Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Durban

Photo of Ntobeko Robyn Sithole, MA, HPCSA - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Ntobeko Robyn Sithole
Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Durban 4001
I help people recover from depression and anxiety, trauma, bereavement, stress and addictions.
I am a registered Counselling Psychologist with the Health Professionals Council of South Africa (HPCSA) .I have completed my academic training at the University of Zululand, and my psychology internship at Central University of Technology, Free State . I provide evidence-based psychotherapy and counselling aimed at dealing with complex emotional, mental health, and personal problems. I welcome clients from all walks of life who seek assistance in overcoming their obstacles to become the best that they can be.
I help people recover from depression and anxiety, trauma, bereavement, stress and addictions.
I am a registered Counselling Psychologist with the Health Professionals Council of South Africa (HPCSA) .I have completed my academic training at the University of Zululand, and my psychology internship at Central University of Technology, Free State . I provide evidence-based psychotherapy and counselling aimed at dealing with complex emotional, mental health, and personal problems. I welcome clients from all walks of life who seek assistance in overcoming their obstacles to become the best that they can be.
087 250 0782 x83 View 087 250 0782 x83
Photo of Ziyanda Maphini, BSocSci Hons, HPCSA - Counsellor, Registered Counsellor
Ziyanda Maphini Maphini
Registered Counsellor, BSocSci Hons, HPCSA - Counsellor
Verified Verified
Durban 4001
Counseling Offered on ; Trauma, Anxiety disorders, Depression, Suicide, Adjustment disorder, Family, Relationship & Marital counseling, sexual assault and abuse, gender based violence, Career, HIV/AIDS, Employee Wellness, Community Mental Health.
Counseling Offered on ; Trauma, Anxiety disorders, Depression, Suicide, Adjustment disorder, Family, Relationship & Marital counseling, sexual assault and abuse, gender based violence, Career, HIV/AIDS, Employee Wellness, Community Mental Health.
Counseling Offered on ; Trauma, Anxiety disorders, Depression, Suicide, Adjustment disorder, Family, Relationship & Marital counseling, sexual assault and abuse, gender based violence, Career, HIV/AIDS, Employee Wellness, Community Mental Health.
Counseling Offered on ; Trauma, Anxiety disorders, Depression, Suicide, Adjustment disorder, Family, Relationship & Marital counseling, sexual assault and abuse, gender based violence, Career, HIV/AIDS, Employee Wellness, Community Mental Health.
087 250 2962 x12 View 087 250 2962 x12
Photo of Sithabile Ndlovu, MSocSci, HPCSA - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Sithabile Ndlovu
Psychologist, MSocSci, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Durban 4000
Highly skilled in individual psychotherapy, couples therapy; tackling issues of relationship difficulties, trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and bereavement.
Clinical Psychologist with demonstrated experience in mental health care having worked in a Psychiatric Hospital, Employee Wellness, Institution of Higher Learning and Private Practice.
Highly skilled in individual psychotherapy, couples therapy; tackling issues of relationship difficulties, trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and bereavement.
Clinical Psychologist with demonstrated experience in mental health care having worked in a Psychiatric Hospital, Employee Wellness, Institution of Higher Learning and Private Practice.
087 250 0513 x35 View 087 250 0513 x35
Photo of Veronique Charles - Veronique Charles         Minds-Matter-Counselling, ASCHP Wellness Counsellor, General Counsellor
Veronique Charles Minds-Matter-Counselling
General Counsellor, ASCHP Wellness Counsellor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durban 4000
Cognitive Therapy, Behaviorism ,Projective Tests ,Children's drawings ,Divorce ,Childhood Redefining Deductive Therapy ,Play Therapy ,Cognitive Therapy Depression , Anxiety, Depression , Obesity , Anorexia & Bulimia, Grief, Narrative Therapy, Emotional Analytic Therapy, Trauma (TIR) ,Sexual Molestation, Rape, Teenagers, (Marriage Counselling ( IMAGO ).
