Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Milwaukie, OR
![Photo of Megan Smith, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c90e90d2-d3e8-4ae9-8156-08c5eca1d262/2/320x400.jpeg)
Megan Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Milwaukie, OR 97222 (Online Only)
Welcome. I am a clinician with 24 plus years of clinical practice and extensive experience with a number of somatic therapies. I specialize in working with complex trauma but, generally speaking, my clients seek support with relationships or overwhelming emotional states that impact some aspect of their lives.
Welcome. I am a clinician with 24 plus years of clinical practice and extensive experience with a number of somatic therapies. I specialize in working with complex trauma but, generally speaking, my clients seek support with relationships or overwhelming emotional states that impact some aspect of their lives.
![Photo of Jeremy Richardson, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/323a888c-fe75-421c-9b60-df168813649a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jeremy Richardson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukie, OR 97222
I have a lot of experience helping people with Depression, Anxiety, and Trauma.
My ideal client is someone who is struggling with one or many aspects of life. I enjoy being able to help people struggle through some of the big questions of life, or puzzle through how to make improvements.
I have a lot of experience helping people with Depression, Anxiety, and Trauma.
My ideal client is someone who is struggling with one or many aspects of life. I enjoy being able to help people struggle through some of the big questions of life, or puzzle through how to make improvements.
![Photo of Sara Booth, LCSW, AAT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50d9ce4f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sara Booth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, AAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukie, OR 97222
When it comes to trauma and stress, whether it be acute, chronic, or complex, it can get buried very deep in the mind and body because that is what is needed to be done to survive.
Hello! Thank you for thinking about inviting me on your journey! It is courageous work to explore the depths of who we are, why we are, and how we want to be in this world. I truly believe that we are all our own best healers and that we all have the inner resource necessary to be our most authentic self. I find infinite value in working with people to create an oasis where people can explore which aspects of vitality can elicit healing and how to balance the strength that comes from struggle.
When it comes to trauma and stress, whether it be acute, chronic, or complex, it can get buried very deep in the mind and body because that is what is needed to be done to survive.
Hello! Thank you for thinking about inviting me on your journey! It is courageous work to explore the depths of who we are, why we are, and how we want to be in this world. I truly believe that we are all our own best healers and that we all have the inner resource necessary to be our most authentic self. I find infinite value in working with people to create an oasis where people can explore which aspects of vitality can elicit healing and how to balance the strength that comes from struggle.
![Photo of Jeffrey Meuser, LPC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c40df19-0fa4-4e72-97f1-e65d648c93b7/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in Trauma and Addiction by helping you understand your story and how our narrative is playing a role in life.
Sometimes we struggle to make sense of what is happening around us. Sometimes we need help to get through these hard times. In these tough times, we may battle depression, anxiety, connection with others, or addictions. My goal is to help you understand your story and help you make sense of what you have learned and become more insightful, confident, and successful in life, therefore making the change you would like to see in your life. I help people work through relationship issues, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and addictions which usually stem from events or traumas.
I specialize in Trauma and Addiction by helping you understand your story and how our narrative is playing a role in life.
Sometimes we struggle to make sense of what is happening around us. Sometimes we need help to get through these hard times. In these tough times, we may battle depression, anxiety, connection with others, or addictions. My goal is to help you understand your story and help you make sense of what you have learned and become more insightful, confident, and successful in life, therefore making the change you would like to see in your life. I help people work through relationship issues, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and addictions which usually stem from events or traumas.
![Photo of Aart Lovenstein, PsyD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d552424-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Aart Lovenstein
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukie, OR 97222
It is my belief that even though people seem to differ in their inborn ability to handle life's stresses, their resiliency and sense of mastery can be cultivated. My therapeutic approach is to help my clients live a more hopeful and meaningful life. Being the oldest child of a Dutch family of Holocaust survivors, I "learned" how trauma and resiliency gets transmitted from one generation to the next. My fascination of learning how the body keeps the score, my interest in helping people be securely attached and engaged with each other all brought me to this exciting calling.
