Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Joint Base Lewis Mcchord, WA

Photo of Nadine Johnson, MA, LMHCA, NCC, Counselor
Nadine Johnson
Counselor, MA, LMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Joint Base Lewis Mcchord, WA 98433
The gift of meeting ourselves… in life, we sometimes have to endure extreme stress in difficult circumstances, and we are meant to continue to grow by making meaning and increasing the love in our lives. As an Army Veteran, I feel called to serve the veteran community, as well as others with difficult life experiences. My focus areas include trauma and PTSD, emotional imbalances, self-esteem, grief, and transitions. I draw from my spiritual path as well as personal experiences to connect deeply, and to honor each individual’s journey to healing.
The gift of meeting ourselves… in life, we sometimes have to endure extreme stress in difficult circumstances, and we are meant to continue to grow by making meaning and increasing the love in our lives. As an Army Veteran, I feel called to serve the veteran community, as well as others with difficult life experiences. My focus areas include trauma and PTSD, emotional imbalances, self-esteem, grief, and transitions. I draw from my spiritual path as well as personal experiences to connect deeply, and to honor each individual’s journey to healing.
(360) 347-2496 View (360) 347-2496
Photo of Steffanee Holt, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Steffanee Holt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Joint Base Lewis Mcchord, WA 98433
My specialty areas include PTSD, Trauma, ADHD, anxiety, family difficulties, behavioral issues, depression and relationship concerns.
As a WA State Certified DV Provider, I am now offering Court Ordered Evaluations. I believe there are times in a person's life when they need a trusted and confidential ally who can help a person explore the causes of his/her thoughts, feelings, or behaviors and develop new ways of thinking, acting and feeling. I am committed to helping individuals, couples and families achieve these goals in an environment that emphasizes confidentiality, respect, trust and compassion.
My specialty areas include PTSD, Trauma, ADHD, anxiety, family difficulties, behavioral issues, depression and relationship concerns.
As a WA State Certified DV Provider, I am now offering Court Ordered Evaluations. I believe there are times in a person's life when they need a trusted and confidential ally who can help a person explore the causes of his/her thoughts, feelings, or behaviors and develop new ways of thinking, acting and feeling. I am committed to helping individuals, couples and families achieve these goals in an environment that emphasizes confidentiality, respect, trust and compassion.
(253) 231-7841 View (253) 231-7841
Photo of Kate Estadilla, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Kate Estadilla
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Joint Base Lewis Mcchord, WA 98433  (Online Only)
Trauma comes in many shapes and forms, and it often leaves us to question: what is considered trauma, and what does that look like for me?  I work to help individuals unpack what they have kept deep inside and see how it has impacted their present.
I understand the difficulties of meeting someone new and discussing items that may leave one feeling vulnerable.  As a therapist and especially as a person, I highly value our relationship and find this to be essential in the therapy process.  I enjoy working with individuals by building trust with me and with this process.  I also believe in creating a collaborative relationship in which I respect your needs while balancing the therapeutic interventions that I can provide. I have a long history of working with individuals who struggle with anxiety and depression, and I specialize in working with those who have experienced trauma.
Trauma comes in many shapes and forms, and it often leaves us to question: what is considered trauma, and what does that look like for me?  I work to help individuals unpack what they have kept deep inside and see how it has impacted their present.
I understand the difficulties of meeting someone new and discussing items that may leave one feeling vulnerable.  As a therapist and especially as a person, I highly value our relationship and find this to be essential in the therapy process.  I enjoy working with individuals by building trust with me and with this process.  I also believe in creating a collaborative relationship in which I respect your needs while balancing the therapeutic interventions that I can provide. I have a long history of working with individuals who struggle with anxiety and depression, and I specialize in working with those who have experienced trauma.
(253) 319-3761 View (253) 319-3761
Photo of Jordan Zollinger, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Jordan Zollinger
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Joint Base Lewis Mcchord, WA 98433
I specialize in treating trauma, anxiety, depression, and relational difficulties.
