Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Whitehall, PA
![Photo of Tara A Smith, MA, LPC, CAADC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/58dd1f19-8cbe-4f4e-8083-6a8814dd36f3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tara A Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
Whitehall, PA 18052
Waitlist for new clients
I have become well versed in a plethora of issues but have found a great deal of success treating those with addiction issues, PTSD, relationship struggles and phase of life issues.
I feel that the bravest thing anyone can do is begin to understand their own story and as your therapist, I’m here to help. Let’s celebrate taking that first step in sorting out and making sense of your thoughts and feelings together. Sometimes our perception of therapy is stuffy, one-sided or that we cannot be our true selves during a session. I can assure you that’s not how our time together will be spent. You have my promise to feel heard, able to engage freely, be genuine, and feel relaxed in a nonjudgmental safe space to help you feel empowered enough to cope with whatever life throws you.
I have become well versed in a plethora of issues but have found a great deal of success treating those with addiction issues, PTSD, relationship struggles and phase of life issues.
I feel that the bravest thing anyone can do is begin to understand their own story and as your therapist, I’m here to help. Let’s celebrate taking that first step in sorting out and making sense of your thoughts and feelings together. Sometimes our perception of therapy is stuffy, one-sided or that we cannot be our true selves during a session. I can assure you that’s not how our time together will be spent. You have my promise to feel heard, able to engage freely, be genuine, and feel relaxed in a nonjudgmental safe space to help you feel empowered enough to cope with whatever life throws you.
![Photo of Jolene Batarick, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5163c520-0ff5-4b14-9ee2-3cb3190f1c4f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jolene Batarick
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Whitehall, PA 18052
I specialize in treating eating disorders, trauma and ptsd, grief and loss, chronic pain and substance use issues. I am certified in intuitive therapy for eating disorders and am a certified trauma therapist. I strive to create a safe and nurturing atmosphere in which individuals can express themselves. I believe that compassion, empathy and patience are needed with all patients. I draw on mindfulness, DBT and CBT techniques. I also incorporate play, art and music therapy when appropriate. Each treatment is tailored to each client, so I focus on getting to know you and how you want to live your life, and what is stopping you.
I specialize in treating eating disorders, trauma and ptsd, grief and loss, chronic pain and substance use issues. I am certified in intuitive therapy for eating disorders and am a certified trauma therapist. I strive to create a safe and nurturing atmosphere in which individuals can express themselves. I believe that compassion, empathy and patience are needed with all patients. I draw on mindfulness, DBT and CBT techniques. I also incorporate play, art and music therapy when appropriate. Each treatment is tailored to each client, so I focus on getting to know you and how you want to live your life, and what is stopping you.
![Photo of Michelle Callahan, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2e2181fb-f81e-474b-935a-bbbb80c6628a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Callahan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Whitehall, PA 18052
I am certified in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy and have successfully helped many clients to process and become survivors of trauma.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor that enjoys helping people and supporting them to achieve their goals. I believe that it is important to discuss and incorporate a client's beliefs, values, and strengths into therapy. This helps me to understand how to best support my clients and to use their strengths to empower them. I have experience with a variety of reasons for clients seeking therapy and have acquired numerous therapeutic techniques and interventions to personalize treatment to each individual client. I have worked with clients as young as two years old and have extensive experience with family therapy as well.
I am certified in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy and have successfully helped many clients to process and become survivors of trauma.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor that enjoys helping people and supporting them to achieve their goals. I believe that it is important to discuss and incorporate a client's beliefs, values, and strengths into therapy. This helps me to understand how to best support my clients and to use their strengths to empower them. I have experience with a variety of reasons for clients seeking therapy and have acquired numerous therapeutic techniques and interventions to personalize treatment to each individual client. I have worked with clients as young as two years old and have extensive experience with family therapy as well.
