Trauma and PTSD Therapists in East York, PA

Photo of Stacey Burroughs, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stacey Burroughs
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
East York, PA 17402  (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Stacey. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 25 years of experience in behavioral health care, substance use treatment, and child welfare services. I utilize an attachment-informed, trauma sensitive, and strengths-based approach to working with individuals and families around a variety of needs including adjustment issues, learning and behavioral challenges, mood and anxiety related concerns, trauma, grief and loss, gender journey, and life transitions.
Hello, my name is Stacey. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 25 years of experience in behavioral health care, substance use treatment, and child welfare services. I utilize an attachment-informed, trauma sensitive, and strengths-based approach to working with individuals and families around a variety of needs including adjustment issues, learning and behavioral challenges, mood and anxiety related concerns, trauma, grief and loss, gender journey, and life transitions.
(717) 200-7060 View (717) 200-7060
Photo of Kimberly McGhee - Kimberly McGhee EMDR - Trauma - Art Therapist, MA, ATR-BC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kimberly McGhee EMDR - Trauma - Art Therapist
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR-BC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
East York, PA 17402
As a therapist informed by trauma awareness and centered on your needs, I'm dedicated to supporting you on your journey.
Are you feeling trapped or is your past casting a shadow over your present happiness? Does fear, anxiety, or past traumas hinder your ability to embrace joy and achieve the success you crave? As a clinically trained EMDR therapist, board-certified and registered art therapist, and licensed professional counselor in York, PA, I'm dedicated to supporting individuals just like you. Utilizing diverse trauma processing techniques, mindfulness practices, avenues for creative expression, and non-verbal/bottom-up approaches, I empower my clients to recognize their strengths, alleviate PTSD symptoms, gain insight, and improve self-esteem.
As a therapist informed by trauma awareness and centered on your needs, I'm dedicated to supporting you on your journey.
Are you feeling trapped or is your past casting a shadow over your present happiness? Does fear, anxiety, or past traumas hinder your ability to embrace joy and achieve the success you crave? As a clinically trained EMDR therapist, board-certified and registered art therapist, and licensed professional counselor in York, PA, I'm dedicated to supporting individuals just like you. Utilizing diverse trauma processing techniques, mindfulness practices, avenues for creative expression, and non-verbal/bottom-up approaches, I empower my clients to recognize their strengths, alleviate PTSD symptoms, gain insight, and improve self-esteem.
(717) 990-7741 View (717) 990-7741
Photo of Julia D Crozier - Crozier Professional Counseling LLC, MHR, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Crozier Professional Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MHR, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East York, PA 17402
I am a licensed professional counselor with 20+ years of experience. I am interested in helping people find hope and direction in their lives. Life has been difficult for many during these past few years and many people have been isolated from the support they need. It can be additionally challenging if you have symptoms of anxiety, depression, anger, ADHD, or mania. Through Telehealth and weekly appointments, I am accessible and can help you from the comfort of your own home. See link, lower right side of screen, to schedule directly on my website.
I am a licensed professional counselor with 20+ years of experience. I am interested in helping people find hope and direction in their lives. Life has been difficult for many during these past few years and many people have been isolated from the support they need. It can be additionally challenging if you have symptoms of anxiety, depression, anger, ADHD, or mania. Through Telehealth and weekly appointments, I am accessible and can help you from the comfort of your own home. See link, lower right side of screen, to schedule directly on my website.
(717) 946-9403 View (717) 946-9403
Photo of Vanay Lashon Frederick-Ellis, PhD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Vanay Lashon Frederick-Ellis
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East York, PA 17402
Hi there! If you need to be heard, want to find your voice again, or find your voice for the first time then let's talk. What goals do you have for yourself? And, what's getting in the way of you achieving those goals? Whatever your struggle is I want to help you connect with yourself and gain the confidence to do whatever it is to be successful. I want you to be the best version of yourself for yourself. I know there are important people in your life and we can talk about them too, but just know I want to make you the focus. It starts and ends with you!
Hi there! If you need to be heard, want to find your voice again, or find your voice for the first time then let's talk. What goals do you have for yourself? And, what's getting in the way of you achieving those goals? Whatever your struggle is I want to help you connect with yourself and gain the confidence to do whatever it is to be successful. I want you to be the best version of yourself for yourself. I know there are important people in your life and we can talk about them too, but just know I want to make you the focus. It starts and ends with you!
