Trauma, PTSD and C-PTSD

When the past still feels present

Trauma can affect how safe you feel in your own body, your relationships and the world around you. You might experience flashbacks, nightmares, intrusive memories, feeling constantly on edge, emotional numbness, shame or a strong need to avoid anything that reminds you of what happened. You may also feel exhausted, disconnected from yourself or find that certain situations trigger reactions that seem bigger than you expected.

For children and teenagers, trauma can look different. They may become more withdrawn, angry or anxious, struggle with sleep, have difficulties at school or react strongly to situations that others don't understand. Their behaviour can be a way of communicating that something doesn't feel safe.

How can CBT help?

Trauma therapy needs to feel safe and collaborative. I'll work at a pace that feels manageable for you, using CBT approaches alongside my wider clinical experience. I'm also trained in the FLASH Technique, which can provide a gentler way of beginning to work with traumatic memories for some people.

Having worked extensively with trauma across inpatient, crisis, CAMHS and forensic settings, I understand the importance of building trust and helping you feel in control of the process. Therapy is never about forcing you to revisit trauma before you're ready.

What could change?

The goal isn't to erase what happened. It's to help the past have less control over your present.

With the right support, you may find that memories feel less overwhelming, avoidance reduces, your body feels safer and you have more freedom to connect with yourself, other people and the life you want.

Take the first step when you're ready

You don't need to know exactly what you need from therapy before getting in touch. A free, confidential consultation gives us the opportunity to talk about what's been happening, answer any questions you have and explore whether I could be the right person to support you.