Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Nashville, TN

Photo of Chelsi Dawn Williamson, LMSW, CYT-200, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chelsi Dawn Williamson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CYT-200
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37209
My name is Chelsi Williamson and I specialize in children and families. I am trained in EMDR for trauma resolution. I love working with family systems: be it mothers, fathers, couples, children, teens, etc. I see things through a physiologically based trauma lens with a deep understanding of how trauma gets stored in the physical body. It is a passion of mine to help all impacted individuals release the burden of carried trauma, particularly inter-generational trauma. I love working with women trying to show up for family and change pervasive patterns.
My name is Chelsi Williamson and I specialize in children and families. I am trained in EMDR for trauma resolution. I love working with family systems: be it mothers, fathers, couples, children, teens, etc. I see things through a physiologically based trauma lens with a deep understanding of how trauma gets stored in the physical body. It is a passion of mine to help all impacted individuals release the burden of carried trauma, particularly inter-generational trauma. I love working with women trying to show up for family and change pervasive patterns.
(629) 249-1836 View (629) 249-1836
Photo of Chelsea Fair, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Chelsea Fair
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37220
As a plus size, mixed woman, "fitting in" is something I struggled with for years. I battled to figure out who I am and where I fit in this world. Turns out, I was born to stand out. This fuels my passion for working with individuals from marginalized communities. If you struggle with anxiety or depression, need a space to process grief and loss, are struggling with PTSD, want to improve your self esteem, or simply have a longing to uncover your true self and sense of belonging, I would love to work with you.
As a plus size, mixed woman, "fitting in" is something I struggled with for years. I battled to figure out who I am and where I fit in this world. Turns out, I was born to stand out. This fuels my passion for working with individuals from marginalized communities. If you struggle with anxiety or depression, need a space to process grief and loss, are struggling with PTSD, want to improve your self esteem, or simply have a longing to uncover your true self and sense of belonging, I would love to work with you.
(615) 903-5430 View (615) 903-5430
Photo of Monica Coverson, LMSW, LSSW, EdD, CCTP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Monica Coverson
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW, LSSW, EdD, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37215
I offer years of experience providing individual and group counseling, including work with survivors of trauma, at-risk youth, individuals struggling with grief/loss, anxiety, depression and suicidal ideation/self-harm.
One of my very favorite quotes by Brene Brown is, "Vulnerability sounds like truth and feels like courage. Truth and courage aren't always comfortable, but they are never weakness." As life will sometimes present challenges that may be difficult to navigate, it's not necessary to navigate those challenges alone. I would love to support you in discovering the courage to navigate your truth. As a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, I offer treatment that is goal oriented using a variety of therapeutic approaches.
I offer years of experience providing individual and group counseling, including work with survivors of trauma, at-risk youth, individuals struggling with grief/loss, anxiety, depression and suicidal ideation/self-harm.
One of my very favorite quotes by Brene Brown is, "Vulnerability sounds like truth and feels like courage. Truth and courage aren't always comfortable, but they are never weakness." As life will sometimes present challenges that may be difficult to navigate, it's not necessary to navigate those challenges alone. I would love to support you in discovering the courage to navigate your truth. As a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, I offer treatment that is goal oriented using a variety of therapeutic approaches.
(615) 492-9209 View (615) 492-9209
Photo of Ashton Maguire, MEd, Pre-Licensed Professional
Ashton Maguire
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
I enjoy working with teens and adults from various backgrounds integrating somatic, cognitive, attachment focused, and other therapies to promote personal growth and reconnection with the authentic self. My professional areas of interest include: trauma, eating disorders/disordered eating, anxiety, mood disorders, substance abuse, family of origin issues, relational trauma/attachment wounds, and navigating identity/life transition issues. When working with clients, I integrate a range of interventions and techniques based on the client's individual needs and presenting problems.
I enjoy working with teens and adults from various backgrounds integrating somatic, cognitive, attachment focused, and other therapies to promote personal growth and reconnection with the authentic self. My professional areas of interest include: trauma, eating disorders/disordered eating, anxiety, mood disorders, substance abuse, family of origin issues, relational trauma/attachment wounds, and navigating identity/life transition issues. When working with clients, I integrate a range of interventions and techniques based on the client's individual needs and presenting problems.
(629) 302-1416 View (629) 302-1416
Photo of E-Ling Cheah, PsyD, HSP, Psychologist
E-Ling Cheah
Psychologist, PsyD, HSP
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37212
I have worked extensively with trauma, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, behavioral issues, personality disorders, relationship and family issues, grief and loss, anger issues, and multicultural issues.
