Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Madison, WI

Photo of Terri O'Donnell, LPC, SASA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Terri O'Donnell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, SASA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53716
My specialty areas include trauma, addiction, relationships and general life challenges.
My goal is for my clients to experience a clearing of the cobwebs from the past that are interfering with life today. I help clients to recognize and change childhood beliefs that may be preventing them from connecting to their true selves. I assist clients in allowing themselves to be in relationships that are loving, supportive, and respectful; empowering themselves to see their value; healing the past; developing an internal calm and peace; finding their natural flow; trusting themselves to make good decisions; and learning how to regulate themselves in healthy ways.
My specialty areas include trauma, addiction, relationships and general life challenges.
My goal is for my clients to experience a clearing of the cobwebs from the past that are interfering with life today. I help clients to recognize and change childhood beliefs that may be preventing them from connecting to their true selves. I assist clients in allowing themselves to be in relationships that are loving, supportive, and respectful; empowering themselves to see their value; healing the past; developing an internal calm and peace; finding their natural flow; trusting themselves to make good decisions; and learning how to regulate themselves in healthy ways.
(608) 561-4750 View (608) 561-4750
Photo of Amber L Ault, PhD, LCSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amber L Ault
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53705
My training in personality disorders, trauma recovery, & couples therapy allows me to help people just like you.
You're here because you're somewhere between "deeply worried" & "frantic" over a difficult relationship. You feel frustrated, confused, hurt, angry, & maybe a little crazy. The other person may be a partner, parent, sibling, or adult child - someone w/whom you feel you want to have a relationship, but whose criticisms, controlling behaviors. volatility, manipulations, or demands steal your joy. They may also cost you a lot of time, money, energy, social support, & creativity. You wonder if you're dealing w Narcissistic Abuse. They refuse to change. You believe staying stuck where you are may destroy you, and you may be right.
My training in personality disorders, trauma recovery, & couples therapy allows me to help people just like you.
You're here because you're somewhere between "deeply worried" & "frantic" over a difficult relationship. You feel frustrated, confused, hurt, angry, & maybe a little crazy. The other person may be a partner, parent, sibling, or adult child - someone w/whom you feel you want to have a relationship, but whose criticisms, controlling behaviors. volatility, manipulations, or demands steal your joy. They may also cost you a lot of time, money, energy, social support, & creativity. You wonder if you're dealing w Narcissistic Abuse. They refuse to change. You believe staying stuck where you are may destroy you, and you may be right.
(608) 557-3341 View (608) 557-3341
Photo of Amal Othman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amal Othman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53703
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in trauma recovery, stress management, and relationships with self and others.
Resilience is the capacity to prepare for, recover from, and adapt in the face of stress, challenge or adversity. I provide a brave space for holistic health and well-being. I offer compassionate and integrative counseling to individuals and couples. I explore with you the practice of resilience, the embodiment of wellness, and how to access your innate wisdom to empower yourself and improve the quality of your life. My clinical approach is influenced by Internal Family Systems, somatic psychotherapy, and various relational, cognitive, and behavioral modalities.
I specialize in trauma recovery, stress management, and relationships with self and others.
Resilience is the capacity to prepare for, recover from, and adapt in the face of stress, challenge or adversity. I provide a brave space for holistic health and well-being. I offer compassionate and integrative counseling to individuals and couples. I explore with you the practice of resilience, the embodiment of wellness, and how to access your innate wisdom to empower yourself and improve the quality of your life. My clinical approach is influenced by Internal Family Systems, somatic psychotherapy, and various relational, cognitive, and behavioral modalities.
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Photo of Abby Luedtke, MS, LPC, Counselor
Abby Luedtke
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53705
Hello! I'm Abby. My counseling experience includes providing individual and group counseling for clients with depressive and/or anxious symptoms due to past trauma or current stressful situations and relationships. I enjoy working with individuals who seek ways to feel safe in their bodies and be empowered in their personal and professional relationships. My client focus includes adults and adolescents, LGTBQ+ identity related issues, mood disorders, substance use, developmental trauma, sexual trauma, polyamory, and kink relationships.
Hello! I'm Abby. My counseling experience includes providing individual and group counseling for clients with depressive and/or anxious symptoms due to past trauma or current stressful situations and relationships. I enjoy working with individuals who seek ways to feel safe in their bodies and be empowered in their personal and professional relationships. My client focus includes adults and adolescents, LGTBQ+ identity related issues, mood disorders, substance use, developmental trauma, sexual trauma, polyamory, and kink relationships.
