Trauma and PTSD Counselling in Central London, London

Annique Clopon
Psychologist, PsychD, CPsychol
Verified Verified
Central London, London WC2H  (Online Only)
Dr. Annique Clopon is a Chartered Psychologist, has doctoral training in specialist methods of therapy, advancing in Cogntive Behavioural Therapy, (CBT) whilst adopting a person centred approach. Dr. Annique Clopon is further trained in Schema therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Compassion Focused Therapy. She has doctoral training and in specialist methods of therapy for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) with (EDMR), Schema therapy training experience. Dr. Annique Clopon's practice is based around positive psychological principles to support people to be the best they can be.
Dr. Annique Clopon is a Chartered Psychologist, has doctoral training in specialist methods of therapy, advancing in Cogntive Behavioural Therapy, (CBT) whilst adopting a person centred approach. Dr. Annique Clopon is further trained in Schema therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Compassion Focused Therapy. She has doctoral training and in specialist methods of therapy for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) with (EDMR), Schema therapy training experience. Dr. Annique Clopon's practice is based around positive psychological principles to support people to be the best they can be.
020 4538 1854 x44 View 020 4538 1854 x44
Photo of Marteka Swaby - Mind Hubs, MSc, BPC, Psychotherapist
Mind Hubs
Psychotherapist, MSc, BPC
Verified Verified
Central London, London WC1A
In-person or online. With over 15 years clinical experience working for many years with complex trauma & PTSD in one of the UK's largest NHS Foundation Trusts. Specialising in addictions and eating disorders. For the last 8 years, I have been in private practice and mostly working with intersectionality, ADHD, PTSD & racial trauma. I also run a monthly group to explore the intersectionality of ethnicity & gender for diverse corporate women creating a safe, welcoming space where you can explore, grow, and thrive. Book a 30 min consultation
In-person or online. With over 15 years clinical experience working for many years with complex trauma & PTSD in one of the UK's largest NHS Foundation Trusts. Specialising in addictions and eating disorders. For the last 8 years, I have been in private practice and mostly working with intersectionality, ADHD, PTSD & racial trauma. I also run a monthly group to explore the intersectionality of ethnicity & gender for diverse corporate women creating a safe, welcoming space where you can explore, grow, and thrive. Book a 30 min consultation
020 3893 3290 View 020 3893 3290
Photo of Joanna Wajszczuk, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Joanna Wajszczuk
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Central London, London EC3V
My areas of expertise are depression and anxiety, trauma, PTSD, relationship difficulties, stress, bereavement, life transitions, eating disorders, OCD, anger management.
I am an accredited UKCP Gestalt Psychotherapist working in English and Polish. I have been working as a psychotherapist in private practice for over 10 years. Before becoming a psychotherapist I have worked in various mental health settings – social care, outreach support, family support, supported living accommodations, project management, NHS and Mind.
My areas of expertise are depression and anxiety, trauma, PTSD, relationship difficulties, stress, bereavement, life transitions, eating disorders, OCD, anger management.
I am an accredited UKCP Gestalt Psychotherapist working in English and Polish. I have been working as a psychotherapist in private practice for over 10 years. Before becoming a psychotherapist I have worked in various mental health settings – social care, outreach support, family support, supported living accommodations, project management, NHS and Mind.
020 3984 9798 View 020 3984 9798
Photo of Elizabeth Blaise, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Elizabeth Blaise
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Central London, London WC1X
I'm a UKCP and BACP registered psychotherapist, clinical supervisor and EMDR therapist. My approach is integrative and draws on a range of therapeutic approaches including CBT, Existential, Jungian & Transpersonal. For trauma/PTSD and early relational/attachment issues, I offer EMDR, may include body-centred work (mindfulness/therapeutic yoga/Qi Gong) and draw on relevant trauma treatment models, including sensorimotor psychotherapy. I work with individuals and couples and offer therapy as a safe, non-judgmental and empathic space in which you can talk in confidence about whatever is troubling you. Zoom sessions also possible.
I'm a UKCP and BACP registered psychotherapist, clinical supervisor and EMDR therapist. My approach is integrative and draws on a range of therapeutic approaches including CBT, Existential, Jungian & Transpersonal. For trauma/PTSD and early relational/attachment issues, I offer EMDR, may include body-centred work (mindfulness/therapeutic yoga/Qi Gong) and draw on relevant trauma treatment models, including sensorimotor psychotherapy. I work with individuals and couples and offer therapy as a safe, non-judgmental and empathic space in which you can talk in confidence about whatever is troubling you. Zoom sessions also possible.
