Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Orting, WA

Photo of Moriah Leigh Faimalie, LICSW, MHP, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Moriah Leigh Faimalie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MHP, MSW
Verified Verified
Orting, WA 98360  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Let’s push away trauma and shame to build the life and relationships you desire.
No two human experiences are the same, and my therapy approach acknowledges this inherent complexity with compassion and curiosity. My ideal clients are creative, high-intensity, critical thinkers that often struggle with perfectionism, trauma, and low self-compassion. They seek a safe, nonjudgmental space to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. They aim to cultivate self-awareness, resilience, and meaningful change. My personalized approach ensures each individual's unique needs and goals are met, guiding them toward greater insight, healing, and growth.
Let’s push away trauma and shame to build the life and relationships you desire.
No two human experiences are the same, and my therapy approach acknowledges this inherent complexity with compassion and curiosity. My ideal clients are creative, high-intensity, critical thinkers that often struggle with perfectionism, trauma, and low self-compassion. They seek a safe, nonjudgmental space to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. They aim to cultivate self-awareness, resilience, and meaningful change. My personalized approach ensures each individual's unique needs and goals are met, guiding them toward greater insight, healing, and growth.
(425) 657-3047 View (425) 657-3047
Photo of Luanne Rivera - LuAnne Rivera, Lighthouse Counseling LLC, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
LuAnne Rivera, Lighthouse Counseling LLC
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Orting, WA 98360
I have over 25 years of experience working with depression, anxiety, substance use, trauma, and family-related issues.
Are you tired of going around that same mountain over and over? Let me help you find the way out. While therapy can feel like a scary place, I strive to make your therapy encounter a safe, collaborative, encouraging, and even a thriving experience. I am certified in trauma focused cognitive/behavioral therapy, and trained in grief assessment, EMDR therapy, as a SYMBIS facilitator and a chemical dependency specialist, Currently I am accepting adolescents and older. I enjoy the interaction and growth that occurs through empowering you, the client, to make your own choices and become your most authentic self.
I have over 25 years of experience working with depression, anxiety, substance use, trauma, and family-related issues.
Are you tired of going around that same mountain over and over? Let me help you find the way out. While therapy can feel like a scary place, I strive to make your therapy encounter a safe, collaborative, encouraging, and even a thriving experience. I am certified in trauma focused cognitive/behavioral therapy, and trained in grief assessment, EMDR therapy, as a SYMBIS facilitator and a chemical dependency specialist, Currently I am accepting adolescents and older. I enjoy the interaction and growth that occurs through empowering you, the client, to make your own choices and become your most authentic self.
(253) 499-7632 View (253) 499-7632
Photo of Sydney Leigh Doherty, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sydney Leigh Doherty
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orting, WA 98360  (Online Only)
Life presents us with many challenges, but I strongly believe we all can navigate those challenges and overcome some of the depression, anxiety and other symptoms that life can cause. We will work together on understanding why you are feeling some of the emotions that you are experiencing. It can be helpful to understand how you fit into your interpersonal relationships including those with children, significant others, parents, work, etc. Understanding our roles and how we function in those roles can help to navigate change.
Life presents us with many challenges, but I strongly believe we all can navigate those challenges and overcome some of the depression, anxiety and other symptoms that life can cause. We will work together on understanding why you are feeling some of the emotions that you are experiencing. It can be helpful to understand how you fit into your interpersonal relationships including those with children, significant others, parents, work, etc. Understanding our roles and how we function in those roles can help to navigate change.
(425) 470-5681 View (425) 470-5681
Photo of Meg Goodfellow, RN, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Meg Goodfellow
Marriage & Family Therapist, RN, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orting, WA 98360  (Online Only)
I believe therapists should listen, not just “nod”. I believe therapists should be just as authentic as they ask of their clients. I ascribe to the philosophy of the humanistic therapist, Carl Rogers, in providing each client with genuine warmth, empathy, and unconditional positive regard. I bring my whole heart, my whole self into the hour with you. It is your hour where you can curse and cry. Nothing is off limits, nothing will be judged and every emotion is valid.
I believe therapists should listen, not just “nod”. I believe therapists should be just as authentic as they ask of their clients. I ascribe to the philosophy of the humanistic therapist, Carl Rogers, in providing each client with genuine warmth, empathy, and unconditional positive regard. I bring my whole heart, my whole self into the hour with you. It is your hour where you can curse and cry. Nothing is off limits, nothing will be judged and every emotion is valid.
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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Marie Rule, LSWAIC, MSW , MHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marie Rule
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC, MSW , MHP
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98375
I work with CBT, DBT, Trauma focused CBT to name a few.
