Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Manayunk, PA

Photo of Cynthia Zolner, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cynthia Zolner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Manayunk, PA 19127  (Online Only)
30 years of counseling experience. "I just want to be happy."- This is the goal of therapy. Client-centered Solution Focused Therapy. Specializing in Relationship Therapy, Depression/Anxiety, Trauma, and Stress Management.
30 years of counseling experience. "I just want to be happy."- This is the goal of therapy. Client-centered Solution Focused Therapy. Specializing in Relationship Therapy, Depression/Anxiety, Trauma, and Stress Management.
(570) 506-8952 View (570) 506-8952
Photo of Adrienne Hermes, LPC, C-DBT, CYT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Adrienne Hermes
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, C-DBT, CYT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Manayunk, PA 19127
Trauma impacts us all differently. You may find yourself struggling to find your sense of self, losing your footing in relationships, find difficulty getting through daily activities, feel withdrawn, isolated, anxious or depressed. All of this might happen despite successes or strengths in your life and efforts. Just because it is that way now, it doesn’t mean it has to be or that it will be this way forever. There are a variety of trauma informed practices that we can cater to your unique experiences and goals. Trauma therapy does not have to be a re-exposure to painful memories for you to heal and move on.
Trauma impacts us all differently. You may find yourself struggling to find your sense of self, losing your footing in relationships, find difficulty getting through daily activities, feel withdrawn, isolated, anxious or depressed. All of this might happen despite successes or strengths in your life and efforts. Just because it is that way now, it doesn’t mean it has to be or that it will be this way forever. There are a variety of trauma informed practices that we can cater to your unique experiences and goals. Trauma therapy does not have to be a re-exposure to painful memories for you to heal and move on.
(215) 398-6298 View (215) 398-6298
Photo of Gabriela O'Shea, MEd, CTP, CGP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Gabriela O'Shea
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd, CTP, CGP
Verified Verified
Manayunk, PA 19127
My approach is trauma informed and emphasizes a safe space for individuals to feel validated and heard during their time in session.
The decision to seek treatment and find the right therapist can be anxiety inducing. In fact, many times the journey stops here for those who might not be ready to take the next step. I know that being vulnerable with a stranger is uncomfortable and may be difficult when first beginning your therapeutic journey. However, my hope is that I can assist you in taking small steps towards building a trusting relationship together and reaching your therapeutic goals. Together, we can reflect upon what you’re needing from yourself, your relationships, and your environment and what changes can be made to enhance your overall quality of life.
My approach is trauma informed and emphasizes a safe space for individuals to feel validated and heard during their time in session.
The decision to seek treatment and find the right therapist can be anxiety inducing. In fact, many times the journey stops here for those who might not be ready to take the next step. I know that being vulnerable with a stranger is uncomfortable and may be difficult when first beginning your therapeutic journey. However, my hope is that I can assist you in taking small steps towards building a trusting relationship together and reaching your therapeutic goals. Together, we can reflect upon what you’re needing from yourself, your relationships, and your environment and what changes can be made to enhance your overall quality of life.
(215) 874-6528 View (215) 874-6528
Photo of Rachel Schell - Schell Therapy Inc, LPC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Schell Therapy Inc
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manayunk, PA 19127
By delving into your current stresses and past traumas, we can uncover a deeper understanding of yourself and your relationships.
Hello, I’m Rachel Schell, a licensed professional counselor. I have been practicing as a therapist for over 15 years. My expertise is working with people who have anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, OCD, and personality disorders. Typically we will discuss your presenting issues, what is the reason to start therapy now, or pick it back up. Then we will create a plan in order to help you feel that you can live a healthier life, not dedicated by mental health struggles.
By delving into your current stresses and past traumas, we can uncover a deeper understanding of yourself and your relationships.
Hello, I’m Rachel Schell, a licensed professional counselor. I have been practicing as a therapist for over 15 years. My expertise is working with people who have anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, OCD, and personality disorders. Typically we will discuss your presenting issues, what is the reason to start therapy now, or pick it back up. Then we will create a plan in order to help you feel that you can live a healthier life, not dedicated by mental health struggles.
(223) 215-5940 View (223) 215-5940
Photo of Mehjabeen Aubol, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mehjabeen Aubol
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manayunk, PA 19127  (Online Only)
I am licensed in PA and WA, and I am trained trauma therapist in Cognitive Processing Therapy and Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to address PTSD in adults, teens, and children.
