Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Sherwood, OR

Photo of Melissa Montello, Assoc, MA, NCC, CCTS-I, Pre-Licensed Professional
Melissa Montello
Pre-Licensed Professional, Assoc, MA, NCC, CCTS-I
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sherwood, OR 97140
Now accepting OHP! Reaching out for help in any capacity can feel incredibly difficult and scary. My goal is to welcome you into a space where you feel safe, seen and heard, and to work with you right where you are at. This is your journey, and I am here to offer support and resources to guide you in the direction you desire to go. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, have unhealed wounds and trauma from the past, or are currently struggling with issues such as infertility, grief and loss (not just death experiences), or just need a safe space to feel, process and heal, I am here for you.
Now accepting OHP! Reaching out for help in any capacity can feel incredibly difficult and scary. My goal is to welcome you into a space where you feel safe, seen and heard, and to work with you right where you are at. This is your journey, and I am here to offer support and resources to guide you in the direction you desire to go. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, have unhealed wounds and trauma from the past, or are currently struggling with issues such as infertility, grief and loss (not just death experiences), or just need a safe space to feel, process and heal, I am here for you.
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Photo of Sherry R Beckmann, EdD, MA, LPC, LMHC, NCC, Psychologist
Sherry R Beckmann
Psychologist, EdD, MA, LPC, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Sherwood, OR 97140
Not accepting new clients
Practice focuses on EMDR therapy which can quickly and effectively assist with PTSD, Anger, Abuse, Anxiety, Panic, Phobia, Relationships, Grief, Military and First-line responder trauma, as well as many other conditions.
Doctorate in Counseling Psychology with advanced specialization in EMDR therapy. Certified EMDR clinician and EMDRIA approved Consultant. Accelerated Resolution Therapy credentialed practitioner. Supervision for pre/post licensure clinicians. Certified in Dialectic Behavior Therapy, Cranial Electrical treatment for panic, pain, and depression; credentialed HeartMath clinician for stress and emotional regulation.
Practice focuses on EMDR therapy which can quickly and effectively assist with PTSD, Anger, Abuse, Anxiety, Panic, Phobia, Relationships, Grief, Military and First-line responder trauma, as well as many other conditions.
Doctorate in Counseling Psychology with advanced specialization in EMDR therapy. Certified EMDR clinician and EMDRIA approved Consultant. Accelerated Resolution Therapy credentialed practitioner. Supervision for pre/post licensure clinicians. Certified in Dialectic Behavior Therapy, Cranial Electrical treatment for panic, pain, and depression; credentialed HeartMath clinician for stress and emotional regulation.
(503) 713-6939 View (503) 713-6939
Photo of Krista Lawless, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Krista Lawless
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sherwood, OR 97140
Not accepting new clients
I have experience helping those recovering from domestic violence, toxic faith situations and clients recovering from childhood sexual abuse and trauma.
Being authentic with others can make us feel vulnerable and seeking help with problems we are experiencing may feel scary. It takes courage! As a therapist, I am dedicated to creating a safe, non-judgmental environment in which clients can journey through problematic pieces of their life, while maintaining and growing a healthy sense of self. I address the client as a multi-facetted individual by being mindful of psychological, physical, social and spiritual components of health and wellness. I work with individual adults, adolescents and couples.
I have experience helping those recovering from domestic violence, toxic faith situations and clients recovering from childhood sexual abuse and trauma.
Being authentic with others can make us feel vulnerable and seeking help with problems we are experiencing may feel scary. It takes courage! As a therapist, I am dedicated to creating a safe, non-judgmental environment in which clients can journey through problematic pieces of their life, while maintaining and growing a healthy sense of self. I address the client as a multi-facetted individual by being mindful of psychological, physical, social and spiritual components of health and wellness. I work with individual adults, adolescents and couples.
(971) 264-2335 View (971) 264-2335
Photo of Brian Longworth, MDiv, PhD, LPC, CSAT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brian Longworth
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, PhD, LPC, CSAT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sherwood, OR 97140  (Online Only)
I support clients who have experienced a variety of types of trauma including the impact of the trauma of sexual addiction on families.
I believe therapy is about a therapist and a client collaborating together to address mental health issues and or deal with life problems. I believe the client (You) is the expert about themselves concerning strengths, weaknesses, and issues of concern. I believe it is my purpose as a therapist to build a therapeutic relationship which supports the development of your insights, and life skills; including the identification of strengths, and support systems that may aid in the reduction of negative symptoms and improve quality. I do tele-health and I am hoping to be in person by summer 2023 and joined by Mason my therapy dog.
I support clients who have experienced a variety of types of trauma including the impact of the trauma of sexual addiction on families.