I work with clients who are dealing with depression, anxiety, grief and loss, challenges with self-worth and unhelpful thinking, trauma, PTSD, relationships and feeling stuck. I help clients realize their innate wisdom, achieve their goals - whatever they may be, and find new ways of being in a world that is constantly full of challenges. I also work with parents who are struggling with their roles as parents, dealing with guilt and shame that oftentimes comes with parenting and help to find positive solutions with childrearing.
I work with CBT, DBT, Trauma focused CBT to name a few.
I work with clients who are dealing with depression, anxiety, grief and loss, challenges with self-worth and unhelpful thinking, trauma, PTSD, relationships and feeling stuck. I help clients realize their innate wisdom, achieve their goals - whatever they may be, and find new ways of being in a world that is constantly full of challenges. I also work with parents who are struggling with their roles as parents, dealing with guilt and shame that oftentimes comes with parenting and help to find positive solutions with childrearing.
(253) 243-3930 View (253) 243-3930
Photo of Brian Ashburn, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brian Ashburn
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98372
I have completed my CBT+ Certification for anxiety, depression, and trauma in addition to being trained in Lifespan Integration therapy.
I am here to support and encourage clients facing hardships and life changes who desire to live as their best selves and feel unstuck. I work with clients who struggle with issues such as identity, stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and communication. I work at a pace set by my client while providing tools and resources to aid along the way. I personally have seen the positive impact therapeutic relationships can have in the lives of youth and young adults. For this reason, I enjoy working with young adults, teens, and the LGBTQIA+ community. Please visit my website for more information about me and my work.
I have completed my CBT+ Certification for anxiety, depression, and trauma in addition to being trained in Lifespan Integration therapy.
I am here to support and encourage clients facing hardships and life changes who desire to live as their best selves and feel unstuck. I work with clients who struggle with issues such as identity, stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and communication. I work at a pace set by my client while providing tools and resources to aid along the way. I personally have seen the positive impact therapeutic relationships can have in the lives of youth and young adults. For this reason, I enjoy working with young adults, teens, and the LGBTQIA+ community. Please visit my website for more information about me and my work.
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Photo of Amanda Sommerfeld, LMHC, Counselor
Amanda Sommerfeld
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Sumner, WA 98390  (Online Only)
I have seen the impacts of trauma and how it affects present life and believe the counseling process can provide healing in these areas and allow the client to be a more integrated self.
I approach counseling with the mindset that the therapeutic relationship is essential. In forming this therapeutic relationship, I work together with the client to process the problems that are presented. I believe the process is a collaboration between the counselor and the client and that all people have purpose and deserve understanding, love, and respect. My hope is that through the counseling, the client will become more aware of their patterns, life story, and importance, resulting in an increase in confidence and positive life changes. Overall, I hope that counseling will lead to a more fulfilled life, healing, and wholeness.
I have seen the impacts of trauma and how it affects present life and believe the counseling process can provide healing in these areas and allow the client to be a more integrated self.
I approach counseling with the mindset that the therapeutic relationship is essential. In forming this therapeutic relationship, I work together with the client to process the problems that are presented. I believe the process is a collaboration between the counselor and the client and that all people have purpose and deserve understanding, love, and respect. My hope is that through the counseling, the client will become more aware of their patterns, life story, and importance, resulting in an increase in confidence and positive life changes. Overall, I hope that counseling will lead to a more fulfilled life, healing, and wholeness.
(253) 263-1362 View (253) 263-1362
Photo of Crystalin Thompson, LMHCA, SUDP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Crystalin Thompson
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMHCA, SUDP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98372
I specialize in working with trauma, depression, and addiction issues, with experience working in both inpatient and outpatient facilities treating co-occurring disorders.
Hello! I am glad you're here. For me, being a therapist is like being a compassionate companion on someone's journey, helping them rediscover the incredible depth and strength within themselves and their communities. Life can throw us curveballs, leaving us feeling disconnected from who we truly are. But by embracing every part of ourselves with kindness, even the parts we may not always love, we open up avenues for healing and personal growth.
I specialize in working with trauma, depression, and addiction issues, with experience working in both inpatient and outpatient facilities treating co-occurring disorders.
Hello! I am glad you're here. For me, being a therapist is like being a compassionate companion on someone's journey, helping them rediscover the incredible depth and strength within themselves and their communities. Life can throw us curveballs, leaving us feeling disconnected from who we truly are. But by embracing every part of ourselves with kindness, even the parts we may not always love, we open up avenues for healing and personal growth.