It is my belief that even though people seem to differ in their inborn ability to handle life's stresses, their resiliency and sense of mastery can be cultivated. My therapeutic approach is to help my clients live a more hopeful and meaningful life. Being the oldest child of a Dutch family of Holocaust survivors, I "learned" how trauma and resiliency gets transmitted from one generation to the next. My fascination of learning how the body keeps the score, my interest in helping people be securely attached and engaged with each other all brought me to this exciting calling.
![Photo of Lisa M Cutler-Stamm, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40850297-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa M Cutler-Stamm
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukie, OR 97222
My specialty areas are:
Attachment Relationship Issues, Anxiety/PTSD, Depression, School and Developmental issues, Adult/Childhood/Family Adjustment and Transitional Issues such as divorce, trauma, major life changes, Family Therapy and Parenting.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with 13 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families.
When I work with a client, I strive to collaborate to solve problems and open up opportunities for each individual to experience themselves, their relationships and life in a more positive, and healthy way.
My specialty areas are:
Attachment Relationship Issues, Anxiety/PTSD, Depression, School and Developmental issues, Adult/Childhood/Family Adjustment and Transitional Issues such as divorce, trauma, major life changes, Family Therapy and Parenting.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with 13 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families.
When I work with a client, I strive to collaborate to solve problems and open up opportunities for each individual to experience themselves, their relationships and life in a more positive, and healthy way.
![Photo of Daniel Stinea - Daniel G Stinea LLC, LPC, NCC, CADCIII, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40c51dc4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Daniel G Stinea LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CADCIII
Verified Verified
Milwaukie, OR 97222
Waitlist for new clients
As a Mental Health Counselor licensed in Oregon and Washington, I work with individuals who have been through trauma and abuse and are experiencing symptoms of PTSD, anxiety or depression, as well as substance abuse that are affecting their well-being and causing relationship issues. I believe that mind, body and spirit issues contribute to anxiety, depression, mood, addictions and relationship issues. My modalities of treatment include EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), LI (Lifespan Integration), DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) and Motivational Interviewing.
As a Mental Health Counselor licensed in Oregon and Washington, I work with individuals who have been through trauma and abuse and are experiencing symptoms of PTSD, anxiety or depression, as well as substance abuse that are affecting their well-being and causing relationship issues. I believe that mind, body and spirit issues contribute to anxiety, depression, mood, addictions and relationship issues. My modalities of treatment include EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), LI (Lifespan Integration), DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) and Motivational Interviewing.
![Photo of Timothy A Connor, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/469de512-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I work with a wide range of problems, but especially with people who have experienced trauma in early relationships, with all the forms of emotional distress that stem from it.
I work with individuals and couples who find themselves trapped in patterns of emotion and behavior that keep them from moving forward in their lives and relationships. I don't think of problems as illnesses, but as learned ways of navigating the world that no longer work; almost every problem started out as a solution. Problems are solved by deeply confronting and changing the emotional learnings that make them seem inevitable. Change comes when people are able to unlearn old patterns and replace them with new ones. Transformative change uses the mind’s natural capacity to adapt and heal.
I work with a wide range of problems, but especially with people who have experienced trauma in early relationships, with all the forms of emotional distress that stem from it.
I work with individuals and couples who find themselves trapped in patterns of emotion and behavior that keep them from moving forward in their lives and relationships. I don't think of problems as illnesses, but as learned ways of navigating the world that no longer work; almost every problem started out as a solution. Problems are solved by deeply confronting and changing the emotional learnings that make them seem inevitable. Change comes when people are able to unlearn old patterns and replace them with new ones. Transformative change uses the mind’s natural capacity to adapt and heal.
![Photo of Maryanne Jaconis, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4577311c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
In addition to working with anxiety and depression, I also have specialized training for working with those impacted by trauma or loss.
When people are fearful or anxious, they naturally tend to avoid the activities, things, or situations that remind them of their uncomfortable feelings. This is a natural and understandable reaction, however, while this might help reduce feelings of anxiety in the short-term, over the long-term it can make the fear become even worse. As a psychologist who specializes in the treatment of anxiety disorders using exposure therapy, an evidence-based practice, my goal is to create a warm and encouraging environment for you to learn reduce your anxiety and step back into your life in a meaningful way.
