How Long Does Therapy Take? What to Expect from Trauma Therapy

The length of therapy varies based on your situation, the type of therapy, and your goals. I'm Dr. Kelly Zanetich, a licensed psychologist in Montclair, NJ, specializing in Attachment-Focused EMDR, Internal Family Systems, and somatic therapy.

"How long will this take?" is one of the most common questions I hear during consultation calls. The honest answer? It depends, but research gives us helpful guidelines.

What Affects How Long Therapy Takes?

 

Your Goals: Processing a specific traumatic event differs from working through complex childhood trauma or long-standing relationship patterns.

The Type of Therapy: Different approaches work at different paces. EMDR often requires fewer sessions than traditional therapy for PTSD.

Where You're Starting From: Your current distress level, support system, and previous therapy experience all influence timeline.

Session Frequency: Research shows weekly sessions are most effective, especially during the initial treatment phase (Cuijpers et al., 2013).

Your Therapist's Experience: At this stage in my career, with 15+ years of experience and extensive training in specialized trauma modalities, I find that clients feel better and see change more quickly, often shortening the overall length of therapy.

Realistic Timelines for Different Approaches

 

Attachment-Focused EMDR (AF-EMDR)

The VA National Center for PTSD indicates that EMDR typically involves weekly 60-90 minute sessions over approximately 3 months (VA/DoD, 2023).

 

For single-event trauma: Research shows many people experience significant relief in 3-8 sessions after the preparation phase. One study found 100% of single-trauma victims no longer met PTSD criteria after six 50-minute EMDR sessions (Shapiro, 2014).

 

For complex trauma: This typically requires several months to a year or more. We're not just processing individual memories; we're addressing patterns developed over time.

Internal Family Systems (IFS)

IFS therapy helps you develop relationships with different parts of yourself. Many people begin experiencing relief within the first few months, though deeper healing often unfolds over a year or more.

Somatic Therapy

Somatic approaches focus on nervous system regulation. For recent events, relief can come within weeks to months. For developmental trauma, building new patterns typically requires several months.

Frequently Asked Questions

 

How long does EMDR therapy take for PTSD?

For single-event trauma, many people see significant improvement in 3-8 sessions. For complex PTSD, treatment typically extends to several months or a year (VA National Center for PTSD, 2023).

 

How many therapy sessions do I need?

Research shows approximately 50% of people improve by session 8, and 75% by session 26 (Howard et al., 1986). This varies based on what you're working on—some achieve goals in 8-12 sessions, others benefit from 20-30+ sessions.

 

What if I don't feel better after a few sessions?

This is normal, especially with trauma therapy. Treatment often involves an initial period of increased distress as you address avoided material. You should feel we're working toward something meaningful. If you feel stuck after 6-8 sessions, we can adjust our approach.

 

How often should I go to therapy?

Research strongly supports weekly sessions during the initial treatment phase. Most people start weekly, then space out to biweekly and monthly as symptoms improve.

 

Does online therapy take longer than in-person?

No. Research on EMDR shows both formats are equally effective (Fairbanks et al., 2025). Timeline depends on the type of therapy and your situation, not the delivery format.

 

Getting Started

If you're considering therapy, schedule a consultation. We can discuss what you're dealing with, which approaches might help, and what a realistic timeline looks like for your situation.

I work with adults dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. I offer in-person therapy in Montclair, NJ and online therapy for clients throughout New Jersey and New York. My approach is trauma-informed, LGBTQ+ affirming, and tailored to your needs.

Contact: (201) 335-0454 | kellyzanetichphd@gmail.com | kellyzanetichphd.com

 

About: Dr. Kelly Zanetich is a licensed psychologist in Montclair, NJ specializing in trauma therapy with advanced training in Attachment-Focused EMDR, IFS (Level 2), and Somatic Experiencing.

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REFERENCES

Cuijpers, P., et al. (2013). Journal of Affective Disorders, 149(1-3), 1-13.

Fairbanks, J., et al. (2025). EMDR therapy effectiveness. PTSD: National Center for PTSD.

Howard, K. I., et al. (1986). American Psychologist, 41(2), 159-164.

Shapiro, F. (2014). The Permanente Journal, 18(1), 71-77.

VA/DoD. (2023). Clinical Practice Guideline for PTSD.