I believe therapy is about a therapist and a client collaborating together to address mental health issues and or deal with life problems. I believe the client (You) is the expert about themselves concerning strengths, weaknesses, and issues of concern. I believe it is my purpose as a therapist to build a therapeutic relationship which supports the development of your insights, and life skills; including the identification of strengths, and support systems that may aid in the reduction of negative symptoms and improve quality. I do tele-health and I am hoping to be in person by summer 2023 and joined by Mason my therapy dog.
(971) 251-9482 View (971) 251-9482
Photo of Melissa McMurry, LPC, CADC 1, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melissa McMurry
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CADC 1
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sherwood, OR 97140
I have extensive training in healing trauma through EMDR, Mindfulness-based somatic therapy, radical candor and humor.
Life can lead us down some pretty confusing paths sometimes, leaving us feeling crazy, unsettled, and totally lost. You don't have to feel like this forever. I work with individuals, couples, and teens who are really going through it - anxiety, panic and stress, relationship issues, PTSD, and unresolved issues that continue to impact current life. Many of my clients are insightful, curious, growth-oriented people who are seeking something beyond traditional therapy. My focus is on helping you to UN-learn all the crap you've taken on over the years that is weighing you down and freeing up whatever it is that seems to be stuck.
I have extensive training in healing trauma through EMDR, Mindfulness-based somatic therapy, radical candor and humor.
Life can lead us down some pretty confusing paths sometimes, leaving us feeling crazy, unsettled, and totally lost. You don't have to feel like this forever. I work with individuals, couples, and teens who are really going through it - anxiety, panic and stress, relationship issues, PTSD, and unresolved issues that continue to impact current life. Many of my clients are insightful, curious, growth-oriented people who are seeking something beyond traditional therapy. My focus is on helping you to UN-learn all the crap you've taken on over the years that is weighing you down and freeing up whatever it is that seems to be stuck.
(971) 801-7486 View (971) 801-7486
Photo of Ashley Garcia, MA , LMFT, CCTS-I, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ashley Garcia
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA , LMFT, CCTS-I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sherwood, OR 97140
Waitlist for new clients
I tend to work well with clients struggling with relational issues, anxiety, depression, & trauma who are looking to improve the authenticity of their relationships. I believe everyone has the capacity to grow & thrive with the right support. My approach to therapy is based on the idea that relationships are fundamental to the health & well-being of my clients. My role is to collaborate with & challenge my clients to help them change their life perspectives & exist in ways that bring them both happiness & empowerment.
I tend to work well with clients struggling with relational issues, anxiety, depression, & trauma who are looking to improve the authenticity of their relationships. I believe everyone has the capacity to grow & thrive with the right support. My approach to therapy is based on the idea that relationships are fundamental to the health & well-being of my clients. My role is to collaborate with & challenge my clients to help them change their life perspectives & exist in ways that bring them both happiness & empowerment.
(503) 382-8646 View (503) 382-8646
Photo of Breanna Torres, MA, NCC
Breanna Torres
Professional Counselor Associate, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sherwood, OR 97140
** Immediate Openings **** Are you ready to take the first step to heal from past trauma? Have you experienced unhealthy relationship patterns? Regardless, if that hurt happened in childhood, from a past relationship, or is currently present in your life, all struggles are valid and deserve attention. I'm here to provide a safe and non-judgmental environment for you to grow, gain insight, and help you along your journey toward healing and change.
** Immediate Openings **** Are you ready to take the first step to heal from past trauma? Have you experienced unhealthy relationship patterns? Regardless, if that hurt happened in childhood, from a past relationship, or is currently present in your life, all struggles are valid and deserve attention. I'm here to provide a safe and non-judgmental environment for you to grow, gain insight, and help you along your journey toward healing and change.
(971) 232-3225 View (971) 232-3225
Photo of Elizabeth A. Hadley, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elizabeth A. Hadley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Sherwood, OR 97140  (Online Only)
I work with teens - adults on social and behavioral issues as well as extensive trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression and eating disorders.
Hi there and welcome! Sometimes it can be difficult to begin therapy. My desire is to be a resource and safe place for you to explore your needs. I am humbled on a daily basis by the bravery and strength of my clients. Your health and mental well-being are my highest priority as you begin this journey towards help and healing. To help this process, I offer free, 30 minute consultations. This is an opportunity for you to get to know me and decide how you would like to continue. . It is an honor to be a part of this process with you.
I work with teens - adults on social and behavioral issues as well as extensive trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression and eating disorders.