Have you experienced trauma? As a trained Trauma Therapist I will work with you to resolve PTSD symptoms. I have expertise addressing sexual/physical abuse, trauma from giving birth, and other traumas. I will also help you address any anxiety, depression, pregnancy/postpartum issues, or life stressors. Additionally, I consider myself to have a strong cross-cultural understanding, and can relate to individuals who come from multiple cultures and backgrounds. I always like to get to know the individual first, understand their goals for therapy, and work with them as a team to help them get to where they desire to be in their life.
I am licensed in PA and WA, and I am trained trauma therapist in Cognitive Processing Therapy and Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to address PTSD in adults, teens, and children.
Have you experienced trauma? As a trained Trauma Therapist I will work with you to resolve PTSD symptoms. I have expertise addressing sexual/physical abuse, trauma from giving birth, and other traumas. I will also help you address any anxiety, depression, pregnancy/postpartum issues, or life stressors. Additionally, I consider myself to have a strong cross-cultural understanding, and can relate to individuals who come from multiple cultures and backgrounds. I always like to get to know the individual first, understand their goals for therapy, and work with them as a team to help them get to where they desire to be in their life.
(484) 789-9470 View (484) 789-9470
Photo of Jummy M. Kirby - Relinquish & Transcend Counseling + Consulting, MA, LPC, PMH-C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Relinquish & Transcend Counseling + Consulting
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Manayunk, PA 19127  (Online Only)
We incorporate components of CBT, DBT, Trauma-Focused, and mindfulness, applying counseling from a person-centered and strength-based viewpoint.
You're at a pivotal moment, ready to embrace change and chart a new path forward. You might be grappling with anxiety, depression, past trauma, or relationship struggles. Your heart yearns for healing, clarity, and fulfillment. You want to rediscover your inner strength, navigate life's challenges, and cultivate resilience. Together, we'll embark on a journey of self-discovery, empowering you to embrace your authenticity, find your voice, and thrive in a life of purpose and joy.
We incorporate components of CBT, DBT, Trauma-Focused, and mindfulness, applying counseling from a person-centered and strength-based viewpoint.
You're at a pivotal moment, ready to embrace change and chart a new path forward. You might be grappling with anxiety, depression, past trauma, or relationship struggles. Your heart yearns for healing, clarity, and fulfillment. You want to rediscover your inner strength, navigate life's challenges, and cultivate resilience. Together, we'll embark on a journey of self-discovery, empowering you to embrace your authenticity, find your voice, and thrive in a life of purpose and joy.
(484) 559-6402 View (484) 559-6402
Photo of Andrew Negrey, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andrew Negrey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Manayunk, PA 19127
I specialize in guiding people through life transitions, moments of reevaluation and readjustment. This may include recovering from trauma, addiction, grief, spiritual crisis, or just the emotional turmoil and sense of upheaval that comes after unexpected events, or when moving between life’s stages. I also focus on relationships and attachment issues, navigating the complex entanglements of family, friendship, and romantic relationships, and on creating more safe, healthy, intimate, and loving relationships.
I specialize in guiding people through life transitions, moments of reevaluation and readjustment. This may include recovering from trauma, addiction, grief, spiritual crisis, or just the emotional turmoil and sense of upheaval that comes after unexpected events, or when moving between life’s stages. I also focus on relationships and attachment issues, navigating the complex entanglements of family, friendship, and romantic relationships, and on creating more safe, healthy, intimate, and loving relationships.
(215) 234-1326 View (215) 234-1326
Photo of Morgan Hagner, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Morgan Hagner
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Manayunk, PA 19127
I utilize evidence-based treatments for anxiety, eating, mood, trauma, women’s health, and co-occurring disorders including attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), depressive, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder, post traumatic stress disorder ( PTSD), and specific phobias.
As a postdoctoral fellow at Beck Institute for Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), I work under the license and supervision of the expert clinicians on staff. I prioritize collaboration, compassion, and genuineness in the therapeutic relationship to accomplish therapeutic goals. I use CBT interventions and incorporate motivational interviewing and mindfulness in my work with clients. CBT is a time-sensitive, structured, present-oriented form of talk therapy that has been scientifically tested and found to be effective for the treatment of many different physical and mental health issues.
I utilize evidence-based treatments for anxiety, eating, mood, trauma, women’s health, and co-occurring disorders including attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), depressive, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder, post traumatic stress disorder ( PTSD), and specific phobias.