Postpartum Anxiety vs Postpartum Depression: What New Moms Need to Know

About 1 in 5 new moms experience postpartum anxiety, and 75% of those also have postpartum depression. The key difference? Anxiety shows up as constant worry, racing thoughts, and physical symptoms like a pounding heart. Depression shows up as overwhelming sadness, hopelessness, and feeling disconnected from your baby. Both are treatable with therapy and support—you're not alone, and you didn't cause this.

If you're a new mom reading this at 2 AM because you can't sleep even though your baby is finally sleeping, or if you've been crying for days and can't figure out why—I want you to know something: what you're experiencing is real, it's common, and it's not your fault.

Research shows that about 1 in 5 women experience postpartum anxiety, and up to 1 in 5 experience postpartum depression. What's more, 75% of women with anxiety also experience depression symptoms at the same time. The two conditions overlap so much that many new moms can't tell which one they have—or if they have both.

What's the Actual Difference?

Here's the clearest way I can explain it: postpartum anxiety is when your mind won't stop racing with what-if scenarios. Postpartum depression is when you feel like you're moving through thick fog and can't connect with the joy you thought you'd feel.

With anxiety, your body feels like it's in constant alarm mode—racing heart, shortness of breath, can't sit still, checking on the baby obsessively. With depression, you might feel exhausted no matter how much you sleep, cry for no clear reason, or feel numb when you expected to feel love.

Signs You Might Have Postpartum Anxiety

Postpartum anxiety often looks like:

• Constant, overwhelming worry about your baby's health or safety—even when everything is fine

• Racing thoughts that won't turn off, especially at night

• Physical symptoms: pounding heart, shortness of breath, dizziness, nausea, muscle tension

• Panic attacks—sudden episodes of intense fear with chest pain and feeling like you're going to die

• Intrusive, scary thoughts about something bad happening to your baby

• Trouble sleeping even when the baby is sleeping

• Constantly checking things (Is the baby breathing? Did I lock the door? Is the bottle the right temperature?)

• Feeling like you can never relax or that something terrible is about to happen

About 20% of new moms experience postpartum anxiety, and it's often worse at night when the house is quiet and your mind has space to spiral.

Signs You Might Have Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression often looks like:

• Persistent sadness, hopelessness, or feeling empty—even when good things happen

• Feeling disconnected from your baby or like you're just going through the motions

• Crying frequently, sometimes for no clear reason

• Exhaustion that doesn't improve with rest

• Loss of interest in things you used to enjoy

• Changes in appetite—eating much more or much less than usual

• Feeling like you're a bad mother or that your baby would be better off without you

• Thoughts of harming yourself (if you're having these thoughts, please reach out for help immediately)

Postpartum depression affects approximately 1 in 5 women, and diagnosis rates have doubled from 9.4% in 2010 to 19% in 2021—not because more women are struggling, but because we're finally recognizing and naming it.

Can You Have Both at the Same Time?

Yes—and it's extremely common. Research shows that 75% of women with postpartum anxiety also experience depression symptoms. And about 35% of women with anxiety symptoms also have postpartum depression.

This overlap makes sense when you think about it: constant worry (anxiety) is exhausting, and exhaustion can lead to feeling hopeless (depression). Or, feeling sad and disconnected (depression) can trigger worries about whether you're a good enough mother (anxiety).

The good news? Effective treatment often addresses both conditions at the same time.

What Causes These Conditions?

After you give birth, your estrogen and progesterone levels drop dramatically—like falling off a cliff. This hormonal shift, combined with sleep deprivation, the stress of caring for a newborn, and the massive life change you just went through, creates the perfect storm for anxiety and depression.

You're at higher risk if you:

• Have a history of anxiety or depression

• Had a difficult pregnancy or traumatic birth experience

• Don't have strong support from your partner, family, or friends

• Are dealing with financial stress or relationship problems

• Had a preterm birth or your baby has health issues

But here's what's important: even if none of these apply to you, you can still develop postpartum anxiety or depression. It's not about doing something wrong—it's about biology, hormones, and life circumstances colliding.

How Are They Treated?

Both postpartum anxiety and postpartum depression are highly treatable. In my practice, I've seen new moms feel significantly better within weeks of starting treatment—and I want that for you, too.

