is it getting exhausting to hold everything in? You don't have to go through this alone. I aim to help BIPOC persons and womxn looking for a therapist who understands your unique needs. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, life transitions, racial identity, or trauma I believe you deserve to be seen and heard. It would be my honor to support you on your healing journey.
Is it getting exhausting to hold everything in? You don't have to go through this alone. I aim to help BIPOC persons and womxn looking for a therapist who understands your unique needs. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, life transitions, racial identity, or trauma I believe you deserve to be seen and heard. It would be my honor to support you on your healing journey.
(503) 486-4896 View (503) 486-4896
Photo of Gina L Mcwhorter, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gina L Mcwhorter
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97035  (Online Only)
Gina specializes in somatic and emotionally focused therapy to assist clients with processing buried feelings and repressed trauma.
Gina is a skilled and compassionate provider specializing in traumatic stress, narcissistic abuse recovery, and highly sensitive persons. Through a psychodynamic, mindbody lens, she compassionately guides clients beyond defenses to connect with wholeness and peace.
Gina specializes in somatic and emotionally focused therapy to assist clients with processing buried feelings and repressed trauma.
Gina is a skilled and compassionate provider specializing in traumatic stress, narcissistic abuse recovery, and highly sensitive persons. Through a psychodynamic, mindbody lens, she compassionately guides clients beyond defenses to connect with wholeness and peace.
(458) 209-2309 View (458) 209-2309
Photo of Jasmine M Quistorf, MA
Jasmine M Quistorf
Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
Hey, I'm Jasmine. I generally work with folks who have challenges with trauma recovery, autism, ADHD, and anxiety. As a therapist, I'd describe myself as authentic, curious, and direct while also focused on creating a space where my client can show up as themself without feeling judged or unwanted. I enjoy curating the session to fit the comfort needs/wants of the person I'm with which can include using fidget toys, sitting on the floor, snacking, listening to music, etc.
Hey, I'm Jasmine. I generally work with folks who have challenges with trauma recovery, autism, ADHD, and anxiety. As a therapist, I'd describe myself as authentic, curious, and direct while also focused on creating a space where my client can show up as themself without feeling judged or unwanted. I enjoy curating the session to fit the comfort needs/wants of the person I'm with which can include using fidget toys, sitting on the floor, snacking, listening to music, etc.
(970) 516-3897 View (970) 516-3897
Photo of Megan Strickland, MS
Megan Strickland
Professional Counselor Associate, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97035  (Online Only)
I am a Professional Counselor Registered Associate in the State of Oregon and I am currently working towards my Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology. I really enjoy working with individuals experiencing chronic health conditions as it allows me to apply my passion for the mind-body connection, trauma-informed care, and person-centered treatment focused on empathy and strength. I also have a strong passion for trauma-informed treatment working with LGBTQIA+ individuals. As a LGBTQIA+ identifying individual, I find it highly rewarding working alongside individuals as they explore their gender and sexuality and processing past traumas.
I am a Professional Counselor Registered Associate in the State of Oregon and I am currently working towards my Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology. I really enjoy working with individuals experiencing chronic health conditions as it allows me to apply my passion for the mind-body connection, trauma-informed care, and person-centered treatment focused on empathy and strength. I also have a strong passion for trauma-informed treatment working with LGBTQIA+ individuals. As a LGBTQIA+ identifying individual, I find it highly rewarding working alongside individuals as they explore their gender and sexuality and processing past traumas.
(503) 308-7683 View (503) 308-7683
Photo of Tracie A McDowell, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tracie A McDowell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
My ideal clients are adults who have anxiety, panic, phobias, adjustment difficulties, and who are adult survivors of childhood trauma. My clients often struggle with feeling alone or ashamed of their feelings or experiences. Some have experienced criticism for how they've dealt with their struggles. Others have an inner critic that keeps them awake at night. My clients want peace of mind. They want to learn how to effectively address anxiety and stress and work toward an improved sense of self.
My ideal clients are adults who have anxiety, panic, phobias, adjustment difficulties, and who are adult survivors of childhood trauma. My clients often struggle with feeling alone or ashamed of their feelings or experiences. Some have experienced criticism for how they've dealt with their struggles. Others have an inner critic that keeps them awake at night. My clients want peace of mind. They want to learn how to effectively address anxiety and stress and work toward an improved sense of self.
(503) 539-2760 View (503) 539-2760
Photo of Paul Guinther, PhD, Psychologist
Paul Guinther
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97035  (Online Only)
As a licensed psychologist I am able to help people who are struggling with a variety of health concerns, including chronic pain, trauma/PTSD, persistent complex bereavement (impairing grief lasting more than one year), anxiety, depression, anger, and relationship issues.