(253) 264-3988 View (253) 264-3988
Photo of Troy Huffman, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Troy Huffman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spanaway, WA 98387
In addition, I enjoy working with individuals, couples and families who are experiencing symptoms of anxiety, bi-polar, depression, and PTSD ( trauma) & Positive Parenting Programs.
I enjoy working with couples, families and individuals. As a therapist, I look to identify your strengths and utilize those to find solutions to the specific problems you are experiencing. Some of the ways we will accomplish this are by looking at the various ways that thoughts and emotions may be driving your behaviors. I also like to explore the context of your life and situations that may be contributing to the problem in ways you may not have recognized. We'll use the insights, information, and strengths to help you transition more into your solutions.
In addition, I enjoy working with individuals, couples and families who are experiencing symptoms of anxiety, bi-polar, depression, and PTSD ( trauma) & Positive Parenting Programs.
I enjoy working with couples, families and individuals. As a therapist, I look to identify your strengths and utilize those to find solutions to the specific problems you are experiencing. Some of the ways we will accomplish this are by looking at the various ways that thoughts and emotions may be driving your behaviors. I also like to explore the context of your life and situations that may be contributing to the problem in ways you may not have recognized. We'll use the insights, information, and strengths to help you transition more into your solutions.
(253) 766-5537 View (253) 766-5537
Photo of Kassandrea E Manuele, LMHC, Counselor
Kassandrea E Manuele
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98372
In a world that can often feel heavy with forces pushing and pulling us downward in so many directions it can feel all too easy to lose track of your true self. Feeling confused and asking how did I get here? Or why me? Or, I just want to get back to myself, but I don’t even know who I am anymore. You are not alone and there is a way. I work with individuals who struggle with these same questions. Questions that arise from the struggles with trauma, anxiety, depression, attention, autism, and others. My counseling services focus on addressing the integrated person.
In a world that can often feel heavy with forces pushing and pulling us downward in so many directions it can feel all too easy to lose track of your true self. Feeling confused and asking how did I get here? Or why me? Or, I just want to get back to myself, but I don’t even know who I am anymore. You are not alone and there is a way. I work with individuals who struggle with these same questions. Questions that arise from the struggles with trauma, anxiety, depression, attention, autism, and others. My counseling services focus on addressing the integrated person.
(253) 900-2430 View (253) 900-2430
Photo of Nichole Bedore, MA, LCPC, LMHC, Counselor
Nichole Bedore
Counselor, MA, LCPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bonney Lake, WA 98391
Individuals with deep rooted emotional concerns, trauma, or issues they do not fully understand may find depth therapy to be a beneficial mode of therapy.
I'm a depth psychotherapist who facilitates healing and transformation through gentle but honest mutual work with emotions, behaviors, imagery, grounding, memory, story, presence, and hope. It's an honor and a privilege to be a partner in my client's journey toward deep inner healing. In my practice, I help individuals and couples dive beneath the surface issues, discover the underlying sources of distress, and re-emerge into a more fulfilling life. I'd like to join you on your journey where you already are, and help you find opportunities for symptom relief, growth, and healing.
Individuals with deep rooted emotional concerns, trauma, or issues they do not fully understand may find depth therapy to be a beneficial mode of therapy.
I'm a depth psychotherapist who facilitates healing and transformation through gentle but honest mutual work with emotions, behaviors, imagery, grounding, memory, story, presence, and hope. It's an honor and a privilege to be a partner in my client's journey toward deep inner healing. In my practice, I help individuals and couples dive beneath the surface issues, discover the underlying sources of distress, and re-emerge into a more fulfilling life. I'd like to join you on your journey where you already are, and help you find opportunities for symptom relief, growth, and healing.
(773) 825-3094 View (773) 825-3094
Photo of Jay Brooksby, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Jay Brooksby
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98375
Therapy Rocks! This is what I was meant to do. I specialize in treating men's trauma, all types of addiction, ADHD, relationships, and career satisfaction. My main tools consist of my own personality, CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), and interpersonal process. I want my clients to know me, know that they have an advocate, and see themselves get traction.
Therapy Rocks! This is what I was meant to do. I specialize in treating men's trauma, all types of addiction, ADHD, relationships, and career satisfaction. My main tools consist of my own personality, CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), and interpersonal process. I want my clients to know me, know that they have an advocate, and see themselves get traction.
(253) 204-2186 View (253) 204-2186
Photo of Brett Joseph Singleton, MDiv, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Brett Joseph Singleton
Counselor, MDiv, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Graham, WA 98338  (Online Only)
If you are suffering from trauma, depression, anxiety, and/or relationship issues and need the services of trained professional therapist who will gently guide you to healing and wholeness, you can contact me through the contact information provided.