![Photo of Stephen Sell, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c90ff06-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Specializing in evidence-based treatment for trauma/PTSD and substance use. Tired of just trying to get through the day? Feeling overwhelmed? Treatment from a highly qualified, licensed psychologist can help you get back on track and live life to the fullest. Whether you have anxiety or mood problems, have experienced trauma or have concerns about your alcohol or drug use, treatment can help you figure out the direction that’s right for you and how to get there. Experienced with first responders (EMS, EMT, Paramedics, Police, Firefighters) and survivors of domestic violence.
Specializing in evidence-based treatment for trauma/PTSD and substance use. Tired of just trying to get through the day? Feeling overwhelmed? Treatment from a highly qualified, licensed psychologist can help you get back on track and live life to the fullest. Whether you have anxiety or mood problems, have experienced trauma or have concerns about your alcohol or drug use, treatment can help you figure out the direction that’s right for you and how to get there. Experienced with first responders (EMS, EMT, Paramedics, Police, Firefighters) and survivors of domestic violence.
![Photo of Julia Melito, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5ed45e70-0907-49de-b2ed-0a92e049f451/2/320x400.jpeg)
Julia Melito
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Whitehall, PA 18052 (Online Only)
I work with adolescents and young adults seeking support with anxiety, stress, grief & loss, trauma, relationship concerns, and more.
At the core of my counseling practice is authenticity and empathy. As a school counselor and pre-licensed professional, I know how frustrating it can be to feel as though there is an insurmountable wall between you and your counselor. I believe counseling to be a partnership within which we co-create a safe space for you to uncover your own inner wisdom. I also emphasize the mind-body connection and enjoy incorporating creative techniques into sessions based upon the client's unique needs, which may include journaling, drawing, songwriting, movement, and mindfulness.
I work with adolescents and young adults seeking support with anxiety, stress, grief & loss, trauma, relationship concerns, and more.
At the core of my counseling practice is authenticity and empathy. As a school counselor and pre-licensed professional, I know how frustrating it can be to feel as though there is an insurmountable wall between you and your counselor. I believe counseling to be a partnership within which we co-create a safe space for you to uncover your own inner wisdom. I also emphasize the mind-body connection and enjoy incorporating creative techniques into sessions based upon the client's unique needs, which may include journaling, drawing, songwriting, movement, and mindfulness.
![Photo of Lindsey Sauder, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1ee9508d-ed18-4b2c-b6e2-ba37d5998d43/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lindsey Sauder
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Whitehall, PA 18052 (Online Only)
Lindsey Sauder is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has training and experience in working with individuals, couples, and families. While Lindsey is open to and passionate about working with all clients, Lindsey also specifically values working with those who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community. Lindsey specializes in working with clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship problems, grief/loss, life transitions, trauma, and much more. Lindsey graduated from Messiah University in 2018 with a Master of Arts (MA) in Counseling, with a specialization in Marriage, Couples, and Family Counseling.
Lindsey Sauder is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has training and experience in working with individuals, couples, and families. While Lindsey is open to and passionate about working with all clients, Lindsey also specifically values working with those who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community. Lindsey specializes in working with clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship problems, grief/loss, life transitions, trauma, and much more. Lindsey graduated from Messiah University in 2018 with a Master of Arts (MA) in Counseling, with a specialization in Marriage, Couples, and Family Counseling.
![Photo of Sonya Hamilton-Padilla, MS, CMRFTC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3a8aeece-6ada-4642-bb8a-5ca715b27625/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sonya Hamilton-Padilla
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, CMRFTC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Whitehall, PA 18052
I have over 17-years of expertise as a therapist working in capacities such as a Family-Based Therapist, Outpatient Therapist, and as a Certified Marriage, Relationship & Family Trauma Coach. I am a warm, seasoned, and a compassionate healer. When we experience trauma and everyday life struggles, we find ourselves feeling overwhelmed; these things cause our lives to spiral. No single approach is the right fit for everyone and I utilize a range of therapy modalities. I also provide Christian Counseling by request. I provide therapeutic coaching to clients who live outside the state of PA and to expats who are living abroad.