Treatment usually includes:

Therapy: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of the most effective treatments. It helps you identify anxious or depressive thought patterns and replace them with more balanced, realistic ones. For trauma-related symptoms (especially if you had a difficult birth), EMDR therapy can help process the experience and reduce anxiety.

Medication: SSRIs (antidepressants) are often prescribed and are considered safe while breastfeeding. They work for both anxiety and depression. Research shows that 88% of women respond well to medication for postpartum anxiety and depression.

Support: New moms groups, asking for help from your partner or family, and prioritizing sleep (even if it means someone else feeds the baby) can make a huge difference.

Self-care: Movement (even a 10-minute walk), eating regular meals, and getting outside can help regulate your nervous system.

In my 15+ years working with new moms in Montclair, NJ and online across New Jersey and New York, I've used specialized approaches like Attachment-Focused EMDR, somatic therapy, and Internal Family Systems (IFS) to help women feel like themselves again. These methods are especially helpful when anxiety or trauma is stored in the body.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this the same as the 'baby blues'?

No. The baby blues affect up to 80% of new moms and involve mood swings, crying, and feeling overwhelmed—but it goes away on its own within two weeks. Postpartum anxiety and depression last longer, feel more intense, and interfere with your daily life. If you're still struggling after two weeks, it's time to get help.

When do symptoms usually start?

Postpartum anxiety and depression can start anytime within the first year after giving birth. For some women, symptoms appear immediately. For others, they develop gradually over weeks or months. About 40% of depressive episodes begin during the postpartum period, and nearly 60% of women with depression at 9-10 months didn't have symptoms earlier.

 

Will I feel this way forever?

No. With treatment, most women feel significantly better within 6-8 weeks. Postpartum depression typically lasts 3-6 months if untreated, but with therapy and support, recovery is much faster. You will feel like yourself again.

What if I'm having scary thoughts about my baby?

Intrusive thoughts about harm coming to your baby are extremely common with postpartum anxiety—about 70% of new parents have them. These thoughts are upsetting, but they're a symptom of anxiety, not a desire to hurt your baby. If you're having these thoughts, please talk to a therapist who specializes in perinatal mental health. The thoughts will decrease with treatment.

Can dads and partners experience this too?

Yes. About 10% of new fathers experience postpartum depression, and partners of all genders can experience anxiety and depression after a new baby arrives. The stress, sleep deprivation, and life adjustment affect everyone in the household.

You Don't Have to Do This Alone

If any of this sounds familiar, please reach out for help. Postpartum anxiety and postpartum depression are not your fault, they don't mean you're a bad mother, and they're completely treatable.

I'm Dr. Kelly Zanetich, a licensed psychologist specializing in perinatal mental health with over 15 years of experience working with new moms. I offer in-person therapy in Montclair, NJ and online therapy throughout New Jersey, New York, and PsyPact states. I use evidence-based approaches like EMDR, somatic therapy, and IFS to help you feel like yourself again.

If you're ready to get support, you can schedule a free consultation on my website or reach out directly. The sooner you reach out, the sooner you can start feeling better.

References:

Policy Center for Maternal Mental Health (2025). Maternal mental health fact sheet.
National Institutes of Health (2025). Perinatal depression. StatPearls.
Postpartum Depression Organization (2025). Postpartum depression statistics.
Journal of Clinical Medicine (2025). Postpartum depression epidemiology, risk factors, diagnosis, and management.
Skoko et al. (2020). Anxiety during pregnancy and postpartum: Course, predictors and comorbidity with postpartum depression. PMC.
CDC (2023). Timing of postpartum depressive symptoms.
Farr et al. (2014). Postpartum anxiety and comorbid depression in a population-based sample of women. PMC.
MGH Center for Women's Mental Health (2025). Postpartum depression with comorbid anxiety: Optimizing treatment.

What’s the Most Effective Therapy for Childhood Trauma?

Unfortunately, childhood trauma usually doesn’t just fade with time. Whether it stems from abuse, neglect, household dysfunction, or other adverse experiences, unresolved trauma can affect your mental health, relationships, and overall well-being well into adulthood.

The good news? Effective trauma therapy can help you process these experiences, develop healthier coping strategies, and reclaim your sense of safety and control. As a licensed psychologist specializing in trauma treatment in Montclair, NJ, I’ve seen firsthand how the right therapeutic approach can transform lives.

In this article, I’ll explain effective therapies for childhood trauma and help you understand which approach might be right for you.