I am passionate about coming alongside the first responder community (police, firefighters, EMS, dispatch) and helping them develop the mental health tools they need to not only survive, but thrive. From the stress of service calls, shift-work, and organizational politics, too many first responders come out on the other end of their service worse for the wear. Being former law enforcement, I personally experienced and witnessed this impact, and I became passionate about becoming a part of the solution by offering culturally competent mental health counseling.
I specialize in treating trauma, anxiety, depression, and relational difficulties.
I am passionate about coming alongside the first responder community (police, firefighters, EMS, dispatch) and helping them develop the mental health tools they need to not only survive, but thrive. From the stress of service calls, shift-work, and organizational politics, too many first responders come out on the other end of their service worse for the wear. Being former law enforcement, I personally experienced and witnessed this impact, and I became passionate about becoming a part of the solution by offering culturally competent mental health counseling.
(253) 544-6209 View (253) 544-6209
Photo of Kristen Moore - Key Counseling PLLC, EdD, LMHC, Counselor
Key Counseling PLLC
Counselor, EdD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Joint Base Lewis Mcchord, WA 98433
Now accepting new clients! Hello! I'm Dr. Kristen Moore (nee Bradley). My focus is on adult clients who have anxiety, depression, trauma, or PTSD. I strive to create a supportive environment and work with you to come up with a plan that addresses your concerns where you are right now. I believe everyone has strengths and that sometimes people become so overwhelmed they lose sight of themselves. I'm a guide that helps you find your way back and encourages you to keep moving forward. If you experience insomnia, nightmares, flashbacks, fatigue, sudden anger, anxiety or depression and feel it is time to get control back, call me.
Now accepting new clients! Hello! I'm Dr. Kristen Moore (nee Bradley). My focus is on adult clients who have anxiety, depression, trauma, or PTSD. I strive to create a supportive environment and work with you to come up with a plan that addresses your concerns where you are right now. I believe everyone has strengths and that sometimes people become so overwhelmed they lose sight of themselves. I'm a guide that helps you find your way back and encourages you to keep moving forward. If you experience insomnia, nightmares, flashbacks, fatigue, sudden anger, anxiety or depression and feel it is time to get control back, call me.
(360) 795-5283 View (360) 795-5283
Photo of Mike Pereira, MSW, LICSWA, MHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mike Pereira
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSWA, MHP
Verified Verified
Joint Base Lewis Mcchord, WA 98433
Accepting new clients. The journey to healing begins with a desire to feel better. Together, we’ll work to discover what “better” looks like and what can be done to achieve it. There are many ways life shows us we are stuck in our own story; addiction, depression, anxiety, anger and many other indicators can be present when we’re experiencing such pain. How did we get here? How do we get out? What are we holding onto? Who can we not let go?
Accepting new clients. The journey to healing begins with a desire to feel better. Together, we’ll work to discover what “better” looks like and what can be done to achieve it. There are many ways life shows us we are stuck in our own story; addiction, depression, anxiety, anger and many other indicators can be present when we’re experiencing such pain. How did we get here? How do we get out? What are we holding onto? Who can we not let go?
(360) 227-6842 View (360) 227-6842
Photo of Lindsey Torres - Legionary Mental Health - Military & FR's, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Legionary Mental Health - Military & FR's
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Joint Base Lewis Mcchord, WA 98433
Legionary Mental Health offers culturally competent counseling to active military, veterans, first responders and their spouses. We offer in person counseling in Tumwater, WA and telehealth throughout Washington state. We are in the Triwest and Tricare network and work with individuals that have an authorization for care. Training and wellness if offered to law enforcement agencies throughout western Washington. 10-15 minute phone consultations are required to ensure good fit for care.