In addition to working with anxiety and depression, I also have specialized training for working with those impacted by trauma or loss.
When people are fearful or anxious, they naturally tend to avoid the activities, things, or situations that remind them of their uncomfortable feelings. This is a natural and understandable reaction, however, while this might help reduce feelings of anxiety in the short-term, over the long-term it can make the fear become even worse. As a psychologist who specializes in the treatment of anxiety disorders using exposure therapy, an evidence-based practice, my goal is to create a warm and encouraging environment for you to learn reduce your anxiety and step back into your life in a meaningful way.
![Photo of Patrick Welly, MA, LMFT, Jungian, Analyst, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d4caec6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Patrick Welly
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, Jungian, Analyst
Verified Verified
Milwaukie, OR 97222
I have training in mood and anxiety problems, childhood trauma and abuse, group therapy, couples therapy and relationship issues.
Are you looking for a Jungian Analyst to help you navigate the tension of opposites and live life more deeply, passionately, and intentionally? My practice is rooted primarily in the relationship between my client and myself. It draws upon metaphor; experiental learning; traditional methods of analytical psychology (life narrative, dream exploration, authentic movement, exploring the intersubjective field between us) meditation; visualization; and spiritual inquiry.
I have training in mood and anxiety problems, childhood trauma and abuse, group therapy, couples therapy and relationship issues.
Are you looking for a Jungian Analyst to help you navigate the tension of opposites and live life more deeply, passionately, and intentionally? My practice is rooted primarily in the relationship between my client and myself. It draws upon metaphor; experiental learning; traditional methods of analytical psychology (life narrative, dream exploration, authentic movement, exploring the intersubjective field between us) meditation; visualization; and spiritual inquiry.
![Photo of Janice Coco, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5a0a6237-288a-459d-83f5-6fdc3af2a316/3/320x400.jpeg)
Janice Coco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Milwaukie, OR 97222
If you are ready to make positive changes in your life, resolve past trauma, and deepen your relationships, please reach out.
I am a licensed clinical social worker, helping adults who experience depression, anxiety, and other painful feelings associated with life transitions, relationship difficulties, grief and loss, past trauma, sexual assault, work-related issues, and stalled creativity. My work is collaborative--I provide a safe, non-judgmental space where we can explore your concerns freely. To find a therapist who's right for you, I offer a free half-hour consultation so that you can meet me and address your emotional and financial needs. If you feel that the match is not good, there is no obligation. Email me for a quick reply.
If you are ready to make positive changes in your life, resolve past trauma, and deepen your relationships, please reach out.
I am a licensed clinical social worker, helping adults who experience depression, anxiety, and other painful feelings associated with life transitions, relationship difficulties, grief and loss, past trauma, sexual assault, work-related issues, and stalled creativity. My work is collaborative--I provide a safe, non-judgmental space where we can explore your concerns freely. To find a therapist who's right for you, I offer a free half-hour consultation so that you can meet me and address your emotional and financial needs. If you feel that the match is not good, there is no obligation. Email me for a quick reply.
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![Photo of Colette Kelsey - Clackamas Counseling Center, LLC , LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1fb935b7-4cbc-4979-9c8b-35a2768c3a1f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Clackamas Counseling Center, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Milwaukie, OR 97267 (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!
![Photo of Lisa Christine Brechbiel, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4cad8d30-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in anxiety, panic, trauma, adoption, family issues, teen crises, and helping women to heal after narcissistic abuse.
Are you feeling overwhelmed and are struggling to believe that change is possible? There is hope. My goal is to provide you with a safe place to help you find healing, create change, and make the breakthroughs you are longing for. It is my privilege to walk alongside individuals in a way that is compassionate, understanding, and transformative while also serving as a guide to help you find healing, by identifying issues, utilizing strengths, reversing negative scripts that are impacting your life or your relationships, and help you experience transformation. *Can incorporate Spiritual or Biblical counseling if desired
I specialize in anxiety, panic, trauma, adoption, family issues, teen crises, and helping women to heal after narcissistic abuse.
