Trauma and PTSD Therapists in University Place, WA

Photo of Amanda Sommerfeld, LMHC, Counselor
Amanda Sommerfeld
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
University Place, WA 98466  (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 Robyn Hansen, MEd, LMHC, Counselor
Robyn Hansen
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
University Place, WA 98466
I specialize in assisting adults in navigating healing from depression, anxiety, adjustment difficulties, post-traumatic stress, trauma, grief, and maintenance counseling after treatment for eating disorders.
Accepting New Clients: We all experience challenges that take us off course or leave us feeling "off." Sometimes, time is all that is needed; other times, we need more. If you are hurting, anxious, scared, or grieving, you deserve someone who will listen and offer empathy, understanding, and warmth. This is my specialty. Counseling is a collaborative process. The therapeutic relationship between you and me is essential in helping you find new and effective ways of navigating your challenges and reaching your goals.
I specialize in assisting adults in navigating healing from depression, anxiety, adjustment difficulties, post-traumatic stress, trauma, grief, and maintenance counseling after treatment for eating disorders.
Accepting New Clients: We all experience challenges that take us off course or leave us feeling "off." Sometimes, time is all that is needed; other times, we need more. If you are hurting, anxious, scared, or grieving, you deserve someone who will listen and offer empathy, understanding, and warmth. This is my specialty. Counseling is a collaborative process. The therapeutic relationship between you and me is essential in helping you find new and effective ways of navigating your challenges and reaching your goals.
(253) 316-8128 View (253) 316-8128
Photo of Nathan Rhoads, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Nathan Rhoads
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
University Place, WA 98466
Common presenting issues include mood disruptions such as depression/anxiety; relational concerns such as partnership struggles and social isolation; abuse/neglect and trauma, especially within family of origin; losses and life transitions; and identity questions, in such areas as vocation, sexuality, and gender.
Entering into therapy is a courageous decision to seek life in response to whatever concerns and challenges have gotten your attention. Everyone bears experiences that have had an alienating and destructive impact on their relationship with others and with themselves. Without the support of another to work through these experiences and use them for our growth, these destructive effects often compound over time as we cope and try to heal on our own. Counseling is an opportunity to receive the kind of support that can enable you to find not only relief, but the goodness you have struggled to access in yourself and your relationships.
Common presenting issues include mood disruptions such as depression/anxiety; relational concerns such as partnership struggles and social isolation; abuse/neglect and trauma, especially within family of origin; losses and life transitions; and identity questions, in such areas as vocation, sexuality, and gender.
Entering into therapy is a courageous decision to seek life in response to whatever concerns and challenges have gotten your attention. Everyone bears experiences that have had an alienating and destructive impact on their relationship with others and with themselves. Without the support of another to work through these experiences and use them for our growth, these destructive effects often compound over time as we cope and try to heal on our own. Counseling is an opportunity to receive the kind of support that can enable you to find not only relief, but the goodness you have struggled to access in yourself and your relationships.
(253) 201-2550 View (253) 201-2550
Photo of Dr. John Conteh (Approved Clinical Supervisor), EdD, LMHC, BC-TMH, ACS, NCC, Counselor
Dr. John Conteh (Approved Clinical Supervisor)
Counselor, EdD, LMHC, BC-TMH, ACS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
University Place, WA 98466  (Online Only)
I specialize in life transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, career counseling, racial identity, and immigration concerns.
John Conteh, doing business as Zancteh Integrated Counseling, PLLC is currently accepting new adults and elderly clients for individual telehealth counseling. Are you dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, life transition, career concerns, racial identity, and immigration concerns? Have you been trying to figure out how to get help in a safe and supportive environment? Are you looking for Clinical Supervision for Licensure?
I specialize in life transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, career counseling, racial identity, and immigration concerns.
John Conteh, doing business as Zancteh Integrated Counseling, PLLC is currently accepting new adults and elderly clients for individual telehealth counseling. Are you dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, life transition, career concerns, racial identity, and immigration concerns? Have you been trying to figure out how to get help in a safe and supportive environment? Are you looking for Clinical Supervision for Licensure?