(717) 387-7705 View (717) 387-7705
Photo of Maggie Harbord, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Maggie Harbord
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East York, PA 17402
If you are someone who has experienced a recent life-altering event, finding it difficult to keep up with your day to day tasks, or even just need a safe person to tell your story to, I would love to help. I enjoy working with people who are struggling to grasp the changes happening around them. Life can move so quickly, and often times it is hard to keep up. Learning the skills to cope and processing those life-altering events can vastly improve how you feel when life is feeling unmanageable.
If you are someone who has experienced a recent life-altering event, finding it difficult to keep up with your day to day tasks, or even just need a safe person to tell your story to, I would love to help. I enjoy working with people who are struggling to grasp the changes happening around them. Life can move so quickly, and often times it is hard to keep up. Learning the skills to cope and processing those life-altering events can vastly improve how you feel when life is feeling unmanageable.
(223) 218-4576 View (223) 218-4576

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Debra Stambaugh, MA, MSW, LCSW, CT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Debra Stambaugh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW, CT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
York, PA 17403
Waitlist for new clients
In addition to PTSD, I have found EMDR to be successful in the treatment of other concerns including anxiety, complicated grief, relationship loss and disturbance, low self-view.
My experience includes working with grief, loss, anticipatory grief and trauma. Anxiety, panic and mood disorders. Lifestyle concerns and modifications including chronic illness, pain and co-occurring (mental health and substance abuse) disorders. I am certified in thanatology (death, dying & bereavement) from the Association of Death Education and Counseling (ADEC). I am certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) from EMDRA.
In addition to PTSD, I have found EMDR to be successful in the treatment of other concerns including anxiety, complicated grief, relationship loss and disturbance, low self-view.
My experience includes working with grief, loss, anticipatory grief and trauma. Anxiety, panic and mood disorders. Lifestyle concerns and modifications including chronic illness, pain and co-occurring (mental health and substance abuse) disorders. I am certified in thanatology (death, dying & bereavement) from the Association of Death Education and Counseling (ADEC). I am certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) from EMDRA.
(847) 278-9406 View (847) 278-9406
Photo of Margaret Swartz, PsyD, Psychologist
Margaret Swartz
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
York, PA 17402  (Online Only)
Dr. Swartz is a licensed psychologist with training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). She began her education at Alfred University's New York State College of Ceramics where she earned a bachelor's degree in Fine Arts in Ceramic Art. She continued her education with a Masters in Creative Arts in Therapy from Hahnemann Hospital Creative Arts program. She completed her doctorate in clinical psychology from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2008. Dr. Swartz provides therapy to patients with depression, anxiety and PTSD.
Dr. Swartz is a licensed psychologist with training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). She began her education at Alfred University's New York State College of Ceramics where she earned a bachelor's degree in Fine Arts in Ceramic Art. She continued her education with a Masters in Creative Arts in Therapy from Hahnemann Hospital Creative Arts program. She completed her doctorate in clinical psychology from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2008. Dr. Swartz provides therapy to patients with depression, anxiety and PTSD.
(717) 977-3969 View (717) 977-3969
Photo of J V Enderle, LCSW, C-DBT, MPA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
J V Enderle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, C-DBT, MPA
Verified Verified
York, PA 17402
I use Dialectical and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR with aspects of mindfulness to help you regulate emotions and process trauma.
Everyone deserves to slow down, connect, and grow. I believe therapy helps us do that. If you are feeling overwhelmed, struggling with anxiety, depression or intense emotions, change is possible. I specialize in working with Anxiety and Mood Disorders, Borderline Personality Disorder, PTSD, and impulse control disorders including the overuse of technology when it interferes with your daily life. My goal is to help you gain insights into patterns and behaviors you want to change, live a life in line with your values, and be present for what matters most.
I use Dialectical and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR with aspects of mindfulness to help you regulate emotions and process trauma.
Everyone deserves to slow down, connect, and grow. I believe therapy helps us do that. If you are feeling overwhelmed, struggling with anxiety, depression or intense emotions, change is possible. I specialize in working with Anxiety and Mood Disorders, Borderline Personality Disorder, PTSD, and impulse control disorders including the overuse of technology when it interferes with your daily life. My goal is to help you gain insights into patterns and behaviors you want to change, live a life in line with your values, and be present for what matters most.