Affordable Online Counselling ALSO offered via Zoom /Video Calls /Telephonic. Are You Feeling overwhelmed and stressed, battling to cope with daily life and it's challenges. Are you depressed or living with anxiety or abuse. At Minds Matter Counselling I offer effective counselling. My aim is to help you live a more fulfilled life. I offer a Holistic Approach to Therapy, which is based on you as a whole, mind, body & spirit. At the end of each session, my aim is to help you feel empowered. I act with integrity, honesty and truth. I am here to help you feel better and enjoy your life again
Cognitive Therapy, Behaviorism ,Projective Tests ,Children's drawings ,Divorce ,Childhood Redefining Deductive Therapy ,Play Therapy ,Cognitive Therapy Depression , Anxiety, Depression , Obesity , Anorexia & Bulimia, Grief, Narrative Therapy, Emotional Analytic Therapy, Trauma (TIR) ,Sexual Molestation, Rape, Teenagers, (Marriage Counselling ( IMAGO ).
Affordable Online Counselling ALSO offered via Zoom /Video Calls /Telephonic. Are You Feeling overwhelmed and stressed, battling to cope with daily life and it's challenges. Are you depressed or living with anxiety or abuse. At Minds Matter Counselling I offer effective counselling. My aim is to help you live a more fulfilled life. I offer a Holistic Approach to Therapy, which is based on you as a whole, mind, body & spirit. At the end of each session, my aim is to help you feel empowered. I act with integrity, honesty and truth. I am here to help you feel better and enjoy your life again
087 250 0592 x95 View 087 250 0592 x95
Photo of Phakama Lugogwana, HPCSA - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Phakama Lugogwana
Psychologist, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Durban 4000
Many people struggle with chronic pain, depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, sexual challenges, learning issues, and many other mental health issues. It is often difficult for us to trust others with intimate parts of our lives because of shame and lack of support. Know that you are not alone in your struggles, and help is readily available in the form of the mental health services offered by me.
Many people struggle with chronic pain, depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, sexual challenges, learning issues, and many other mental health issues. It is often difficult for us to trust others with intimate parts of our lives because of shame and lack of support. Know that you are not alone in your struggles, and help is readily available in the form of the mental health services offered by me.
078 261 7760 View 078 261 7760
Photo of Nicole Van Wyk, MSocSci, HPCSA - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Nicole Van Wyk
Psychologist, MSocSci, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Durban 4000
I am a clinical psychologist working with clients who feel stuck with their current patterns in life in need of help getting "unstuck". If you need some help getting unstuck, whether it's relational concerns, trauma, grief, depression, or anxiety, I am here to help you on your healing journey. I work with a wide range of clients from children to adults. I am a warm and empathic clinical psychologist, with a high standard of care and competence. Remember: Change is difficult, but nothing is as difficult as being stuck somewhere you don't belong.
I am a clinical psychologist working with clients who feel stuck with their current patterns in life in need of help getting "unstuck". If you need some help getting unstuck, whether it's relational concerns, trauma, grief, depression, or anxiety, I am here to help you on your healing journey. I work with a wide range of clients from children to adults. I am a warm and empathic clinical psychologist, with a high standard of care and competence. Remember: Change is difficult, but nothing is as difficult as being stuck somewhere you don't belong.
087 250 2962 x88 View 087 250 2962 x88
Photo of Zakariya Baker - ZB Counselling, SACSSP, Social Worker
ZB Counselling
Social Worker, SACSSP
Verified Verified
Durban 4000  (Online Only)
I have experience in helping clients with challenges relating to depression, anxiety, trauma and grief - as symptoms of existing conditions, and/or as responses to circumstantial stress. I am also experienced in helping clients with the management of neurodivergent disorders (ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder). My approach pulls away from over analysis and rumination, towards figuring out how to sustainably feel and be better. This is accomplished by emphasising healthy thinking, health feeling and healthy behaving.
