Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Colgate, WI

Photo of Karen Kiser, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karen Kiser
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Colgate, WI 53017
Karen is a seasoned Licensed Professional Counselor who places value on the individual, their life experience and perspective. Karen is skilled at helping adult and child clients address life transitions, grief/loss, trauma, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, substance abuse as well as traumatic brain injury. For individuals, families and couples, Karen identifies areas of strength within the family structure as well as identifying emotional and verbal abuse that affect the balance and the overall quality of relationships.
Karen is a seasoned Licensed Professional Counselor who places value on the individual, their life experience and perspective. Karen is skilled at helping adult and child clients address life transitions, grief/loss, trauma, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, substance abuse as well as traumatic brain injury. For individuals, families and couples, Karen identifies areas of strength within the family structure as well as identifying emotional and verbal abuse that affect the balance and the overall quality of relationships.
(262) 588-4311 View (262) 588-4311
Photo of Jill Spielmann, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jill Spielmann
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Colgate, WI 53017
Through direct experience and advanced training she has developed expertise in the use of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based interventions, grief and trauma recovery modalities.
Jill is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 15+ years of experience working with diverse populations in a variety of therapy settings. She is well known for her sense of humor, compassion, and thoughtfulness. She works from the understanding that the therapeutic relationship plays an integral role in treatment and takes an insight-oriented and interactive approach to therapy. She believes that all individuals possess unique strengths, as well as the capacity to change and that her role is to guide, support, and collaborate with individuals in developing effective ways to cope.
Through direct experience and advanced training she has developed expertise in the use of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based interventions, grief and trauma recovery modalities.
Jill is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 15+ years of experience working with diverse populations in a variety of therapy settings. She is well known for her sense of humor, compassion, and thoughtfulness. She works from the understanding that the therapeutic relationship plays an integral role in treatment and takes an insight-oriented and interactive approach to therapy. She believes that all individuals possess unique strengths, as well as the capacity to change and that her role is to guide, support, and collaborate with individuals in developing effective ways to cope.
(262) 217-7948 View (262) 217-7948
Photo of Bradley Sachse, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bradley Sachse
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Colgate, WI 53017
Bradley Sachse is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 2017. Bradley helps clients manage their ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, and PTSD/ Trauma. Outside of work, Bradley enjoys cooking.
Bradley Sachse is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 2017. Bradley helps clients manage their ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, and PTSD/ Trauma. Outside of work, Bradley enjoys cooking.
(262) 588-4195 View (262) 588-4195
Photo of Sarah Britton, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah Britton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Colgate, WI 53017
Sarah is a licensed professional counselor with more than 13 years of experience assisting individuals, couples, teens and children to reach their goals and fullest potential. With Sarah, you will experience her compassionate, judgment-free, and understanding style enabling you to work towards self-awareness, self-acceptance and positive changes within yourself and in your personal and family relationships. Sarah will honor your unique values and perspectives while motivating you toward healing. She works with clients to process, recover, and grow through relational changes fr marital communication to divorce recovery.
Sarah is a licensed professional counselor with more than 13 years of experience assisting individuals, couples, teens and children to reach their goals and fullest potential. With Sarah, you will experience her compassionate, judgment-free, and understanding style enabling you to work towards self-awareness, self-acceptance and positive changes within yourself and in your personal and family relationships. Sarah will honor your unique values and perspectives while motivating you toward healing. She works with clients to process, recover, and grow through relational changes fr marital communication to divorce recovery.
(262) 588-4037 View (262) 588-4037

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Emily Orser, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily Orser
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Menomonee Falls, WI 53051  (Online Only)
Areas of expertise: trauma, anxiety, depression, chronic illness, and family conflict.
I strive to provide a place of safety and security for those seeking emotional and mental wellness by building meaningful relationships with my clients. I enjoy working with trauma survivors while they find a new way of living with their past. I look at a person from a system perspective. What system (family or otherwise) did you grow up with? What does that look like now? What changes can you make in your system to create healthier boundaries and more meaningful relationships? Important note: Please text or email me to attempt to schedule. To be very honest, I forget I even I have a voicemail sometimes.
Areas of expertise: trauma, anxiety, depression, chronic illness, and family conflict.
I strive to provide a place of safety and security for those seeking emotional and mental wellness by building meaningful relationships with my clients. I enjoy working with trauma survivors while they find a new way of living with their past. I look at a person from a system perspective. What system (family or otherwise) did you grow up with? What does that look like now? What changes can you make in your system to create healthier boundaries and more meaningful relationships? Important note: Please text or email me to attempt to schedule. To be very honest, I forget I even I have a voicemail sometimes.