(610) 632-5352 View (610) 632-5352
Photo of Brittni Pham, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brittni Pham
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
York, PA 17403
I am experienced in treating: Sexual/emotional trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, relationship/marital issues, parenting challenges, stress management, sleep, grief and loss, military veteran-related issues, chronic pain/physical disorders, domestic violence, addictions, substance use, self-harm, suicide ideation, and autism/social skills.
It takes courage to seek help and be willing to talk with a therapist. I believe therapy should be a lively experience, one where the client and counselor have a connection and understanding, allowing clients to grow and achieve their goals. I embrace an eclectic style of psychotherapy, using numerous theories, humor, and creative art techniques. My philosophy encompasses giving individuals strategies and skills for improving their relationships; coping with current life challenges; as well as working through past traumas.
I am experienced in treating: Sexual/emotional trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, relationship/marital issues, parenting challenges, stress management, sleep, grief and loss, military veteran-related issues, chronic pain/physical disorders, domestic violence, addictions, substance use, self-harm, suicide ideation, and autism/social skills.
It takes courage to seek help and be willing to talk with a therapist. I believe therapy should be a lively experience, one where the client and counselor have a connection and understanding, allowing clients to grow and achieve their goals. I embrace an eclectic style of psychotherapy, using numerous theories, humor, and creative art techniques. My philosophy encompasses giving individuals strategies and skills for improving their relationships; coping with current life challenges; as well as working through past traumas.
(717) 716-5936 View (717) 716-5936
Photo of Akirah Wyatt, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Akirah Wyatt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
York, PA 17403
I am best at helping clients conquer anxiety-related conditions such as OCD, phobias, and PTSD and I take great pride in this.
Has OCD and anxiety held you back? They take and take while you suffer in so many ways because of it. I have heard these stories many times in my work as a therapist and I’m here to let you know that I can help you. Think for a second how different your life could be if you were free from OCD and other anxiety issues? Think about all that you could more easily do if it weren't for fear. Anxiety and OCD do not have to hold you back any longer. There is hope.
I am best at helping clients conquer anxiety-related conditions such as OCD, phobias, and PTSD and I take great pride in this.
Has OCD and anxiety held you back? They take and take while you suffer in so many ways because of it. I have heard these stories many times in my work as a therapist and I’m here to let you know that I can help you. Think for a second how different your life could be if you were free from OCD and other anxiety issues? Think about all that you could more easily do if it weren't for fear. Anxiety and OCD do not have to hold you back any longer. There is hope.
(717) 523-9221 View (717) 523-9221
Photo of Jessica Carrion - Strategic Alternatives Behavioral Health, LLC, LPC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Strategic Alternatives Behavioral Health, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
York, PA 17402
I am dedicated to my clients and the work we do together. I work with children as young as 2 years old through the well seasoned adult years. Trauma informed care is offered to every client regardless of their age. Every individual process traumatic events differently and are entitled to treatment and support regardless of their age. I received training in ABA and have worked with children with disabilities since 2010. Sibling detachment is a program in which I work with siblings that have detached, or never attached to one another. The focus of this program is to facilitate and support of a healthy bond.
I am dedicated to my clients and the work we do together. I work with children as young as 2 years old through the well seasoned adult years. Trauma informed care is offered to every client regardless of their age. Every individual process traumatic events differently and are entitled to treatment and support regardless of their age. I received training in ABA and have worked with children with disabilities since 2010. Sibling detachment is a program in which I work with siblings that have detached, or never attached to one another. The focus of this program is to facilitate and support of a healthy bond.
(223) 332-5164 View (223) 332-5164
Photo of Melanie Bentzel, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Melanie Bentzel
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
York, PA 17403
I am interested in working with those that have a history of trauma and with members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
I am interested in working with those that have a history of trauma and with members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
(717) 483-8397 View (717) 483-8397
Photo of Kirsten Smith, LPC, NCC, DBT, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kirsten Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, DBT, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
York, PA 17402
I utilize an eclectic approach incorporating themes from DBT, EMDR, Person Centered Therapy and Trauma Informed Care.
I strive to provide my clients with a non-judgmental, supportive, and empowering environment. I am passionate about working with adults and adolescents, building up their resources to cope with life's challenges and helping them to achieve goals of overall wellness. The therapeutic relationship is a unique experience, and it is an honor to work with my clients. It takes a lot of courage to engage in therapy but the reward of peace and healing is worth it! I work hard to meet clients where they need to start in the therapy process- and it looks different for everyone!
I utilize an eclectic approach incorporating themes from DBT, EMDR, Person Centered Therapy and Trauma Informed Care.
