Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Nazareth, PA
![Photo of Janelle Potts, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/66b71f8a-649c-4da4-bf92-4662a984eab1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Janelle Potts
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Nazareth, PA 18064 (Online Only)
I have 10+ years of experience working with clients age 12 and utilize a strengths based approach to address anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, relationship concerns.
Reaching out to a professional takes courage. We all deal with hardships at different points in our lives and at these times, it can be difficult to feel heard and understood. Whether it’s related to struggles with depression or anxiety, a challenging life situation or past trauma, I am here to provide support and compassion to assist in making positive changes and empower you to find personal growth and healing. My goal is to help individuals grow in awareness of their thoughts, emotions, strengths and personal histories so they are able to meet challenges and reach their highest potential.
I have 10+ years of experience working with clients age 12 and utilize a strengths based approach to address anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, relationship concerns.
Reaching out to a professional takes courage. We all deal with hardships at different points in our lives and at these times, it can be difficult to feel heard and understood. Whether it’s related to struggles with depression or anxiety, a challenging life situation or past trauma, I am here to provide support and compassion to assist in making positive changes and empower you to find personal growth and healing. My goal is to help individuals grow in awareness of their thoughts, emotions, strengths and personal histories so they are able to meet challenges and reach their highest potential.
![Photo of Stephen James Kinsey - Stephen Kinsey LPC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/427f78d2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, Asperger's Syndrome, PTSD, anger issues, marriage counseling and couple's therapy, and family therapy.
I take a very non-judgmental approach to therapy preferring to work alongside the client and conjointly focusing on the best treatment modalities to fit their needs. I move at the pace that is best for them, taking an eclectic approach to really tailor treatment to the specific individual. My ideal client is anyone pursuing the very best life that they can achieve.
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, Asperger's Syndrome, PTSD, anger issues, marriage counseling and couple's therapy, and family therapy.
I take a very non-judgmental approach to therapy preferring to work alongside the client and conjointly focusing on the best treatment modalities to fit their needs. I move at the pace that is best for them, taking an eclectic approach to really tailor treatment to the specific individual. My ideal client is anyone pursuing the very best life that they can achieve.
![Photo of Sarah Dinan, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/117ff8bf-52b3-4198-8fed-8b7915ca4f6c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Dinan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nazareth, PA 18064
I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Trauma Informed.
I'm dedicated to guiding individuals on their journey towards healing, self-discovery, and emotional well-being. As a specialized therapist with a focus on anxiety and depression, I understand the unique challenges that these conditions can present. My goal is to provide you with a safe, nurturing space where you can explore your feelings and develop effective coping strategies.
I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Trauma Informed.
I'm dedicated to guiding individuals on their journey towards healing, self-discovery, and emotional well-being. As a specialized therapist with a focus on anxiety and depression, I understand the unique challenges that these conditions can present. My goal is to provide you with a safe, nurturing space where you can explore your feelings and develop effective coping strategies.
![Photo of Nancy Marshall, LPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c9dc30c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I offer many years of experience in treating anxiety and depression, as well as trauma. Unaddressed trauma is often the cause of anxiety and depression. I use an eclectic, holistic approach and have interest in spirituality and religion. I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitizing and Reprocessing) and Thought Field Therapy, both state of the art treatments. Also experienced in all types of family and couples work, adoption adjustment work and attachment problems. Physical health is addressed and suggestions are made and referrals given if needed. Good with anxiety in people of all ages. Good with teenagers and children over age five.
I offer many years of experience in treating anxiety and depression, as well as trauma. Unaddressed trauma is often the cause of anxiety and depression. I use an eclectic, holistic approach and have interest in spirituality and religion. I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitizing and Reprocessing) and Thought Field Therapy, both state of the art treatments. Also experienced in all types of family and couples work, adoption adjustment work and attachment problems. Physical health is addressed and suggestions are made and referrals given if needed. Good with anxiety in people of all ages. Good with teenagers and children over age five.
![Photo of Sara Taff, LPC, MA, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e1af003c-b992-4d58-81dd-061aa6ca5d57/2/320x400.jpeg)
Specialities include Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Eating Disorders, Substance Abuse, Codependency, and Relationship Conflict.
