Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Bristol, TN

Photo of Sydney Peltier, LPC, RPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sydney Peltier
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Bristol, TN 37620
She is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), which can be used to address a myriad of issues such as trauma, anxiety, depression and self-esteem.
Sydney Peltier is a licensed professional counselor who has spent her career passionately serving the mental health needs of her community through counseling, training and teaching, and advocating for quality care. With a variety of skills and expertise Sydney enjoys working with individuals, couples, and families to feel better, experience more joy in life, and have meaningful relationships that work. She believes wholeheartedly that health and healing are possible, especially when people recognize their own value, purpose, and strengths in partnership with professional and experienced clinical care.
She is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), which can be used to address a myriad of issues such as trauma, anxiety, depression and self-esteem.
Sydney Peltier is a licensed professional counselor who has spent her career passionately serving the mental health needs of her community through counseling, training and teaching, and advocating for quality care. With a variety of skills and expertise Sydney enjoys working with individuals, couples, and families to feel better, experience more joy in life, and have meaningful relationships that work. She believes wholeheartedly that health and healing are possible, especially when people recognize their own value, purpose, and strengths in partnership with professional and experienced clinical care.
(423) 919-9258 View (423) 919-9258
Photo of Bridgette Samantha Walker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bridgette Samantha Walker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bristol, TN 37620
My specialties include depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, substance related disorders, ADHD, and disruptive, impulse-control, and conduct disorders.
Do you often find yourself feeling overwhelmed, depressed and anxious, dealing with emotional pain, or questioning if you are doing a good job surviving at this thing called life? Come sit with me and let us discuss the opportunities you have to feel empowered and emotionally healthy. I have the experience and knowledge to help you find ways of identifying the root of a problem, processing through experiences, and developing a new pattern of thinking. Let’s discuss what is going on in life and find ways of solving the problem in a safe, relaxing, and supportive environment.
My specialties include depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, substance related disorders, ADHD, and disruptive, impulse-control, and conduct disorders.
Do you often find yourself feeling overwhelmed, depressed and anxious, dealing with emotional pain, or questioning if you are doing a good job surviving at this thing called life? Come sit with me and let us discuss the opportunities you have to feel empowered and emotionally healthy. I have the experience and knowledge to help you find ways of identifying the root of a problem, processing through experiences, and developing a new pattern of thinking. Let’s discuss what is going on in life and find ways of solving the problem in a safe, relaxing, and supportive environment.
(423) 427-4653 View (423) 427-4653
Photo of Jessica Gregory, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica Gregory
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Bristol, TN 37620
I am most experienced with Addictions, Eating Disorders, and Trauma Work.
I believe in the philosophy that every person has the ability to positively change their lives through their own untapped potential. I practice different evidence based approaches to help my clients discover their own strengths and use them to achieve their goals. My passions include helping my clients set and accomplish their goals during therapy, by meeting my clients where they are. I earned my Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and Sociology at Emory and Henry University. I continued my education at Radford University where I earned my Master's Degree in Counseling and Human Development.
I am most experienced with Addictions, Eating Disorders, and Trauma Work.
I believe in the philosophy that every person has the ability to positively change their lives through their own untapped potential. I practice different evidence based approaches to help my clients discover their own strengths and use them to achieve their goals. My passions include helping my clients set and accomplish their goals during therapy, by meeting my clients where they are. I earned my Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and Sociology at Emory and Henry University. I continued my education at Radford University where I earned my Master's Degree in Counseling and Human Development.
(423) 840-7191 View (423) 840-7191
Photo of Emmanuel S John, MA, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emmanuel S John
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bristol, TN 37620
My name is Emmanuel S. John. I am a Psychotherapist/counselor and author in the Tri-Cities area of TN. I've been working with individuals, couples and families for more than 30 years. I help people with personal emotional struggles of all kinds; Anxiety, Addiction, Depression, Grief, Trauma and PTSD just to name a few. I have a proven track record and you will see results after every session. I can help but not until you call. I am taking new clients. Cash services, insurance is not necessary. Invest the effort, you're worth it! (Ever consider online therapy? Let's talk.)
My name is Emmanuel S. John. I am a Psychotherapist/counselor and author in the Tri-Cities area of TN. I've been working with individuals, couples and families for more than 30 years. I help people with personal emotional struggles of all kinds; Anxiety, Addiction, Depression, Grief, Trauma and PTSD just to name a few. I have a proven track record and you will see results after every session. I can help but not until you call. I am taking new clients. Cash services, insurance is not necessary. Invest the effort, you're worth it! (Ever consider online therapy? Let's talk.)