(253) 528-7437 View (253) 528-7437
Photo of Josette Darlene Parker, MSW, LICSW, CDVT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Josette Darlene Parker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CDVT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
University Place, WA 98466
I offer cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused support and guidance in the areas of parenting, family dynamics, domestic violence, grief and loss, complex trauma, emotional regulation, coparenting, and divorce.
I offer therapy services to any and all individuals seeking support and healing in their lives. Many clients seek out counseling when things in their lives seem out of control or they feel unheard. They want to speak to someone who is unbiased, honest, and who has empathy for their situation. I also have groups available for anger management, parenting, and domestic violence. I also provide assessments and evaluations for family law, criminal, and dependency cases as a separate service.
I offer cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused support and guidance in the areas of parenting, family dynamics, domestic violence, grief and loss, complex trauma, emotional regulation, coparenting, and divorce.
I offer therapy services to any and all individuals seeking support and healing in their lives. Many clients seek out counseling when things in their lives seem out of control or they feel unheard. They want to speak to someone who is unbiased, honest, and who has empathy for their situation. I also have groups available for anger management, parenting, and domestic violence. I also provide assessments and evaluations for family law, criminal, and dependency cases as a separate service.
(253) 364-7720 View (253) 364-7720
Photo of Holly Joy Harden, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Holly Joy Harden
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
University Place, WA 98466
Waitlist for new clients
Life is hard, and our past experiences can sometimes plague our present. With therapy, you can live free from old patterns and remove old reactions that no longer serve you. If you are struggling to make the choices you want to, and needing healing and support, my approach may be a good fit for you. I offer trauma-informed therapeutic methods, with recognition of past, present, and future context.
Life is hard, and our past experiences can sometimes plague our present. With therapy, you can live free from old patterns and remove old reactions that no longer serve you. If you are struggling to make the choices you want to, and needing healing and support, my approach may be a good fit for you. I offer trauma-informed therapeutic methods, with recognition of past, present, and future context.
(253) 649-2153 View (253) 649-2153
Photo of Carly J Knapp - Carly J. Knapp, Ph.D., PhD, Psychologist
Carly J. Knapp, Ph.D.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
University Place, WA 98467  (Online Only)
Factors that are unique to me and my practice come out of personal and professional depths of experience with illness, loss, death and trauma.
My preferred method of practice and my professional strengths involve a combination of our work together, identification and change of negative thougt patterns, and an exploration of sensations and moods that are assoicated with these thoughts. From this and from the experience of understanding and connection, new and healthy patterns of relating to yourself and others in your life can begin to be established and can continue to grow. You can begin to feel a sense of well-being, meaning, and purpose in your personal and professional life.
Factors that are unique to me and my practice come out of personal and professional depths of experience with illness, loss, death and trauma.
My preferred method of practice and my professional strengths involve a combination of our work together, identification and change of negative thougt patterns, and an exploration of sensations and moods that are assoicated with these thoughts. From this and from the experience of understanding and connection, new and healthy patterns of relating to yourself and others in your life can begin to be established and can continue to grow. You can begin to feel a sense of well-being, meaning, and purpose in your personal and professional life.
(253) 237-4987 View (253) 237-4987
Photo of Stephanie Perceful, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Stephanie Perceful
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
University Place, WA 98466
I believe that the relationship to our self is the most important relationship that we will ever have. A bond with a therapist who witnesses and understands us in a nonjudgmental way can be a wonderful ally in improving that relationship and making positive changes in our lives. Trauma, attachment issues, toxic families of origin, oppression, grief, and ancestral/family patterns are just some just some examples that can cause suffering that motivates someone to start therapy. I have experience working with clients with depression, anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, and other mood disorders that make it difficult to function in life.
I believe that the relationship to our self is the most important relationship that we will ever have. A bond with a therapist who witnesses and understands us in a nonjudgmental way can be a wonderful ally in improving that relationship and making positive changes in our lives. Trauma, attachment issues, toxic families of origin, oppression, grief, and ancestral/family patterns are just some just some examples that can cause suffering that motivates someone to start therapy. I have experience working with clients with depression, anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, and other mood disorders that make it difficult to function in life.
(253) 242-8557 View (253) 242-8557
Photo of Steffanee Holt, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Steffanee Holt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
University Place, WA 98466
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 Yolanda Villegas, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Yolanda Villegas
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
University Place, WA 98466
Another interest is working with people suffering from PTSD ( Traumatic Stress Disorders), having been exposed to a traumatic event such as; assault, domestic violence, or other accident.
