Trauma and PTSD Therapists in San Marcos, TX

Photo of Katie Purswell, PhD, LPC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katie Purswell
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
San Marcos, TX 78666
Welcome! Taking that first step to seek out help can be challenging, and I'm glad you are starting that journey. I work with adults, children, and teens who are looking for a place to explore how they can show up more authentically in the world. That might mean we work together toward you healing from past hurts or trauma, becoming more self-accepting, exploring past or new identities, finding ways to move through depression/anxiety, parenting more confidently, or helping your child access their full potential.
Welcome! Taking that first step to seek out help can be challenging, and I'm glad you are starting that journey. I work with adults, children, and teens who are looking for a place to explore how they can show up more authentically in the world. That might mean we work together toward you healing from past hurts or trauma, becoming more self-accepting, exploring past or new identities, finding ways to move through depression/anxiety, parenting more confidently, or helping your child access their full potential.
(830) 244-6944 View (830) 244-6944
Photo of Kristina Aiello, MS, LPC, LCDC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristina Aiello
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Marcos, TX 78666  (Online Only)
Whether trauma or addiction, let's navigate toward healing together.
Do you feel overwhelmed by negative thoughts and constant worry? Are you struggling to keep up with life's many demands? Do you need help processing complex emotions, working through grief or trauma, or just need someone to listen objectively? Healing from the pain of trauma and overcoming life's many hurdles is very much a part of my story. It is my own journey with counseling that helps lend to my passion for helping others. I believe we all have more power than we know. Helping people identify their barriers and grow beyond them is the best part of my work.
Whether trauma or addiction, let's navigate toward healing together.
Do you feel overwhelmed by negative thoughts and constant worry? Are you struggling to keep up with life's many demands? Do you need help processing complex emotions, working through grief or trauma, or just need someone to listen objectively? Healing from the pain of trauma and overcoming life's many hurdles is very much a part of my story. It is my own journey with counseling that helps lend to my passion for helping others. I believe we all have more power than we know. Helping people identify their barriers and grow beyond them is the best part of my work.
(512) 575-8653 View (512) 575-8653
Photo of Emari Smith, LPC, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emari Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Marcos, TX 78666  (Online Only)
Know that during this difficult time, there is a place where you can feel safe to work through trauma and learn to find compassion for yourself again.
Whenever we experience interpersonal betrayal or abuse, we often feel as if we have lost a part of ourselves. We can experience a range of feelings such as shame, isolation and have difficulty offering ourselves compassion. After such pain, it can be hard to trust other people again as well as yourself. You may have trouble forming a healthy relationship with yourself and creating deep connections with other people. Together, we can create a safe space for you to find your voice, discover who you are, and build meaningful experiences again. My approach is to meet you where you are by working from your values and belief system.
Know that during this difficult time, there is a place where you can feel safe to work through trauma and learn to find compassion for yourself again.
Whenever we experience interpersonal betrayal or abuse, we often feel as if we have lost a part of ourselves. We can experience a range of feelings such as shame, isolation and have difficulty offering ourselves compassion. After such pain, it can be hard to trust other people again as well as yourself. You may have trouble forming a healthy relationship with yourself and creating deep connections with other people. Together, we can create a safe space for you to find your voice, discover who you are, and build meaningful experiences again. My approach is to meet you where you are by working from your values and belief system.
(512) 862-0842 View (512) 862-0842
Photo of Sophia Sutherlun, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sophia Sutherlun
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Marcos, TX 78666
I offer a trauma-informed, empathetic space for working together through anxiety, depression, life transitions, and trauma.
We all have pain, stress, and disappointments to work through - big things and small. When left unaddressed, they show up as anxiety, grief, anger, perfectionism or depression, limiting our ability to be at peace with ourselves and in our relationships. Maybe something in your life doesn't feel right, and has become too much to bear by yourself. You want to step into new ways of being in the world, free from the shame, fear and pain you have been carrying for so long. Taking the first step towards getting the help you need can feel incredibly vulnerable, and I promise to honor the strength it took to get here.
I offer a trauma-informed, empathetic space for working together through anxiety, depression, life transitions, and trauma.
We all have pain, stress, and disappointments to work through - big things and small. When left unaddressed, they show up as anxiety, grief, anger, perfectionism or depression, limiting our ability to be at peace with ourselves and in our relationships. Maybe something in your life doesn't feel right, and has become too much to bear by yourself. You want to step into new ways of being in the world, free from the shame, fear and pain you have been carrying for so long. Taking the first step towards getting the help you need can feel incredibly vulnerable, and I promise to honor the strength it took to get here.