I have over 17-years of expertise as a therapist working in capacities such as a Family-Based Therapist, Outpatient Therapist, and as a Certified Marriage, Relationship & Family Trauma Coach. I am a warm, seasoned, and a compassionate healer. When we experience trauma and everyday life struggles, we find ourselves feeling overwhelmed; these things cause our lives to spiral. No single approach is the right fit for everyone and I utilize a range of therapy modalities. I also provide Christian Counseling by request. I provide therapeutic coaching to clients who live outside the state of PA and to expats who are living abroad.
![Photo of Marianne Bartos, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e6629f6-6b70-4323-bd61-32554e0ee3d3/1/320x400.png)
Marianne Bartos
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Whitehall, PA 18052 (Online Only)
Marianne Bartos is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Pennsylvania who has over 15 years of experience providing therapeutic care to adult clients who are seeking help with depression, anxiety, trauma, difficult life transitions, and many other areas of difficulty. Marianne establishes a warm and caring relationship with each person in order to assist in building on their strengths and work with them to meet their goals.
Marianne Bartos is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Pennsylvania who has over 15 years of experience providing therapeutic care to adult clients who are seeking help with depression, anxiety, trauma, difficult life transitions, and many other areas of difficulty. Marianne establishes a warm and caring relationship with each person in order to assist in building on their strengths and work with them to meet their goals.
![Photo of Dawn Seeburger, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dde7a601-1b9a-4baa-af59-4e8adaef2908/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dawn Seeburger is a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in working with children and their families. She has over 10 years of experience in the mental health field in many environments, including psychiatric hospitals and schools. She has worked with clients who are struggling with symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, parenting issues, peer conflicts, trauma, and more. Dawn completed her MS in School Counseling with licensure at Kutztown University.
Dawn Seeburger is a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in working with children and their families. She has over 10 years of experience in the mental health field in many environments, including psychiatric hospitals and schools. She has worked with clients who are struggling with symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, parenting issues, peer conflicts, trauma, and more. Dawn completed her MS in School Counseling with licensure at Kutztown University.
![Photo of Lilly Snyder, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/625284b5-8ce8-43b3-aeee-a1608f27d10a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Specialties include: Anxiety, Stress Management, Transitional periods of life, Grief, Trauma, Eating Disorders, and Depression.
Sometimes, life gets a bit overwhelming and we lose sight of our path. Occasionally, our path becomes clouded with anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, eating disorders, trauma, etc. While walking our path through life, therapy can provide a nonjudgmental space to vent, problem-solve, and seek coping tools. I would like to be that person for you. We will work together to set attainable goals and learn coping skills to help us on our journey through life.
Specialties include: Anxiety, Stress Management, Transitional periods of life, Grief, Trauma, Eating Disorders, and Depression.
Sometimes, life gets a bit overwhelming and we lose sight of our path. Occasionally, our path becomes clouded with anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, eating disorders, trauma, etc. While walking our path through life, therapy can provide a nonjudgmental space to vent, problem-solve, and seek coping tools. I would like to be that person for you. We will work together to set attainable goals and learn coping skills to help us on our journey through life.
![Photo of Nicole Schuster, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c7fd71b-1ca0-48eb-a225-e33c2825c833/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole Schuster
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Whitehall, PA 18052
Are you tired of struggling with with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, low self-esteem, grief, trauma or self-harming behaviors? Are you going through a major life transition and need support and guidance? I can provide you with a safe space to build the skills to overcome these problems and move closer to the life you want. My primary strategies draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, DBT skills training, Solution-Focused and Strengths Based approaches. We will work together to pursue the goals that are important to you provide you with the skills to accomplish them.
Are you tired of struggling with with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, low self-esteem, grief, trauma or self-harming behaviors? Are you going through a major life transition and need support and guidance? I can provide you with a safe space to build the skills to overcome these problems and move closer to the life you want. My primary strategies draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, DBT skills training, Solution-Focused and Strengths Based approaches. We will work together to pursue the goals that are important to you provide you with the skills to accomplish them.