Legionary Mental Health offers culturally competent counseling to active military, veterans, first responders and their spouses. We offer in person counseling in Tumwater, WA and telehealth throughout Washington state. We are in the Triwest and Tricare network and work with individuals that have an authorization for care. Training and wellness if offered to law enforcement agencies throughout western Washington. 10-15 minute phone consultations are required to ensure good fit for care.
(360) 295-9966 View (360) 295-9966
Photo of Robert E Bates, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Robert E Bates
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Joint Base Lewis Mcchord, WA 98433  (Online Only)
I am currently Focusing on Military Veterans in my practice: We can all use a little help now and then. I bring a diverse skill set of life and counseling experience. I grew up with a tumultuous household in a small community. I joined the military at a young age and have lived and worked throughout the world. I have had my own family, raising children weathering many successes and failures in the process. I have experienced counseling as a client; my personal experience enhances my great respect for my clients' vulnerability in our sessions. I am a fellow traveler in life, as you learn and grow so do I.
I am currently Focusing on Military Veterans in my practice: We can all use a little help now and then. I bring a diverse skill set of life and counseling experience. I grew up with a tumultuous household in a small community. I joined the military at a young age and have lived and worked throughout the world. I have had my own family, raising children weathering many successes and failures in the process. I have experienced counseling as a client; my personal experience enhances my great respect for my clients' vulnerability in our sessions. I am a fellow traveler in life, as you learn and grow so do I.
(509) 236-1418 View (509) 236-1418
Photo of Shalisa Pointer, MEd, MS, LCMHC-A, Pre-Licensed Professional
Shalisa Pointer
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd, MS, LCMHC-A
Verified Verified
Joint Base Lewis Mcchord, WA 98433  (Online Only)
Establishing the life you want can be overwhelming and stressful. No matter what area it is in, getting to a place where you can balance and embrace the highs and lows of every day takes work and consistency. We all have challenges that can make things difficult. I know that sometimes life can put you through storm after storm, or sometimes it is just a challenge to get through changes and adjust. Working together will get you through and prepare you for the future so you are not just surviving but genuinely thriving and at peace.
Establishing the life you want can be overwhelming and stressful. No matter what area it is in, getting to a place where you can balance and embrace the highs and lows of every day takes work and consistency. We all have challenges that can make things difficult. I know that sometimes life can put you through storm after storm, or sometimes it is just a challenge to get through changes and adjust. Working together will get you through and prepare you for the future so you are not just surviving but genuinely thriving and at peace.
(253) 525-8718 View (253) 525-8718
Photo of Jessica L Flores, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Jessica L Flores
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Joint Base Lewis Mcchord, WA 98433
I'm a licensed marriage and family therapy associate specializing in providing mental health support to individuals and families. I cater my approach with each client I encounter to create an empathetic, non-judgmental, and collaborative therapeutic relationship. I take a holistic approach to therapy with the understanding that therapy is not one-size-fits all; utilizing an array of therapeutic approaches and models, I work with my clients to find the personal growth and healing they are looking for with the belief that those who seek change, will find it.
I'm a licensed marriage and family therapy associate specializing in providing mental health support to individuals and families. I cater my approach with each client I encounter to create an empathetic, non-judgmental, and collaborative therapeutic relationship. I take a holistic approach to therapy with the understanding that therapy is not one-size-fits all; utilizing an array of therapeutic approaches and models, I work with my clients to find the personal growth and healing they are looking for with the belief that those who seek change, will find it.
(253) 649-6029 View (253) 649-6029
Photo of Tanisha Medina - SpeakLifeHealUp/Tanisha Medina, MA, LMHC, MHP, Counselor
SpeakLifeHealUp/Tanisha Medina
Counselor, MA, LMHC, MHP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Joint Base Lewis Mcchord, WA 98433
Not accepting new clients
As a therapist & military veteran, I have 20+ years of extensive experience with diverse and vulnerable populations and situations to include depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, relationships, domestic violence/abuse, divorce, parenting, military issues, cultural identity and life transitions.