(262) 205-6795 View (262) 205-6795
Photo of Ann Marie Arvoy - Mosaic Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mosaic Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Germantown, WI 53022
At Mosaic Counseling, we focus on offering compassionate and supportive evidence-based therapies to a wide variety of clients. Our specialties incude anxiety, depression, life transition, trauma and grief. We are open to all spiritual paths and all GLBTQ communities. We have many therapists who are located in Mequon, Sheboygan, Germantown, West Bend, Waukesha and offer virtual sessions within Wisconsin. To find the best match for you, please visit our website at www.mosaiccounseling-wi.com.
At Mosaic Counseling, we focus on offering compassionate and supportive evidence-based therapies to a wide variety of clients. Our specialties incude anxiety, depression, life transition, trauma and grief. We are open to all spiritual paths and all GLBTQ communities. We have many therapists who are located in Mequon, Sheboygan, Germantown, West Bend, Waukesha and offer virtual sessions within Wisconsin. To find the best match for you, please visit our website at www.mosaiccounseling-wi.com.
(262) 404-3546 View (262) 404-3546
Photo of Robert Bannasch, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Robert Bannasch
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Germantown, WI 53022
Waitlist for new clients
I work with all kinds of populations, but I have a special interest in working with adults struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, OCD, and individuals, couples, and families looking to repair, rebuild, and reconnect.
The decision to seek therapy is not an easy one. I aim to make that decision as easy and comfortable as possible. I have a gentle personality and use a touch of humor to help make each client feel welcome and at ease. Individuals, couples, and families come to me because they need to work through a problem or issue. This might be anxiety, grief, couples or family counseling, health, loss of a job, or looking to build a happier, more fulfilling life, or numerous other reasons. I work hard to build an atmosphere that allows people to feel safe and understood. When clients leave, they feel healthier, happier, and more whole.
I work with all kinds of populations, but I have a special interest in working with adults struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, OCD, and individuals, couples, and families looking to repair, rebuild, and reconnect.
The decision to seek therapy is not an easy one. I aim to make that decision as easy and comfortable as possible. I have a gentle personality and use a touch of humor to help make each client feel welcome and at ease. Individuals, couples, and families come to me because they need to work through a problem or issue. This might be anxiety, grief, couples or family counseling, health, loss of a job, or looking to build a happier, more fulfilling life, or numerous other reasons. I work hard to build an atmosphere that allows people to feel safe and understood. When clients leave, they feel healthier, happier, and more whole.
(262) 205-6594 View (262) 205-6594
Photo of Jill Spielmann, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jill Spielmann
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Germantown, WI 53022
I have a strong passion for working with individuals who have experienced trauma and who are motivated to find relief and better coping strategies. Additionally, I enjoy helping individuals who are struggling with grief, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, emotional dysregulation, and relationship concerns.
I have a strong passion for working with individuals who have experienced trauma and who are motivated to find relief and better coping strategies. Additionally, I enjoy helping individuals who are struggling with grief, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, emotional dysregulation, and relationship concerns.
(262) 737-8846 View (262) 737-8846
Photo of Dr. Melinda Somogyi, PsyD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Melinda Somogyi
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC
Verified Verified
Germantown, WI 53022
With adult clients, my areas of expertise include trauma-informed recovery, interpersonal relationships, personality disorders, adult pathology, grief, mood and anxiety disorders, and family / parenting concerns.
I believe in the importance of building the therapeutic relationship in order to provide you with a healthy environment that is conducive to inspiring change. I have a warm and creative approach in counseling that utilizes empathy, humor, and your own strengths and personal preferences. It is important to me that I address the mind, body, and spirit, allowing the therapeutic process of healing to begin.
With adult clients, my areas of expertise include trauma-informed recovery, interpersonal relationships, personality disorders, adult pathology, grief, mood and anxiety disorders, and family / parenting concerns.
I believe in the importance of building the therapeutic relationship in order to provide you with a healthy environment that is conducive to inspiring change. I have a warm and creative approach in counseling that utilizes empathy, humor, and your own strengths and personal preferences. It is important to me that I address the mind, body, and spirit, allowing the therapeutic process of healing to begin.
