Written by Luisa Kos
Table of contents
Understanding trauma & PTSD
Trauma refers to the emotional response to a deeply distressing or disturbing event. It can be caused by a single incident, such as an accident or assault, or develop over time from prolonged exposure to stress, like childhood neglect or abusive relationships.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing trauma. It affects how the brain processes memories, emotions, and stress, often leading to distressing symptoms that interfere with daily life.
Common symptoms of trauma & PTSD
Everyone responds to trauma differently, but common symptoms include:
- Flashbacks or intrusive memories
- Nightmares and sleep disturbances
- Avoidance of people, places, or situations that trigger distressing memories
- Feeling constantly on edge, irritable, or easily startled
- Emotional numbness or detachment from loved ones
- Difficulty concentrating or feeling overwhelmed by emotions
The impact of trauma on mental health
Untreated trauma can have a long-term impact on mental and physical health. It may contribute to anxiety, depression, substance use, and relationship difficulties. Some people also develop complex PTSD (C-PTSD), which involves more persistent emotional and behavioural challenges.
Getting help for trauma & PTSD
Recovery from trauma is possible with the right support. Therapy can help process difficult emotions, reduce distressing symptoms, and develop healthy coping strategies. Common approaches include:
- Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (TF-CBT) – Helps reframe negative thought patterns linked to trauma.
- Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) – A structured therapy that helps the brain reprocess traumatic memories.
- Somatic therapy – Focuses on the body’s response to trauma, helping release stored tension.
- Mindfulness & self-regulation techniques – Reduces stress and promotes emotional stability
PTSD can develop immediately after someone experiences a disturbing event, or it can occur weeks, months or even years later.
Find a trauma therapist
Therapists who can help with Trauma and PTSD
Sarah Edmonds
I am an HCPC-registered Art Psychotherapist and founder of The Small Studio. I specialise in working with bereavement, grief and loss, supporting children, young people and adults. My experience includes various NHS services, community organisations and dedicated bereavement services. I have a further specialism in working with traumatically bereaved clients, including sudden, unexpected or violent deaths. Traumatic grief often brings shock, distress and trauma responses alongside deep loss. My work is always trauma-informed and offers a gentle and carefully held space to process these experiences, at a manageable pace.
Lee Whelan
BACP-registered, CPCAB-qualified integrative counsellor based in West Malling, Kent, with over 25 years of experience working with people in therapeutic environments. He specialises in childhood trauma, substance misuse, and relationship difficulties, bringing a holistic, trauma-informed approach that draws from Person-Centred and Psychodynamic orientations. As the founder of Lee Whelan Holistic Recovery, he has designed holistic drug and alcohol programmes and delivered community health education alongside individual counselling. He offers a free 15-minute initial consultation.
Dr Hanne Warren
Dr Hanne Warren is a Clinical Psychologist in Chislehurst, supporting women in person and online with anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, depression, perinatal mental health and perimenopause. She integrates Compassion-Focused Therapy, ACT and evidence-based approaches, and as founder of Thea Psychology, maintains high clinical standards and careful assessment.
Patricia Almohalla Alvarez
I am a registered Counselling Psychologist and an EMDR Europe Accredited Practitioner, with a mainly humanistic approach informed by Gestalt therapy, CBT, ACT, CFT, and mindfulness. I have several years’ experience working with trauma, including PTSD and complex trauma, and offer sessions in both English and Spanish, online and face to face. My work is warm, compassionate, and tailored to each client’s needs.
Laura Farley
I offer a warm, confidential and non-judgemental space where clients can explore present challenges and understand themselves more clearly. My work is client-led and integrative, drawing on different therapeutic approaches to suit each person’s needs, sometimes including breathing, meditation and visualisation to support the mind–body connection. I have particular experience working with childhood and adolescent trauma, the psychological impact of physical health conditions, psychosexual difficulties, perinatal mental health, and relationship issues, including couples work. My aim is to offer a thoughtful therapeutic relationship that supports deeper understanding and meaningful, lasting change.
Tatiana Mountbatten
Training, qualifications & experience The Counselling and Psychotherapy Training Academy PGDip Therapeutic Counselling (Integrative) PGDip Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Certified Nutritional Health Coach from the Institute for Integrative Nutrition USA Other certified training: · Alcohol misuse · Care planning · Challenging behaviour · Mental capacity · Risk assessments · Safe administration of medicines · Safeguarding of vulnerable adults · Eating disorders · Co-dependency · Suicidality & Grief from suicide
Farah Chowdhury
BACP-registered integrative counsellor and psychotherapist, and the founder of A Space for You Counselling. She works from locations in Kings Cross and West Hampstead in London, and offers outdoor therapy in Mill Hill and online sessions via Zoom. Farah is a South Asian Muslim therapist with a background in publishing, mental health research, and communications, and is a member of the Black, African and Asian Therapy Network (BAATN). Her practice is culturally attuned, anti-oppressive in its foundation, and particularly focused on supporting Global Majority adults with intergenerational trauma, cultural identity, imposter syndrome, complex relationship patterns, burnout, and the psychological impact of racism and discrimination. She brings a relational, integrative approach that treats the therapeutic relationship itself as central to the healing process.