Key Takeaways: Effective Childhood Trauma Therapies

  • Attachment-Focused EMDR (AF-EMDR) helps reprocess traumatic memories while addressing attachment wounds

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on shifting beliefs that contributing to anxiety and depression stemming from trauma

  • Somatic therapy addresses trauma stored in the body

  • Internal Family Systems (IFS) helps understand and heal different parts of yourself affected by trauma

Understanding Childhood Trauma and Its Impact

Childhood trauma can result from a range of adverse experiences, including:

  • Physical, emotional, or sexual abuse

  • Neglect or abandonment

  • Household dysfunction (domestic violence, substance abuse, mental illness)

  • Bullying or peer victimization

  • Loss of a parent or caregiver

  • Witnessing violence or other traumatic events

These experiences can disrupt normal development and affect how you form relationships, regulate emotions, and perceive yourself and the world around you. Some common long-term effects include:

  • Chronic anxiety or depression

  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

  • Difficulty trusting others or forming secure attachments

  • Low self-esteem and negative self-image

  • Hypervigilance or feeling constantly on edge

  • Physical symptoms like chronic pain, digestive issues, or tension

1. Attachment-Focused EMDR (AF-EMDR) for Childhood Trauma

Attachment-Focused Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (AF-EMDR) is a specialized form of EMDR therapy specifically designed to address childhood trauma and attachment wounds.

How AF-EMDR Works

AF-EMDR helps your brain reprocess traumatic memories that have become ‘stuck,’ while also addressing the attachment disruptions that often occur with childhood trauma. During AF-EMDR sessions, you focus on a traumatic memory while engaging in bilateral stimulation (typically eye movements, but sometimes tapping or auditory tones). This process helps your brain integrate the traumatic experience in a healthier way, reducing its emotional charge.

What makes AF-EMDR particularly effective for childhood trauma is its focus on attachment. Many childhood traumas involve disruptions in the relationship with caregivers—the very people who we needed to provide safety and security. AF-EMDR addresses both the traumatic events and the attachment wounds that resulted.

Unlike traditional talk therapy, AF-EMDR doesn’t require you to describe your trauma in detail or relive it extensively. This makes it particularly effective for people who have difficulty talking about their experiences.

Why AF-EMDR Works for Childhood Trauma

  • Targets attachment wounds: AF-EMDR specifically addresses the relational injuries that occur during childhood trauma

  • Addresses the root cause: AF-EMDR targets the traumatic memories themselves, not just the symptoms

  • Faster results: I find many clients experience significant improvement in fewer sessions than traditional talk therapy

  • Less re-traumatization: You don’t have to repeatedly describe painful details

  • Repair work: Helps develop earned secure attachment even when early attachment was disrupted

2. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is highly effective for addressing the anxiety and depression that often result from childhood trauma.

How CBT Addresses Trauma

CBT helps you identify and change negative thought patterns that developed as a result of trauma. For example, if childhood abuse led you to believe ‘I’m worthless’ or ‘I can’t trust anyone,’ CBT helps you investigate and replace these beliefs with more balanced, realistic thoughts.

Through CBT, you’ll learn:

  • How your thoughts influence your emotions and behaviors

  • Practical coping strategies for managing anxiety and depression

  • How to gradually face situations you’ve been avoiding due to trauma

  • Techniques for regulating difficult emotions

3. Somatic Therapy: Healing Trauma Stored in the Body

Somatic therapy recognizes that trauma isn’t just stored in our minds—it’s also held in our bodies. If you experience chronic tension, pain, digestive issues, or feel disconnected from your body, somatic approaches can be particularly helpful.

How Somatic Therapy Addresses Childhood Trauma

Somatic therapy uses body-centered techniques to help you:

  • Become aware of physical sensations related to trauma

  • Release trauma held in the nervous system

  • Develop a healthier relationship with your body

  • Regulate your nervous system and reduce hypervigilance

4. Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy

Internal Family Systems (IFS) is an approach that views the mind as containing different ‘parts,’ each with its own perspective and role. Childhood trauma often creates protective parts that are trying to keep you safe but are also causing problems in adulthood due to overworking or having become more extreme than they need to be.

How IFS Helps with Childhood Trauma

IFS helps you:

  • Understand different parts of yourself (the wounded child part, the protective critic, etc.)