(262) 457-4485 View (262) 457-4485
Photo of Kelley Steeves, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelley Steeves
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Pewaukee, WI 53072
I have a passion for helping clients get unstuck from things holding them back. Whether it's finding and keeping relationships, worries about the future getting in the way of living life now, or past traumatic or unpleasant experiences that are keeping you up at night. I work best with adults and couples who are ready to dig into the work, coming out the other side with a life filled with joy and meaning. OCD, relationship issues, personality disorders, perinatal and postpartum women, anxiety, trauma and depression are my specialties.
I have a passion for helping clients get unstuck from things holding them back. Whether it's finding and keeping relationships, worries about the future getting in the way of living life now, or past traumatic or unpleasant experiences that are keeping you up at night. I work best with adults and couples who are ready to dig into the work, coming out the other side with a life filled with joy and meaning. OCD, relationship issues, personality disorders, perinatal and postpartum women, anxiety, trauma and depression are my specialties.
(262) 447-4676 View (262) 447-4676
Photo of Diane Heighway, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Diane Heighway
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Pewaukee, WI 53072
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, PTSD/ trauma, & depression, and have experience working in outpatient, intensive-outpatient, and partial-hospitalization levels of care.
It’s no secret that living a life defined by stress, worry, and depression is simply exhausting. On top of that it can be scary and intimidating to ask for help! Therefore, one of my main goals as a therapist is to cultivate a compassionate, nonjudgmental, and collaborative therapeutic relationship with all of my clients. I aim to support and empower clients in their healing journey - you deserve to live a value-driven life and not a symptom-driven life. Know that when working with me, we will approach your goals as a team.
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, PTSD/ trauma, & depression, and have experience working in outpatient, intensive-outpatient, and partial-hospitalization levels of care.
It’s no secret that living a life defined by stress, worry, and depression is simply exhausting. On top of that it can be scary and intimidating to ask for help! Therefore, one of my main goals as a therapist is to cultivate a compassionate, nonjudgmental, and collaborative therapeutic relationship with all of my clients. I aim to support and empower clients in their healing journey - you deserve to live a value-driven life and not a symptom-driven life. Know that when working with me, we will approach your goals as a team.
(262) 668-7866 View (262) 668-7866
Photo of Bobby Sharp, MAC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bobby Sharp
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAC, LPC
Verified Verified
Hartland, WI 53029
With nearly 4 years of experience at the Willow House at the Meadows, I have helped clients through their most painful traumas.
Accepting New Clients! You tell yourself what happened to you wasn't real, but under the busyness of life you know it was. You see it coming up in you romantic relationships-the same type of person, the same conflict, the same experience that leaves you with a feeling like there's something wrong with you. Or, maybe you see it in your family relationships-wanting them to meet your needs and always being disappointed. Or, maybe you see it coming up in those moments of lost time-your mind spinning around past hurts. No matter how the trauma may surface, you can no longer live like this.
With nearly 4 years of experience at the Willow House at the Meadows, I have helped clients through their most painful traumas.
Accepting New Clients! You tell yourself what happened to you wasn't real, but under the busyness of life you know it was. You see it coming up in you romantic relationships-the same type of person, the same conflict, the same experience that leaves you with a feeling like there's something wrong with you. Or, maybe you see it in your family relationships-wanting them to meet your needs and always being disappointed. Or, maybe you see it coming up in those moments of lost time-your mind spinning around past hurts. No matter how the trauma may surface, you can no longer live like this.
(480) 400-1690 View (480) 400-1690
Photo of Beth McKay, MS, LPC, Counselor
Beth McKay
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hartland, WI 53029
We all seek a life that is fulfilling and meaningful, but sometimes during our life's journey, we can come to feel disconnected from that source of meaning. Perhaps the stress and responsibilities of life become overwhelming, and what is meaningful gets lost in the busyness. Maybe a life event occurs ( trauma/illness/death/divorce/etc.) that causes us to reevaluate everything we thought to be true. Maybe our relationships or our roles in life begin to shift making us question "What now?" My honor as a therapist is to walk with you as you rekindle that connection and create a life that intentionally honors what matters most to you.
We all seek a life that is fulfilling and meaningful, but sometimes during our life's journey, we can come to feel disconnected from that source of meaning. Perhaps the stress and responsibilities of life become overwhelming, and what is meaningful gets lost in the busyness. Maybe a life event occurs ( trauma/illness/death/divorce/etc.) that causes us to reevaluate everything we thought to be true. Maybe our relationships or our roles in life begin to shift making us question "What now?" My honor as a therapist is to walk with you as you rekindle that connection and create a life that intentionally honors what matters most to you.