You and I both know that life can feel unbelievably messy, unpredictable and chaotic. It's easy to get lost in the frenetic juggling of home life, work life and relationships. You can lose your sense of purpose, direction and even who you are. Experiencing some measure of difficulty, distress and pain IS life, but what happens when your usual ways of coping no longer work? It can be all too easy to surrender to the unrelenting waves of frustration, despair and disillusionment when faced with difficult experiences.
I have worked extensively with trauma, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, behavioral issues, personality disorders, relationship and family issues, grief and loss, anger issues, and multicultural issues.
You and I both know that life can feel unbelievably messy, unpredictable and chaotic. It's easy to get lost in the frenetic juggling of home life, work life and relationships. You can lose your sense of purpose, direction and even who you are. Experiencing some measure of difficulty, distress and pain IS life, but what happens when your usual ways of coping no longer work? It can be all too easy to surrender to the unrelenting waves of frustration, despair and disillusionment when faced with difficult experiences.
(615) 203-8195 View (615) 203-8195
Photo of Brandy Dunn - Silver Lake Psychology, Psychologist
Silver Lake Psychology
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37215
Relationship and sexual concerns, couples therapy, anxiety, addiction, trauma, eating disorders, stress management, insomnia, women's issues, creativity, LGBTQ- welcome.
We strive to build relationships that heal. Learn how to feel more connected to yourself, others and the world around you. Therapy provides all the elements of intimacy: honest communication, vulnerability and trust. Good therapy is challenging yet warm, providing both structure and empathy for your unique experience. We are a collective of therapists with a wide range of specialties. Our intake professionals will help connect you with the right therapist for your needs. We make appointments easy, offering evenings and weekends and flexibility for creative professionals who can't make the same time each week.
Relationship and sexual concerns, couples therapy, anxiety, addiction, trauma, eating disorders, stress management, insomnia, women's issues, creativity, LGBTQ- welcome.
We strive to build relationships that heal. Learn how to feel more connected to yourself, others and the world around you. Therapy provides all the elements of intimacy: honest communication, vulnerability and trust. Good therapy is challenging yet warm, providing both structure and empathy for your unique experience. We are a collective of therapists with a wide range of specialties. Our intake professionals will help connect you with the right therapist for your needs. We make appointments easy, offering evenings and weekends and flexibility for creative professionals who can't make the same time each week.
(615) 808-7176 View (615) 808-7176
Photo of Christi Sidwell, LCSW, SEP, CPATP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christi Sidwell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP, CPATP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37204
I believe that we all deserve support and at the core of personal transformation is a duality of self-compassion and desire for change. As humans we are intrinsically wired for connection, resiliency and healing. However, sometimes there are things from the past or other life stressors that cause us to feel stuck and that healing is out of our reach. I am deeply interested in the mind-body connection and believe reconnecting to our bodies can be incredibly transformational. I work with folks in adolescence and adulthood who are desiring to address trauma, optimal performance, depression, anxiety and life transitions.
I believe that we all deserve support and at the core of personal transformation is a duality of self-compassion and desire for change. As humans we are intrinsically wired for connection, resiliency and healing. However, sometimes there are things from the past or other life stressors that cause us to feel stuck and that healing is out of our reach. I am deeply interested in the mind-body connection and believe reconnecting to our bodies can be incredibly transformational. I work with folks in adolescence and adulthood who are desiring to address trauma, optimal performance, depression, anxiety and life transitions.
(615) 637-3637 View (615) 637-3637
Photo of Janie Wilkerson, MEd, LPC, MHSP, S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Janie Wilkerson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, MHSP, S
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37206
Finding a therapist where you can connect, trust, and experience real and lasting change can be a daunting process. I see adolescents and adults who are working through gender identity, complex trauma, anxiety, depression, climate anxiety, relationship challenges, and other issues. Using a variety of modalities, including EMDR and polyvagal therapy, we work together to design and implement a treatment plan that is as unique as you are. I am committed to my clients and care deeply about helping them achieve positive outcomes through therapy. Telehealth or in-person sessions available.
Finding a therapist where you can connect, trust, and experience real and lasting change can be a daunting process. I see adolescents and adults who are working through gender identity, complex trauma, anxiety, depression, climate anxiety, relationship challenges, and other issues. Using a variety of modalities, including EMDR and polyvagal therapy, we work together to design and implement a treatment plan that is as unique as you are. I am committed to my clients and care deeply about helping them achieve positive outcomes through therapy. Telehealth or in-person sessions available.