Your pain is a key that can unlock the door to a better life. As a psychologist, I work to help you turn that key- to help open yourself to the compassion, enjoyment, and fulfillment that are waiting for you. I can help you through life's problems using evidence based therapy, meaning we will practice techniques that science has shown work when people commit to the process. I use a form of cognitive behavioral therapy called Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, which has been shown by research to be effective not only in reducing suffering but also in increasing life satisfaction.
As a licensed psychologist I am able to help people who are struggling with a variety of health concerns, including chronic pain, trauma/PTSD, persistent complex bereavement (impairing grief lasting more than one year), anxiety, depression, anger, and relationship issues.
Your pain is a key that can unlock the door to a better life. As a psychologist, I work to help you turn that key- to help open yourself to the compassion, enjoyment, and fulfillment that are waiting for you. I can help you through life's problems using evidence based therapy, meaning we will practice techniques that science has shown work when people commit to the process. I use a form of cognitive behavioral therapy called Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, which has been shown by research to be effective not only in reducing suffering but also in increasing life satisfaction.
(971) 247-9984 View (971) 247-9984
Photo of Vibhuti -Vee Pandey, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Vibhuti -Vee Pandey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
Trained in EMDR informed, trauma and aces informed, CBT, DBT, IFS, MBSR, and ADHD certifications.
Hello and Welcome! I am grateful to be doing work I love and find it immensely rewarding to be your ally in creating profound and lasting positive changes in your life. My therapeutic role is as a thought partner in helping clients strengthen one's inherent resilience. Several clients have stated they've had "more progress from one session than months of previous therapy." I have worked with clients of all ages from numerous intersecting racial, cultural, and religious backgrounds also, a wide range of sexual and gender orientations and various abilities/disabilities. Acknowledge systems of oppression, LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC affirming.
Trained in EMDR informed, trauma and aces informed, CBT, DBT, IFS, MBSR, and ADHD certifications.
Hello and Welcome! I am grateful to be doing work I love and find it immensely rewarding to be your ally in creating profound and lasting positive changes in your life. My therapeutic role is as a thought partner in helping clients strengthen one's inherent resilience. Several clients have stated they've had "more progress from one session than months of previous therapy." I have worked with clients of all ages from numerous intersecting racial, cultural, and religious backgrounds also, a wide range of sexual and gender orientations and various abilities/disabilities. Acknowledge systems of oppression, LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC affirming.
(503) 300-5671 View (503) 300-5671
Photo of Steven P DeLugach, MS, LPC, CSAT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Steven P DeLugach
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CSAT-S
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97034
Sexual Addictions & Trauma affects everyone in the Family. Betrayal Trauma is a natural response to secrets & lying. It must be treated as primary for the relationship to heal. Many families experience Multiple Generations of Addictions, Abuse & Neglect. Family participation is strongly encouraged but not required. Couples & Families are often in crisis from a lack of support during discovery & disclosure of Sexual Addictions. Full Disclosure is encouraged in a safe, structured process with support. Accountability is the Cornerstone of Restoring Trust & Intimacy for couples & families recovering from Sexual Addictions. Recovery from Sexual Addictions involves restoration of Healthy Sexual Balance.
Sexual Addictions & Trauma affects everyone in the Family. Betrayal Trauma is a natural response to secrets & lying. It must be treated as primary for the relationship to heal. Many families experience Multiple Generations of Addictions, Abuse & Neglect. Family participation is strongly encouraged but not required. Couples & Families are often in crisis from a lack of support during discovery & disclosure of Sexual Addictions. Full Disclosure is encouraged in a safe, structured process with support. Accountability is the Cornerstone of Restoring Trust & Intimacy for couples & families recovering from Sexual Addictions. Recovery from Sexual Addictions involves restoration of Healthy Sexual Balance.
(503) 476-9557 View (503) 476-9557
Photo of Colette Kelsey - Clackamas Counseling Center, LLC , LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Clackamas Counseling Center, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97035  (Online Only)
We provide trauma-focused therapy including EMDR with a relaxed, interactive and supportive approach.
We are a small group practice of experienced therapist. We provide a warm, validating and supportive approach to therapy. We will be there to support and encourage you. We believe you will experience healing, growth and change. We know it takes courage to take that first step and we are committed to partnering with you on your healing journey. Feel free to reach out for a free 15 minute consultation to see if we are a good fit for your needs. The best way to contact us to start therapy is via emailing us. We are dedicated to you and your healing!
We provide trauma-focused therapy including EMDR with a relaxed, interactive and supportive approach.
We are a small group practice of experienced therapist. We provide a warm, validating and supportive approach to therapy. We will be there to support and encourage you. We believe you will experience healing, growth and change. We know it takes courage to take that first step and we are committed to partnering with you on your healing journey. Feel free to reach out for a free 15 minute consultation to see if we are a good fit for your needs. The best way to contact us to start therapy is via emailing us. We are dedicated to you and your healing!