My desire is to help you resolve issues that are having a negative effect on your life. These can be issues related to relationships, family, work, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and parenting. As a Latina, I am aware of cultural barriers, and I would like to help you overcome those barriers.
Another interest is working with people suffering from PTSD ( Traumatic Stress Disorders), having been exposed to a traumatic event such as; assault, domestic violence, or other accident.
My desire is to help you resolve issues that are having a negative effect on your life. These can be issues related to relationships, family, work, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and parenting. As a Latina, I am aware of cultural barriers, and I would like to help you overcome those barriers.
(253) 617-7759 View (253) 617-7759
Photo of Nicole Stack, LMFTA, MPA, MPH, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Nicole Stack
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA, MPA, MPH
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
University Place, WA 98466
Struggling to create healthy boundaries but fear others reactions? Has a history of trauma decreased your self-esteem? These scenarios can be isolating and scary; I strive to empower clients by reminding them who they are. I’m Nicole, Marriage and Family Therapist Associate. I enjoy working with clients to build a support system, increase self-worth, and confidence. Together, we'll create coping skills for challenging times so you can be your authentic self.
Struggling to create healthy boundaries but fear others reactions? Has a history of trauma decreased your self-esteem? These scenarios can be isolating and scary; I strive to empower clients by reminding them who they are. I’m Nicole, Marriage and Family Therapist Associate. I enjoy working with clients to build a support system, increase self-worth, and confidence. Together, we'll create coping skills for challenging times so you can be your authentic self.
(253) 400-3671 View (253) 400-3671
Photo of Kelly V Holmes, MA, LMHC, LPC, SUDPT, Counselor
Kelly V Holmes
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC, SUDPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
University Place, WA 98466  (Online Only)
We each have the ability to adapt, overcome adversity, feel joy and sorrow, love, and reach our highest potential. Stressful life events, trauma, loss, conflicts, illness, and transitions can overwhelm our ability to cope. Healing becomes blocked. We become stuck. We protect and defend ourselves to avoid ever feeling that pain again. Solutions that once worked become part of the problem. When the traumatic wound is triggered, we experience intense emotion and distorted ways of thinking. In therapy, we journey together to uncover and remove the blocks to healing, transforming pain and loss into meaning, awareness, and choice.
We each have the ability to adapt, overcome adversity, feel joy and sorrow, love, and reach our highest potential. Stressful life events, trauma, loss, conflicts, illness, and transitions can overwhelm our ability to cope. Healing becomes blocked. We become stuck. We protect and defend ourselves to avoid ever feeling that pain again. Solutions that once worked become part of the problem. When the traumatic wound is triggered, we experience intense emotion and distorted ways of thinking. In therapy, we journey together to uncover and remove the blocks to healing, transforming pain and loss into meaning, awareness, and choice.
(253) 466-7577 View (253) 466-7577
Photo of Brynn Cenicola, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Brynn Cenicola
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
University Place, WA 98466
My primary areas of focus include trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, relational issues, and behavioral issues.
There are many reasons that you may be seeking counseling, from feeling stuck in worsening anxiety or depression, patterns of unhealthy relationships, current or past trauma, or you need a counselor to walk alongside you in the midst of a challenging life season. For whatever reason you are seeking a counselor, I’m so thankful that you are looking for a safe place to process the many challenges in life. I believe it is vastly important to find a counselor with whom you connect and can build trust. I would love the opportunity to work with you.
My primary areas of focus include trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, relational issues, and behavioral issues.
There are many reasons that you may be seeking counseling, from feeling stuck in worsening anxiety or depression, patterns of unhealthy relationships, current or past trauma, or you need a counselor to walk alongside you in the midst of a challenging life season. For whatever reason you are seeking a counselor, I’m so thankful that you are looking for a safe place to process the many challenges in life. I believe it is vastly important to find a counselor with whom you connect and can build trust. I would love the opportunity to work with you.
(253) 242-2691 View (253) 242-2691
Photo of Alexandra Molleston Luke - The Salish Sea Collective, LMFT, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist
The Salish Sea Collective
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
University Place, WA 98466
Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or strained relationships we're here to help.