Many people these days find themselves empty and alone. Is this you? Maybe you feel stuck in your relationship, or recently experienced a break-up. Perhaps you are overwhelmed with a difficult life transition, or you are suffering from past trauma. Our wounds can provide a doorway to becoming our best and most authentic selves. Our journey to mental health begins with a single, yet often difficult step. I specialize in assisting individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, anger, negative self-image as well as other symptoms holding us back from being our best and living a fulfilling life.
If you are suffering from trauma, depression, anxiety, and/or relationship issues and need the services of trained professional therapist who will gently guide you to healing and wholeness, you can contact me through the contact information provided.
Many people these days find themselves empty and alone. Is this you? Maybe you feel stuck in your relationship, or recently experienced a break-up. Perhaps you are overwhelmed with a difficult life transition, or you are suffering from past trauma. Our wounds can provide a doorway to becoming our best and most authentic selves. Our journey to mental health begins with a single, yet often difficult step. I specialize in assisting individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, anger, negative self-image as well as other symptoms holding us back from being our best and living a fulfilling life.
(253) 400-2905 View (253) 400-2905
Photo of Mikaela Davison, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Mikaela Davison
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Buckley, WA 98321  (Online Only)
I have experience working with individuals facing a range of mental health challenges, including sexual assault, PTSD, depression, anxiety, and ADHD.
I'm not just like a regular therapist, I'm a cool therapist – Hello and welcome! You’ve made it to the right place. We can all benefit from having a person to talk to and I can help support you through all of life’s transitions. I specialize in helping veterans, first responders, and their families as I have close ties to this community. I spent many times on the receiving end as a friend or loved one talking through the everyday stresses that come with the job. As a responder, you sign on the dotted line to serve and protect the community but do not sign up for accompanying traumatic stress.
I have experience working with individuals facing a range of mental health challenges, including sexual assault, PTSD, depression, anxiety, and ADHD.
I'm not just like a regular therapist, I'm a cool therapist – Hello and welcome! You’ve made it to the right place. We can all benefit from having a person to talk to and I can help support you through all of life’s transitions. I specialize in helping veterans, first responders, and their families as I have close ties to this community. I spent many times on the receiving end as a friend or loved one talking through the everyday stresses that come with the job. As a responder, you sign on the dotted line to serve and protect the community but do not sign up for accompanying traumatic stress.
(360) 706-2674 View (360) 706-2674
Photo of Yvonne Le, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Yvonne Le
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98374  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Pull up a bean bag chair, grab your favorite fidget, and let's talk. Maybe you describe your life as "a lot," and struggle to find the spoons to get all your stuff done as well as make meaningful change. Maybe anxiety takes up so much space in your day that it leaves little room for the things you want. Maybe your story includes trauma, and that burden is getting so heavy, it hurts. You want to pursue fulfillment, satisfaction, meaning, and peace in your world. If any of these or other painful places in your heart are true, I would love to get a chance to walk alongside you and find what you're looking for together.
Pull up a bean bag chair, grab your favorite fidget, and let's talk. Maybe you describe your life as "a lot," and struggle to find the spoons to get all your stuff done as well as make meaningful change. Maybe anxiety takes up so much space in your day that it leaves little room for the things you want. Maybe your story includes trauma, and that burden is getting so heavy, it hurts. You want to pursue fulfillment, satisfaction, meaning, and peace in your world. If any of these or other painful places in your heart are true, I would love to get a chance to walk alongside you and find what you're looking for together.
(425) 243-7203 View (425) 243-7203
Photo of Current Openings For Evaluation - Testing - Assessment (Payment Plans), PhD, Psychologist
Current Openings For Evaluation - Testing - Assessment (Payment Plans)
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98374
Moreland specializes in evaluating children, adolescents, and adults with a range of socio-emotional problems, as well as cognitive symptoms and disorders, as well as personality disorders, neurodevelopmental disorders, psychosis, mood disorders, trauma disorders, and personality disorders.
Dr. Moreland is a psychologist licensed in CO, WA, and TX and has authority to practice telehealth in 39 states. She has current openings for comprehensive psychological, neuropsychological, and court ordered assessments.
Moreland specializes in evaluating children, adolescents, and adults with a range of socio-emotional problems, as well as cognitive symptoms and disorders, as well as personality disorders, neurodevelopmental disorders, psychosis, mood disorders, trauma disorders, and personality disorders.
Dr. Moreland is a psychologist licensed in CO, WA, and TX and has authority to practice telehealth in 39 states. She has current openings for comprehensive psychological, neuropsychological, and court ordered assessments.