(615) 465-0163 View (615) 465-0163
Photo of Irena Stjepic, LCSW, CEMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Irena Stjepic
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEMDR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37212
I specialize in Somatic Attachment-Focused EMDR therapy, a body-mind approach to help you heal from current and past pain and discomfort. Additionally, I incorporate the Safe and Sound Protocol and Neurofeedback in my practice. My expertise lies in supporting young adults aged 16 and above, as well as adults who have experienced recent traumatic events or have Complex PTSD as a result of unhealed childhood trauma, abuse, neglect, and other areas of focus, including anxiety, bipolar disorder, depressive disorder, and performance enhancement.
I specialize in Somatic Attachment-Focused EMDR therapy, a body-mind approach to help you heal from current and past pain and discomfort. Additionally, I incorporate the Safe and Sound Protocol and Neurofeedback in my practice. My expertise lies in supporting young adults aged 16 and above, as well as adults who have experienced recent traumatic events or have Complex PTSD as a result of unhealed childhood trauma, abuse, neglect, and other areas of focus, including anxiety, bipolar disorder, depressive disorder, and performance enhancement.
(615) 471-6617 View (615) 471-6617
Photo of Pamela L Hicks, LMFT, MMFT, MA, MS, MBA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Pamela L Hicks
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MMFT, MA, MS, MBA
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37212
All of these methods work exceptionally well with trauma/PTSD.
Each one of us experiences psychological challenges in life that we try to meet using whatever strategies we know. However, sometimes the challenges become too great and our coping strategies stop working. This can be compounded by the fact that we often internalize messages from our society, however well-intentioned, that limit our abilities to understand ourselves and our world. It is in these moments that we can use support from therapists to turn down the noise of the world so that we may find our own inner wisdom about who we are, what we need, and ultimately how to heal.
All of these methods work exceptionally well with trauma/PTSD.
Each one of us experiences psychological challenges in life that we try to meet using whatever strategies we know. However, sometimes the challenges become too great and our coping strategies stop working. This can be compounded by the fact that we often internalize messages from our society, however well-intentioned, that limit our abilities to understand ourselves and our world. It is in these moments that we can use support from therapists to turn down the noise of the world so that we may find our own inner wisdom about who we are, what we need, and ultimately how to heal.
(615) 623-8846 View (615) 623-8846
Photo of Pamela Bean, LMFT, temp, Pre-Licensed Professional
Pamela Bean
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMFT, temp
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37220
I am a daughter of Lao refugees, born and raised in Tennessee. I love working with clients who are wanting to process through their trauma, in the midst of life transitions, experiencing anxiety and/or depression, and wrestling with aspects of their identity. Throughout life, I have learned that every human has a unique story; having a longing to be understood, accepted, and seen and continue to learn the importance of understanding all the different parts that make up my clients’ lives. It’s my desire that I create a safe space for you to bring and be all of who you are on your unique journey of healing and discovery.
I am a daughter of Lao refugees, born and raised in Tennessee. I love working with clients who are wanting to process through their trauma, in the midst of life transitions, experiencing anxiety and/or depression, and wrestling with aspects of their identity. Throughout life, I have learned that every human has a unique story; having a longing to be understood, accepted, and seen and continue to learn the importance of understanding all the different parts that make up my clients’ lives. It’s my desire that I create a safe space for you to bring and be all of who you are on your unique journey of healing and discovery.
(615) 205-7978 View (615) 205-7978
Photo of Aubrey Holden, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Aubrey Holden
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37205
I work well with clients who are struggling with self-esteem issues, anxiety, depression, and trauma. Client goals I work well with include processing trauma, alleviating depression and/or anxiety, processing and/or exploring one’s identity, and improving self-confidence. I also have experience working with, and a deep passion for, members of the LGBTQIA+ community. It is an honor to be an affirming and safe space for this community.
I work well with clients who are struggling with self-esteem issues, anxiety, depression, and trauma. Client goals I work well with include processing trauma, alleviating depression and/or anxiety, processing and/or exploring one’s identity, and improving self-confidence. I also have experience working with, and a deep passion for, members of the LGBTQIA+ community. It is an honor to be an affirming and safe space for this community.
(615) 909-5254 View (615) 909-5254
Photo of Elizabeth DeVaughn, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elizabeth DeVaughn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37206
In practice for 12 years, I specialize in relationship/attachment issues, complex trauma, and codependency/narcissism.