(423) 302-0338 View (423) 302-0338
Photo of Sabrina Guinn, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sabrina Guinn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bristol, TN 37620
Using a number of different therapeutic techniques, such as mindfulness, CBT interventions, DBT interventions, EMDR, and trauma-informed care, we can develop concrete steps to take to reach your goals.
I'm currently accepting new clients! We all struggle with finding just the right balance in our lives. Maybe anxiety, depression, and outside stressors are keeping you from feeling present in your life. Maybe significant events from your past are intruding in your thoughts and hijacking your present experience. Perhaps your marriage is suffering and the two of you are having difficulty in finding compromise and balance. If you want to work on developing a real, dynamic, and balanced life, I can help you to find a path forward to achieving the reality that you want.
Using a number of different therapeutic techniques, such as mindfulness, CBT interventions, DBT interventions, EMDR, and trauma-informed care, we can develop concrete steps to take to reach your goals.
I'm currently accepting new clients! We all struggle with finding just the right balance in our lives. Maybe anxiety, depression, and outside stressors are keeping you from feeling present in your life. Maybe significant events from your past are intruding in your thoughts and hijacking your present experience. Perhaps your marriage is suffering and the two of you are having difficulty in finding compromise and balance. If you want to work on developing a real, dynamic, and balanced life, I can help you to find a path forward to achieving the reality that you want.
(276) 208-8386 View (276) 208-8386
Photo of Brooke Holland Jones, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brooke Holland Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Bristol, TN 37620
My approach to individual trauma and family therapy is compassionate and empowering.
To those of you who are finding it hard to function at the level you are used to, the ones desperate for healing from a painful childhood, the ones who are dealing with the aftermath of a traumatic experience, or struggling to put into words what they are going through, Welcome. To the ones needing support as you navigate a difficult season of your life, the ones seeking support for your beloved child, and the ones needing direction in resolving family crisis and conflict, Welcome. To those of you who feel lost, grieved, alone, or overwhelmed, Welcome. You don't have to do it alone. I see you and I want to help you through it.
My approach to individual trauma and family therapy is compassionate and empowering.
To those of you who are finding it hard to function at the level you are used to, the ones desperate for healing from a painful childhood, the ones who are dealing with the aftermath of a traumatic experience, or struggling to put into words what they are going through, Welcome. To the ones needing support as you navigate a difficult season of your life, the ones seeking support for your beloved child, and the ones needing direction in resolving family crisis and conflict, Welcome. To those of you who feel lost, grieved, alone, or overwhelmed, Welcome. You don't have to do it alone. I see you and I want to help you through it.
(423) 524-9836 View (423) 524-9836
Photo of Sara Jane Carico-Arnold, LCSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara Jane Carico-Arnold
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bristol, TN 37620
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize a variety of techniques to accomplish healing such as CBT, DBT, trauma focused, EMDR, somatic therapy, polyvagal theory informed therapy, mindfulness (nature, meditation, etc.
There is a reason we do the things that we do and feel the way that we feel. All mental health issues are caused by us surviving and navigating this world to the best of our abilities given all the obstacles that can get in the way. Therapy is a science and an art. In better understanding the science and the question of “why” we do the things that we do can be a powerful tool in starting your healing journey. Once having this level of insight, therapy aims to not only heal you in the present but heal the deeper underlying issues that have caused things to get to this point.
I utilize a variety of techniques to accomplish healing such as CBT, DBT, trauma focused, EMDR, somatic therapy, polyvagal theory informed therapy, mindfulness (nature, meditation, etc.
There is a reason we do the things that we do and feel the way that we feel. All mental health issues are caused by us surviving and navigating this world to the best of our abilities given all the obstacles that can get in the way. Therapy is a science and an art. In better understanding the science and the question of “why” we do the things that we do can be a powerful tool in starting your healing journey. Once having this level of insight, therapy aims to not only heal you in the present but heal the deeper underlying issues that have caused things to get to this point.
(423) 482-8324 View (423) 482-8324
Photo of Mollie Creel, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mollie Creel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bristol, TN 37620
Waitlist for new clients
She works with children, teens, adults, and families with trauma, depression and anxiety, grief and loss, and adoption issues.
Feeling lost or stuck? Facing a big life change? Do you feel like you, your child, or your family could use a little extra help navigating life? Life can be challenging and unexpected events happen. Whatever you are facing, let’s work through it! I believe that you are the expert of your own experiences and I am here to come alongside you to provide you with the tools and resources you need to make the changes you want in your life. I will meet you where you are because your safety and trust are very important to me. I am here to listen and provide feedback to help you learn more about yourself and how you interact with the world.