(512) 764-5803 View (512) 764-5803
Photo of Liberty Nicholas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Liberty Nicholas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Marcos, TX 78666
My style intertwines mindfulness, nature-based parts work (IFS), nature experientials, DBT, & somatic soul-based trauma healing.
Hey Wild Souls, I’m Liberty! Are you ready for a new approach to therapy? Join me for outdoor sessions in the beautiful parks of San Antonio, New Braunfels, & San Marcos. As a nature-based therapist, I believe that the natural world can provide a unique and powerful healing environment that is often inaccessible in an office. My life's guiding principle is simple: Nature is My Co-Therapist! If you seek to holistically enhance your overall wellbeing and unearth your Wisest Self...I’m ready to guide your journey! I work with people navigating symptoms of PTSD, depression, anxiety, grief, & exploring personality or mood disorders.
My style intertwines mindfulness, nature-based parts work (IFS), nature experientials, DBT, & somatic soul-based trauma healing.
Hey Wild Souls, I’m Liberty! Are you ready for a new approach to therapy? Join me for outdoor sessions in the beautiful parks of San Antonio, New Braunfels, & San Marcos. As a nature-based therapist, I believe that the natural world can provide a unique and powerful healing environment that is often inaccessible in an office. My life's guiding principle is simple: Nature is My Co-Therapist! If you seek to holistically enhance your overall wellbeing and unearth your Wisest Self...I’m ready to guide your journey! I work with people navigating symptoms of PTSD, depression, anxiety, grief, & exploring personality or mood disorders.
(210) 942-7737 View (210) 942-7737
Photo of Christian Mitchell, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christian Mitchell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
San Marcos, TX 78666  (Online Only)
Do you feel weighed down by anxiety, depression or trauma? As a skillful mindfulness therapist, I have been helping people feel more balance for years.
Change is not easy sometimes and we will go through it with love towards self. It is our self-doubt and often our lack of confidence in our basic goodness that hinders our progress. I have helped many find the self-compassion needed for self-healing and with that a much more mindful approach to life. I have been down the road of mental health challenges. There are many ways I used therapy technics and mindfulness practice to help develop a much more balanced self. I am confident I can help you find the richness in life that you deserve.
Do you feel weighed down by anxiety, depression or trauma? As a skillful mindfulness therapist, I have been helping people feel more balance for years.
Change is not easy sometimes and we will go through it with love towards self. It is our self-doubt and often our lack of confidence in our basic goodness that hinders our progress. I have helped many find the self-compassion needed for self-healing and with that a much more mindful approach to life. I have been down the road of mental health challenges. There are many ways I used therapy technics and mindfulness practice to help develop a much more balanced self. I am confident I can help you find the richness in life that you deserve.
(512) 379-6879 View (512) 379-6879
Photo of Orren Baskin, LPC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Orren Baskin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
San Marcos, TX 78666
My approach to the counseling relationship is trauma-informed and person-centered, utilizing narrative therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and play therapy.
I am an LGBTQIA+ affirming provider and am happy to serve gender, sexual, and relationship minorities. I enjoy working with people of all ages, providing individual counseling, sibling therapy, and family therapy. I have work and volunteer experience providing counseling to survivors of abuse, those experiencing grief and loss, and youth in residential psychiatric treatment experiencing complex trauma. I work with clients who are struggling to adjust to changes in their life or who are needing more support to face challenges with compassion.
My approach to the counseling relationship is trauma-informed and person-centered, utilizing narrative therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and play therapy.
I am an LGBTQIA+ affirming provider and am happy to serve gender, sexual, and relationship minorities. I enjoy working with people of all ages, providing individual counseling, sibling therapy, and family therapy. I have work and volunteer experience providing counseling to survivors of abuse, those experiencing grief and loss, and youth in residential psychiatric treatment experiencing complex trauma. I work with clients who are struggling to adjust to changes in their life or who are needing more support to face challenges with compassion.
(512) 861-1724 View (512) 861-1724
Photo of Adrienne M. Koller, CCTP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Adrienne M. Koller
Licensed Professional Counselor, CCTP, NCC
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
San Marcos, TX 78666
I have advanced training in trauma & PTSD, anger management skills, anxiety, etc.
Does the noise in your head feel overwhelming? Feeling angry, anxious, hopeless, or wanting to stop the constant "shit show" you've been living? Maybe you're tired of waking up every single day wanting to stay in bed. I get it; you're frustrated & overwhelmed; feel like you have no control & it's hard to trust or get close to anyone. And your self-esteem, boundaries, & relationships probably suck & that pisses you off even more. The lifetime of hits just won't stop coming. I can help - w/ the thoughts, images, shame, & demons yelling in your head. I can help you turn it off & help make life livable again.