I strive to provide my clients with a non-judgmental, supportive, and empowering environment. I am passionate about working with adults and adolescents, building up their resources to cope with life's challenges and helping them to achieve goals of overall wellness. The therapeutic relationship is a unique experience, and it is an honor to work with my clients. It takes a lot of courage to engage in therapy but the reward of peace and healing is worth it! I work hard to meet clients where they need to start in the therapy process- and it looks different for everyone!
(717) 827-9552 View (717) 827-9552
Photo of Megan R Sparks, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Megan R Sparks
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
York, PA 17402
I also incorporate Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Polyvagal lens, Expressive therapies, nondirective play therapy, as well as Strength based and Client centered approaches.
Life can be overwhelming. It throws you curve balls, and sometimes it just feels hard to navigate. Maybe it’s a divorce, job change, becoming a parent, death in the family, or any other life transition. Life can bring us baggage and even though we think we have it contained, it can seep into other areas of our life that we are trying to navigate through. I work with people who want to understand themselves better so they can continue to thrive in life. I want to help empower you to find balance within yourself and learn to fine tune your ability to respond to situation in which you feel in control with better balance and regulation.
I also incorporate Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Polyvagal lens, Expressive therapies, nondirective play therapy, as well as Strength based and Client centered approaches.
Life can be overwhelming. It throws you curve balls, and sometimes it just feels hard to navigate. Maybe it’s a divorce, job change, becoming a parent, death in the family, or any other life transition. Life can bring us baggage and even though we think we have it contained, it can seep into other areas of our life that we are trying to navigate through. I work with people who want to understand themselves better so they can continue to thrive in life. I want to help empower you to find balance within yourself and learn to fine tune your ability to respond to situation in which you feel in control with better balance and regulation.
(717) 963-2072 View (717) 963-2072
Photo of Jennifer Ahlers, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Ahlers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Red Lion, PA 17356
I have worked with people suffering from trauma of different types; including but not limited to, sexual abuse, physical abuse, gang violence, combat, medical and secondary PTSD.
I have experience with various diagnoses and have worked with clients aged 8 and above. I specialize in trauma disorders, substance use, abuse and dependence, dual diagnosis and borderline personality disorder. I offer different treatment modalities to address symptoms and core issues relating to these issues.
I have worked with people suffering from trauma of different types; including but not limited to, sexual abuse, physical abuse, gang violence, combat, medical and secondary PTSD.
I have experience with various diagnoses and have worked with clients aged 8 and above. I specialize in trauma disorders, substance use, abuse and dependence, dual diagnosis and borderline personality disorder. I offer different treatment modalities to address symptoms and core issues relating to these issues.
(717) 967-8276 View (717) 967-8276
Photo of Sheldon Kauffman - Sheldon Kauffman PhD, LPC, PhD, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sheldon Kauffman PhD, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
York, PA 17403
I specialize in working with military veterans, first responders, and others living with complex trauma.
A lot happens in life, and no one lives your life but you. Surviving trauma can shake our understanding of ourselves and the world, leaving us confused and no longer at peace. My focus is creating a supportive environment so you can think clearly to work toward the life you want while making the life you have work better for you.
I specialize in working with military veterans, first responders, and others living with complex trauma.
A lot happens in life, and no one lives your life but you. Surviving trauma can shake our understanding of ourselves and the world, leaving us confused and no longer at peace. My focus is creating a supportive environment so you can think clearly to work toward the life you want while making the life you have work better for you.
(717) 356-3246 View (717) 356-3246
Photo of Lisa Fritz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Fritz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
York, PA 17402
I specialize in treatment of trauma survivors, gender identity, and adolescent and women's issues.
I believe that every client is an individual with their own story, their own unique needs, and their own inherent strengths. When I meet with a client, I strive to know them as a person and to create a plan for their treatment that will grow their strengths as they heal and walk the next steps of their journey. Fritz Counseling Services is a an outgrowth of my commitment to reaching into my community to meet individuals who are seeking someone to provide guidance and support as they prepare to face the challenges and changes that will move them towards being their fullest selves.
I specialize in treatment of trauma survivors, gender identity, and adolescent and women's issues.
I believe that every client is an individual with their own story, their own unique needs, and their own inherent strengths. When I meet with a client, I strive to know them as a person and to create a plan for their treatment that will grow their strengths as they heal and walk the next steps of their journey. Fritz Counseling Services is a an outgrowth of my commitment to reaching into my community to meet individuals who are seeking someone to provide guidance and support as they prepare to face the challenges and changes that will move them towards being their fullest selves.