She works with children, teens, adults, and families with trauma, depression and anxiety, grief and loss, and adoption issues.
Feeling lost or stuck? Facing a big life change? Do you feel like you, your child, or your family could use a little extra help navigating life? Life can be challenging and unexpected events happen. Whatever you are facing, let’s work through it! I believe that you are the expert of your own experiences and I am here to come alongside you to provide you with the tools and resources you need to make the changes you want in your life. I will meet you where you are because your safety and trust are very important to me. I am here to listen and provide feedback to help you learn more about yourself and how you interact with the world.
(423) 799-2192 View (423) 799-2192
Photo of Robin Hebert, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Robin Hebert
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bristol, TN 37620
Waitlist for new clients
I am passionate about working with first responders and veterans. I understand the importance of having a counselor that is culturally competent in these professions. As a former first responder of 18 years (firefighter, EMT and peace officer), I have a sincere and genuine motivation to continue helping others. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, relationships, performance related challenges with athletes, and sexual health. I work with many individuals from all walks of life, not just first responders.
I am passionate about working with first responders and veterans. I understand the importance of having a counselor that is culturally competent in these professions. As a former first responder of 18 years (firefighter, EMT and peace officer), I have a sincere and genuine motivation to continue helping others. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, relationships, performance related challenges with athletes, and sexual health. I work with many individuals from all walks of life, not just first responders.
(423) 401-9854 View (423) 401-9854
Photo of Ginger Ketron, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ginger Ketron
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bristol, TN 37620
I have worked with patients from a variety of walks of life: 4 years of age to 75 years of age. I walk alongside those that deal with anxiety, ADHD, marital challenges, behavior issues, depression, bi-polar, PTSD, substance use, and trauma for those who desire to make their goals a reality. I provide counseling for children ages 6 and up for those struggling with behaviors in school, at home and in the community. I provide a safe place where children can be themselves, adapt their life skills or "tools" and learn more to add to their toolbox in order to increase positive, healthy behaviors that assist them as they maneuver life.
I have worked with patients from a variety of walks of life: 4 years of age to 75 years of age. I walk alongside those that deal with anxiety, ADHD, marital challenges, behavior issues, depression, bi-polar, PTSD, substance use, and trauma for those who desire to make their goals a reality. I provide counseling for children ages 6 and up for those struggling with behaviors in school, at home and in the community. I provide a safe place where children can be themselves, adapt their life skills or "tools" and learn more to add to their toolbox in order to increase positive, healthy behaviors that assist them as they maneuver life.
(423) 556-7961 View (423) 556-7961
Photo of Pam Kuykendall, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Pam Kuykendall
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Bristol, TN 37620
Thank you for taking time to view my profile. Being a mental health care provider is a calling and a passion. Healing from the effects of trauma, perinatal and postpartum mental health concerns, anxiety, and depression is possible. The healing journey is different for each person and I will patiently walk alongside my clients each step of the way. I also provide premarital counseling, family therapy, and have experience with parenting assistance and spiritual health.
Thank you for taking time to view my profile. Being a mental health care provider is a calling and a passion. Healing from the effects of trauma, perinatal and postpartum mental health concerns, anxiety, and depression is possible. The healing journey is different for each person and I will patiently walk alongside my clients each step of the way. I also provide premarital counseling, family therapy, and have experience with parenting assistance and spiritual health.
(423) 436-0401 View (423) 436-0401
Photo of Summer Ahmed, MSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Summer Ahmed
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bristol, TN 37620
Specializing in holistic practices of EMDR, mindfulness, bodywork, and inner child connection, I can provide personalized support for trauma healing, stress reduction, and self-discovery.
Are you someone who is grappling with life’s struggles, seeking to untangle the knots of anxiety and self-doubt, and yearning for a deeper connection with your authentic self? Someone who's endured trauma, from childhood, relationships, or life events, burdened by unresolved emotions and limiting beliefs. Your goal is not just to heal wounds but to emerge stronger, more resilient, and empowered to live a fulfilling life. You want to break free from the chains of your past, reclaim inner peace, and step into a future filled with purpose and joy. Seeking understanding, validation, and compassionate guidance, you aim to feel empowered.
Specializing in holistic practices of EMDR, mindfulness, bodywork, and inner child connection, I can provide personalized support for trauma healing, stress reduction, and self-discovery.