15 Second Videos
Stephen Sell
Nicole Schuster
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Allentown
![Photo of Jacqueline Cunningham, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9fb846aa-774c-4eff-9ac7-ac1dfc529427/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jackie Cunningham is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has been working in the field since 2017. Jackie specializes in eating disorders, anxiety, trauma, and self-esteem. Jackie is passionate about empowering her clients to handle life's stressors, learn new ways to cope, and recall the past but live in the present. Jackie helps her clients to find a healthy perception of themselves, strengthen their relationships with others, and build up their skill set so they feel confident in taking control of their lives. Jackie completed her Masters in Counseling and Human Services at Lehigh University in Bethlehem, PA.
Jackie Cunningham is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has been working in the field since 2017. Jackie specializes in eating disorders, anxiety, trauma, and self-esteem. Jackie is passionate about empowering her clients to handle life's stressors, learn new ways to cope, and recall the past but live in the present. Jackie helps her clients to find a healthy perception of themselves, strengthen their relationships with others, and build up their skill set so they feel confident in taking control of their lives. Jackie completed her Masters in Counseling and Human Services at Lehigh University in Bethlehem, PA.
![Photo of Cara M. Koslow, MS, LPC, PMH-C, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/de36b9a4-c377-49ad-9ef8-0cad77d8f6f8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cara M. Koslow
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Whitehall, PA 18052
I hold a Perinatal Mental Health certification in the treatment of perinatal mental health concerns, including postpartum depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and psychosis; pregnancy loss; infant loss; and infertility.
Welcome to Generation of Change! Counseling can provide a safe space to facilitate personal growth and positive change when expereincing challenges throughout the lifespan. Treating from a psychodynamic/relational approach, I help clients find patterns in their emotions, thoughts, and beliefs in order to gain insight into how they relate to themselves and others.
I hold a Perinatal Mental Health certification in the treatment of perinatal mental health concerns, including postpartum depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and psychosis; pregnancy loss; infant loss; and infertility.
Welcome to Generation of Change! Counseling can provide a safe space to facilitate personal growth and positive change when expereincing challenges throughout the lifespan. Treating from a psychodynamic/relational approach, I help clients find patterns in their emotions, thoughts, and beliefs in order to gain insight into how they relate to themselves and others.
![Photo of Sean Butler, LCSW- C, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d9f3f257-dd0a-41a7-8679-017d86c84346/3/320x400.jpeg)
I love working with people to help them achieve inner peace and reach their full potential. Through my own experiences and years of working in the field, I wholeheartedly believe that anyone can accomplish this. My approach combines therapeutic methods tailored to meet each individual's unique needs, guiding you on a transformative journey toward a more fulfilling life.
I love working with people to help them achieve inner peace and reach their full potential. Through my own experiences and years of working in the field, I wholeheartedly believe that anyone can accomplish this. My approach combines therapeutic methods tailored to meet each individual's unique needs, guiding you on a transformative journey toward a more fulfilling life.
![Photo of Kimberly Fredericks, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/491b436b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kimberly Fredericks
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Whitehall, PA 18052
Waitlist for new clients
We all need someone to talk to at different times in our lives, especially when it is difficult for our closest loved ones to give unbiased feedback. As a counselor, I join with individuals, couples and families to help them utilize their inner and collective strengths to face their difficulties. By building skills and strategies to address their struggles, people can transcend their past suffering, cope with present difficulties and move forward in life. I create space for connection and healing by offering a private, supportive, and safe place to allow people to bring forth their authentic selves.
We all need someone to talk to at different times in our lives, especially when it is difficult for our closest loved ones to give unbiased feedback. As a counselor, I join with individuals, couples and families to help them utilize their inner and collective strengths to face their difficulties. By building skills and strategies to address their struggles, people can transcend their past suffering, cope with present difficulties and move forward in life. I create space for connection and healing by offering a private, supportive, and safe place to allow people to bring forth their authentic selves.