I have experience in helping clients with challenges relating to depression, anxiety, trauma and grief - as symptoms of existing conditions, and/or as responses to circumstantial stress. I am also experienced in helping clients with the management of neurodivergent disorders (ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder). My approach pulls away from over analysis and rumination, towards figuring out how to sustainably feel and be better. This is accomplished by emphasising healthy thinking, health feeling and healthy behaving.
087 250 0592 x80 View 087 250 0592 x80
Photo of Vasintha Pather, MA, Psychotherapist
Vasintha Pather
Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
Durban 4000
Many of these included recovering from my own complex trauma.
Developmental trauma and systemic trauma can have a significant impact on our functioning as adults. I specialise in childhood and attachment trauma, as well as systemic trauma relating to race, gender and organisations. I support my clients - mostly leaders and organisational practitioners - to deepen their capacity to integrate and heal from these difficult life experiences, to embody their emotions, and to restore connection with their innate wisdom, creativity and joy. Growth through the therapeutic process offers possibilities for deeper meaning and effectiveness.
Many of these included recovering from my own complex trauma.
Developmental trauma and systemic trauma can have a significant impact on our functioning as adults. I specialise in childhood and attachment trauma, as well as systemic trauma relating to race, gender and organisations. I support my clients - mostly leaders and organisational practitioners - to deepen their capacity to integrate and heal from these difficult life experiences, to embody their emotions, and to restore connection with their innate wisdom, creativity and joy. Growth through the therapeutic process offers possibilities for deeper meaning and effectiveness.
087 250 2962 x32 View 087 250 2962 x32
Photo of Chantell Smith, BSocSci Hons, General Counsellor
Chantell Smith
General Counsellor, BSocSci Hons
Verified Verified
Durban 4000
My specialty is trauma counselling through several approaches; TIR, Unblocking and rewind technique.
My passion is working with clients who are struggling to cope in daily life due to either of the following; stress, anxiety, problem solving, relationship problems, low self esteem and trauma. A perfect client is someone who wants growth and is willing to work towards it. Everyone deserves having a fulfilling life with the tools that can be obtained through counselling.
My specialty is trauma counselling through several approaches; TIR, Unblocking and rewind technique.
My passion is working with clients who are struggling to cope in daily life due to either of the following; stress, anxiety, problem solving, relationship problems, low self esteem and trauma. A perfect client is someone who wants growth and is willing to work towards it. Everyone deserves having a fulfilling life with the tools that can be obtained through counselling.
076 075 4467 View 076 075 4467
Photo of Leonie M Dippenaar, General Counsellor
Leonie M Dippenaar
General Counsellor
Verified Verified
Durban 4001  (Online Only)
Leonie is a Transformative Mindset Coach/counselor. Are you tired of being stuck in survival mode? Grief, sadness, Loss over what if? Are guil and shame holding you in bonda? Do you question life, wanting to give up? Is living a lie draining your life force? With Abandonment issues, comes Fear, Anxiety, and Trauma. Do you not feel being heard? Old coping self-destructive bad habits block your life and repeatedly set yourself up for failure! Let Leonie help you Reset that feeling of loss and hopelessness. Learn to Regain self-control, bring in balance, and find your Joy through acceptance.
Leonie is a Transformative Mindset Coach/counselor. Are you tired of being stuck in survival mode? Grief, sadness, Loss over what if? Are guil and shame holding you in bonda? Do you question life, wanting to give up? Is living a lie draining your life force? With Abandonment issues, comes Fear, Anxiety, and Trauma. Do you not feel being heard? Old coping self-destructive bad habits block your life and repeatedly set yourself up for failure! Let Leonie help you Reset that feeling of loss and hopelessness. Learn to Regain self-control, bring in balance, and find your Joy through acceptance.