(608) 200-4355 View (608) 200-4355
Photo of Angela Pennell, LCSW, CSAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angela Pennell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAC
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53705  (Online Only)
I have clinical experience working with adults experiencing depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, substance abuse, and co-occurring disorders. My approach is individualized for each client utilizing Person-Centered Counseling, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Mindfulness, and Harm Reduction. I believe the rapport you have with your Therapist is vital for a successful outcome.
I have clinical experience working with adults experiencing depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, substance abuse, and co-occurring disorders. My approach is individualized for each client utilizing Person-Centered Counseling, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Mindfulness, and Harm Reduction. I believe the rapport you have with your Therapist is vital for a successful outcome.
(608) 571-3866 View (608) 571-3866
Photo of Bethe Bonk, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bethe Bonk
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53719
I specialize in treating trauma (what any person may feel has been a traumatic event in their life), C-PTSD, anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues, addiction and grief (and more) .
It can be hard to ask for help especially if you are struggling. I believe that no one succeeds in life without help from others. I am a person centered therapist; I am here to get to know you so we can work together to create a supportive healing environment. I will work to assess what you need and use the therapeutic tools and techniques that are the best fit for you so you get the best treatment possible.
I specialize in treating trauma (what any person may feel has been a traumatic event in their life), C-PTSD, anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues, addiction and grief (and more) .
It can be hard to ask for help especially if you are struggling. I believe that no one succeeds in life without help from others. I am a person centered therapist; I am here to get to know you so we can work together to create a supportive healing environment. I will work to assess what you need and use the therapeutic tools and techniques that are the best fit for you so you get the best treatment possible.
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Photo of Shannon Adamczyk, LPC, CSAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shannon Adamczyk
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53719
Shannon works collaboratively with her clients to process trauma and explore how trauma has impacted one's present functioning and self identity; learn new coping strategies and/or communication techniques; increase connections with others; develop self-compassion; and change habits to better fit one's needs/wants/values.
Shannon is dually licensed to provide services for those struggling with mental health and/or substance use disorders and has been practicing in the field since 2013. Her areas of clinical specialization and experience include working with addictive behaviors/misuse; mood and anxiety disorders; personality disorders; trauma and PTSD; CODA/enmeshment struggles; life transitions; college/young adult struggles; and the athlete population. Far too often, our past trauma has trained us to mask our core selves. Shannon helps her clients to recognize, explore, and find compassion for these masks to connect with one's true self.
Shannon works collaboratively with her clients to process trauma and explore how trauma has impacted one's present functioning and self identity; learn new coping strategies and/or communication techniques; increase connections with others; develop self-compassion; and change habits to better fit one's needs/wants/values.
Shannon is dually licensed to provide services for those struggling with mental health and/or substance use disorders and has been practicing in the field since 2013. Her areas of clinical specialization and experience include working with addictive behaviors/misuse; mood and anxiety disorders; personality disorders; trauma and PTSD; CODA/enmeshment struggles; life transitions; college/young adult struggles; and the athlete population. Far too often, our past trauma has trained us to mask our core selves. Shannon helps her clients to recognize, explore, and find compassion for these masks to connect with one's true self.
(608) 909-8391 View (608) 909-8391
Photo of Bonnie Dilley (Lubet), MS, LPC, SAC, RN, EMDR , Licensed Professional Counselor
Bonnie Dilley (Lubet)
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, SAC, RN, EMDR
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53713
Specialty areas include: PTSD, EMDR, Brain Spotting, individual couples, relationship, healing fr& grief counseling.
There are many reasons for seeking guidance and today, you have taken the first courageous step by looking for help. I invite you to take the next step and call 608-577-4222 for a NO COST “get acquainted” phone consult. Maybe your current coping strategies are not working, or you haven't healed from emotionally painful life experiences/trauma that are negatively impacting you today. Perhaps you want to improve your relationship and learn effective communication skills. Together we can work to find effective solutions and coping strategies that work for you. I am honored to partner with you on your journey to your best self.
Specialty areas include: PTSD, EMDR, Brain Spotting, individual couples, relationship, healing fr& grief counseling.
There are many reasons for seeking guidance and today, you have taken the first courageous step by looking for help. I invite you to take the next step and call 608-577-4222 for a NO COST “get acquainted” phone consult. Maybe your current coping strategies are not working, or you haven't healed from emotionally painful life experiences/trauma that are negatively impacting you today. Perhaps you want to improve your relationship and learn effective communication skills. Together we can work to find effective solutions and coping strategies that work for you. I am honored to partner with you on your journey to your best self.