*Not Accepting New Clients* I am the founder of SpeakLifeHealUp Counseling Services. My therapeutic approach is centered around my belief that we deserve to be heard and understood. Reaching out for help takes incredible courage and is one of the bravest things that you can do. My passion is to empower and equip individuals and couples experiencing invisible emotional wounds to heal themselves, build better relationships while strengthening connections and navigate through life challenges. You will discover your inner worth, love and acceptance. You have the power within yourself to do the work and awaken to your best-kept self!
As a therapist & military veteran, I have 20+ years of extensive experience with diverse and vulnerable populations and situations to include depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, relationships, domestic violence/abuse, divorce, parenting, military issues, cultural identity and life transitions.
*Not Accepting New Clients* I am the founder of SpeakLifeHealUp Counseling Services. My therapeutic approach is centered around my belief that we deserve to be heard and understood. Reaching out for help takes incredible courage and is one of the bravest things that you can do. My passion is to empower and equip individuals and couples experiencing invisible emotional wounds to heal themselves, build better relationships while strengthening connections and navigate through life challenges. You will discover your inner worth, love and acceptance. You have the power within yourself to do the work and awaken to your best-kept self!
(253) 285-1214 View (253) 285-1214

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Benjamin J Strader, PsyD, Psychologist
Benjamin J Strader
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Dupont, WA 98327
I have experience working with a variety of concerns including anxiety, trauma, addiction, depression, grief, stress, self esteem issues, and relationship concerns.
Everyday we face unwanted thoughts, moods, emotions, memories, and body sensations, which can interfere with our school, career, relationships, and our mental and emotional well being. If this sounds like you or your loved one, know that you are not alone and that change is possible. My greatest professional satisfaction comes from witnessing the process of growth and I am here to walk with you or your loved one on that journey of change. I have a passion for the collaborative process and supporting those who want to understand themselves better and value the process of growth.
I have experience working with a variety of concerns including anxiety, trauma, addiction, depression, grief, stress, self esteem issues, and relationship concerns.
Everyday we face unwanted thoughts, moods, emotions, memories, and body sensations, which can interfere with our school, career, relationships, and our mental and emotional well being. If this sounds like you or your loved one, know that you are not alone and that change is possible. My greatest professional satisfaction comes from witnessing the process of growth and I am here to walk with you or your loved one on that journey of change. I have a passion for the collaborative process and supporting those who want to understand themselves better and value the process of growth.
(253) 544-5644 View (253) 544-5644
Photo of James T. Capellaro, LICSW, LMSW-C, ACSW, EMDR-Q, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
James T. Capellaro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LMSW-C, ACSW, EMDR-Q
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dupont, WA 98327  (Online Only)
I got my MSW w/ focuses in MH/Trauma from University of Denver (DU).
Hello, I’m James, and thank you for being here. Whether you are new to therapy or have been sitting on the therapy chaise lounge for years, welcome! First off, there is no perfect way to do therapy and there is no perfect way to be a client. So, I hope for you less pressure and worry in exploring this curious thing called therapy. I strive to make my practice safe, comfortable, individualized and resourceful. Another core tenant of my practice that I find equally important: your agency. You are the expert of you, even if you may not always feel as such - I'll do my very best to be of resource to you. (Response 48-72 hrs)
I got my MSW w/ focuses in MH/Trauma from University of Denver (DU).
Hello, I’m James, and thank you for being here. Whether you are new to therapy or have been sitting on the therapy chaise lounge for years, welcome! First off, there is no perfect way to do therapy and there is no perfect way to be a client. So, I hope for you less pressure and worry in exploring this curious thing called therapy. I strive to make my practice safe, comfortable, individualized and resourceful. Another core tenant of my practice that I find equally important: your agency. You are the expert of you, even if you may not always feel as such - I'll do my very best to be of resource to you. (Response 48-72 hrs)
(253) 364-1645 View (253) 364-1645
Photo of Robin L Pellerin, LMFTA, LMHCA, CGP, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Robin L Pellerin
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA, LMHCA, CGP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98433
If you're struggling with grief and loss, anxiety, depression, communication, parenting, trauma, or life transitions, I am here to help you process these challenging emotions and offer a path forward.