As a postdoctoral fellow at Beck Institute for Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), I work under the license and supervision of the expert clinicians on staff. I prioritize collaboration, compassion, and genuineness in the therapeutic relationship to accomplish therapeutic goals. I use CBT interventions and incorporate motivational interviewing and mindfulness in my work with clients. CBT is a time-sensitive, structured, present-oriented form of talk therapy that has been scientifically tested and found to be effective for the treatment of many different physical and mental health issues.
(484) 371-7055 View (484) 371-7055
Photo of Lori L Fine - Licensed Professional Counseling, MSEd, NCSC, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Licensed Professional Counseling
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSEd, NCSC, NCC
Verified Verified
Manayunk, PA 19127
My work includes, but is not limited to trauma, grief, adjustment to parent separation/divorce, difficulties with mood, problem behaviors, social challenges anxiety, depression and stress.
I specialize in therapy for children, pre-school through adolescence, and their families. I also work with a broad spectrum of adults and couples. I combine therapeutic play, mind-body and brain-based therapies, mindfulness, and cognitive-behavioral techniques to help children better understand their feelings, thoughts, and behaviors. My work with adults is solution focused to help you better understand and resolve life challenges. Combining talk therapy with Cognitive Behavioral therapies, we work together to help you process deep emotions and negative thoughts that can interfere with daily life.
My work includes, but is not limited to trauma, grief, adjustment to parent separation/divorce, difficulties with mood, problem behaviors, social challenges anxiety, depression and stress.
I specialize in therapy for children, pre-school through adolescence, and their families. I also work with a broad spectrum of adults and couples. I combine therapeutic play, mind-body and brain-based therapies, mindfulness, and cognitive-behavioral techniques to help children better understand their feelings, thoughts, and behaviors. My work with adults is solution focused to help you better understand and resolve life challenges. Combining talk therapy with Cognitive Behavioral therapies, we work together to help you process deep emotions and negative thoughts that can interfere with daily life.
(267) 833-2542 View (267) 833-2542
Photo of Amy Tarr, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Tarr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manayunk, PA 19127
I believe that each individual has a natural ability to heal and that therapy can be a useful tool in this journey. I am honored to have the opportunity to support individuals in discovering their own strength and capacity to challenge habits that are no longer working. My approach is collaborative, and I endeavor to offer compassion, respect, and non-judgmental support within the therapeutic relationship.
I believe that each individual has a natural ability to heal and that therapy can be a useful tool in this journey. I am honored to have the opportunity to support individuals in discovering their own strength and capacity to challenge habits that are no longer working. My approach is collaborative, and I endeavor to offer compassion, respect, and non-judgmental support within the therapeutic relationship.
(267) 452-2249 View (267) 452-2249
Photo of Pix Monaco, MS, LAMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Pix Monaco
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LAMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manayunk, PA 19127
Y'all, there's no doubt about it - being human is hard sometimes. You find yourself exhausted by life and frequently have a nagging feeling that something is wrong with you and/or your life. You've tried self-care and positive thinking, or finding ways to distract yourself... but in quiet moments, there is an empty loneliness inside that you're not sure what to do with. You've been through a lot and you've survived. But you're tired of surviving, and the idea of actually thriving in your life and relationships sounds glorious but elusive. You just haven't been sure how to get there, and you get stuck in overwhelm.
Y'all, there's no doubt about it - being human is hard sometimes. You find yourself exhausted by life and frequently have a nagging feeling that something is wrong with you and/or your life. You've tried self-care and positive thinking, or finding ways to distract yourself... but in quiet moments, there is an empty loneliness inside that you're not sure what to do with. You've been through a lot and you've survived. But you're tired of surviving, and the idea of actually thriving in your life and relationships sounds glorious but elusive. You just haven't been sure how to get there, and you get stuck in overwhelm.
(215) 774-6136 View (215) 774-6136
Photo of David Steinberg - David Steinberg, PhD, LCSW, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David Steinberg, PhD, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Manayunk, PA 19127
Your feelings and experiences are unique. You may need a supportive presence to help you explore and affirm your core values, or perhaps you need to be challenged? I can help you find ways to improve the way you feel about yourself, and how you negotiate relationships in love and work. In spite of our super-connected high-tech world, modern life can be fraught with feelings of isolation and loneliness. Everything you need to know in order to live life to its fullest is already inside of you. Let me help you make deeper contact with yourself and others. Pick up the phone and make call me now to get started.
Your feelings and experiences are unique. You may need a supportive presence to help you explore and affirm your core values, or perhaps you need to be challenged? I can help you find ways to improve the way you feel about yourself, and how you negotiate relationships in love and work. In spite of our super-connected high-tech world, modern life can be fraught with feelings of isolation and loneliness. Everything you need to know in order to live life to its fullest is already inside of you. Let me help you make deeper contact with yourself and others. Pick up the phone and make call me now to get started.