Utilizing multiple treatment approaches such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, certified as a Dialectical Behavioral Therapy Informed clinician, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Certified in Mindfulness Awareness, Neuro-Linguistic Programing, and utilizing Emotional Freedom Technique, (EFT) I assist adults, late teens, couples, and families to find solutions to better regulate their emotions, language, belief system, and perceptions of life challenges. Specialities include Depression, Anxiety, Substance Abuse, Codependency, Relationship Conflict, and Brief Solution Focused work with work and relationship conflict.
Specialities include Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Eating Disorders, Substance Abuse, Codependency, and Relationship Conflict.
Utilizing multiple treatment approaches such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, certified as a Dialectical Behavioral Therapy Informed clinician, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Certified in Mindfulness Awareness, Neuro-Linguistic Programing, and utilizing Emotional Freedom Technique, (EFT) I assist adults, late teens, couples, and families to find solutions to better regulate their emotions, language, belief system, and perceptions of life challenges. Specialities include Depression, Anxiety, Substance Abuse, Codependency, Relationship Conflict, and Brief Solution Focused work with work and relationship conflict.
![Photo of Elizabeth Pensack, MS, LAPC, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7e94bc30-4bb7-4c40-adf4-7088115d53e9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth Pensack
Associate Professional Counselor, MS, LAPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Nazareth, PA 18064 (Online Only)
My approach is trauma-informed and client centered, with focuses in neurodiversity affirming, queer affirming, and sex-positive therapy.
If you're struggling to maintain your basic needs because you're in survival mode, I see you. It can feel impossible to navigate chronic burnout, especially when the path may be blocked by barriers related to chronic illness/pain, executive functioning and sensory needs, and/or unprocessed trauma. These barriers can often be accompanied by shame and guilt, which can make it difficult to connect with others around you. While it may feel overwhelming to find a path to healing, I am here to be a supportive and nonjudgmental co-navigator.
My approach is trauma-informed and client centered, with focuses in neurodiversity affirming, queer affirming, and sex-positive therapy.
If you're struggling to maintain your basic needs because you're in survival mode, I see you. It can feel impossible to navigate chronic burnout, especially when the path may be blocked by barriers related to chronic illness/pain, executive functioning and sensory needs, and/or unprocessed trauma. These barriers can often be accompanied by shame and guilt, which can make it difficult to connect with others around you. While it may feel overwhelming to find a path to healing, I am here to be a supportive and nonjudgmental co-navigator.
![Photo of Jacquelyn Coughlin, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f2a8285c-0751-4c5d-a662-07d22c0a9620/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jacquelyn Coughlin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nazareth, PA 18064
I help clients with issues including depression, anxiety, PTSD, relationship, and work stressors.
Are you feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed or stuck? I understand that reaching out to a therapist can be scary , but I am here to provide you with support and validate your feelings.
I help clients with issues including depression, anxiety, PTSD, relationship, and work stressors.
Are you feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed or stuck? I understand that reaching out to a therapist can be scary , but I am here to provide you with support and validate your feelings.
![Photo of Sherie M Angstadt, MSW, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c35af42-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
My focus is helping individuals overcome anxiety and mood disorders, and I enjoy helping people find spiritual solutions for their pain, fears and losses. I also instruct individuals in Mindfulness Meditation to help deal with pain, stress and illness. I find this work extremely satisfying because of the growth that it promotes for the client. I am proficient working with both individuals and couples - I help couples to build better connections with each other and resolve conflict.
My focus is helping individuals overcome anxiety and mood disorders, and I enjoy helping people find spiritual solutions for their pain, fears and losses. I also instruct individuals in Mindfulness Meditation to help deal with pain, stress and illness. I find this work extremely satisfying because of the growth that it promotes for the client. I am proficient working with both individuals and couples - I help couples to build better connections with each other and resolve conflict.
![Photo of Dr. Sarah M Hasker, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8e2da58b-5c4a-49ed-8ae5-30ab241dac52/1/320x400.jpeg)
Finding the right therapist is an essential first step in helping you manage or resolve your current life struggle or situation. I provide a safe, nonjudgmental, comfortable environment to enable you to get the most from your therapeutic experience. Working collaboratively with my clients, we will develop treatment goals to meet your individual needs. I help my clients to work towards living the life they desire through listening and feedback, providing education, and teaching coping and relationship skills to help you navigate life a little bit more easily.