Life isn’t always easy. Sometimes, we need a little bit of help to work through some of life’s more challenging problems. Everyone has hurdles to overcome at some point. Whether you or your child struggle with anxiety, depression, or unhelpful behaviors, you should know that there is hope for a better tomorrow. The Salish Sea Collective understands that our clients deserve care encompassing physical, mental, emotional, sexual and spiritual health. These human aspects are intrinsically intertwined and require a holistic approach. Our multidisciplinary team create a cohesive atmosphere where clinicians work together for our clients.
Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or strained relationships we're here to help.
Life isn’t always easy. Sometimes, we need a little bit of help to work through some of life’s more challenging problems. Everyone has hurdles to overcome at some point. Whether you or your child struggle with anxiety, depression, or unhelpful behaviors, you should know that there is hope for a better tomorrow. The Salish Sea Collective understands that our clients deserve care encompassing physical, mental, emotional, sexual and spiritual health. These human aspects are intrinsically intertwined and require a holistic approach. Our multidisciplinary team create a cohesive atmosphere where clinicians work together for our clients.
(253) 655-2757 View (253) 655-2757
Photo of Charissa Walson, MA, LMHC, CSAT-C, LPC, Counselor
Charissa Walson
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CSAT-C, LPC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
University Place, WA 98466  (Online Only)
Her hope is to bring a full understanding of the trauma cycle each of us uniquely face through our own family family family dynamics and history.
Charissa is a Master Level Licensed Mental Health Counselor with a Degree in Psychology from The Seattle School of Psychology and Theology. She is licensed in Florida, Washington and Arizona. Her focus as a therapist is in trauma specializing in the body-mind connection ranging from medical trauma, disordered eating, body image, eating disorders, sexual, emotional and physical abuse and chronic health issues. She is a certified yoga instructor and incorporates that understanding into the therapeutic lens.
Her hope is to bring a full understanding of the trauma cycle each of us uniquely face through our own family family family dynamics and history.
Charissa is a Master Level Licensed Mental Health Counselor with a Degree in Psychology from The Seattle School of Psychology and Theology. She is licensed in Florida, Washington and Arizona. Her focus as a therapist is in trauma specializing in the body-mind connection ranging from medical trauma, disordered eating, body image, eating disorders, sexual, emotional and physical abuse and chronic health issues. She is a certified yoga instructor and incorporates that understanding into the therapeutic lens.
(561) 794-3094 View (561) 794-3094
Photo of Elizabeth Wedington - Center for Healing and Recovery, Counselor
Center for Healing and Recovery
Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
University Place, WA 98466
Remove the obstacles that keep you from living your life fully. I specialize in the treatment of trauma and abuse, sexual addiction, love addiction, codependency, and relationship issues, depression, anxiety and other road blocks to living a full life. I have been trained in Post Induction Therapy ("PIT") by Pia Mellody at the Meadows in Arizona. This model focuses on the origins of adult dysfunctional behaviors by exploring early childhood issues that have fueled various additions, codependency, depression and painful relationships.
Remove the obstacles that keep you from living your life fully. I specialize in the treatment of trauma and abuse, sexual addiction, love addiction, codependency, and relationship issues, depression, anxiety and other road blocks to living a full life. I have been trained in Post Induction Therapy ("PIT") by Pia Mellody at the Meadows in Arizona. This model focuses on the origins of adult dysfunctional behaviors by exploring early childhood issues that have fueled various additions, codependency, depression and painful relationships.
(253) 271-4925 View (253) 271-4925
Photo of Jesalyn Kimura, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Jesalyn Kimura
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
University Place, WA 98466
My practice areas include: individual, couple and relationship counseling, depression, anxiety, early life abuse and neglect, trauma/ PTSD, self-esteem, family issues and spiritual exploration.
Sometimes in life, we can feel lost, stuck or even desperate. We do the same things over and over again without finding any solutions to our problems. Life often becomes painful when our past experiences have no words to describe them or clarity to bring them to understanding. Using a variety of approaches my clients and I explore their current pain and concerns, while considering the picture of their past experience. With support and compassion we map out a plan to discover ways to become unstuck and move in new directions.
My practice areas include: individual, couple and relationship counseling, depression, anxiety, early life abuse and neglect, trauma/ PTSD, self-esteem, family issues and spiritual exploration.