When life gets messy, we can feel lost and disconnected not only from others but from ourselves. Are you struggling with a loss in your life? A family member or friend? A divorce? A relationship? Or yourself? As a certified grief professional, mental health counselor associate, marriage and family therapist associate, and first responder therapist, I have spent 5 years supporting military members, their families, and veterans who are working through one of life's most challenging journey's and the complex emotions that accompany them. My hope is to provide a safe, respectful, and nonjudgmental space to process these emotions.
If you're struggling with grief and loss, anxiety, depression, communication, parenting, trauma, or life transitions, I am here to help you process these challenging emotions and offer a path forward.
When life gets messy, we can feel lost and disconnected not only from others but from ourselves. Are you struggling with a loss in your life? A family member or friend? A divorce? A relationship? Or yourself? As a certified grief professional, mental health counselor associate, marriage and family therapist associate, and first responder therapist, I have spent 5 years supporting military members, their families, and veterans who are working through one of life's most challenging journey's and the complex emotions that accompany them. My hope is to provide a safe, respectful, and nonjudgmental space to process these emotions.
(253) 733-1216 View (253) 733-1216
Photo of Denise M Coyle, LMFT, CTS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Denise M Coyle
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CTS
Verified Verified
Fort Lewis, WA 98433
I enjoy helping a person realize that they can heal- that PTSD isn't Terminal, that Anxiety doesn't have to own you, that Anger cannot only be "managed" but understood and defused.
Limited availability at this time. I Love what I do! Sounds Crazy- but the truth is I love working with people who have been thru unspeakable events in life and are looking to find their way back. Trauma is an abnormal event so approach it from a new perspective, talk about the things you are told not to and get into the depths of it. You have to be willing to walk into that bad neighborhood, that has become your mind, and clear it out- but you don't have to walk in there alone. Let me come with you. I'll be your lifeline.
I enjoy helping a person realize that they can heal- that PTSD isn't Terminal, that Anxiety doesn't have to own you, that Anger cannot only be "managed" but understood and defused.
Limited availability at this time. I Love what I do! Sounds Crazy- but the truth is I love working with people who have been thru unspeakable events in life and are looking to find their way back. Trauma is an abnormal event so approach it from a new perspective, talk about the things you are told not to and get into the depths of it. You have to be willing to walk into that bad neighborhood, that has become your mind, and clear it out- but you don't have to walk in there alone. Let me come with you. I'll be your lifeline.
(253) 336-6680 View (253) 336-6680
Photo of Jason Victor, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jason Victor
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lakewood, WA 98439
I specialize in work with adults, couples, and families, and also have specific training in play therapy and trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy.
Are you feeling like you or your loved one should be getting more out of life than you have been? Sometimes we need a compassionate, objective person to help us sort out problems, regain perspective and enjoy life and our relationships again. It is important for you to feel a connection with your therapist and to sense that the therapist has your best interests at heart. I work from a solution-focused, experiential perspective, building on the power of the therapeutic relationship and clients' personal strengths to support lasting change while working with couples, families, individuals, and children.
I specialize in work with adults, couples, and families, and also have specific training in play therapy and trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy.
Are you feeling like you or your loved one should be getting more out of life than you have been? Sometimes we need a compassionate, objective person to help us sort out problems, regain perspective and enjoy life and our relationships again. It is important for you to feel a connection with your therapist and to sense that the therapist has your best interests at heart. I work from a solution-focused, experiential perspective, building on the power of the therapeutic relationship and clients' personal strengths to support lasting change while working with couples, families, individuals, and children.