Finding the right therapist is an essential first step in helping you manage or resolve your current life struggle or situation. I provide a safe, nonjudgmental, comfortable environment to enable you to get the most from your therapeutic experience. Working collaboratively with my clients, we will develop treatment goals to meet your individual needs. I help my clients to work towards living the life they desire through listening and feedback, providing education, and teaching coping and relationship skills to help you navigate life a little bit more easily.
![Photo of Lyz DeBoer, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4482140c-a520-4b75-8a7b-ca64631d7f1f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Does your team need a boost of confidence? Is miscommunication slowing down productivity? Is your team’s energy out of balance? Are you feeling stuck as the leader? I can help! Let’s meet for a Refreshing You! Energy + Confidence Consultation to remove the blocks to your success. I am an intuitive therapist, love+relationship specialist, and mental health consultant. I collaborate with you to align your energy - body, mind, heart, soul, + spirit - with your values, mission, and vision. My passion: empowering confidence, authenticity, and excellence in your life, love, and biz. Let’s get you - and your team - to the next level!
Does your team need a boost of confidence? Is miscommunication slowing down productivity? Is your team’s energy out of balance? Are you feeling stuck as the leader? I can help! Let’s meet for a Refreshing You! Energy + Confidence Consultation to remove the blocks to your success. I am an intuitive therapist, love+relationship specialist, and mental health consultant. I collaborate with you to align your energy - body, mind, heart, soul, + spirit - with your values, mission, and vision. My passion: empowering confidence, authenticity, and excellence in your life, love, and biz. Let’s get you - and your team - to the next level!
![Photo of April Gabriel-Ferretti - April Gabriel, M.S., LMFT- Couples, Family & Indv, MS, LMFT](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/452ae3aa-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
April Gabriel, M.S., LMFT- Couples, Family & Indv
MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Nazareth, PA 18064 (Online Only)
The transition into parenthood can be exhausting! The amount of responsibility of caring for a new baby can feel overwhelming, isolating and even scary. You are not alone and with help you can heal. I’ll give you the tools and resources you need to begin healing and start living again! While I do work with couples and individuals, my true passion lies in working with parents! It is my great honor to join you while you begin a new chapter, start gaining hope and much deserved relief!
The transition into parenthood can be exhausting! The amount of responsibility of caring for a new baby can feel overwhelming, isolating and even scary. You are not alone and with help you can heal. I’ll give you the tools and resources you need to begin healing and start living again! While I do work with couples and individuals, my true passion lies in working with parents! It is my great honor to join you while you begin a new chapter, start gaining hope and much deserved relief!
Alan Shapiro
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Nazareth, PA 18064 (Online Only)
I can help you to develop or refine coping skills for dealing with numerous issues including but not limited to substance abuse issues, co-occurring disorders, depression, anxiety, marital/relationship issues and loss. I have been providing non-judgmental, compassionate care in behavioral healthcare services for the past 21 years. I am an excellent listener who is dedicated to the truth, committed to accepting others where they are, as they are.
I can help you to develop or refine coping skills for dealing with numerous issues including but not limited to substance abuse issues, co-occurring disorders, depression, anxiety, marital/relationship issues and loss. I have been providing non-judgmental, compassionate care in behavioral healthcare services for the past 21 years. I am an excellent listener who is dedicated to the truth, committed to accepting others where they are, as they are.
![Photo of Denise Pollack, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/238f395c-3f60-471e-a364-505949f324e2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Denise Pollack
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Nazareth, PA 18064 (Online Only)
OVERCOME THE OBSTACLES that lead to depression, anxiety, and cause inaction. Get your life back on track. Since 1998, I have provided psychotherapy services to hundreds of teens and adults in the Lehigh Valley. My clients report improved mood, less anxiety, more satisfaction in relationships, and progress in reaching goals.
The pressures of daily living can affect your ability to cope with stress. I can help you unravel the thoughts and feelings that are causing distress. I can help you gain control over the issues that impact your life.
OVERCOME THE OBSTACLES that lead to depression, anxiety, and cause inaction. Get your life back on track. Since 1998, I have provided psychotherapy services to hundreds of teens and adults in the Lehigh Valley. My clients report improved mood, less anxiety, more satisfaction in relationships, and progress in reaching goals.
The pressures of daily living can affect your ability to cope with stress. I can help you unravel the thoughts and feelings that are causing distress. I can help you gain control over the issues that impact your life.