Hi there and welcome! Sometimes it can be difficult to begin therapy. My desire is to be a resource and safe place for you to explore your needs. I am humbled on a daily basis by the bravery and strength of my clients. Your health and mental well-being are my highest priority as you begin this journey towards help and healing. To help this process, I offer free, 30 minute consultations. This is an opportunity for you to get to know me and decide how you would like to continue. . It is an honor to be a part of this process with you.
(971) 701-2035 View (971) 701-2035
Photo of Barbara Kollmar, LCSW, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Barbara Kollmar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LLC
Verified Verified
Sherwood, OR 97140
Waitlist for new clients
I have specialized training - and many years of experience - in working with trauma survivors.
Relationships are a key part of our lives. In my work - whether it is with an individual, a couple, or a family - I look at the relationships and other systems which impact the presenting problem. In approaching my work with people in this manner, I am able to see things from a broader point of view which, in turn, increases my ability to be helpful. I believe in the strengths that all people have, and I draw on those strengths as we work together toward the change they seek.
I have specialized training - and many years of experience - in working with trauma survivors.
Relationships are a key part of our lives. In my work - whether it is with an individual, a couple, or a family - I look at the relationships and other systems which impact the presenting problem. In approaching my work with people in this manner, I am able to see things from a broader point of view which, in turn, increases my ability to be helpful. I believe in the strengths that all people have, and I draw on those strengths as we work together toward the change they seek.
(503) 446-6271 View (503) 446-6271
Photo of Ryan Hosley, PsyD, CSAT, Psychologist
Ryan Hosley
Psychologist, PsyD, CSAT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sherwood, OR 97140
In addition to my training in the treatment of trauma and addiction, I use the a Core Values Index (CVI) - an assessment tool only available to several specially trained professionals.
YOU are the KEY component to your relationships! Experience healing, renew strength & generate peace in your life today. I'm not your stereotypical couch psychologist, sitting in a chair saying 'how does that make you feel, and tell me more.' I'll engage with you to help you improve your life. I'm also not totally removed from the challenges you may be facing. As a husband, father, & business owner I'm out there living life & facing some of those same challenges. There is hope, and there is change available for you. Call me, let's get your life back!
In addition to my training in the treatment of trauma and addiction, I use the a Core Values Index (CVI) - an assessment tool only available to several specially trained professionals.
YOU are the KEY component to your relationships! Experience healing, renew strength & generate peace in your life today. I'm not your stereotypical couch psychologist, sitting in a chair saying 'how does that make you feel, and tell me more.' I'll engage with you to help you improve your life. I'm also not totally removed from the challenges you may be facing. As a husband, father, & business owner I'm out there living life & facing some of those same challenges. There is hope, and there is change available for you. Call me, let's get your life back!
(503) 564-0035 View (503) 564-0035
Photo of Teresa Heesacker - Teresa Heesacker Counseling, CSD, LPC, LMFT, RPT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Teresa Heesacker Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, CSD, LPC, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sherwood, OR 97140
Waitlist for new clients
I am passionate about well-being. For some, that might mean healing from trauma or growth into the person you want to become. It might mean understanding how to have a happier, healthy relationship with a parent, partner or child. I believe that every person is worthy of a life that is fully-alive and I am dedicated to partnering with people in their journey toward their vision of well-being. I provide clients with a safe, confidential and affirming environment in which they can explore their story, consider what is meaningful to them, cultivate their personal strengths and apply new insights and growth.
I am passionate about well-being. For some, that might mean healing from trauma or growth into the person you want to become. It might mean understanding how to have a happier, healthy relationship with a parent, partner or child. I believe that every person is worthy of a life that is fully-alive and I am dedicated to partnering with people in their journey toward their vision of well-being. I provide clients with a safe, confidential and affirming environment in which they can explore their story, consider what is meaningful to them, cultivate their personal strengths and apply new insights and growth.
(503) 451-6418 View (503) 451-6418
Photo of Shanna Severn, LPC, NCC, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shanna Severn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sherwood, OR 97140  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Some of these include: depression, anxiety, trauma related to violence or medical issues, grief and loss, life transitions, substance abuse, schizophrenia, eating disorders and relationship difficulties.
Sometimes when we experience stress, loss or life transitions we can feel overwhelmed, alone and stuck. Therapy can offer you a safe space where you can become unstuck and evolve into You. In the therapeutic setting, I strive to provide a nonjudgmental, empathetic and supportive environment in which individuals can explore their hurts, struggles, hopes and dreams. Individuals will also gain skills, insight, and perspective which promote relief, healing and personal growth. Treatment is tailored specifically for you as there is "no one size fits all" when it comes to individual differences.