I have advanced training in trauma & PTSD, anger management skills, anxiety, etc.
Does the noise in your head feel overwhelming? Feeling angry, anxious, hopeless, or wanting to stop the constant "shit show" you've been living? Maybe you're tired of waking up every single day wanting to stay in bed. I get it; you're frustrated & overwhelmed; feel like you have no control & it's hard to trust or get close to anyone. And your self-esteem, boundaries, & relationships probably suck & that pisses you off even more. The lifetime of hits just won't stop coming. I can help - w/ the thoughts, images, shame, & demons yelling in your head. I can help you turn it off & help make life livable again.
(512) 910-4097 View (512) 910-4097
Photo of Jenn Popovich, LPCS, EMDRCIT, SAP, TCYM, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jenn Popovich
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCS, EMDRCIT, SAP, TCYM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Marcos, TX 78666
I also see other counselors & professionals to work through trauma & compassion fatigue related to their work.
**NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS** "I just need a break!" Are you stuck in a pattern and can't find your way out? It can seem like you can't stop doing things that will hurt you in the long run. You find yourself saying, "This is just how I am." The story you believe about yourself- about what you deserve - is what will manifest. That narrative will run your life until you dismantle it, & rewrite it. If you aren't running it, it is running you. " The story always wins™ ". My approach is to help you figure out where you learned these things, & discard those that cause you pain & are no longer productive.
I also see other counselors & professionals to work through trauma & compassion fatigue related to their work.
**NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS** "I just need a break!" Are you stuck in a pattern and can't find your way out? It can seem like you can't stop doing things that will hurt you in the long run. You find yourself saying, "This is just how I am." The story you believe about yourself- about what you deserve - is what will manifest. That narrative will run your life until you dismantle it, & rewrite it. If you aren't running it, it is running you. " The story always wins™ ". My approach is to help you figure out where you learned these things, & discard those that cause you pain & are no longer productive.
(512) 549-6810 View (512) 549-6810
Photo of Adriana Veronica Inmon - Yellow Couch Therapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Yellow Couch Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Marcos, TX 78666
Waitlist for new clients
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I specialize in addressing the unique challenges faced by young adults and women. From dealing with trauma and anxiety to navigating life transitions and struggles with body image, I have the expertise to guide you through these complex issues. I believe in the power of empathy and genuine care, and I’m dedicated to helping you reconnect with your authentic self. Together, we can work on fostering self-compassion and breaking free from the shackles of perfectionism.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I specialize in addressing the unique challenges faced by young adults and women. From dealing with trauma and anxiety to navigating life transitions and struggles with body image, I have the expertise to guide you through these complex issues. I believe in the power of empathy and genuine care, and I’m dedicated to helping you reconnect with your authentic self. Together, we can work on fostering self-compassion and breaking free from the shackles of perfectionism.
(512) 213-1038 View (512) 213-1038
Photo of Grace L Davis, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Grace L Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Marcos, TX 78666
Waitlist for new clients
I have extensive experience in trauma with all ages.
Life is a Journey with many ups and downs. We never know what will happen even though we spend time trying to plan away our pain and control everything and everyone around us. If you find that your life's Journey is not where you want it to be or, you are experiencing stress and facing the pain of past traumas, I am here to help. If you want to work toward a life that brings you joy and fulfillment, I can assist you in finding your inner peace.
I have extensive experience in trauma with all ages.
Life is a Journey with many ups and downs. We never know what will happen even though we spend time trying to plan away our pain and control everything and everyone around us. If you find that your life's Journey is not where you want it to be or, you are experiencing stress and facing the pain of past traumas, I am here to help. If you want to work toward a life that brings you joy and fulfillment, I can assist you in finding your inner peace.
(512) 489-9345 View (512) 489-9345
Photo of Jack Crownover, MA, LPC-A
Jack Crownover
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Marcos, TX 78666
I specialize in helping adults and teens who've experienced childhood trauma.
Do you find yourself only going through the motions of life? Not ever doing anything for yourself either because you don’t know what you like or because you don’t have the energy to do anything else. Every day is just the same struggle that seems to never end and a cycle that you cannot see yourself repeating forever. If you find yourself feeling alone, having negative thoughts, feeling different from others, and as though the people close to you don't understand what you are going through, it is normal to have these feelings at times. I am here to help you understand these feelings and find ways to heal past these feelings.