087 250 0049 x24 View 087 250 0049 x24
Photo of Werner Gaigher - Werner Gaigher
Werner Gaigher
Verified Verified
Durban 4000
In our sessions, we will explore how your body responds to stress, anxiety, or past trauma, and work on releasing the tension and energy stored in your nervous system.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by trauma, anxiety, or a sense of disconnection from yourself? I offer a unique holistic approach that blends body-centered techniques with deep self-exploration. We'll work together to understand how your past experiences shape your emotional and physical responses. By tuning into your body's sensations and exploring different parts of yourself, we'll help release stored tension and find balance. The process supports both emotional and physical healing, helping you feel more grounded, integrated, and resilient in your life.
In our sessions, we will explore how your body responds to stress, anxiety, or past trauma, and work on releasing the tension and energy stored in your nervous system.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by trauma, anxiety, or a sense of disconnection from yourself? I offer a unique holistic approach that blends body-centered techniques with deep self-exploration. We'll work together to understand how your past experiences shape your emotional and physical responses. By tuning into your body's sensations and exploring different parts of yourself, we'll help release stored tension and find balance. The process supports both emotional and physical healing, helping you feel more grounded, integrated, and resilient in your life.
087 250 0592 x10 View 087 250 0592 x10
Photo of Thabiso Ntshangase - Mental Health and Social Justice Clinic, MPsych, HPCSA - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Mental Health and Social Justice Clinic
Psychologist, MPsych, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Durban 4001
We are experts on trauma and menatl health.
Our Mental Health and Social Justice Clinic provides comprehensive psychological evaluations and therapy to children, teenagers, adults, and seniors. We provide trauma informed individual, couples, group, and family sessions including yoga, mindfulness sessions, and art therapy. We are specialists in trauma informed therapy and our practice provides individual and group therapy services to survivors of human trafficking, domestic violence, and violent crimes. Our licensed and skilled team of therapists is devoted to providing quality services and our social justice team is committed to seeing you thrive in the community.
We are experts on trauma and menatl health.
Our Mental Health and Social Justice Clinic provides comprehensive psychological evaluations and therapy to children, teenagers, adults, and seniors. We provide trauma informed individual, couples, group, and family sessions including yoga, mindfulness sessions, and art therapy. We are specialists in trauma informed therapy and our practice provides individual and group therapy services to survivors of human trafficking, domestic violence, and violent crimes. Our licensed and skilled team of therapists is devoted to providing quality services and our social justice team is committed to seeing you thrive in the community.
087 250 0162 x26 View 087 250 0162 x26
Photo of Ntombizonke Qhawe Msiya - Zama Msiya - Private Social Worker , BSocSci Hons, Social Worker
Zama Msiya - Private Social Worker
Social Worker, BSocSci Hons
Verified Verified
Durban 4001
Stress- depression- trauma -marital challenges - anxiety- child adolescent-psychosocial support - Rape - GBV are challenges we face daily - speaking to someone like me can help make a difference.
Stress- depression- trauma -marital challenges - anxiety- child adolescent-psychosocial support - Rape - GBV are challenges we face daily - speaking to someone like me can help make a difference.
087 250 2219 x78 View 087 250 2219 x78
Photo of Sasha Talia Pather, General Counsellor
Sasha Talia Pather
General Counsellor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durban 4001
Welcome to Sasha Talia Counselling. Consulting in areas of Abuse/ Addiction/ Trauma/ Narcissism/ Relationships/ Depression/ Anxiety / Pregnancy related, Child welfare, as well as other general counselling requirements. This is a safe space where you journey through your heart and mind to function holistically as the best version of yourself. With innovative techniques in counselling this dynamic therapy practice pioneers the process of counselling in excellence. Happiness prioritized.
Welcome to Sasha Talia Counselling. Consulting in areas of Abuse/ Addiction/ Trauma/ Narcissism/ Relationships/ Depression/ Anxiety / Pregnancy related, Child welfare, as well as other general counselling requirements. This is a safe space where you journey through your heart and mind to function holistically as the best version of yourself. With innovative techniques in counselling this dynamic therapy practice pioneers the process of counselling in excellence. Happiness prioritized.