Some of these include: depression, anxiety, trauma related to violence or medical issues, grief and loss, life transitions, substance abuse, schizophrenia, eating disorders and relationship difficulties.
Sometimes when we experience stress, loss or life transitions we can feel overwhelmed, alone and stuck. Therapy can offer you a safe space where you can become unstuck and evolve into You. In the therapeutic setting, I strive to provide a nonjudgmental, empathetic and supportive environment in which individuals can explore their hurts, struggles, hopes and dreams. Individuals will also gain skills, insight, and perspective which promote relief, healing and personal growth. Treatment is tailored specifically for you as there is "no one size fits all" when it comes to individual differences.
(971) 264-7045 View (971) 264-7045
Photo of Lisa A Langstraat - Bridges of Hope Counseling, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bridges of Hope Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sherwood, OR 97140  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with people struggling with childhood trauma, parenting, relationship issues, mood disorders, other traumas, and life transitions.
Do the challenges of life have you feeling overwhelmed, depressed, and confused? Life is difficult, and despite all of our efforts it gets the best of everyone from time to time. Counseling is a unique process that can afford you a valuable opportunity to enrich your relationships, gain greater skills for living, valuable insight, and a sense of direction into your life. As a licensed professional therapist I am specifically trained to help people develop new solutions to life's problems. My goal is to help you live the best life possible.
I specialize in working with people struggling with childhood trauma, parenting, relationship issues, mood disorders, other traumas, and life transitions.
Do the challenges of life have you feeling overwhelmed, depressed, and confused? Life is difficult, and despite all of our efforts it gets the best of everyone from time to time. Counseling is a unique process that can afford you a valuable opportunity to enrich your relationships, gain greater skills for living, valuable insight, and a sense of direction into your life. As a licensed professional therapist I am specifically trained to help people develop new solutions to life's problems. My goal is to help you live the best life possible.
(503) 966-2616 View (503) 966-2616
Photo of Luann Foster - Luann Foster PsyD LLC, PsyD, Psychologist
Luann Foster PsyD LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sherwood, OR 97140
Working from a relational frame and with a trauma-informed lens, I join the journey with my clients to work through hard circumstances and develop new patterns as we together hold hope for the future.
With a previous career in health and wellness and over 10 years working in the mental health field, I work to provide care from a wholistic perspective and a primary focus on patterns of how we relate with ourselves and others as we navigate our days. I work with adults struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, suicidal thoughts, etc. I consider it a tremendous honor to join each of my clients in their life journey.
Working from a relational frame and with a trauma-informed lens, I join the journey with my clients to work through hard circumstances and develop new patterns as we together hold hope for the future.
With a previous career in health and wellness and over 10 years working in the mental health field, I work to provide care from a wholistic perspective and a primary focus on patterns of how we relate with ourselves and others as we navigate our days. I work with adults struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, suicidal thoughts, etc. I consider it a tremendous honor to join each of my clients in their life journey.
(503) 966-0798 View (503) 966-0798
Photo of Emma Huber, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emma Huber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sherwood, OR 97140  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Feeling like a shadow of your former self. Just going through the motions. All this pretending and performing—it's exhausting. You've been through some real tough times. It's a lot to handle. You just want to feel good again and not have those past struggles keep coming back to haunt you. So you try your hardest to put on a brave face and be the person everyone expects you to be. Relationships are on shaky ground right now. Feeling embarrassed every time you lose your cool with someone you care about. Worried that they'll get sick of dealing with this trauma stuff. Fresh out of ideas for how to bring things in a better direction.
Feeling like a shadow of your former self. Just going through the motions. All this pretending and performing—it's exhausting. You've been through some real tough times. It's a lot to handle. You just want to feel good again and not have those past struggles keep coming back to haunt you. So you try your hardest to put on a brave face and be the person everyone expects you to be. Relationships are on shaky ground right now. Feeling embarrassed every time you lose your cool with someone you care about. Worried that they'll get sick of dealing with this trauma stuff. Fresh out of ideas for how to bring things in a better direction.
(910) 537-6391 View (910) 537-6391
Photo of Amanda Stuempges, Pre-Licensed Professional
Amanda Stuempges
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sherwood, OR 97140
Now accepting new clients and OHP! As a veteran, Reaching out for support can feel daunting and it takes bravery to step out into the unknown. I work with adults, children and teens struggling with trauma, grief, anxiety, depression and more. As a Professional Counselor Associate, I offer you a space of warmth and safety. Together, we will explore your inner strengths, discover your authentic self, develop skills, and forge meaningful connections as we navigate the terrain of your constantly changing life. I will collaborate with you in a non-judgmental and compassionate manner.