020 3984 9469 View 020 3984 9469
Photo of Dragana Savcic-Sanders, MSc, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Dragana Savcic-Sanders
Psychologist, MSc, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Central London, London WC1B  (Online Only)
My particular interest and experience lies in the field of psycho-trauma and I can help you overcome PTSD and complex PTSD symptoms while tailoring treatment to your current needs.
I am a registered psychologist and EMDR therapist with over 20 years of experience of helping adults in the NHS psychological services and private practice. I can help with burn out, anxiety-related disorders, depression, the effects of childhood adverse experiences, abuse including domestic abuse, complex trauma, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder or difficulty in relationships, both with ourselves and others. I can help with complex bereavement including dealing with the effects of someone's suicide, eating disorders, coping with illness, personality disorder, anger; self-esteem issues and many others difficulties and challenges.
My particular interest and experience lies in the field of psycho-trauma and I can help you overcome PTSD and complex PTSD symptoms while tailoring treatment to your current needs.
I am a registered psychologist and EMDR therapist with over 20 years of experience of helping adults in the NHS psychological services and private practice. I can help with burn out, anxiety-related disorders, depression, the effects of childhood adverse experiences, abuse including domestic abuse, complex trauma, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder or difficulty in relationships, both with ourselves and others. I can help with complex bereavement including dealing with the effects of someone's suicide, eating disorders, coping with illness, personality disorder, anger; self-esteem issues and many others difficulties and challenges.
020 3870 3675 View 020 3870 3675
Photo of Natasha Lewis, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Natasha Lewis
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central London, London EC2M
I am a fully trained and accredited Integrative Relational Counsellor and EMDR Practitioner. Available for in person sessions and online via secure video conferencing (zoom or skype). Issues that I can support you with are: Trauma / PTSD, Stress and Anxiety, Marriage, Separation and Divorce issues, Personal relationship and Work relationship issues, Depression, Bereavement and Loss, Infertility, Miscarriages, IVF treatment and Infant Mortality Domestic abuse, Sexual abuse. I am a registered and accredited member of the BACP (Member No. 084911) and abide by the BACP’s ethical framework.
I am a fully trained and accredited Integrative Relational Counsellor and EMDR Practitioner. Available for in person sessions and online via secure video conferencing (zoom or skype). Issues that I can support you with are: Trauma / PTSD, Stress and Anxiety, Marriage, Separation and Divorce issues, Personal relationship and Work relationship issues, Depression, Bereavement and Loss, Infertility, Miscarriages, IVF treatment and Infant Mortality Domestic abuse, Sexual abuse. I am a registered and accredited member of the BACP (Member No. 084911) and abide by the BACP’s ethical framework.
01728 443987 View 01728 443987
Photo of Shireen Sultana, MSc, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Shireen Sultana
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Central London, London EC4R
I am a CBT Therapist with over 15 years experience of working in mental health services within NHS. I have been currently working as a senior therapist within an NHS service which involves providing supervision to other clinicians and providing specialist assessment and treatment to individuals experiencing depression and anxiety disorders including PTSD, OCD & Long term health conditions. Although my primary modality of training is CBT, I am also trained in EMDR, IPT (Interpersonal Psychotherapy). I work with individual aged over 16.
I am a CBT Therapist with over 15 years experience of working in mental health services within NHS. I have been currently working as a senior therapist within an NHS service which involves providing supervision to other clinicians and providing specialist assessment and treatment to individuals experiencing depression and anxiety disorders including PTSD, OCD & Long term health conditions. Although my primary modality of training is CBT, I am also trained in EMDR, IPT (Interpersonal Psychotherapy). I work with individual aged over 16.
07588 683393 View 07588 683393
Photo of Sona Kaur, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Sona Kaur
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Central London, London WC1N
I am a Clinical Psychologist at the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery in Queen Square, London. I also currently run my own private practice in London. I am registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). I have experience working with a range of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Emotionally Unstable Personality Disorder (EUPD) and complex trauma.
I am a Clinical Psychologist at the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery in Queen Square, London. I also currently run my own private practice in London. I am registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). I have experience working with a range of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Emotionally Unstable Personality Disorder (EUPD) and complex trauma.