087 250 2837 x83 View 087 250 2837 x83
Photo of Thembekile Thobeka Mthembu, MA, HPCSA - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Thembekile Thobeka Mthembu
Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Durban 4001
I offer services in various areas such as trauma and stress related issues, Depression, Anxiety related disorders, Interpersonal difficulties, Adjustment issues, emotional distress, anger and stress management, Grief, and I provide parental guidance.
I am a registered Clinical Psychologist. I worked as a Social Worker for five years in the mental health sector prior to enrolling for my Masters in Clinical Psychology. I am able to provide a safe and professional space for individuals where we can both develop a therapeutic alliance. I work with various mental health conditions and psychological themes. My Social Work background helps me to have a better understanding of psychosocial issues which may have an impact on our mental health. I have experience working with individuals across the lifespan.
I offer services in various areas such as trauma and stress related issues, Depression, Anxiety related disorders, Interpersonal difficulties, Adjustment issues, emotional distress, anger and stress management, Grief, and I provide parental guidance.
I am a registered Clinical Psychologist. I worked as a Social Worker for five years in the mental health sector prior to enrolling for my Masters in Clinical Psychology. I am able to provide a safe and professional space for individuals where we can both develop a therapeutic alliance. I work with various mental health conditions and psychological themes. My Social Work background helps me to have a better understanding of psychosocial issues which may have an impact on our mental health. I have experience working with individuals across the lifespan.
087 250 2219 x65 View 087 250 2219 x65
Photo of Thokozani Sithole, MSocSci, HPCSA - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Thokozani Sithole
Psychologist, MSocSci, HPCSA - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Durban 4000
I hope to assist people with a vast range of difficulties such as depression, anxiety, adjustment difficulties, trauma and loss, life challenges, career difficulties and other life stage challenges.
Thokozani Sithole is a Counselling Psychologist registered with Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) and the Board of Healthcare Funders (BHF). I hold a Masters degree in Counselling Psychology from the University of KwaZulu-Natal and a Postgraduate Diploma in HIV and AIDS Management from the Stellenbosch University. I am currently pursuing a Doctoral degree in Consulting Psychology from the University of South Africa. I started working as a Psychologist in the year 2014.
I hope to assist people with a vast range of difficulties such as depression, anxiety, adjustment difficulties, trauma and loss, life challenges, career difficulties and other life stage challenges.
Thokozani Sithole is a Counselling Psychologist registered with Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) and the Board of Healthcare Funders (BHF). I hold a Masters degree in Counselling Psychology from the University of KwaZulu-Natal and a Postgraduate Diploma in HIV and AIDS Management from the Stellenbosch University. I am currently pursuing a Doctoral degree in Consulting Psychology from the University of South Africa. I started working as a Psychologist in the year 2014.
087 250 0160 x17 View 087 250 0160 x17
Photo of Ayesha Abdullah, General Counsellor
Ayesha Abdullah
General Counsellor
Verified Verified
Durban 4000  (Online Only)
I am a Specialist Wellness Counsellor that journeys with individuals, couples and families though depression; anxiety; loss and grief; addiction; adjustment struggles; conflict; disease management; trauma; abuse; victim empowerment and many others.
Life is tough, sometimes very tough. Us, as human beings often forget to take care of the most basic of our needs in favor of immediate responsibilities and often put off the things that fuel us - when our fuel runs out, we are left with the wreckage and very little motivation to pick up those pieces. The healing journey offers a space to recuperate and learn to know and love ourselves again and to remember that sometimes its okay to not be okay. I journey with those who come see me, and noting is more beautiful and rewarding for to see someone transform their lives into something they have always wanted.
I am a Specialist Wellness Counsellor that journeys with individuals, couples and families though depression; anxiety; loss and grief; addiction; adjustment struggles; conflict; disease management; trauma; abuse; victim empowerment and many others.
Life is tough, sometimes very tough. Us, as human beings often forget to take care of the most basic of our needs in favor of immediate responsibilities and often put off the things that fuel us - when our fuel runs out, we are left with the wreckage and very little motivation to pick up those pieces. The healing journey offers a space to recuperate and learn to know and love ourselves again and to remember that sometimes its okay to not be okay. I journey with those who come see me, and noting is more beautiful and rewarding for to see someone transform their lives into something they have always wanted.