I specialize in helping adults and teens who've experienced childhood trauma.
Do you find yourself only going through the motions of life? Not ever doing anything for yourself either because you don’t know what you like or because you don’t have the energy to do anything else. Every day is just the same struggle that seems to never end and a cycle that you cannot see yourself repeating forever. If you find yourself feeling alone, having negative thoughts, feeling different from others, and as though the people close to you don't understand what you are going through, it is normal to have these feelings at times. I am here to help you understand these feelings and find ways to heal past these feelings.
(512) 548-2417 View (512) 548-2417
Photo of Complex Trauma Recovery - Addie Wieland, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Complex Trauma Recovery - Addie Wieland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Marcos, TX 78666  (Online Only)
Calling all resilient GenZ & Millennials who carry the heavy burden of unresolved trauma & are so ready to lighten the load. Does your life look normal on the outside but, on the inside you feel constant anxiety, crushing perfectionism, and you’re always overthinking or going to the worst case scenario? How about that mean loud voice in your head constantly hurling insults & reminding you of all your faults. Here are some other things you hate: being vulnerable, disappointing others, and putting yourself first. Not to mention the self-doubt, always questioning your decisions, and having the hardest time trusting yourself.
Calling all resilient GenZ & Millennials who carry the heavy burden of unresolved trauma & are so ready to lighten the load. Does your life look normal on the outside but, on the inside you feel constant anxiety, crushing perfectionism, and you’re always overthinking or going to the worst case scenario? How about that mean loud voice in your head constantly hurling insults & reminding you of all your faults. Here are some other things you hate: being vulnerable, disappointing others, and putting yourself first. Not to mention the self-doubt, always questioning your decisions, and having the hardest time trusting yourself.
(956) 374-2338 View (956) 374-2338
Photo of Katie Lacenere, MSS, LCSW, CET1, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katie Lacenere
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW, CET1
Verified Verified
San Marcos, TX 78666  (Online Only)
Have you already tried traditional talk therapy in the past? Has it been somewhat helpful, but now you're searching for other therapy modalities that can help you heal the root-cause of your issues? I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Reiki Master, Certified Experiential Therapist, and Founder of Divine Light Sanctuary. I currently offer virtual therapy sessions for clients throughout the state of Texas. I’m also a highly sensitive person (HSP), oracle card reader, and spiritual guide. I believe that healing from trauma is about co-creating change that YOU choose.
Have you already tried traditional talk therapy in the past? Has it been somewhat helpful, but now you're searching for other therapy modalities that can help you heal the root-cause of your issues? I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Reiki Master, Certified Experiential Therapist, and Founder of Divine Light Sanctuary. I currently offer virtual therapy sessions for clients throughout the state of Texas. I’m also a highly sensitive person (HSP), oracle card reader, and spiritual guide. I believe that healing from trauma is about co-creating change that YOU choose.
(512) 881-8320 View (512) 881-8320
Photo of Nina Linda Ramos, LMSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nina Linda Ramos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Marcos, TX 78666
Although I see clients across the life span, I have specialized experience and training in pre and postpartum transitions, pregnancy-related trauma, perinatal depression, and parenting stressors.
I am a licensed social worker dedicated to fostering a safe and inclusive therapeutic space for individuals from diverse backgrounds and experiences. If you are grappling with issues such as depression, anxiety, interpersonal conflicts, or life transitions, I am here to build a supportive and empathetic therapeutic relationship tailored to your needs. My practice serves clients aged 14+, and I welcome teens with a trauma-informed lens and solution-focused strategies.
Although I see clients across the life span, I have specialized experience and training in pre and postpartum transitions, pregnancy-related trauma, perinatal depression, and parenting stressors.
I am a licensed social worker dedicated to fostering a safe and inclusive therapeutic space for individuals from diverse backgrounds and experiences. If you are grappling with issues such as depression, anxiety, interpersonal conflicts, or life transitions, I am here to build a supportive and empathetic therapeutic relationship tailored to your needs. My practice serves clients aged 14+, and I welcome teens with a trauma-informed lens and solution-focused strategies.
(512) 543-2814 View (512) 543-2814
Photo of Karen Pace Poland, MA,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karen Pace Poland
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
San Marcos, TX 78666  (Online Only)
Hi, I am Karen Pace Poland, Texas Licensed Professional Counselor. I have been a counselor for 15 years in the Houston area and recently moved to San Marcos. I enjoy working with clients in the areas of trauma, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. I also have interest in life transitions and how changes cause us to reevaluate areas such as relationships, faith, or personal boundaries.