020 4538 8166 View 020 4538 8166
Photo of Dr Zaffran Jami, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Zaffran Jami
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Central London, London EC1A
I am a Counselling Psychologist. I have over 9 years of experience in working with individuals and groups. I am highly skilled in working with adults and young people experiencing difficulties such as anxiety, depression, phobias, post-traumatic stress disorder and interpersonal difficulties. I have a particular interest around trauma, understanding that trauma can have a profound impact on a person's emotional and psychological well-being, and I'm passionate about helping people through this. I am also experienced in conducting diagnostic assessments for Neurodevelopmental conditions (such as Autism Spectrum Condition and ADHD).
I am a Counselling Psychologist. I have over 9 years of experience in working with individuals and groups. I am highly skilled in working with adults and young people experiencing difficulties such as anxiety, depression, phobias, post-traumatic stress disorder and interpersonal difficulties. I have a particular interest around trauma, understanding that trauma can have a profound impact on a person's emotional and psychological well-being, and I'm passionate about helping people through this. I am also experienced in conducting diagnostic assessments for Neurodevelopmental conditions (such as Autism Spectrum Condition and ADHD).
020 3667 9959 View 020 3667 9959
Photo of Milo Brandon - Milo Brandon - Accredited EMDR Therapist., MSc, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Milo Brandon - Accredited EMDR Therapist.
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Central London, London WC1H
I use EMDR to help people process trauma (PTSD and C-PTSD). My clients are typically living with a range of issues - flashbacks, intrusive thoughts, night terrors, palpitations, catastrophising, insomnia, feelings of isolation, irritability and guilt. They also very often experience 'triggering' - making everyday life, work and relationships difficult. Additionally, they may not remember aspects of what has happened to them and others ('dissociation'.) People come to me for EMDR to enable them to reduce the disturbance levels in their nervous systems and hence, get on with their lives.
I use EMDR to help people process trauma (PTSD and C-PTSD). My clients are typically living with a range of issues - flashbacks, intrusive thoughts, night terrors, palpitations, catastrophising, insomnia, feelings of isolation, irritability and guilt. They also very often experience 'triggering' - making everyday life, work and relationships difficult. Additionally, they may not remember aspects of what has happened to them and others ('dissociation'.) People come to me for EMDR to enable them to reduce the disturbance levels in their nervous systems and hence, get on with their lives.
01727 638162 View 01727 638162
Photo of Larisa Mansfield, MA, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Larisa Mansfield
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Central London, London WC1B
I have experience working with clients with depression, anxiety, self-confidence, work-related stress, sexual difficulties, abuse, bereavement, PTSD.
I am a Gestalt psychotherapist with an MA in Gestalt Therapy, accredited by the UKCP and registered by the BACP. I offer people a safe, supportive space to explore difficult feelings and to recognise and deal with the hidden patterns in personal relationships. I offer individual psychotherapy, couples and relationship therapy and group work. I can provide both long-term open-ended psychotherapy and brief focused counselling (generally up to 12 sessions).
I have experience working with clients with depression, anxiety, self-confidence, work-related stress, sexual difficulties, abuse, bereavement, PTSD.
I am a Gestalt psychotherapist with an MA in Gestalt Therapy, accredited by the UKCP and registered by the BACP. I offer people a safe, supportive space to explore difficult feelings and to recognise and deal with the hidden patterns in personal relationships. I offer individual psychotherapy, couples and relationship therapy and group work. I can provide both long-term open-ended psychotherapy and brief focused counselling (generally up to 12 sessions).
01748 902506 View 01748 902506
Photo of Dr Jessica Bird, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Jessica Bird
Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Central London, London EC3V
I am passionate about helping young people overcome distressing experiences and get back to living their life to the full. I am a qualified clinical psychologist, cognitive behavioural therapist, and EMDR therapist. I have worked for many years in the NHS and specialise in treating adolescents and young adults with mental health problems. My areas of expertise include the psychological treatment of psychosis, paranoia, trauma/PTSD, OCD, phobias, and sleep problems.
I am passionate about helping young people overcome distressing experiences and get back to living their life to the full. I am a qualified clinical psychologist, cognitive behavioural therapist, and EMDR therapist. I have worked for many years in the NHS and specialise in treating adolescents and young adults with mental health problems. My areas of expertise include the psychological treatment of psychosis, paranoia, trauma/PTSD, OCD, phobias, and sleep problems.
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Photo of Donita Rodrigues, MA, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Donita Rodrigues
Psychologist, MA, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Central London, London EC2A  (Online Only)
I have a special interest and expertise in anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma and complex PTSD, life transitions, and bereavement.