Are you feeling overwhelmed and are struggling to believe that change is possible? There is hope. My goal is to provide you with a safe place to help you find healing, create change, and make the breakthroughs you are longing for. It is my privilege to walk alongside individuals in a way that is compassionate, understanding, and transformative while also serving as a guide to help you find healing, by identifying issues, utilizing strengths, reversing negative scripts that are impacting your life or your relationships, and help you experience transformation. *Can incorporate Spiritual or Biblical counseling if desired
![Photo of Haleigh Yurecko - Autumn Counseling Services, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9f1ba8f9-e013-48a5-bc21-1be6fef7184c/1/320x400.png)
Autumn Counseling Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Milwaukie, OR 97222
We utilize evidenced based practices and trauma informed care to ensure our clients can achieve relief from their mental health symptoms and see progress towards their goals.
Immediate availability! Autumn Counseling Services, LLC, works with individuals and families throughout the lifespan. Our clients often struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, gender dysphoria, or ADHD. You or your child may also experience difficulties with general life stressors, relationships, trying to figure out your identity, emotion regulation, low self esteem, sleep disturbances, changes in eating habits, new changes in your life, and inability to cope with daily life, such as work, school, daily tasks and responsibilities. All of our therapists have a passion for working with those in the LGBTQIA+ community.
We utilize evidenced based practices and trauma informed care to ensure our clients can achieve relief from their mental health symptoms and see progress towards their goals.
Immediate availability! Autumn Counseling Services, LLC, works with individuals and families throughout the lifespan. Our clients often struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, gender dysphoria, or ADHD. You or your child may also experience difficulties with general life stressors, relationships, trying to figure out your identity, emotion regulation, low self esteem, sleep disturbances, changes in eating habits, new changes in your life, and inability to cope with daily life, such as work, school, daily tasks and responsibilities. All of our therapists have a passion for working with those in the LGBTQIA+ community.
![Photo of Mary Elhachem](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d911260a-cae6-4622-8c72-5e5fb1e67717/2/320x400.jpeg)
I work with people hoping to recover from complex trauma in a way that honors and integrates their whole selves. I help clients figure out stuck points, make changes aligned with their goals and values, feel more connected with themselves and others, and live a more meaningful life. I enjoy working with people who have always felt different and are navigating their mental health at the crossroads of intersecting identities that don't fit into neat boxes.
I work with people hoping to recover from complex trauma in a way that honors and integrates their whole selves. I help clients figure out stuck points, make changes aligned with their goals and values, feel more connected with themselves and others, and live a more meaningful life. I enjoy working with people who have always felt different and are navigating their mental health at the crossroads of intersecting identities that don't fit into neat boxes.
![Photo of Lea Maria Kujala, LCSW, MAC, CADCIII, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/321d190e-42f1-4031-971b-9b9ee84aa078/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lea Maria Kujala
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MAC, CADCIII
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Milwaukie, OR 97222
“We don’t have to do all of it alone. We were never meant to.” Brenée Brown We are resilient human beings who go through life trying not to be too banged up, and sometimes we get broken. There is a Japanese art form that I love called Kintsugi, where one fixes the broken pot with gold or silver to highlight where it was once broken and thus rendering it beautiful again. Trauma and addiction make us feel like we are broken inside, I work with you to apply your gold or silver highlights.
“We don’t have to do all of it alone. We were never meant to.” Brenée Brown We are resilient human beings who go through life trying not to be too banged up, and sometimes we get broken. There is a Japanese art form that I love called Kintsugi, where one fixes the broken pot with gold or silver to highlight where it was once broken and thus rendering it beautiful again. Trauma and addiction make us feel like we are broken inside, I work with you to apply your gold or silver highlights.
![Photo of Sam Zwerling, CSWA, QMHP, CADC ll, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9bc28e38-8256-4004-b794-d94ac45c2f83/2/320x400.jpeg)
Whether it is issues with mental health, substance use, trauma, anger, relationships, families, anxiety, depression, stress, etc. I believe that the path to recovery is only a perspective change away. Through a compassionate and person-centered approach to counseling, I can help guide you to better understand the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and help you to live to your fullest potential. As a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor II (CADC) I have worked with so many people in the process of living a life of wellness.