(253) 693-4927 View (253) 693-4927
Photo of Kristen Arcangelo, Kristen Arcangelo, MEd, LMHC, Counselor
Kristen Arcangelo
Counselor, Kristen Arcangelo, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dupont, WA 98327  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hello, thank you for visiting my profile. I am currently accepting clients for limited slots on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 8:30-2 starting in September. I genuinely enjoy my work with teens and adults and believe that trust is the foundation of therapy. If you are hoping to manage anxiety, depression, negative self-talk, adolescence, or boundary setting, I may be a good fit for you. I utilize trauma-informed, developmentally appropriate interventions to support trauma processing and building skills.
Hello, thank you for visiting my profile. I am currently accepting clients for limited slots on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 8:30-2 starting in September. I genuinely enjoy my work with teens and adults and believe that trust is the foundation of therapy. If you are hoping to manage anxiety, depression, negative self-talk, adolescence, or boundary setting, I may be a good fit for you. I utilize trauma-informed, developmentally appropriate interventions to support trauma processing and building skills.
(253) 215-8085 View (253) 215-8085
Photo of Cornilia E Denson, MSW, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cornilia E Denson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98433  (Online Only)
Hello! How would you like to start towards a path of emotional and mental healing? I would like to be entrusted to be your guide while on that path. To guide you towards autonomy, environmental mastery, personal growth, positive relations with others, purpose in life, and self-acceptance. As someone with over 10 years of having the privilege of working with individuals who have encountered some element of a mental health crisis. I am very committed, passionate, patient, and flexible as a therapist. I possess the necessary interpersonal skills that inspire a trusting therapeutic relationship.
Hello! How would you like to start towards a path of emotional and mental healing? I would like to be entrusted to be your guide while on that path. To guide you towards autonomy, environmental mastery, personal growth, positive relations with others, purpose in life, and self-acceptance. As someone with over 10 years of having the privilege of working with individuals who have encountered some element of a mental health crisis. I am very committed, passionate, patient, and flexible as a therapist. I possess the necessary interpersonal skills that inspire a trusting therapeutic relationship.
(509) 303-4247 View (509) 303-4247
Photo of Jolene D Rogers, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jolene D Rogers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Fort Lewis, WA 98433
I am a licensed professional counselor, in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Alaska. With experience working in schools, hospitals, community-based care settings, and residential programs, I offer a wide array of tools and strategies for supporting you, your child, and your family. I work to build a relationship with each client and their family to provide a welcome, inviting, and supportive space for therapy.
I am a licensed professional counselor, in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Alaska. With experience working in schools, hospitals, community-based care settings, and residential programs, I offer a wide array of tools and strategies for supporting you, your child, and your family. I work to build a relationship with each client and their family to provide a welcome, inviting, and supportive space for therapy.
(844) 780-5134 View (844) 780-5134
Photo of Ashaniece Anderson, AAC, CPC, Counselor
Ashaniece Anderson
Counselor, AAC, CPC
Verified Verified
Lakewood, WA 98439
Let's face it, life is hard, and it doesn't seem to be getting any easier. I noticed that most people just live their lives on a day-by-day basis and struggle with finding true meaning in their lives. This may be due to the internal struggles that we all face such as anxiety, depression, grief, fear, anger, and so many other issues. We may try to deal with our issues on our own, and sometimes this works for many of us. Yet, there are some issues that may seem tougher than others, which can weigh on our moods and negatively impact our relationships with others and ourselves. Seeking help is easier said than done for most.
Let's face it, life is hard, and it doesn't seem to be getting any easier. I noticed that most people just live their lives on a day-by-day basis and struggle with finding true meaning in their lives. This may be due to the internal struggles that we all face such as anxiety, depression, grief, fear, anger, and so many other issues. We may try to deal with our issues on our own, and sometimes this works for many of us. Yet, there are some issues that may seem tougher than others, which can weigh on our moods and negatively impact our relationships with others and ourselves. Seeking help is easier said than done for most.
(253) 893-6805 View (253) 893-6805

See more therapy options for Joint Base Lewis Mcchord

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.