(503) 436-6555 View (503) 436-6555
Photo of Darla Hailey, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Darla Hailey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97035  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating trauma and PTSD utilizing Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART).
As a therapist, my goal in therapy is to help you identify changes you want to make and create a path together to make those changes that lead you to “out-grow” therapy. I am solution focused, utilizing action-oriented therapies, with over 30 years of clinical experience treating trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and addictions. I have extensive experience working in outpatient and inpatient settings with strong therapeutic, crisis intervention and educational skills that lead to decreasing negative symptoms and increasing productivity and feeling better.
I specialize in treating trauma and PTSD utilizing Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART).
As a therapist, my goal in therapy is to help you identify changes you want to make and create a path together to make those changes that lead you to “out-grow” therapy. I am solution focused, utilizing action-oriented therapies, with over 30 years of clinical experience treating trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and addictions. I have extensive experience working in outpatient and inpatient settings with strong therapeutic, crisis intervention and educational skills that lead to decreasing negative symptoms and increasing productivity and feeling better.
(503) 479-4127 View (503) 479-4127
Photo of Vickey Giap Thistlethwaite, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Vickey Giap Thistlethwaite
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97034
I am trained to utilize EMDR to help with PTSD and other trauma-related disturbances.
Being part of the interconnected natural world, we thrive in connection, and without connection, we wither. In our work together we will collaborate in understanding what makes you come alive and wither, to look for ways to get unstuck and make meaning of your emotions, reactivity, and suffering. I believe that individuals and families can tap into their inner strength to repair and grow new resilience with guidance and support. My role is to restore balance, build communication, and provide support to help you create space to learn and integrate new skills and encourage new perspectives as you grow and thrive in connections.
I am trained to utilize EMDR to help with PTSD and other trauma-related disturbances.
Being part of the interconnected natural world, we thrive in connection, and without connection, we wither. In our work together we will collaborate in understanding what makes you come alive and wither, to look for ways to get unstuck and make meaning of your emotions, reactivity, and suffering. I believe that individuals and families can tap into their inner strength to repair and grow new resilience with guidance and support. My role is to restore balance, build communication, and provide support to help you create space to learn and integrate new skills and encourage new perspectives as you grow and thrive in connections.
(503) 218-3885 View (503) 218-3885
Photo of Percival Fisher - Neupathway (Percival Fisher), LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Neupathway (Percival Fisher)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97034
Percival Fisher Jr. is a skilled Mental Health Therapist and Graduate Nurse with 14 years of experience integrating holistic care in mental health and nursing. He utilizes evidence-based therapies, including CBT, DBT, trauma-informed care, crisis intervention, and strength-based therapy, to empower individuals in achieving mental wellness. Percival is adept at clinical frameworks for assessment, diagnosis, and intervention across various settings like hospitals, agencies, and online platforms. He excels in creating safe, welcoming environments for diverse clients, focusing on case management, care coordination, and psychotherapy.
Percival Fisher Jr. is a skilled Mental Health Therapist and Graduate Nurse with 14 years of experience integrating holistic care in mental health and nursing. He utilizes evidence-based therapies, including CBT, DBT, trauma-informed care, crisis intervention, and strength-based therapy, to empower individuals in achieving mental wellness. Percival is adept at clinical frameworks for assessment, diagnosis, and intervention across various settings like hospitals, agencies, and online platforms. He excels in creating safe, welcoming environments for diverse clients, focusing on case management, care coordination, and psychotherapy.
(971) 319-1592 View (971) 319-1592
Photo of Lynae Nelson, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lynae Nelson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
I believe that we all experience struggles in life, both within ourselves and through challenging circumstances. These struggles can result in trauma, anxiety, depression, brain and body changes, influence our sense of self-worth, identity, belief in our abilities, the world around us, and otherwise limit us . So often, these struggles can impact our relationships, career, and long-term well-being. Clients who want to address these, and other, concerns head on in a supportive manner with a trauma lens and utilize treatment guided by science and a neuro-biological approach would enjoy my approach to therapy.
I believe that we all experience struggles in life, both within ourselves and through challenging circumstances. These struggles can result in trauma, anxiety, depression, brain and body changes, influence our sense of self-worth, identity, belief in our abilities, the world around us, and otherwise limit us . So often, these struggles can impact our relationships, career, and long-term well-being. Clients who want to address these, and other, concerns head on in a supportive manner with a trauma lens and utilize treatment guided by science and a neuro-biological approach would enjoy my approach to therapy.
(458) 218-8364 View (458) 218-8364
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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.