(608) 844-2117 View (608) 844-2117
Photo of Jen Nowak, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jen Nowak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53703
I am especially interested and experienced in areas of PTSD, complex PTSD, attachment, anxiety, depression, neurodivergence, and complicated grief.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience working with children, adolescents, and adults throughout the lifespan. I enjoy working with diverse populations and have had the privilege of working in various settings including in-home behavioral therapy, group homes, assisted living, intensive day treatment settings, and outpatient counseling. I am currently offering outpatient counseling services at Golden Vibes Counseling Center.
I am especially interested and experienced in areas of PTSD, complex PTSD, attachment, anxiety, depression, neurodivergence, and complicated grief.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience working with children, adolescents, and adults throughout the lifespan. I enjoy working with diverse populations and have had the privilege of working in various settings including in-home behavioral therapy, group homes, assisted living, intensive day treatment settings, and outpatient counseling. I am currently offering outpatient counseling services at Golden Vibes Counseling Center.
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Photo of Anna Maunu, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anna Maunu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53713
As an APSW (Advanced Practice Social Worker) and therapist, I am passionate about providing psychotherapy services to adults including those seeking to overcome struggles related to trauma, anxieties, and identity. I know these issues can diminish your quality of life and I can support you along the way to making positive life changes. Understanding your past experiences, exploring underlying causes, and learning more about yourself can create opportunities for healing. Together we will process thoughts and experiences to assist you in exploring yourself and identifying skills to improve relationships with yourself and others.
As an APSW (Advanced Practice Social Worker) and therapist, I am passionate about providing psychotherapy services to adults including those seeking to overcome struggles related to trauma, anxieties, and identity. I know these issues can diminish your quality of life and I can support you along the way to making positive life changes. Understanding your past experiences, exploring underlying causes, and learning more about yourself can create opportunities for healing. Together we will process thoughts and experiences to assist you in exploring yourself and identifying skills to improve relationships with yourself and others.
(608) 599-5602 View (608) 599-5602
Photo of Amber Hall, PsyD, Psychologist
Amber Hall
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53714
I offer a range of specialized treatments, including trauma-focused psychotherapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), play, Theraplay, neurodiversity affirming, and strength-based interventions.
My mission is to offer compassionate and expert guidance to individuals from ages 3 through young adulthood (18-25). I provide psychotherapy and diagnostic evaluations. I have a particular interest in supporting children who have faced trauma or attachment disruptions and providing neurodiversity-affirming care for autistic individuals. Additionally, I work with a diverse range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavioral challenges, and adjustment difficulties. My goal is to empower each client to gain insight into their emotions, develop effective coping strategies, and build resilience.
I offer a range of specialized treatments, including trauma-focused psychotherapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), play, Theraplay, neurodiversity affirming, and strength-based interventions.
My mission is to offer compassionate and expert guidance to individuals from ages 3 through young adulthood (18-25). I provide psychotherapy and diagnostic evaluations. I have a particular interest in supporting children who have faced trauma or attachment disruptions and providing neurodiversity-affirming care for autistic individuals. Additionally, I work with a diverse range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavioral challenges, and adjustment difficulties. My goal is to empower each client to gain insight into their emotions, develop effective coping strategies, and build resilience.
(608) 766-8419 View (608) 766-8419
Photo of Dr. Jenjee Sengkhammee, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Jenjee Sengkhammee
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53705
I specialize in working with adults and college students and treat a range of mental health concerns (such as trauma, grief, anxiety, depression) that are situational and chronic.
Please note: I am not currently accepting new therapy clients. I use an interpersonal, mind-body (sensorimotor) and multicultural-feminist approach, while integrating cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, and mindfulness. I believe the relationship with clients is the foundation of every effective therapy relationship. It provides space for feedback that helps us as human beings grow and create change. Together, we will collaboratively develop individualized, meaningful, and effective coping strategies to work through issues.
I specialize in working with adults and college students and treat a range of mental health concerns (such as trauma, grief, anxiety, depression) that are situational and chronic.
Please note: I am not currently accepting new therapy clients. I use an interpersonal, mind-body (sensorimotor) and multicultural-feminist approach, while integrating cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, and mindfulness. I believe the relationship with clients is the foundation of every effective therapy relationship. It provides space for feedback that helps us as human beings grow and create change. Together, we will collaboratively develop individualized, meaningful, and effective coping strategies to work through issues.