(262) 218-4541 View (262) 218-4541
Photo of Miche'l Moore, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Miche'l Moore
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hartland, WI 53029
Though it is not obviously identified, affairs, narcissistic pain, and trauma survivors all represent similar symptoms.
OPEN FOR NEW CLIENTS!! Are you carrying things with you that are affecting your everyday life; your work, your relationships, home life, parenting, your reactions, concentration, intrusive thoughts? You do not need to carry these things with you every day. They are weighing you down, and it is time for you to reset yourself. I work with individuals, couples, and families. Your particular needs determine which type of therapy works best. When working with couples and families I take a systemic approach. I view the "system" or interactions among one another as being faulty, not any particular individual.
Though it is not obviously identified, affairs, narcissistic pain, and trauma survivors all represent similar symptoms.
OPEN FOR NEW CLIENTS!! Are you carrying things with you that are affecting your everyday life; your work, your relationships, home life, parenting, your reactions, concentration, intrusive thoughts? You do not need to carry these things with you every day. They are weighing you down, and it is time for you to reset yourself. I work with individuals, couples, and families. Your particular needs determine which type of therapy works best. When working with couples and families I take a systemic approach. I view the "system" or interactions among one another as being faulty, not any particular individual.
(262) 394-8053 View (262) 394-8053
Photo of Meg Hammes, LCSW, CCTP II, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meg Hammes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP II
Verified Verified
Hartland, WI 53029
I enjoy helping those who struggle with trauma, anxiety, life transitions, ADHD, depression, and women's issues.
Are you struggling with overthinking, feeling overwhelmed and exhausted? Do you feel that past traumas and negative life experiences have left you feeling unworthy of happiness? If your daily life is wearing you down, you may be seeking support to get to a better place. As a certified trauma professional, I use techniques to help people struggling with wounds from current and past relationships to move on from painful experiences.
I enjoy helping those who struggle with trauma, anxiety, life transitions, ADHD, depression, and women's issues.
Are you struggling with overthinking, feeling overwhelmed and exhausted? Do you feel that past traumas and negative life experiences have left you feeling unworthy of happiness? If your daily life is wearing you down, you may be seeking support to get to a better place. As a certified trauma professional, I use techniques to help people struggling with wounds from current and past relationships to move on from painful experiences.
(262) 205-2982 View (262) 205-2982
Photo of Kelsey O'Brien, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kelsey O'Brien
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sussex, WI 53089
I am a provider treating mental health disorders. I provide services to teens, adults, and veterans through individual therapy. My area of practice includes anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, mood disorders, personality disorders, and schizophrenia. I obtained my bachelor degree in psychology from Marquette University and a master’s degree in clinical social work from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. I have worked as a case manager and counselor for the past 3 years. I have immediate openings for individual therapy at Nurtured Calm, either through Telehealth or in-office sessions.
I am a provider treating mental health disorders. I provide services to teens, adults, and veterans through individual therapy. My area of practice includes anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, mood disorders, personality disorders, and schizophrenia. I obtained my bachelor degree in psychology from Marquette University and a master’s degree in clinical social work from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. I have worked as a case manager and counselor for the past 3 years. I have immediate openings for individual therapy at Nurtured Calm, either through Telehealth or in-office sessions.
(262) 300-4123 View (262) 300-4123
Photo of Angela M Melville, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Angela M Melville
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Hartland, WI 53029
I have been trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and have supported kids and adults in processing their trauma and finding ways to heal as well as to strengthen communication skills, relationships, coping strategies, self-awareness, and to find true appreciation of who they are.
Reaching out can be a difficult first step, and I respect that finding the right therapist may take time. Call for a free consultation as you navigate this process. I have fifteen years of experience working with children, teens, and adults in various treatment settings. I utilize an eclectic approach tailored to meet each of my client's needs and I am honored to support clients as they journey toward wellness. I often utilize mindfulness, DBT, CBT and narrative therapy. My goal is to empower clients with education and strategies that they can take with them as they move forward in their lives!
I have been trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and have supported kids and adults in processing their trauma and finding ways to heal as well as to strengthen communication skills, relationships, coping strategies, self-awareness, and to find true appreciation of who they are.