Tired of getting mixed up with narcissists after all your inner work? You're likely empathic (maybe a bit witchy..?), questioning a lot of things, and you might feel that you've outgrown your current or past therapy. I specialize in working with women who've already done some therapy and who are now ready to get to the root cause of complex trauma and oppression-based relationship patterns (we start by mapping your nervous system!). You want to be able to trust yourself in relationships, feel secure within yourself, and have relationships that ADD to your life, dreams, and inner magic. I'd love to chat with you!
In practice for 12 years, I specialize in relationship/attachment issues, complex trauma, and codependency/narcissism.
Tired of getting mixed up with narcissists after all your inner work? You're likely empathic (maybe a bit witchy..?), questioning a lot of things, and you might feel that you've outgrown your current or past therapy. I specialize in working with women who've already done some therapy and who are now ready to get to the root cause of complex trauma and oppression-based relationship patterns (we start by mapping your nervous system!). You want to be able to trust yourself in relationships, feel secure within yourself, and have relationships that ADD to your life, dreams, and inner magic. I'd love to chat with you!
(629) 300-5576 View (629) 300-5576
Photo of Christine L Manley, PhD, HSP, Psychologist
Christine L Manley
Psychologist, PhD, HSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37215
I'm especially skilled with depression, trauma/PTSD, anxiety, stress, perfectionism, narcissism and survivors of narcissistic abuse, relationships, intimacy, and family dynamics.
I believe in personalized therapy that reduces symptoms, enhances personal wellness and reflects state-of-the-art scientific research and treatment methods. Many people are not sure if therapy is right for them. These individuals are often drawn to my approach because I focus on personal empowerment, encourage questions about the process, and develop very unique and collaborative treatment plans.
I'm especially skilled with depression, trauma/PTSD, anxiety, stress, perfectionism, narcissism and survivors of narcissistic abuse, relationships, intimacy, and family dynamics.
I believe in personalized therapy that reduces symptoms, enhances personal wellness and reflects state-of-the-art scientific research and treatment methods. Many people are not sure if therapy is right for them. These individuals are often drawn to my approach because I focus on personal empowerment, encourage questions about the process, and develop very unique and collaborative treatment plans.
(615) 454-9465 View (615) 454-9465
Photo of Adam Kohlan, TLMFT, MMFT, BBA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Adam Kohlan
Pre-Licensed Professional, TLMFT, MMFT, BBA
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
My interests include depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), complex trauma, couples therapy, marital distress, and life transitions.
Are you feeling alone, overwhelmed, or just lost in life? Does the pain you're experiencing feel constant and unremitting? This is a trying time, but there is a way through this turmoil; an opportunity for change. I work with individuals and couples who want a thorough therapy experience that is growth-oriented. Our relationships, our thinking, and our behaviors (and how they all work together) are key and are the focus of my work. I'm an authentic and compassionate guide that can help you create meaningful, long-lasting changes in your life. You can expect me to listen and engage with your process to get you where you want to be.
My interests include depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), complex trauma, couples therapy, marital distress, and life transitions.
Are you feeling alone, overwhelmed, or just lost in life? Does the pain you're experiencing feel constant and unremitting? This is a trying time, but there is a way through this turmoil; an opportunity for change. I work with individuals and couples who want a thorough therapy experience that is growth-oriented. Our relationships, our thinking, and our behaviors (and how they all work together) are key and are the focus of my work. I'm an authentic and compassionate guide that can help you create meaningful, long-lasting changes in your life. You can expect me to listen and engage with your process to get you where you want to be.
(615) 235-6045 View (615) 235-6045
Photo of Lisa McGovern - Lisa McGovern, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa McGovern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37205
I am a certified Advanced Imago Relationship Therapist and trained in various trauma treatments like EMDR.
Do you need help bringing Connection, Peace and Balance to your life or relationships? Many of us do because we run from one thing to another, without enough of ourselves to go around. We can struggle in our life or relationships and need to regain our balance or even create a new one. We get weighed down by anxiety, sadness or feeling we aren’t understood. We have trouble expressing our feelings and needs or understanding the important people in our lives. I can help you feel heard and understood and strengthen the connections in your life. My goal is to empower people and help them discover how to live a life that feels better.
I am a certified Advanced Imago Relationship Therapist and trained in various trauma treatments like EMDR.
Do you need help bringing Connection, Peace and Balance to your life or relationships? Many of us do because we run from one thing to another, without enough of ourselves to go around. We can struggle in our life or relationships and need to regain our balance or even create a new one. We get weighed down by anxiety, sadness or feeling we aren’t understood. We have trouble expressing our feelings and needs or understanding the important people in our lives. I can help you feel heard and understood and strengthen the connections in your life. My goal is to empower people and help them discover how to live a life that feels better.