Hi, I am Karen Pace Poland, Texas Licensed Professional Counselor. I have been a counselor for 15 years in the Houston area and recently moved to San Marcos. I enjoy working with clients in the areas of trauma, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. I also have interest in life transitions and how changes cause us to reevaluate areas such as relationships, faith, or personal boundaries.
(512) 982-6291 View (512) 982-6291
Photo of Cherise Miles, LPC-A
Cherise Miles
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A
Verified Verified
San Marcos, TX 78666
My areas of focus are trauma, depression, PTSD, anxiety, spiritual abuse, shame, LGBTQIA+ issues, and self-esteem.
How are you today? Really, how are you? Browsing these pages can be overwhelming – the unfamiliar words, the multitude of smiling faces. Those smiles can seem insulting in the face of overwhelming depression. Who do you pick? It’s okay to have questions and doubts; it’s okay to pick someone and change your mind once you meet them. My name is Cherise (she/her) and I am an LPC-Associate. This means that I have the education and experience to have a provisional license to counsel, but must do so under supervision. You not only have a qualified therapist, you also have a second, more experienced therapist behind the scenes.
My areas of focus are trauma, depression, PTSD, anxiety, spiritual abuse, shame, LGBTQIA+ issues, and self-esteem.
How are you today? Really, how are you? Browsing these pages can be overwhelming – the unfamiliar words, the multitude of smiling faces. Those smiles can seem insulting in the face of overwhelming depression. Who do you pick? It’s okay to have questions and doubts; it’s okay to pick someone and change your mind once you meet them. My name is Cherise (she/her) and I am an LPC-Associate. This means that I have the education and experience to have a provisional license to counsel, but must do so under supervision. You not only have a qualified therapist, you also have a second, more experienced therapist behind the scenes.
(512) 598-8770 View (512) 598-8770
Photo of Jonnie L Wilson, MA, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jonnie L Wilson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Marcos, TX 78666  (Online Only)
I have extensive research in Racial/Generational trauma, Black women issues on mental health and sexual trauma.
My primary therapeutic methods are Solution Focused, CBT. Trauma Focused, Client Centered Mindfulness and Positive Phycology. Culturally, social, racial and economic status considered, and my client has a voice in therapy. I also provide identity work and life transitions, especially for single parents, college students and newly retired. I also have Women of Color groups and women wellness retreats.
I have extensive research in Racial/Generational trauma, Black women issues on mental health and sexual trauma.
My primary therapeutic methods are Solution Focused, CBT. Trauma Focused, Client Centered Mindfulness and Positive Phycology. Culturally, social, racial and economic status considered, and my client has a voice in therapy. I also provide identity work and life transitions, especially for single parents, college students and newly retired. I also have Women of Color groups and women wellness retreats.
(512) 883-6908 View (512) 883-6908
Photo of Janel Scholtz, SEP, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Janel Scholtz
Licensed Professional Counselor, SEP, EMDR
Verified Verified
San Marcos, TX 78666
I have many years experience in the treatment of trauma, anxiety and depression.
Welcome! I am accepting new clients. I offer in person therapy in San Marcos, Texas. I offer online therapy for individuals and couples living in California. I am passionate about helping people live a full life, where they are not just surviving but thriving. How we interpret our experiences can cause us to become panicked, anxious, fearful, angry, depressed, numb or alone.
I have many years experience in the treatment of trauma, anxiety and depression.
Welcome! I am accepting new clients. I offer in person therapy in San Marcos, Texas. I offer online therapy for individuals and couples living in California. I am passionate about helping people live a full life, where they are not just surviving but thriving. How we interpret our experiences can cause us to become panicked, anxious, fearful, angry, depressed, numb or alone.
(858) 264-3065 View (858) 264-3065
Photo of Scarlett Black, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Scarlett Black
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
San Marcos, TX 78666
Welcome, my name is Scarlett Black and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist with over 15 years of experience. I have a wide range of experience providing evidence based practices for children and adults addressing complex trauma, grief and loss, mood disorders, and anger management. My approach is client centered and solution focused with the most common theoretical approach I incorporate being Cognitive Behavioral Therapy but also utilizing Motivational Interviewing and Play Therapy.
Welcome, my name is Scarlett Black and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist with over 15 years of experience. I have a wide range of experience providing evidence based practices for children and adults addressing complex trauma, grief and loss, mood disorders, and anger management. My approach is client centered and solution focused with the most common theoretical approach I incorporate being Cognitive Behavioral Therapy but also utilizing Motivational Interviewing and Play Therapy.
(214) 206-4980 View (214) 206-4980
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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.