(215) 798-0829 View (215) 798-0829
Photo of Nell Stoddard, PhD, Psychologist
Nell Stoddard
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Manayunk, PA 19127
As a licensed psychologist, my goal is to help empower you to transform your life in the ways you desire. Therapy works by helping you develop new understandings about yourself, and new strategies for handling your emotions, thoughts, and behavior. The fact that you are considering therapy means that you have already taken the first, and perhaps most important step. Ultimately, therapy can enhance your self esteem, connectedness to others, effectiveness in your life, and happiness.
As a licensed psychologist, my goal is to help empower you to transform your life in the ways you desire. Therapy works by helping you develop new understandings about yourself, and new strategies for handling your emotions, thoughts, and behavior. The fact that you are considering therapy means that you have already taken the first, and perhaps most important step. Ultimately, therapy can enhance your self esteem, connectedness to others, effectiveness in your life, and happiness.
(267) 403-5100 View (267) 403-5100
Photo of Rachel Oristano, DSCM, MSEd, Pre-Licensed Professional
Rachel Oristano
Pre-Licensed Professional, DSCM, MSEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manayunk, PA 19127
We are connective, social beings, and we all need a support system to help guide us out of the ruts in which we find ourselves. I want to empower you to harness your own strengths, meet the world on your own terms, and make your needs heard, even if you're having trouble finding your voice.
We are connective, social beings, and we all need a support system to help guide us out of the ruts in which we find ourselves. I want to empower you to harness your own strengths, meet the world on your own terms, and make your needs heard, even if you're having trouble finding your voice.
View
Photo of Jessica Cydnee Feldman, MSS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Cydnee Feldman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Manayunk, PA 19127
Therapy and the treatment of anxiety is challenging and ultimately highly rewarding work when clients receive relief from their symptoms. I value the balance of the interpersonal and relational components of the therapeutic relationship with the development of practical and evidence- based skills to achieve long lasting symptom reduction.
Therapy and the treatment of anxiety is challenging and ultimately highly rewarding work when clients receive relief from their symptoms. I value the balance of the interpersonal and relational components of the therapeutic relationship with the development of practical and evidence- based skills to achieve long lasting symptom reduction.
(215) 709-7662 View (215) 709-7662
Photo of Sudha Gutti, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sudha Gutti
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Manayunk, PA 19127  (Online Only)
In today’s complex world, people often experience stress at work, at home and in relationships. When this becomes persistent, excessive, or is routinely triggered by everyday situations, it becomes disruptive to leading a healthy, well-rounded, and fulfilling life. The great news is that with professional guidance and support, one can reengage with the world, develop a healthy work life balance, have good relationships with family and friends and move towards living a fulfilling life. Seeking help is the first step. A step that only you can take.
In today’s complex world, people often experience stress at work, at home and in relationships. When this becomes persistent, excessive, or is routinely triggered by everyday situations, it becomes disruptive to leading a healthy, well-rounded, and fulfilling life. The great news is that with professional guidance and support, one can reengage with the world, develop a healthy work life balance, have good relationships with family and friends and move towards living a fulfilling life. Seeking help is the first step. A step that only you can take.
(484) 613-3082 View (484) 613-3082
Photo of Xihlovo Mabunda, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Xihlovo Mabunda
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Manayunk, PA 19127  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I believe in having a holistic, strengths-based, and relational approach to treatment and work from a trauma-informed perspective and harm reduction model.
If you are reading this, you have already taken the first step! Starting therapy can be overwhelming, especially if you have been sitting with difficult feelings on your own, but here’s the thing, some of the scariest things are the most rewarding; and I am here to move into that with you. My practice is informed by my identity as a black woman, and I view the therapeutic relationship as a space that fosters a collaborative environment. I navigate spaces with openness, humor, and empathy, seeking always to understand others with grace and an appreciation of their autonomy.
I believe in having a holistic, strengths-based, and relational approach to treatment and work from a trauma-informed perspective and harm reduction model.
If you are reading this, you have already taken the first step! Starting therapy can be overwhelming, especially if you have been sitting with difficult feelings on your own, but here’s the thing, some of the scariest things are the most rewarding; and I am here to move into that with you. My practice is informed by my identity as a black woman, and I view the therapeutic relationship as a space that fosters a collaborative environment. I navigate spaces with openness, humor, and empathy, seeking always to understand others with grace and an appreciation of their autonomy.