(615) 412-5449 View (615) 412-5449
Photo of Sadie Miller-Daley, LPCMHSP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sadie Miller-Daley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37215  (Online Only)
Do you feel like you have tried other methods of healing or therapy to no avail? Are you a young adult, mom, or a woman dealing with trauma, pregnancy, infertility, or difficult life transitions? Do you feel like your past has shaped certain aspects of you that you don’t want to continue to carry forward anymore? I encourage you to reach out, and explore through a free consultation how EMDR, and a holistic approach to healing may help to release you from old patterns no longer serving your mind and body. Taking a more body focused and holistic approach to healing can lead to a more comprehensive and long lasting healing.
Do you feel like you have tried other methods of healing or therapy to no avail? Are you a young adult, mom, or a woman dealing with trauma, pregnancy, infertility, or difficult life transitions? Do you feel like your past has shaped certain aspects of you that you don’t want to continue to carry forward anymore? I encourage you to reach out, and explore through a free consultation how EMDR, and a holistic approach to healing may help to release you from old patterns no longer serving your mind and body. Taking a more body focused and holistic approach to healing can lead to a more comprehensive and long lasting healing.
(615) 285-5223 View (615) 285-5223
Photo of Sarah Fisher, TLMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Sarah Fisher
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, TLMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37215
Some specific problems I treat include living with chronic illness and pain, trauma, anxiety, depression, self esteem and identity, life transitions, and relationship issues (whether they be intimate, familial, platonic, or professional).
Hi there! How are you doing? I mean, truly: how are you doing? I want to hear about your health, your interests, your relationships, your worries, your joys, and your sorrows. I want to hold space for all the things you really want to say when you reply, “I’m fine, how are you?” Whether you seek therapy for a specific problem or you just want a pocket of time to untangle some thoughts/feelings/experiences, you are welcome here.
Some specific problems I treat include living with chronic illness and pain, trauma, anxiety, depression, self esteem and identity, life transitions, and relationship issues (whether they be intimate, familial, platonic, or professional).
Hi there! How are you doing? I mean, truly: how are you doing? I want to hear about your health, your interests, your relationships, your worries, your joys, and your sorrows. I want to hold space for all the things you really want to say when you reply, “I’m fine, how are you?” Whether you seek therapy for a specific problem or you just want a pocket of time to untangle some thoughts/feelings/experiences, you are welcome here.
(615) 882-4236 View (615) 882-4236
Photo of Karen Grossman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Grossman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37204
Karen is skilled at helping adults of all ages who are dealing with a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, grief, trauma, relationship issues, and various life transitions and stressors.
Karen is an experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has a passion for helping her clients find fulfillment in their lives. Her strength is empathy, listening compassionately while creating a warm, comfortable space for clients to feel safe and be able to open up. She helps her clients reach their goals through an approach that blends self-acceptance with fostering change and growth. She is open-minded, non-judgmental, and strives to be culturally competent.
Karen is skilled at helping adults of all ages who are dealing with a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, grief, trauma, relationship issues, and various life transitions and stressors.
Karen is an experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has a passion for helping her clients find fulfillment in their lives. Her strength is empathy, listening compassionately while creating a warm, comfortable space for clients to feel safe and be able to open up. She helps her clients reach their goals through an approach that blends self-acceptance with fostering change and growth. She is open-minded, non-judgmental, and strives to be culturally competent.
(615) 701-6691 View (615) 701-6691
Photo of Anjana P Khosla, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anjana P Khosla
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
I believe every human being deserves to be seen and live in a way that brings about peace, self-love, and a positive self-image. This can be difficult when immersed in rigid cultural systems, exposed to trauma, and dealing with intense emotional pain. Extrinsic influences about gender, ethnicity, nationality, physical and mental capabilities, sexuality (and much more) can leave so many people questioning their own existence. In the face of this, daily living itself can feel like a challenge and leave a person feeling isolated and alone. My hope is to provide you with the support we all deserve in order to live as fully as possible.
I believe every human being deserves to be seen and live in a way that brings about peace, self-love, and a positive self-image. This can be difficult when immersed in rigid cultural systems, exposed to trauma, and dealing with intense emotional pain. Extrinsic influences about gender, ethnicity, nationality, physical and mental capabilities, sexuality (and much more) can leave so many people questioning their own existence. In the face of this, daily living itself can feel like a challenge and leave a person feeling isolated and alone. My hope is to provide you with the support we all deserve in order to live as fully as possible.
(615) 590-3304 View (615) 590-3304
1
...
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.