Are you someone who is grappling with life’s struggles, seeking to untangle the knots of anxiety and self-doubt, and yearning for a deeper connection with your authentic self? Someone who's endured trauma, from childhood, relationships, or life events, burdened by unresolved emotions and limiting beliefs. Your goal is not just to heal wounds but to emerge stronger, more resilient, and empowered to live a fulfilling life. You want to break free from the chains of your past, reclaim inner peace, and step into a future filled with purpose and joy. Seeking understanding, validation, and compassionate guidance, you aim to feel empowered.
(423) 537-6521 View (423) 537-6521
Photo of Michael Cooper, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michael Cooper
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bristol, TN 37620
I have had experience with helping people process and heal from trauma , anxiety , depression or just provide a space for you to process in a safe environment.
Life can be challenging and stressful and we sometimes get "stuck". Therapy can help us get unstuck. Whatever your goals may be , my hope is as a therapist I can help you reach those . Overcoming the challenges and obstacles through the process of finding your own path and answers is ultimately the goal of therapy . I provide a non judgmental place for my clients to find those answers. Note- Initial Session in Person. Inquires answered by administration staff of agency and dependent upon business hours.
I have had experience with helping people process and heal from trauma , anxiety , depression or just provide a space for you to process in a safe environment.
Life can be challenging and stressful and we sometimes get "stuck". Therapy can help us get unstuck. Whatever your goals may be , my hope is as a therapist I can help you reach those . Overcoming the challenges and obstacles through the process of finding your own path and answers is ultimately the goal of therapy . I provide a non judgmental place for my clients to find those answers. Note- Initial Session in Person. Inquires answered by administration staff of agency and dependent upon business hours.
(276) 231-5444 View (276) 231-5444
Photo of Marsha Litton-Baker, CTRS, MS, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marsha Litton-Baker
Licensed Professional Counselor, CTRS, MS, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Bristol, TN 37621  (Online Only)
Areas of expertise and focus: Anxiety, Depression, Grief and Loss, OCD, Parenting, Infertility, caregiver fatigue, and PTSD.
Have you ever been told when life gives you lemons make lemonade? Well, like most people unless you have a plan or a “recipe” then it is difficult to know where to start. I want to help you with tools and techniques to create your own “recipe” for the current journey you are on. First and foremost, I want to commend you for taking the first steps toward seeking treatment with finding a therapist. It took a lot of courage and inner strength to know your emotional health is the key ingredient to your “recipe” for balance in life.
Areas of expertise and focus: Anxiety, Depression, Grief and Loss, OCD, Parenting, Infertility, caregiver fatigue, and PTSD.
Have you ever been told when life gives you lemons make lemonade? Well, like most people unless you have a plan or a “recipe” then it is difficult to know where to start. I want to help you with tools and techniques to create your own “recipe” for the current journey you are on. First and foremost, I want to commend you for taking the first steps toward seeking treatment with finding a therapist. It took a lot of courage and inner strength to know your emotional health is the key ingredient to your “recipe” for balance in life.
(423) 250-1359 View (423) 250-1359
Photo of Mary Allison, MA, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary Allison
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bristol, TN 37620
My approach to therapy is to respect each individual as a whole person. I believe each person knows himself or herself best. Loss of jobs, relationships, chemical addiction, life transitions, trauma, abuse and the stress of day to day living come with an array of thoughts and emotions, which at some points in our lives can become overwhelming. We start to feel like nothing can get better, and begin to self-destruct or stay stuck, out of fear of the unknown or poor habits. I use an eclectic approach, pulling together different types of therapies tailored to what would be most beneficial to the particular client.
My approach to therapy is to respect each individual as a whole person. I believe each person knows himself or herself best. Loss of jobs, relationships, chemical addiction, life transitions, trauma, abuse and the stress of day to day living come with an array of thoughts and emotions, which at some points in our lives can become overwhelming. We start to feel like nothing can get better, and begin to self-destruct or stay stuck, out of fear of the unknown or poor habits. I use an eclectic approach, pulling together different types of therapies tailored to what would be most beneficial to the particular client.
(423) 445-7468 View (423) 445-7468
Photo of Jenna Terry, MEd,  LPC/MH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jenna Terry
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC/MH
Verified Verified
Bristol, TN 37620
Jenna has years of working with children and adolescents that have endured complex trauma where she now utilizes EMDR to help.
Jenna Terry is a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Mental Health Service Provider Designation in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2015. She has a Master of Education in Counseling and Development with a concentration in Community Mental Health. Jenna believes you have to meet the client where they are and help guide them on their journey of healing. It is like the therapist is the guiding post on the light house and the client steers where it needs to go. She approaches therapy from an attachment and acceptance theory.