(484) 388-5083 View (484) 388-5083
Photo of Louis Hewett, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Louis Hewett
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Manayunk, PA 19127
Not accepting new clients
Hi! I’m Louis! I specialize in grief counseling and mood disorders, as well as working with the LGBTQIA+ community, of which I am a part. As a second-generation Greek-American, gay man with cerebral palsy, I draw upon my varied background and personal experience to provide an inclusive, accepting, and empathetic space for my clients. I hold Bachelor’s Degrees in Health Sciences from University of the Sciences in Philadelphia and Behavioral Health Counseling from Drexel University. I have also attained my Master of Arts in Counseling from Northwestern University. I am a LPC (LPCMH) in both Pennsylvania and Delaware, respectively.
Hi! I’m Louis! I specialize in grief counseling and mood disorders, as well as working with the LGBTQIA+ community, of which I am a part. As a second-generation Greek-American, gay man with cerebral palsy, I draw upon my varied background and personal experience to provide an inclusive, accepting, and empathetic space for my clients. I hold Bachelor’s Degrees in Health Sciences from University of the Sciences in Philadelphia and Behavioral Health Counseling from Drexel University. I have also attained my Master of Arts in Counseling from Northwestern University. I am a LPC (LPCMH) in both Pennsylvania and Delaware, respectively.
(215) 234-1354 View (215) 234-1354

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Amy L Hostetter, MSS, LCSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy L Hostetter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19144  (Online Only)
My clinical interests include: natural approaches to anxiety, depression and grief work, healthy spirituality, LGBTQ and Queer Theory, women’s issues, healing cultural and early trauma, and pathways to developing meaning and satisfaction in life.
Choosing to begin psychotherapy can start with a feeling that there is more for you to discover, a greater balance to achieve, or a challenge to work through. In the safe accepting space of therapy, a healing process can evolve at a pace that is supportive and comfortable for you. I encourage people to approach their inner work with gentleness, perseverance, courage and compassion. I offer psychodynamic, mindful, cognitive and trauma-informed care to individuals, pairs and groups, including independent teens (only). I value and practice a thoughtful, culturally aware, and collaborative approach to our work.
My clinical interests include: natural approaches to anxiety, depression and grief work, healthy spirituality, LGBTQ and Queer Theory, women’s issues, healing cultural and early trauma, and pathways to developing meaning and satisfaction in life.
Choosing to begin psychotherapy can start with a feeling that there is more for you to discover, a greater balance to achieve, or a challenge to work through. In the safe accepting space of therapy, a healing process can evolve at a pace that is supportive and comfortable for you. I encourage people to approach their inner work with gentleness, perseverance, courage and compassion. I offer psychodynamic, mindful, cognitive and trauma-informed care to individuals, pairs and groups, including independent teens (only). I value and practice a thoughtful, culturally aware, and collaborative approach to our work.
(267) 318-4404 View (267) 318-4404
Photo of Peter Andrew Danzig, LSW, MSS, MA, CTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Peter Andrew Danzig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MSS, MA, CTP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19144
Peter’s practice focuses on the ways in which our minds and bodies are often separated through trauma and looks for healing approaches in which to strengthen our fragmented selves.
Psychotherapist, toy analyst, Senior Leadership Strategist, and Diversity and Inclusion Professional in the Greater Philadelphia region. Peter’s research and practice interests are invested in community mental health, theories on adult play and the ways it frames our social interactions, and trauma informed work with clients and artists/creatives. Peter’s clinical approach is rooted in holistic, relational and humanistic theory. Peter’s research and Op-Eds have been featured in the ​Psychology Today, The Wall Street Journal, Philadelphia Gay News, The Mighty, and others.
Peter’s practice focuses on the ways in which our minds and bodies are often separated through trauma and looks for healing approaches in which to strengthen our fragmented selves.
Psychotherapist, toy analyst, Senior Leadership Strategist, and Diversity and Inclusion Professional in the Greater Philadelphia region. Peter’s research and practice interests are invested in community mental health, theories on adult play and the ways it frames our social interactions, and trauma informed work with clients and artists/creatives. Peter’s clinical approach is rooted in holistic, relational and humanistic theory. Peter’s research and Op-Eds have been featured in the ​Psychology Today, The Wall Street Journal, Philadelphia Gay News, The Mighty, and others.
(610) 632-1303 View (610) 632-1303

See more therapy options for Manayunk

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.