(253) 400-1650 View (253) 400-1650
Photo of Crystal Tyree, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Crystal Tyree
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Spanaway, WA 98387
Sometimes this is due to a single traumatic event and sometimes it is the accumulation of struggles that have worn us down over time.
Trauma is something most people experience in life. However, for some people, these experiences can be soul shattering. Some events can cause us to lose all sense of ourselves as we collapse into fragmented pieces of who we once were and disconnected from who we are meant to be. I believe we all have value and purpose in this life and beyond. By utilizing a combination of talk therapy, EMDR and creative outlets, I will walk beside you as you uncover all the broken bits and pieces to rebuild the beautiful mosaic of your life after trauma
Sometimes this is due to a single traumatic event and sometimes it is the accumulation of struggles that have worn us down over time.
Trauma is something most people experience in life. However, for some people, these experiences can be soul shattering. Some events can cause us to lose all sense of ourselves as we collapse into fragmented pieces of who we once were and disconnected from who we are meant to be. I believe we all have value and purpose in this life and beyond. By utilizing a combination of talk therapy, EMDR and creative outlets, I will walk beside you as you uncover all the broken bits and pieces to rebuild the beautiful mosaic of your life after trauma
(509) 350-5215 View (509) 350-5215
Photo of Krystal Wilson, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Krystal Wilson
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Sumner, WA 98390
I see clients navigating change, dealing with feeling identification and processing, aggressive or acting-out behaviors, autism, separation, parenting and/or family issues, grief and loss, anxiety, trauma, and PTSD.
I understand that relationships and connections with others can sometimes be difficult. My purpose is to help clients explore their frustrations and help them make meaningful connections with their natural supports. Communication and trust are important qualities to me as a therapist and in all aspects of life. They are the foundation of my work and drive therapy towards healing and positive outcomes. .
I see clients navigating change, dealing with feeling identification and processing, aggressive or acting-out behaviors, autism, separation, parenting and/or family issues, grief and loss, anxiety, trauma, and PTSD.
I understand that relationships and connections with others can sometimes be difficult. My purpose is to help clients explore their frustrations and help them make meaningful connections with their natural supports. Communication and trust are important qualities to me as a therapist and in all aspects of life. They are the foundation of my work and drive therapy towards healing and positive outcomes. .
(253) 243-8276 View (253) 243-8276
Photo of Sala Tauanu'u Afalava, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Sala Tauanu'u Afalava
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Bonney Lake, WA 98391  (Online Only)
To everyone that knows you – you’ve got it all together. But to be honest, the unresolved pain of past trauma negatively affects your mind, body, and overall well-being. Years of unresolved issues leaves you feel tired, overwhelmed and exhausted. You’re not sure how long you can keep up the facade. Perhaps you have been living up to other people’s expectations in addition to your own, and the load feels heavy.
To everyone that knows you – you’ve got it all together. But to be honest, the unresolved pain of past trauma negatively affects your mind, body, and overall well-being. Years of unresolved issues leaves you feel tired, overwhelmed and exhausted. You’re not sure how long you can keep up the facade. Perhaps you have been living up to other people’s expectations in addition to your own, and the load feels heavy.
(253) 480-6469 View (253) 480-6469
Photo of Robert Olsen, MS, LMHC, CTT+, Counselor
Robert Olsen
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CTT+
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98374
Group "community" therapy is powerful, less expensive, with addiction, pain, anxiety, and trauma replaced with peace, self-care, self-regulation, and respectful accountability.
DORI is Accepting New Couples! Dori specializes in Couples, Marriage, and Pre-Marital Coaching! Dori helps couples Repair Trust, Build Healthier Communication, Resolve Relational Conflicts, and learn to grow past your past. Her coaching approach utilizes skill-based activities, practice sessions during sessions, learning to know your own and your loved one's deepest needs, how to set healthy boundaries and stop passive-aggressiveness, and you'll learn to grow emotionally and relationally. Dori(AT)Success4Couples.com or 253.355.6620.
Group "community" therapy is powerful, less expensive, with addiction, pain, anxiety, and trauma replaced with peace, self-care, self-regulation, and respectful accountability.
DORI is Accepting New Couples! Dori specializes in Couples, Marriage, and Pre-Marital Coaching! Dori helps couples Repair Trust, Build Healthier Communication, Resolve Relational Conflicts, and learn to grow past your past. Her coaching approach utilizes skill-based activities, practice sessions during sessions, learning to know your own and your loved one's deepest needs, how to set healthy boundaries and stop passive-aggressiveness, and you'll learn to grow emotionally and relationally. Dori(AT)Success4Couples.com or 253.355.6620.
(253) 345-4467 View (253) 345-4467

See more therapy options for Orting

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.