![Photo of Kimberly A Woodling, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d916af8-2e5d-4ebf-a1b5-2e56a3a5ea45/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kimberly Woodling is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, who utilizes insight and emotion-oriented approaches to assist patients experiencing various psychological and social challenges. Kim believes that breakthroughs and enhancements to overall relational, emotional, behavioral, and cognitive functioning will occur as a person increases their self-awareness, and acquaints themselves with their full range emotions, contradictory feelings, interpersonal patterns, and defenses. She helps her patients scratch beneath their surface to explore unmet expectations, and unproductive patterns of behavior that keep them stuck and unsatisfied. Kim views the therapeutic process as a personal "journey" and places a strong emphasis on developing a trusting relationship with her patients, which she deems as vital to growth and symptom reduction. Kim believes in every person’s ability to live successful, fulfilling lives. Her sessions are laid back, relaxed, and she can assist patients in finding the humor or silver lining in difficult situations. She is passionate about empowering individuals, and helping them recognize their own strengths and abilities to cope with stress and challenges.
Kimberly Woodling is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, who utilizes insight and emotion-oriented approaches to assist patients experiencing various psychological and social challenges. Kim believes that breakthroughs and enhancements to overall relational, emotional, behavioral, and cognitive functioning will occur as a person increases their self-awareness, and acquaints themselves with their full range emotions, contradictory feelings, interpersonal patterns, and defenses. She helps her patients scratch beneath their surface to explore unmet expectations, and unproductive patterns of behavior that keep them stuck and unsatisfied. Kim views the therapeutic process as a personal "journey" and places a strong emphasis on developing a trusting relationship with her patients, which she deems as vital to growth and symptom reduction. Kim believes in every person’s ability to live successful, fulfilling lives. Her sessions are laid back, relaxed, and she can assist patients in finding the humor or silver lining in difficult situations. She is passionate about empowering individuals, and helping them recognize their own strengths and abilities to cope with stress and challenges.
![Photo of William Harker, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b34bb99-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
No one escapes conflict, challenges and pain in this life. You might find yourself struggling with depression, anxiety, grief from loss of a person you love or life transition, conflict in a relationship or possibly recovery from an addiction. Together, we can explore the physical, emotional and spiritual aspects of your pain on your path to healing.
No one escapes conflict, challenges and pain in this life. You might find yourself struggling with depression, anxiety, grief from loss of a person you love or life transition, conflict in a relationship or possibly recovery from an addiction. Together, we can explore the physical, emotional and spiritual aspects of your pain on your path to healing.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Tylynn Cofer - Trauma And Burnout Specialist, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/934c643c-acdb-4931-8323-5607ca6b8b4c/2/320x400.png)
Tylynn Cofer - Trauma And Burnout Specialist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Easton, PA 18045 (Online Only)
Hey, I'm Tylynn, your down-to-earth, no-BS therapist! Empathy? Check. Holding you accountable? Double check. Bring your real self to the table, and I'll match it—I curse and use humor in sessions! Finding a therapist you vibe with is important, and I'm all about bringing reality to therapy while building a therapeutic relationship. I specialize in the tough stuff life throws at you: trauma, burnout (work and parenting), anxiety, depression, and perinatal mental health. If you struggle with boundary setting and self-esteem, I got you! It won't be a cakewalk, but trust me, it's worth it!
Hey, I'm Tylynn, your down-to-earth, no-BS therapist! Empathy? Check. Holding you accountable? Double check. Bring your real self to the table, and I'll match it—I curse and use humor in sessions! Finding a therapist you vibe with is important, and I'm all about bringing reality to therapy while building a therapeutic relationship. I specialize in the tough stuff life throws at you: trauma, burnout (work and parenting), anxiety, depression, and perinatal mental health. If you struggle with boundary setting and self-esteem, I got you! It won't be a cakewalk, but trust me, it's worth it!
![Photo of Janet Krauss, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1079ef40-ca43-4fcd-bec4-f584a17ced0a/1/320x400.jpeg)
My clinical experience is in eating disorders, disordered eating, body shame, grief and loss, trauma and complex trauma.
Emphasizing the importance of meeting each client where they are in life, I engage with authenticity, curiosity, empathy, and unconditional positive regard. I deeply believe in client-centered, culturally competent, harm reduction and strengths-based approaches; all while welcoming the client’s lived experience. I keep a safe environment that is accepting, ethical, non-judgmental and relational.