087 250 0719 x56 View 087 250 0719 x56
Photo of James Olmesdahl, MSocSci, HPCSA - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
James Olmesdahl
Psychologist, MSocSci, HPCSA - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Durban 4000
Focus areas: anxiety; depression; suicide; trauma; bereavement; fears/phobias; adjustment to life changes; stress management; anger management; HIV/AIDS counselling; sexual identity issues; marriage/relationship difficulties, divorce.
I am a Counselling Psychologist who has been in private practice since 2010. I work with a wide array of problems affecting individuals, relationships and marriages. I work eclectically drawing on a number of different theoretical approaches so as to find a good ‘fit’ between what a client presents in a session and an approach I believe they will find most beneficial.
Focus areas: anxiety; depression; suicide; trauma; bereavement; fears/phobias; adjustment to life changes; stress management; anger management; HIV/AIDS counselling; sexual identity issues; marriage/relationship difficulties, divorce.
I am a Counselling Psychologist who has been in private practice since 2010. I work with a wide array of problems affecting individuals, relationships and marriages. I work eclectically drawing on a number of different theoretical approaches so as to find a good ‘fit’ between what a client presents in a session and an approach I believe they will find most beneficial.
087 250 2910 x19 View 087 250 2910 x19
Photo of Pierre West, General Counsellor
Pierre West
General Counsellor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durban 4000
Restoring Wholeness is committed to enhancing overall well-being through counselling services that integrate the interconnected aspects of life—body, mind, and spirit. Whether facing personal challenges, relationship issues, trauma, or seeking personal growth, support is provided with the goal of assisting as effectively as possible. The focus is on treating the whole person, acknowledging the intricate connections between physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Restoring Wholeness offers wellness counselling that addresses mental health support and emotional well-being to help individuals navigate life's challenges.
Restoring Wholeness is committed to enhancing overall well-being through counselling services that integrate the interconnected aspects of life—body, mind, and spirit. Whether facing personal challenges, relationship issues, trauma, or seeking personal growth, support is provided with the goal of assisting as effectively as possible. The focus is on treating the whole person, acknowledging the intricate connections between physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Restoring Wholeness offers wellness counselling that addresses mental health support and emotional well-being to help individuals navigate life's challenges.
087 250 2042 x55 View 087 250 2042 x55
Photo of John Ernest Campbell - John Campbell Counselling (In person and online), General Counsellor
John Campbell Counselling (In person and online)
General Counsellor
Verified Verified
Durban 4001
With narcissism, someone who has not experienced the trauma and stress that you are feeling, especially after narcissistic abuse, will never truly know what it is that you are going through.
www.jccounselling.co.za I’m not going to help you to identify a broken relationship…you already know what a broken relationship is. I’m going to help you to identify the mixed emotions that you are feeling and teach you skills and methods to deal with them…and with your relationship. What are the deep needs and cravings you want to fulfill? Well this is exactly where I can help you. I’m going to help you to find what you are looking for and to do so without losing respect for yourself or others. Gain admiration rather than resentment from your partner! I am a compassionate marriage and relationship counsellor. "I'm listening."
With narcissism, someone who has not experienced the trauma and stress that you are feeling, especially after narcissistic abuse, will never truly know what it is that you are going through.
www.jccounselling.co.za I’m not going to help you to identify a broken relationship…you already know what a broken relationship is. I’m going to help you to identify the mixed emotions that you are feeling and teach you skills and methods to deal with them…and with your relationship. What are the deep needs and cravings you want to fulfill? Well this is exactly where I can help you. I’m going to help you to find what you are looking for and to do so without losing respect for yourself or others. Gain admiration rather than resentment from your partner! I am a compassionate marriage and relationship counsellor. "I'm listening."
087 250 2464 x91 View 087 250 2464 x91
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See more therapy options for Durban

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.