(717) 990-7507 View (717) 990-7507
Photo of Gretchen Krebs, LCSW, CCTP, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gretchen Krebs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, CST
Verified Verified
York, PA 17402
I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional; a Certified Sex Therapist; LGBTQIA+ friendly; and a registered kink and poly aware professional.
I strive to relate to each person where they are, without judgment and with kindness. I have a passion for working with individuals who have experienced things in their life they are trying to make sense of. I work from a trauma-informed standpoint and maintain a strengths-based perspective. I am also a sex positive therapist and enjoy helping people with concerns related to sex and sexuality. I take pride in my ability to create a safe and welcoming environment for everyone.
I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional; a Certified Sex Therapist; LGBTQIA+ friendly; and a registered kink and poly aware professional.
I strive to relate to each person where they are, without judgment and with kindness. I have a passion for working with individuals who have experienced things in their life they are trying to make sense of. I work from a trauma-informed standpoint and maintain a strengths-based perspective. I am also a sex positive therapist and enjoy helping people with concerns related to sex and sexuality. I take pride in my ability to create a safe and welcoming environment for everyone.
(717) 467-1116 View (717) 467-1116
Photo of Jane Brajkovich, MA, LPC, NCC, ATR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jane Brajkovich
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, ATR
Verified Verified
York, PA 17403
I specialize in trauma-informed care for depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, stress management, unproductive communication patterns, grief, trauma/ PTSD, low self-esteem, lack of fulfillment in life, mindfulness, yoga, spirituality, unhealthy family dynamics, parenting, confidence building, and diversity related issues.
I am now offering in-person sessions for all ages in Pennsylvania and online sessions for adults in Virginia. I am compassionate and nonjudgmental and will offer the support you need to overcome life's difficulties. As a Licensed Professional Counselor and Art Therapist, I have experience with a wide array of healing modalities. Together we can find the approach that works best for you. I utilize a holistic counseling approach and one of my gifts is listening and responding with my heart. I believe that counseling can help you live a life that you love.
I specialize in trauma-informed care for depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, stress management, unproductive communication patterns, grief, trauma/ PTSD, low self-esteem, lack of fulfillment in life, mindfulness, yoga, spirituality, unhealthy family dynamics, parenting, confidence building, and diversity related issues.
I am now offering in-person sessions for all ages in Pennsylvania and online sessions for adults in Virginia. I am compassionate and nonjudgmental and will offer the support you need to overcome life's difficulties. As a Licensed Professional Counselor and Art Therapist, I have experience with a wide array of healing modalities. Together we can find the approach that works best for you. I utilize a holistic counseling approach and one of my gifts is listening and responding with my heart. I believe that counseling can help you live a life that you love.
(540) 202-2130 View (540) 202-2130
Photo of Crystal Porto, MS, CAADC, CCTP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Crystal Porto
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, CAADC, CCTP
Verified Verified
York, PA 17403
It’s time for you to break free from the cycle of manipulation, gaslighting, and emotional trauma.
You’re trapped in a never-ending nightmare while living through narcissistic abuse. At first, it was subtle–they showered you with affection, painting a picture-perfect image of love and adoration. Then, slowly, insidiously, the mask began to slip. Their affection turned into manipulation. They gaslit you and chipped away at your self-esteem. Now, you find yourself walking on eggshells, tiptoeing around their ever-changing moods. Even as you suffocate under the weight of their control, you can't bring yourself to leave. Fear holds you captive. Fear of what they'll do if you try to escape, fear of being alone, fear of the unknown.
It’s time for you to break free from the cycle of manipulation, gaslighting, and emotional trauma.
You’re trapped in a never-ending nightmare while living through narcissistic abuse. At first, it was subtle–they showered you with affection, painting a picture-perfect image of love and adoration. Then, slowly, insidiously, the mask began to slip. Their affection turned into manipulation. They gaslit you and chipped away at your self-esteem. Now, you find yourself walking on eggshells, tiptoeing around their ever-changing moods. Even as you suffocate under the weight of their control, you can't bring yourself to leave. Fear holds you captive. Fear of what they'll do if you try to escape, fear of being alone, fear of the unknown.
(717) 987-6743 View (717) 987-6743

See more therapy options for East York

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.