Sometimes in life, we can feel lost, stuck or even desperate. We do the same things over and over again without finding any solutions to our problems. Life often becomes painful when our past experiences have no words to describe them or clarity to bring them to understanding. Using a variety of approaches my clients and I explore their current pain and concerns, while considering the picture of their past experience. With support and compassion we map out a plan to discover ways to become unstuck and move in new directions.
(253) 220-6990 View (253) 220-6990
Photo of Cynthia Christine Ridgway - Cynthia C Ridgway, PLLC, MA, LMHC, NCC, BC-TMH, Counselor
Cynthia C Ridgway, PLLC
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
University Place, WA 98467  (Online Only)
I believe that everyone will do well if they can. If someone is not doing well, there is a reason and it is not always someone's conscious choice. As a therapist, I will walk along side you in the journey of self-discovery and assist you in determining what might be getting in the way of a healthy, happy, peaceful life. Some of my methods include: Positive psychology, Client centered, relationship oriented, trauma-informed, trauma-focused, CBT, filial, play therapy, and the sand tray.
I believe that everyone will do well if they can. If someone is not doing well, there is a reason and it is not always someone's conscious choice. As a therapist, I will walk along side you in the journey of self-discovery and assist you in determining what might be getting in the way of a healthy, happy, peaceful life. Some of my methods include: Positive psychology, Client centered, relationship oriented, trauma-informed, trauma-focused, CBT, filial, play therapy, and the sand tray.
(360) 419-5756 View (360) 419-5756
Photo of Mellisa Clark - Transcending Connections Offering Neurofeedback, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Transcending Connections Offering Neurofeedback
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
University Place, WA 98467
We offer different services such as EMDR, Microcurrent Neurofeedback, Trauma Sensitive Yoga and Traditional talk therapy.
We hope to help you in your journey of healing. We believe that your mental health affects your physical health. We believe through neurofeedback, we can help you heal the way you want to heal. We are excited to offer this alternative health wellness tool. Please ask your insurance company if they cover this neurofeedback if using insurance. Please visit our website at www.transcendingconnectionstranscending.com to learn more.
We offer different services such as EMDR, Microcurrent Neurofeedback, Trauma Sensitive Yoga and Traditional talk therapy.
We hope to help you in your journey of healing. We believe that your mental health affects your physical health. We believe through neurofeedback, we can help you heal the way you want to heal. We are excited to offer this alternative health wellness tool. Please ask your insurance company if they cover this neurofeedback if using insurance. Please visit our website at www.transcendingconnectionstranscending.com to learn more.
(253) 499-6786 View (253) 499-6786
Photo of Lou Hallie, LCSW, CHT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lou Hallie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHT
Verified Verified
University Place, WA 98466
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Neuro Linguistic Programming, DBT, EMDR,Utilizing Neuroplasticity,Mindfullness) to overcome: * Stress * Anxiety * Depression * Unhappiness with body/mind/emotions * Trauma/ PTSD.
Life is worth living well. Our biggest obstacle to living a life we love is the constant and habitual ramblings of our minds: the judgments, the doubt, the dwelling in past suffering and the negative predictions of what the future will bring. True freedom comes when we break free from the thoughts that create pain, dissatisfaction and frustration. There are also situations where we have negative feelings that seem to "come out of nowhere". This is due to unconscious processes that trigger painful emotions. I provide tools that effectively work with the unconscious and direct it toward healthy outcomes.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Neuro Linguistic Programming, DBT, EMDR,Utilizing Neuroplasticity,Mindfullness) to overcome: * Stress * Anxiety * Depression * Unhappiness with body/mind/emotions * Trauma/ PTSD.
Life is worth living well. Our biggest obstacle to living a life we love is the constant and habitual ramblings of our minds: the judgments, the doubt, the dwelling in past suffering and the negative predictions of what the future will bring. True freedom comes when we break free from the thoughts that create pain, dissatisfaction and frustration. There are also situations where we have negative feelings that seem to "come out of nowhere". This is due to unconscious processes that trigger painful emotions. I provide tools that effectively work with the unconscious and direct it toward healthy outcomes.
(253) 498-7654 View (253) 498-7654
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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.