When you are navigating your life and its challenges, you may feel anxious; depressed; frustrated with your motivation; worried that you are not doing enough to achieve what you want for your life or in your relationships; have intrusive thoughts; struggle to sleep; or no longer enjoy activities or relationships the way you used to. Together, in a non-judgmental, empathic and confidential therapeutic relationship, we will unpack why you feel this way.
I have a special interest and expertise in anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma and complex PTSD, life transitions, and bereavement.
When you are navigating your life and its challenges, you may feel anxious; depressed; frustrated with your motivation; worried that you are not doing enough to achieve what you want for your life or in your relationships; have intrusive thoughts; struggle to sleep; or no longer enjoy activities or relationships the way you used to. Together, in a non-judgmental, empathic and confidential therapeutic relationship, we will unpack why you feel this way.
020 7123 9240 View 020 7123 9240
Photo of Nabeela Hussain - Simply Psychotherapy Ltd., MSc, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Simply Psychotherapy Ltd.
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Central London, London WC2H  (Online Only)
At Simply Psychotherapy, our passion is helping individuals like you overcome your mental health difficulties and achieve lasting progress and wellbeing. We offer evidence-based therapies, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing (EMDR) to address a wide range of mental health conditions. If you are struggling with depression, excessive worrying, stress, low self-esteem, health anxiety, social anxiety, OCD, PTSD, panic attacks, body dysmorphia, binge eating, bulimia, or phobias. Through therapy we can give you effective strategies to break free from the grip of these conditions.
At Simply Psychotherapy, our passion is helping individuals like you overcome your mental health difficulties and achieve lasting progress and wellbeing. We offer evidence-based therapies, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing (EMDR) to address a wide range of mental health conditions. If you are struggling with depression, excessive worrying, stress, low self-esteem, health anxiety, social anxiety, OCD, PTSD, panic attacks, body dysmorphia, binge eating, bulimia, or phobias. Through therapy we can give you effective strategies to break free from the grip of these conditions.
020 3828 7360 View 020 3828 7360
Photo of Dr Jayde Dix, Psychologist
Dr Jayde Dix
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Central London, London EC2R
People come to me for a range of issues, like low mood, self-esteem, anxiety, or PTSD.
Hi, I’m Dr Jayde Dix! How are you? I am a clinical psychologist and I offer therapy to adults who are going through a difficult time or need some space to figure things out and move forward. It may be that you've been struggling with your mental health for a while now and have a clear problem you want some help with. Or, you might just want a hand with fine-tuning your wellbeing so it is the best it can be. Either way, I know it can feel complicated and difficult to reach out for help so I will share some information here to help you decide if we would be a good match.
People come to me for a range of issues, like low mood, self-esteem, anxiety, or PTSD.
Hi, I’m Dr Jayde Dix! How are you? I am a clinical psychologist and I offer therapy to adults who are going through a difficult time or need some space to figure things out and move forward. It may be that you've been struggling with your mental health for a while now and have a clear problem you want some help with. Or, you might just want a hand with fine-tuning your wellbeing so it is the best it can be. Either way, I know it can feel complicated and difficult to reach out for help so I will share some information here to help you decide if we would be a good match.
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Photo of Dr Connie Geyer, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Connie Geyer
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Central London, London EC2M
Perhaps you cope well in some areas of life but have been troubled by difficult feelings, thoughts or life patterns for a while. Maybe loss, trauma, PTSD, or other difficult life events are impacting you. There are many times when speaking with a trained professional can help. I am a Consultant Clinical Psychologist, certified MBT and Schema Therapist, and Supervisor with extensive experience in providing and leading therapy services in the NHS and private practice. I work with adolescents, adults and couples presenting with a wide range of emotional and relational difficulties, which may be rooted in adverse childhood experiences.
Perhaps you cope well in some areas of life but have been troubled by difficult feelings, thoughts or life patterns for a while. Maybe loss, trauma, PTSD, or other difficult life events are impacting you. There are many times when speaking with a trained professional can help. I am a Consultant Clinical Psychologist, certified MBT and Schema Therapist, and Supervisor with extensive experience in providing and leading therapy services in the NHS and private practice. I work with adolescents, adults and couples presenting with a wide range of emotional and relational difficulties, which may be rooted in adverse childhood experiences.