Reaching out can be a difficult first step, and I respect that finding the right therapist may take time. Call for a free consultation as you navigate this process. I have fifteen years of experience working with children, teens, and adults in various treatment settings. I utilize an eclectic approach tailored to meet each of my client's needs and I am honored to support clients as they journey toward wellness. I often utilize mindfulness, DBT, CBT and narrative therapy. My goal is to empower clients with education and strategies that they can take with them as they move forward in their lives!
(734) 508-5208 View (734) 508-5208
Photo of Brittney Schultz, MAC, BSP, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brittney Schultz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAC, BSP, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Sussex, WI 53089
I specialize in treating complex trauma, anxiety & stress; I have extensive skills to help those having experienced trauma, anxiety, chronic stress, difficult behaviors, men's/women's issues & performance struggles.
It is my priority to create a therapeutic atmosphere that promotes growth & positive change for those healing from trauma, stress & anxiety. I extend a warm welcome to individuals seeking support. It is my passion & mission to provide a safe, compassionate environment where you can explore, discover & navigate your unique journey towards well-being. Together, we will create a tailored approach to your needs and goals, while fostering resilience, healing, self-discovery & empowerment. I am honored to have the opportunity to work with you on your path to healing & personal growth, while offering a supportive, comfortable environment.
I specialize in treating complex trauma, anxiety & stress; I have extensive skills to help those having experienced trauma, anxiety, chronic stress, difficult behaviors, men's/women's issues & performance struggles.
It is my priority to create a therapeutic atmosphere that promotes growth & positive change for those healing from trauma, stress & anxiety. I extend a warm welcome to individuals seeking support. It is my passion & mission to provide a safe, compassionate environment where you can explore, discover & navigate your unique journey towards well-being. Together, we will create a tailored approach to your needs and goals, while fostering resilience, healing, self-discovery & empowerment. I am honored to have the opportunity to work with you on your path to healing & personal growth, while offering a supportive, comfortable environment.
(262) 383-4787 View (262) 383-4787
Photo of Diane Meade, MS, LPC, SAC-IT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Diane Meade
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, SAC-IT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hartland, WI 53029
I approach my work with a trauma-informed perspective, aiming to provide a compassionate and non-judgmental space for healing.
Welcome to my counseling page! I am a calm, honest, empathetic, and laid-back professional who is committed to creating a safe and supportive environment for my clients. If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, are experiencing depression, or if you're struggling with a major life transition, I'm here for you. Life's unexpected challenges can leave us feeling overwhelmed, but with the right support, we can navigate these difficulties and emerge stronger.
I approach my work with a trauma-informed perspective, aiming to provide a compassionate and non-judgmental space for healing.
Welcome to my counseling page! I am a calm, honest, empathetic, and laid-back professional who is committed to creating a safe and supportive environment for my clients. If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, are experiencing depression, or if you're struggling with a major life transition, I'm here for you. Life's unexpected challenges can leave us feeling overwhelmed, but with the right support, we can navigate these difficulties and emerge stronger.
(262) 218-3389 View (262) 218-3389
Photo of Lori R Fairbairn, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lori R Fairbairn
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pewaukee, WI 53072
dating, marriage prep, marriage issues, parenting, separation, or divorce, trauma (EMDR), neurodivergent relationships (ADHD or high functioning Autism), co-parenting/blended families, Alzheimer diagnosis, anxiety, depression and grief.
Life not going quite as smoothly as you hoped? Relationship not as fulfilling as it was in the early days? Struggling with past hurts and trauma? Or feeling less motivated or more anxious? My passion to explore, learn, and help others, motivates me to find the best ways to help you become a better, happier, more fulfilled you. Truly, I believe transformation and change is possible through your own self-discovery and connection with others. I combine my humor and straight forward approach with a safe and encouraging environment. Together we work on goals and a plan for you to move forward to great opportunities for change!
dating, marriage prep, marriage issues, parenting, separation, or divorce, trauma (EMDR), neurodivergent relationships (ADHD or high functioning Autism), co-parenting/blended families, Alzheimer diagnosis, anxiety, depression and grief.
Life not going quite as smoothly as you hoped? Relationship not as fulfilling as it was in the early days? Struggling with past hurts and trauma? Or feeling less motivated or more anxious? My passion to explore, learn, and help others, motivates me to find the best ways to help you become a better, happier, more fulfilled you. Truly, I believe transformation and change is possible through your own self-discovery and connection with others. I combine my humor and straight forward approach with a safe and encouraging environment. Together we work on goals and a plan for you to move forward to great opportunities for change!
(262) 746-7153 View (262) 746-7153

See more therapy options for Colgate

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.