My clinical experience is in eating disorders, disordered eating, body shame, grief and loss, trauma and complex trauma.
Emphasizing the importance of meeting each client where they are in life, I engage with authenticity, curiosity, empathy, and unconditional positive regard. I deeply believe in client-centered, culturally competent, harm reduction and strengths-based approaches; all while welcoming the client’s lived experience. I keep a safe environment that is accepting, ethical, non-judgmental and relational.
![Photo of Damaris Vanderhall, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d3c96db5-3464-465a-9837-076bd6ec5a3f/3/320x400.jpeg)
Damaris Vanderhall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Easton, PA 18045 (Online Only)
Depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship and communication issues, addiction (your own or a loved one’s) are just a few of the things I have focused on with clients throughout my career.
What sets me apart from other counselors is my ability to meet the client “where they are” Whether that is a client with a severe & persistent mental health disorder or a client that I only meet with for a few brief sessions to help them work through a “tough period” in their lives. I am certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy which has been proven effective in changing thought process and/or behavior to get more out of life. Simply stated – life isn’t black OR white and we often miss the importance of approaching things from a “gray point of view”.
Depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship and communication issues, addiction (your own or a loved one’s) are just a few of the things I have focused on with clients throughout my career.
What sets me apart from other counselors is my ability to meet the client “where they are” Whether that is a client with a severe & persistent mental health disorder or a client that I only meet with for a few brief sessions to help them work through a “tough period” in their lives. I am certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy which has been proven effective in changing thought process and/or behavior to get more out of life. Simply stated – life isn’t black OR white and we often miss the importance of approaching things from a “gray point of view”.
![Photo of Barbara Morrison, NCC, LPC, LPCC, CPTT, CSAT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48eb5ecb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
Barbara Morrison
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC, LPCC, CPTT, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Easton, PA 18045
I am a Cognitive Behavioral Trauma Informed therapist who is trained in EMDR.
Welcome! You've made it to this page, so you must be considering confronting some pretty difficult issues. If you're ready to take the next step and begin therapy, I would be honored to facilitate that process. My goal is to help you develop a plan to free yourself from that sense of feeling stuck, from whatever's preventing you from living life the way you desire. My background is quite varied, I've worked in counseling for the last 11 years, as well as in the field of medicine. I started as a behavioral specialist in home settings working with families, then found my way to specializing in treatment of trauma.
I am a Cognitive Behavioral Trauma Informed therapist who is trained in EMDR.
Welcome! You've made it to this page, so you must be considering confronting some pretty difficult issues. If you're ready to take the next step and begin therapy, I would be honored to facilitate that process. My goal is to help you develop a plan to free yourself from that sense of feeling stuck, from whatever's preventing you from living life the way you desire. My background is quite varied, I've worked in counseling for the last 11 years, as well as in the field of medicine. I started as a behavioral specialist in home settings working with families, then found my way to specializing in treatment of trauma.
![Photo of Taylor Freda, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d49c989b-2f64-447b-aef7-f693e0e7aac3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Taylor Freda
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Easton, PA 18045 (Online Only)
I work with teens and adults who have experienced trauma, anxiety, relationship difficulties, depression, and general life stressors.
Welcome! Asking for support is a courageous step, and I am incredibly proud of you. My name is Taylor Freda, and I am a Licensed Social Worker. I am devoted to creating a safe, non-judgmental therapeutic environment where we can create a custom-tailored treatment plan to enhance your life. Together, we can begin the process of positive change, healing, and growth.
I work with teens and adults who have experienced trauma, anxiety, relationship difficulties, depression, and general life stressors.
Welcome! Asking for support is a courageous step, and I am incredibly proud of you. My name is Taylor Freda, and I am a Licensed Social Worker. I am devoted to creating a safe, non-judgmental therapeutic environment where we can create a custom-tailored treatment plan to enhance your life. Together, we can begin the process of positive change, healing, and growth.
See more therapy options for Nazareth
Nearby Trauma and PTSD Therapists Searches for Nazareth
- Allentown
- Bethlehem
- Brodheadsville
- Catasauqua
- Center Valley
- Easton
- Hellertown
- Lehigh Valley
- Northampton
- Saylorsburg
- Schnecksville
- Whitehall
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.