020 8138 9538 View 020 8138 9538
Photo of Dr Samina Khatun, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Samina Khatun
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Central London, London EC2M
Dr Samina is a highly specialist counselling psychologist who treats people suffering from a wide spectrum of disorders. Her areas of expertise lie in the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of complex PTSD, depression and anxiety disorders, confidence and low self-esteem, relationship issues and trauma. She has over 10 years clinical experience within the NHS and private practice including the Priory in London Harley Street. Her integrative method will help you identify blocks and subconscious programming that are holding you back so that you can heal and shift into a more magnetic state and live your life with greater ease.
Dr Samina is a highly specialist counselling psychologist who treats people suffering from a wide spectrum of disorders. Her areas of expertise lie in the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of complex PTSD, depression and anxiety disorders, confidence and low self-esteem, relationship issues and trauma. She has over 10 years clinical experience within the NHS and private practice including the Priory in London Harley Street. Her integrative method will help you identify blocks and subconscious programming that are holding you back so that you can heal and shift into a more magnetic state and live your life with greater ease.
020 4538 3892 View 020 4538 3892
Photo of Farah Mitha, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Farah Mitha
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Central London, London EC2M
Farah has over 18 years clinical experience of working both in the NHS and private sector, providing evidence based psychological treatment and guidance tailoring her approach to the individual clients needs. These may be short term goals, that lend themselves to briefer therapy, or longer-term goals leading to more in-depth exploration of longer standing issues. Her clinical expereince include a wide range of emotional and psychological difficulties from mild depression and anxiety, to complex trauma, with a special interest in OCD. She is able to offer specialised trauma treatment for PTSD in the form of EMDR.
Farah has over 18 years clinical experience of working both in the NHS and private sector, providing evidence based psychological treatment and guidance tailoring her approach to the individual clients needs. These may be short term goals, that lend themselves to briefer therapy, or longer-term goals leading to more in-depth exploration of longer standing issues. Her clinical expereince include a wide range of emotional and psychological difficulties from mild depression and anxiety, to complex trauma, with a special interest in OCD. She is able to offer specialised trauma treatment for PTSD in the form of EMDR.
01702 967132 View 01702 967132
Photo of Jake Freedman, MSc, BPC, Psychotherapist
Jake Freedman
Psychotherapist, MSc, BPC
Verified Verified
Central London, London WC1H
I am a psychodynamic counsellor and psychotherapist registered with the British Psychoanalytic Council (BPC). I worked for five years providing long-term psychotherapy to individuals with histories of addiction and childhood trauma. This gave me an understanding of the extent to which adverse early experiences can impact on behaviour and psychic functioning in adulthood. Since then, I have undertaken post-qualifying training in the treatment of PTSD, C-PTSD and dissociation. I have a particular clinical and theoretical interest in states of depersonalisation, derealisation, narcissistic and borderline personality structures.
I am a psychodynamic counsellor and psychotherapist registered with the British Psychoanalytic Council (BPC). I worked for five years providing long-term psychotherapy to individuals with histories of addiction and childhood trauma. This gave me an understanding of the extent to which adverse early experiences can impact on behaviour and psychic functioning in adulthood. Since then, I have undertaken post-qualifying training in the treatment of PTSD, C-PTSD and dissociation. I have a particular clinical and theoretical interest in states of depersonalisation, derealisation, narcissistic and borderline personality structures.
020 3597 6659 View 020 3597 6659
Photo of Jayne Shears - EMDR and CBT Services, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
EMDR and CBT Services
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Central London, London EC2R
PTSD or disturbing or traumatic memories using EMDR.
I offer EMDR, CBT and Couples Counselling therapy and the aim is to help you to regain a sense of wellbeing and enjoyment in your life. During the initial assessment we will work together to understand your main problems, what is keeping you 'stuck' and then agree on an individualised treatment plan to help you move forward with clear treatment goals. CBT is an effective treatment that can help you in the here and now and EMDR is useful for getting to the root of the problem. I find that both work well, in different ways to bring about an improvement in emotional and physical health.
PTSD or disturbing or traumatic memories using EMDR.
I offer EMDR, CBT and Couples Counselling therapy and the aim is to help you to regain a sense of wellbeing and enjoyment in your life. During the initial assessment we will work together to understand your main problems, what is keeping you 'stuck' and then agree on an individualised treatment plan to help you move forward with clear treatment goals. CBT is an effective treatment that can help you in the here and now and EMDR is useful for getting to the root of the problem. I find that both work well, in different ways to bring about an improvement in emotional and physical health.
01359 302253 View 01359 302253
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Trauma and PTSD Counsellors

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.