Jenna has years of working with children and adolescents that have endured complex trauma where she now utilizes EMDR to help.
Jenna Terry is a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Mental Health Service Provider Designation in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2015. She has a Master of Education in Counseling and Development with a concentration in Community Mental Health. Jenna believes you have to meet the client where they are and help guide them on their journey of healing. It is like the therapist is the guiding post on the light house and the client steers where it needs to go. She approaches therapy from an attachment and acceptance theory.
(423) 454-3968 View (423) 454-3968
Photo of Linda Steele, MLS, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Linda Steele
Marriage & Family Therapist, MLS, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bristol, TN 37620  (Online Only)
Do you find yourself wondering why you're where you are in life...what brought you to this point? What is the meaning of this crisis in my life? Is there a purpose for my life? My approach to therapy is founded in Carl Jung's Depth Psychology and is useful for all life's problems that come our way - depression, anxiety, trauma, abuse, grief, relationships, career and aging as well as for reflection and personal growth. Together we can find the answers to these questions. My approach is holistic, warm, client centered and non judgmental.
Do you find yourself wondering why you're where you are in life...what brought you to this point? What is the meaning of this crisis in my life? Is there a purpose for my life? My approach to therapy is founded in Carl Jung's Depth Psychology and is useful for all life's problems that come our way - depression, anxiety, trauma, abuse, grief, relationships, career and aging as well as for reflection and personal growth. Together we can find the answers to these questions. My approach is holistic, warm, client centered and non judgmental.
(423) 438-1749 View (423) 438-1749
Photo of Chasity Shalon Norris - CSN Counseling and Consultation, LLC, MA, LPCMHSP, S, LMHC, MPA, Licensed Professional Counselor
CSN Counseling and Consultation, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCMHSP, S, LMHC, MPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bristol, TN 37620
At CSN Counseling, Your better tomorrows can start today. If you are struggling with feeling "sucked into the stuckness", overwhelmed with the stress of balancing family and work, needing support while confirming your gender identity and sexuality, intimacy and sexual difficulties, or attempting to work through the lingering effects of previous trauma and/or abuse, then I would be honored to sit with you and listen to your story. We can work together to help you gain perspective and insight, while helping you to move through traumas, transitions, and stressors into a healthier and more productive life.
At CSN Counseling, Your better tomorrows can start today. If you are struggling with feeling "sucked into the stuckness", overwhelmed with the stress of balancing family and work, needing support while confirming your gender identity and sexuality, intimacy and sexual difficulties, or attempting to work through the lingering effects of previous trauma and/or abuse, then I would be honored to sit with you and listen to your story. We can work together to help you gain perspective and insight, while helping you to move through traumas, transitions, and stressors into a healthier and more productive life.
(423) 205-5766 View (423) 205-5766
Photo of Brynn Burger, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Brynn Burger
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bristol, TN 37620
Struggling with marriage or partnership conflict, sexual trauma/abuse/addiction, or exploring individuality and healing somatic response to trauma? I pair my experience with over 20 years serving in various forms of mental health as a clinician trained in Trauma-Focused CBT, Integrative Sex Therapy to support sexual addiction recovery, counseling couples, families, and individuals working toward healing from infidelity, struggling with communication, or navigating non-traditional relationships.
Struggling with marriage or partnership conflict, sexual trauma/abuse/addiction, or exploring individuality and healing somatic response to trauma? I pair my experience with over 20 years serving in various forms of mental health as a clinician trained in Trauma-Focused CBT, Integrative Sex Therapy to support sexual addiction recovery, counseling couples, families, and individuals working toward healing from infidelity, struggling with communication, or navigating non-traditional relationships.
(423) 497-3781 View (423) 497-3781
Photo of Andrea Nicole McCloud, MA, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Andrea Nicole McCloud
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Bristol, TN 37620
I seek to see your world through your lens and deeply understand how you experience life, emotions, and trauma.
There is a wealth of bravery in taking the first step to pursue counseling! I approach my work with clients by meeting clients where they are. I collaborate with individuals I work with, delving into their inner worlds and their lived experiences. Together, we explore the client's strengths and how these can be utilized to propel the individual to success.
I seek to see your world through your lens and deeply understand how you experience life, emotions, and trauma.
There is a wealth of bravery in taking the first step to pursue counseling! I approach my work with clients by meeting clients where they are. I collaborate with individuals I work with, delving into their inner worlds and their lived experiences. Together, we explore the client's strengths and how these can be utilized to propel the individual to success.
(423) 840-7851 View (423) 840-7851
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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.