Now accepting new clients and OHP! As a veteran, Reaching out for support can feel daunting and it takes bravery to step out into the unknown. I work with adults, children and teens struggling with trauma, grief, anxiety, depression and more. As a Professional Counselor Associate, I offer you a space of warmth and safety. Together, we will explore your inner strengths, discover your authentic self, develop skills, and forge meaningful connections as we navigate the terrain of your constantly changing life. I will collaborate with you in a non-judgmental and compassionate manner.
(503) 744-6750 View (503) 744-6750
Photo of Cori Brandstetter, PsyD, Psychologist
Cori Brandstetter
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Sherwood, OR 97140
Hello! I am a licensed psychologist and have been practicing in the field for over 20 years. I work with adults and adolescents providing individual or couple's therapy. I address a wide variety of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, problematic behaviors, communication problems, and relationship issues.
Hello! I am a licensed psychologist and have been practicing in the field for over 20 years. I work with adults and adolescents providing individual or couple's therapy. I address a wide variety of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, problematic behaviors, communication problems, and relationship issues.
(503) 546-0137 View (503) 546-0137
Photo of Ali J Toedtemeier, LCSW, CADC-I, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ali J Toedtemeier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC-I
Verified Verified
Sherwood, OR 97140
Waitlist for new clients
I primarily work with adults and have experience working with individual's dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, PTSD and in need of coping skills.
You did it! You made the first step of asking for support, and that is a huge step. If you are stressed, overwhelmed, dealing with change (which we always are), feeling alone, anxious, or struggling with whatever life has thrown at you, please know you don't have the go through it all alone. We are meant to connect with one another and therapy provides a safe, non-judgmental connection that can lead to promising outcomes.
I primarily work with adults and have experience working with individual's dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, PTSD and in need of coping skills.
You did it! You made the first step of asking for support, and that is a huge step. If you are stressed, overwhelmed, dealing with change (which we always are), feeling alone, anxious, or struggling with whatever life has thrown at you, please know you don't have the go through it all alone. We are meant to connect with one another and therapy provides a safe, non-judgmental connection that can lead to promising outcomes.
(503) 836-8629 View (503) 836-8629
Photo of Breanna Munsell, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Breanna Munsell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sherwood, OR 97140
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Play Therapist certified in CBT, TBRI, DBT, Theraplay, and have post-graduate certificates in Therapy with Adoptive and Foster Families and Infant-Toddler Mental Health, as well as training in TF-EMDR I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and Certified Grief Informed Professional.
Welcome to a safe space where your journey towards mental and emotional well-being begins. As a dedicated mental health therapist, my primary focus is on fostering empathy and establishing a profound connection with each individual who walks through my door. Your unique experiences and struggles matter, and together, we will navigate the path to healing, growth, and resilience. Together, we'll navigate life's challenges, foster resilience, and unlock your full potential. Let's embark on this transformative path to healing and growth.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Play Therapist certified in CBT, TBRI, DBT, Theraplay, and have post-graduate certificates in Therapy with Adoptive and Foster Families and Infant-Toddler Mental Health, as well as training in TF-EMDR I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and Certified Grief Informed Professional.
Welcome to a safe space where your journey towards mental and emotional well-being begins. As a dedicated mental health therapist, my primary focus is on fostering empathy and establishing a profound connection with each individual who walks through my door. Your unique experiences and struggles matter, and together, we will navigate the path to healing, growth, and resilience. Together, we'll navigate life's challenges, foster resilience, and unlock your full potential. Let's embark on this transformative path to healing and growth.
(458) 209-2652 View (458) 209-2652
Photo of VANESSA L Little - Willamette Valley Mental Health LLC, MA, QMHP, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Willamette Valley Mental Health LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, QMHP, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sherwood, OR 97140
I have experience working with adults who struggle with the effects of trauma, depression, anxiety, codependency, addiction, low self esteem, abuse, mood and personality disorders.
My approach to counseling is to walk alongside you in your journey towards wellness. My main goal is to assist you in developing insight, discovering who you want to be, as well as change the behaviors that keep you from reaching your goals. I provide guidance and understanding but most importantly I provide a safe, trustworthy and loving environment.
I have experience working with adults who struggle with the effects of trauma, depression, anxiety, codependency, addiction, low self esteem, abuse, mood and personality disorders.
My approach to counseling is to walk alongside you in your journey towards wellness. My main goal is to assist you in developing insight, discovering who you want to be, as well as change the behaviors that keep you from reaching your goals. I provide guidance and understanding but most importantly I provide a safe, trustworthy and loving environment.
(971) 278-9884 View (971) 278-9884
1
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.