Whether it is issues with mental health, substance use, trauma, anger, relationships, families, anxiety, depression, stress, etc. I believe that the path to recovery is only a perspective change away. Through a compassionate and person-centered approach to counseling, I can help guide you to better understand the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and help you to live to your fullest potential. As a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor II (CADC) I have worked with so many people in the process of living a life of wellness.
![Photo of Michelle Whitney, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/397800f2-5cf3-4a75-9a5e-711fa6bb99c3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Whitney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Milwaukie, OR 97267 (Online Only)
I utilize a person-centered, collaborative, trauma-informed and holistic approach to therapy.
Hello! I am a licensed clinical social worker in Oregon. I obtained my graduate degree in social work from Portland State University in 2007. I specialize in working with clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, substance use, grief and loss, chronic illness, interpersonal relationships and life transitions. I am interested in helping those that are struggling with situational stressors or long-standing concerns.
I utilize a person-centered, collaborative, trauma-informed and holistic approach to therapy.
Hello! I am a licensed clinical social worker in Oregon. I obtained my graduate degree in social work from Portland State University in 2007. I specialize in working with clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, substance use, grief and loss, chronic illness, interpersonal relationships and life transitions. I am interested in helping those that are struggling with situational stressors or long-standing concerns.
![Photo of Tawny Childs, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c00314c4-d5c0-4a1a-9b28-12341272f2a0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tawny Childs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Milwaukie, OR 97222 (Online Only)
I provide mental health therapy and parent coaching for parents, teens, and young adults who live with neurodivergence and/or have experienced relational trauma.
We all have challenges and barriers in life that can keep us from living up to our full potential. Daily and accumulated stress can make it difficult to remain connected to ourselves and others. I believe we all have an innate capacity for healing. Therapy can help us access the support, tools, and safety we need to heal. Asking for help takes openness, honesty, and deep courage. It is in this place of vulnerability and willingness to ask for help, that leads us to experience the most meaningful changes in how we relate to ourselves and others.
I provide mental health therapy and parent coaching for parents, teens, and young adults who live with neurodivergence and/or have experienced relational trauma.
We all have challenges and barriers in life that can keep us from living up to our full potential. Daily and accumulated stress can make it difficult to remain connected to ourselves and others. I believe we all have an innate capacity for healing. Therapy can help us access the support, tools, and safety we need to heal. Asking for help takes openness, honesty, and deep courage. It is in this place of vulnerability and willingness to ask for help, that leads us to experience the most meaningful changes in how we relate to ourselves and others.
![Photo of Todd Forsman, LCSW, CADC-I, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ba8a86d-d8ac-4b89-8ba1-e6143b490cda/4/320x400.jpeg)
Working from a trauma focused approach to identify ways of guiding you toward finding the answers you are looking for in your journey.
Even in the darkest hours there is hope that healing and wholeness is possible. Do you suffer with the effects of depression, anxiety, addiction, self-loathing or lack of self-esteem? Do you have trouble with anger, communication or setting boundaries? There is hope! You are the author of your own story, and a skilled, caring counselor can help you find the tools you need to navigate through the hard times and be able to feel empowered to continue writing your story.
Working from a trauma focused approach to identify ways of guiding you toward finding the answers you are looking for in your journey.
Even in the darkest hours there is hope that healing and wholeness is possible. Do you suffer with the effects of depression, anxiety, addiction, self-loathing or lack of self-esteem? Do you have trouble with anger, communication or setting boundaries? There is hope! You are the author of your own story, and a skilled, caring counselor can help you find the tools you need to navigate through the hard times and be able to feel empowered to continue writing your story.
See more therapy options for Milwaukie
Nearby Trauma and PTSD Therapists Searches for Milwaukie
- Beaverton
- Clackamas
- Damascus
- Gladstone
- Happy Valley
- Lake Oswego
- Oak Grove
- Oregon City
- Portland
- Tigard
- Tualatin
- West Linn
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.