![Photo of Sophie Greger - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Allentown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ad5ec351-1224-4bfd-8dc8-6ee6ea2f6c26/1/320x400.jpeg)
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Allentown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Whitehall, PA 18052
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
![Photo of Sophie Greger, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fe81308-2ec6-44a5-82fb-9679303c5960/1/320x400.png)
Sophie Greger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Whitehall, PA 18052 (Online Only)
Sophie Greger is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in working with children, teens, young adults, and families. She has experience providing therapy across multiple clinical settings including residential treatment and community care. Sophie brings a caring, professional attitude to working with individuals and families, prioritizing a strengths-based perspective and building upon the skills that fit best into each client’s unique experience.
Sophie Greger is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in working with children, teens, young adults, and families. She has experience providing therapy across multiple clinical settings including residential treatment and community care. Sophie brings a caring, professional attitude to working with individuals and families, prioritizing a strengths-based perspective and building upon the skills that fit best into each client’s unique experience.
![Photo of Henry Gursky - Henry Gursky LLC, BA, MEd, DA, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f3cd570-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Henry Gursky LLC
Psychologist, BA, MEd, DA
Verified Verified
Whitehall, PA 18052
Not accepting new clients
I am a licensed psychologist and certified school psychologist in Pennsylvania with over 30 years of experience working with teens and adults ages 14 to 65 who are managing anxiety, mood difficulties and changes in relationships. I am dedicated to supporting my clients with positive regard using CBT, Mindfulness, and ACT. I am existential and I believe in the ability of everyone who comes to me to create the life they would like to lead. I help to engage the self healing potential in all clients. I am highly supportive of individuals who have suffered traumas, and have relationship problems.
I am a licensed psychologist and certified school psychologist in Pennsylvania with over 30 years of experience working with teens and adults ages 14 to 65 who are managing anxiety, mood difficulties and changes in relationships. I am dedicated to supporting my clients with positive regard using CBT, Mindfulness, and ACT. I am existential and I believe in the ability of everyone who comes to me to create the life they would like to lead. I help to engage the self healing potential in all clients. I am highly supportive of individuals who have suffered traumas, and have relationship problems.
![Photo of William Schneller, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/488b7087-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
You want to feel better. You want someone you can trust, who is experienced and well-qualified, to help you. Don't let your anxiety, depression or past experiences have control of your life. We can work together to change that. Unsure of your life path or in a transition, we can find the direction that fits you best. Our supportive relationship, new treatment approaches and brain-based therapies can help you feel better.
You want to feel better. You want someone you can trust, who is experienced and well-qualified, to help you. Don't let your anxiety, depression or past experiences have control of your life. We can work together to change that. Unsure of your life path or in a transition, we can find the direction that fits you best. Our supportive relationship, new treatment approaches and brain-based therapies can help you feel better.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Roz Birnbaum, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d27c4ed-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Roz Birnbaum
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Northampton, PA 18067
I believe this gives me the added insight to help people recognize and work through problems that originate with these types of trauma.
There are times in our lives when issues have surpassed just talking to a friend. I can offer you a professional empathetic ear in a private safe space. Our sessions will provide you with the understanding and the objective viewpoint you are seeking. Whether you are having problems with the stress of everyday life or you want to work on a long standing issue, I can help. From the start, we will build a relationship of trust and honesty. I provide a safe environment where you can explore your issues to gain insight and develop skills to make positive life changes. With every session, we are collaborators in helping you.
I believe this gives me the added insight to help people recognize and work through problems that originate with these types of trauma.
There are times in our lives when issues have surpassed just talking to a friend. I can offer you a professional empathetic ear in a private safe space. Our sessions will provide you with the understanding and the objective viewpoint you are seeking. Whether you are having problems with the stress of everyday life or you want to work on a long standing issue, I can help. From the start, we will build a relationship of trust and honesty. I provide a safe environment where you can explore your issues to gain insight and develop skills to make positive life changes. With every session, we are collaborators in helping you.
See more therapy options for Whitehall
Nearby Trauma and PTSD Therapists Searches for Whitehall
- Allentown
- Bethlehem
- Catasauqua
- Center Valley
- Emmaus
- Fogelsville
- Lehigh Valley
- Macungie
- Northampton
- Orefield
- Schnecksville
- Trexlertown
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.