(503) 755-1143 View (503) 755-1143
Photo of Nicole Podolak | Anxiety Stress Trauma Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Podolak | Anxiety Stress Trauma Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53705
Ever wonder what your life would be like if you spent it living, instead of healing from things that weren't your fault? Every life chapter can have challenges, but that doesn't mean you must suffer and it certainly doesn't mean you go it alone. I focus on helping the helpers, healers and those who serve. All are welcome. I guide you to help resolve the root cause of your problems, remove barriers, and experience life. You can recover from trauma, ditch old narratives and begin your next chapter.
Ever wonder what your life would be like if you spent it living, instead of healing from things that weren't your fault? Every life chapter can have challenges, but that doesn't mean you must suffer and it certainly doesn't mean you go it alone. I focus on helping the helpers, healers and those who serve. All are welcome. I guide you to help resolve the root cause of your problems, remove barriers, and experience life. You can recover from trauma, ditch old narratives and begin your next chapter.
(608) 501-3361 View (608) 501-3361
Photo of Rebecca Mahan-Strupp, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebecca Mahan-Strupp
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53713
Together, we'll dive deeper than coping skills, helping you work through trauma and rediscovering yourself.
You’d do anything to feel okay again—to get rid of the fog that is clouding your every day. You might feel numb or disconnected and it’s affecting your happiness, relationships, and oftentimes, your productivity. Maybe you’ve tried therapy before, but something is still missing. You’ve started thinking and feeling like you’re not good enough or strong enough to handle life. Your sleep is all over the place, and you no longer enjoy the things you used to. I want you to know what you’re feeling is valid. You’ve come to the right place to find hope, healing, and answers.
Together, we'll dive deeper than coping skills, helping you work through trauma and rediscovering yourself.
You’d do anything to feel okay again—to get rid of the fog that is clouding your every day. You might feel numb or disconnected and it’s affecting your happiness, relationships, and oftentimes, your productivity. Maybe you’ve tried therapy before, but something is still missing. You’ve started thinking and feeling like you’re not good enough or strong enough to handle life. Your sleep is all over the place, and you no longer enjoy the things you used to. I want you to know what you’re feeling is valid. You’ve come to the right place to find hope, healing, and answers.
(608) 802-7615 View (608) 802-7615
Photo of Allison Ommodt, BA, LPC-IT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Allison Ommodt
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA, LPC-IT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53713
Are you struggling with anxiety, hopelessness, or burnout? Each day your stress is piling higher, and you feel like you can’t keep up. You may be feeling alone like no one understands what you’re going through. Maybe you’re overwhelmed amid a big life change, where you’re struggling to find peace in your new reality, or a parent who feels lost in how to help their child. I want to assure you that you’ve found a supportive space here. I specialize in working with individuals ages 14 & up with a variety of struggles like complex trauma, autism, attachment issues, adoption, life transitions, anxiety, & more.
Are you struggling with anxiety, hopelessness, or burnout? Each day your stress is piling higher, and you feel like you can’t keep up. You may be feeling alone like no one understands what you’re going through. Maybe you’re overwhelmed amid a big life change, where you’re struggling to find peace in your new reality, or a parent who feels lost in how to help their child. I want to assure you that you’ve found a supportive space here. I specialize in working with individuals ages 14 & up with a variety of struggles like complex trauma, autism, attachment issues, adoption, life transitions, anxiety, & more.
(608) 585-8263 View (608) 585-8263
Photo of Heather Edge, MSSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Edge
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53704
Waitlist for new clients
I work with a wide range of presenting issues including depression, anxiety, self-esteem, trauma, relationship connection and parenting concerns.
My down to earth, compassionate and honest nature will make you feel supported and comfortable in the therapeutic process. I convey an empathic approach and gentle sense of humor as I create a safe space that allows clients to develop their authentic self. I bring a playful spirit to my work which is complimented by training and numerous years of experience. I am passionate about helping adults, children and families heal from past trauma and find success in building healthy relationships.
I work with a wide range of presenting issues including depression, anxiety, self-esteem, trauma, relationship connection and parenting concerns.
My down to earth, compassionate and honest nature will make you feel supported and comfortable in the therapeutic process. I convey an empathic approach and gentle sense of humor as I create a safe space that allows clients to develop their authentic self. I bring a playful spirit to my work which is complimented by training and numerous years of experience. I am passionate about helping adults, children and families heal from past trauma and find success in building healthy relationships.