  • Develop compassion for parts of yourself

  • Heal the parts that carry trauma from childhood

  • Access your core ‘Self’ that can lead the healing process

How to Choose the Right Therapy for Your Childhood Trauma

The most effective therapy for childhood trauma depends on several factors:

Your specific symptoms: If you have clear PTSD symptoms, AF-EMDR may be most effective. If anxiety and depression are primary concerns, CBT might be the better starting point

Your comfort level: Some people prefer talk-based approaches, while others find body-centered or experiential methods more helpful

Physical symptoms: If trauma manifests primarily in your body, somatic therapy may be essential

Attachment concerns: If you struggle with relationships and trust, AF-EMDR’s focus on attachment repair can be particularly helpful

Many therapists, including myself, integrate multiple approaches based on your unique needs. You don’t have to choose just one—we can combine techniques to create the most effective treatment plan for you.

Getting Help for Childhood Trauma in Montclair, NJ

If you’re ready to address childhood trauma and its impact on your life, I’m here to help. As a licensed psychologist specializing in trauma therapy, I work with adults who are ready to heal from their past and build a healthier future.

In my practice, I use a personalized approach that may include Attachment-Focused EMDR, somatic therapy, IFS, and CBT tailored to your specific needs and goals. I create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can process your experiences at your own pace.

My approach is:

  • Trauma-informed and client-centered

  • LGBTQ+ affirming

  • Culturally responsive

  • Grounded in compassion and respect for your unique healing journey

I offer both in-person sessions in Montclair, NJ, and secure online therapy for clients throughout New Jersey and New York.

Ready to take the first step toward healing? Contact me today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how trauma therapy can help you move forward.

Frequently Asked Questions About Childhood Trauma Therapy

What are the most common causes of childhood trauma?

Childhood trauma commonly results from physical, emotional, or sexual abuse; neglect; household dysfunction (including domestic violence, substance abuse, or parental mental illness); bullying; loss of a caregiver; or witnessing violence. Any experience that overwhelms a child’s ability to cope can be traumatic.

How does childhood trauma affect you as an adult?

Childhood trauma can affect adult life in numerous ways, including difficulty forming and maintaining relationships, chronic anxiety or depression, low self-esteem, hypervigilance, difficulty regulating emotions, trust issues, and physical health problems. You may also find yourself avoiding situations that remind you of the trauma or feeling emotionally numb.

How long does childhood trauma therapy take?

The length of therapy varies significantly based on the severity of trauma, your current symptoms, and the therapeutic approach used. Some people experience meaningful improvement within 3-6 months, while others benefit from longer-term therapy. AF-EMDR therapy, for example, often produces results more quickly than traditional talk therapy. We’ll work together to create a treatment plan that fits your needs and goals.

Do I need therapy if my childhood trauma happened a long time ago?

Yes. The passage of time alone doesn’t heal trauma. If your childhood experiences continue to affect your mental health, relationships, or quality of life, therapy can help you process these experiences and reduce their ongoing impact. It’s never too late to heal.

Will I have to describe my trauma in detail during therapy?

Not necessarily. While some therapeutic approaches involve discussing your trauma, methods like AF-EMDR allow you to process traumatic memories without describing them in extensive detail. We’ll work at a pace that feels safe and manageable for you, and you’re always in control of how much you share.

Can therapy really help with childhood trauma, or will I always feel this way?

Absolutely, therapy can help. While you can’t change what happened in your past, trauma therapies can significantly reduce symptoms, improve your quality of life, and help you develop healthier coping strategies. Many of my clients report feeling more at peace, having better relationships, and experiencing a greater sense of control over their lives after trauma therapy.

How do I know if I’m ready for trauma therapy?

If childhood trauma is affecting your current life—your relationships, mental health, ability to function, or sense of well-being—you’re ready. You don’t need to wait until you’re in crisis. The fact that you’re asking this question suggests you’re already considering making a positive change. A consultation can help you determine if now is the right time and which approach might work best for you.

Ready to Start Healing from Childhood Trauma?

Dr. Kelly Zanetich is a licensed psychologist in Montclair, NJ, specializing in trauma therapy using Attachment-Focused EMDR, somatic therapy, IFS, and CBT.

📍 In-person therapy in Montclair, NJ

Schedule your consultation: www.kellyzanetichphd.com/contact