(608) 812-8690 View (608) 812-8690
Photo of Julia Cosgrove, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julia Cosgrove
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53704
If you feel like things could be better, you're probably right. Maybe you're struggling in your relationship — you keep having the same fight, and feel unheard and stuck. (Or you're not fighting, because you're more like roommates than romantic partners.) Or maybe you've always held it together pretty well, but you're finally realizing how anxiety, trauma, or that unkind inner critic has been subtly (and not so subtly) affecting you, keeping you from getting the most out of life. Whether it's been weeks, months, or years, you know don't want want to feel this way forever.
If you feel like things could be better, you're probably right. Maybe you're struggling in your relationship — you keep having the same fight, and feel unheard and stuck. (Or you're not fighting, because you're more like roommates than romantic partners.) Or maybe you've always held it together pretty well, but you're finally realizing how anxiety, trauma, or that unkind inner critic has been subtly (and not so subtly) affecting you, keeping you from getting the most out of life. Whether it's been weeks, months, or years, you know don't want want to feel this way forever.
(608) 305-8215 View (608) 305-8215
Photo of Leah Thompson, MA,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Leah Thompson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53704
Waitlist for new clients
My specialties include anxiety spectrum disorders, fears both rational and irrational, self-esteem issues, trauma and adoption issues .
I believe throughout our lives, from childhood to adulthood there are circumstances that cause us to lose sight of our true authentic self. I value taking time to develop a therapeutic relationship based on trust in a safe environment. My sessions are casual, and I enjoy working as a team in developing goals and strategies. When working with children, I like to use play based techniques and movement to assist in regulation while discussing stressful topics. My client base consists of children, teens, young adults transitioning into adulthood and adults dealing with stressors that impact day to day functioning.
My specialties include anxiety spectrum disorders, fears both rational and irrational, self-esteem issues, trauma and adoption issues .
I believe throughout our lives, from childhood to adulthood there are circumstances that cause us to lose sight of our true authentic self. I value taking time to develop a therapeutic relationship based on trust in a safe environment. My sessions are casual, and I enjoy working as a team in developing goals and strategies. When working with children, I like to use play based techniques and movement to assist in regulation while discussing stressful topics. My client base consists of children, teens, young adults transitioning into adulthood and adults dealing with stressors that impact day to day functioning.
(608) 938-8828 View (608) 938-8828
Photo of Adriana Gonzalez, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Adriana Gonzalez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53713  (Online Only)
I specialize in supporting individuals struggling with trauma, anxiety, and comorbid eating disorders—issues that can often feel isolating and overwhelming.
Life isn't adding up to what you imagined. You may have a nagging sense that something is missing, leaving you wrestling with anxiety or feeling trapped by the past. Whether you've exhausted all avenues or are finally ready to confront what you've been avoiding, taking this next step can feel daunting. It's especially difficult when it feels like nobody truly understands what you're going through. But here you are—because you refuse to stay stuck. What you’ve been through isn’t easy, but I want to assure you that there's hope for healing and happiness ahead.
I specialize in supporting individuals struggling with trauma, anxiety, and comorbid eating disorders—issues that can often feel isolating and overwhelming.
Life isn't adding up to what you imagined. You may have a nagging sense that something is missing, leaving you wrestling with anxiety or feeling trapped by the past. Whether you've exhausted all avenues or are finally ready to confront what you've been avoiding, taking this next step can feel daunting. It's especially difficult when it feels like nobody truly understands what you're going through. But here you are—because you refuse to stay stuck. What you’ve been through isn’t easy, but I want to assure you that there's hope for healing and happiness ahead.
(608) 564-5810 View (608) 564-5810
Photo of Mercy Maxan Greenwald, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mercy Maxan Greenwald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53718
Clients that I see come from all sorts of backgrounds and present with diverse challenges and strengths. Many of the clients I work with are living with complex trauma, due to both the individual challenges they've faced in their lives, but also due to living in a society that has been structured to dehumanize and marginalize many people. I work with clients collaboratively, not only to see the ways in which they want to change behaviors/thoughts/patterns in how they are in the world, but also to develop resiliency and strength to face the systemic barriers that challenge their ability to live full and joyful lives.
Clients that I see come from all sorts of backgrounds and present with diverse challenges and strengths. Many of the clients I work with are living with complex trauma, due to both the individual challenges they've faced in their lives, but also due to living in a society that has been structured to dehumanize and marginalize many people. I work with clients collaboratively, not only to see the ways in which they want to change behaviors/thoughts/patterns in how they are in the world, but also to develop resiliency and strength to face the systemic barriers that challenge their ability to live full and joyful lives.
(608) 292-5863 View (608) 292-5863
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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.