Hannah Jackson-McCamley
I am an experienced psychotherapist with a background in NHS services, including sexual violence, and private practice. I support clients with relationship and sex-related concerns, neurodiversity, anxiety, depression and burnout, with an awareness of how grief and life changes shape emotional experience. I hold a diploma and an MSc in Transactional Analysis psychotherapy from the Metanoia Institute, and I am registered with British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy and UK Council for Psychotherapy. I offer a thoughtful, inclusive and non-judgemental space for individuals and couples to explore and understand themselves more clearly.
Matthew Campling
I am a BACP Accredited therapist with over 30 years’ experience, including a decade writing advice columns and contributing as a guest expert across media. I work with individuals and couples, supporting a wide range of difficulties such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, addiction, ADHD, OCD and the impact of abuse, with particular experience in LGBTQ+ issues. My approach is client-centred with CBT integration, including CBT-i for insomnia, offering a thoughtful, non-judgemental space where we can make sense of your experiences and work towards practical, lasting change.
Zoe Silk
NCPS-accredited counsellor based in Broadstone, Dorset. She is a registered and accredited member of the National Counselling Society, whose register is accredited by the Professional Standards Authority. She offers a peaceful, non-judgemental, confidential therapy space, working collaboratively with clients to find the best way forward for their individual needs.
Treatment for trauma & PTSD
If you are struggling with trauma or PTSD, seeking professional support can be a vital step toward healing. Trauma therapy helps process distressing experiences, reduce symptoms, and develop coping strategies to regain control over your life.
There are several treatment options available, and the best approach will depend on your individual needs. According to the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), talking therapies should be offered as a first-line treatment before medication is considered.
Trauma therapy & counselling
- Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (TF-CBT) – Helps process traumatic memories and change unhelpful thought patterns.
- Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) – Uses guided eye movements to help the brain reprocess distressing memories.
- Somatic therapy – Focuses on how trauma is stored in the body and helps release tension and stress.
- Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT) – Aims to reduce feelings of shame and self-criticism related to trauma.
Speaking with a trauma-informed therapist can help you navigate your healing journey in a supportive and structured way.
Tips for managing trauma & PTSD
Talk to someone
Opening up to a trusted friend, family member, or therapist can help relieve emotional burdens. Feeling heard and supported can make a big difference in processing difficult emotions.
Focus on your breathing
Trauma can make your body feel on high alert. Deep, controlled breathing can activate the body’s relaxation response and help ease feelings of anxiety or panic. Try this simple technique:
- Inhale deeply for four seconds.
- Hold your breath for four seconds.
- Exhale slowly for six seconds.
- Repeat until you feel calmer.
Ground yourself in the present
If flashbacks or intrusive thoughts arise, grounding techniques can help bring you back to the present moment. Try:
- Naming five things you can see, four you can touch, three you can hear, two you can smell, and one you can taste.
- Holding a textured object, such as a stone or fabric, to help reconnect with reality.
Prioritise self-care
Regular exercise, good sleep, a balanced diet, and mindfulness practices can support emotional regulation and overall well-being.
Find a trauma therapist
If trauma or PTSD is affecting your daily life, professional help can be life-changing. Our directory connects you with qualified therapists who specialise in trauma recovery. Start your healing journey today.
Self-Help Strategies for Trauma & PTSD
Keep a Journal
Writing down your thoughts and emotions can help you process trauma and recognise patterns in your triggers. Journaling allows you to track distressing moments, how you responded, and what helped you cope. Be sure to note positive experiences as well—reminders of resilience can reinforce your sense of control and progress.
Practice Mindfulness
Activate the Vagus Nerve
- Deep, slow breathing – inhale for four seconds, exhale for six.
- Cold exposure – splash cold water on your face or take a cold shower.
- Humming or singing – the vibrations help activate the vagus nerve.
- Self-massage – gently massaging the neck and shoulders can promote relaxation.
Stay Active & Nourish Your Body
Explore Holistic Therapies
Complementary therapies such as yoga, meditation, acupuncture, and aromatherapy can support trauma recovery by promoting relaxation and stress relief. If you struggle to unwind, exploring guided sessions or professional treatments may be helpful.
Join a Support Group
Connecting with others who have experienced trauma can provide comfort, validation, and practical coping strategies. Whether in-person or online, support groups create a sense of community and remind you that you’re not alone.
Healing from trauma is a journey, but with the right tools and support, recovery is possible. If you’re struggling, consider speaking to a professional therapist who specialises in trauma and PTSD.
What Should I Look for in a Trauma & PTSD Therapist?
There are no strict laws governing the specific qualifications a therapist must have to treat trauma and PTSD, but choosing a qualified and experienced professional is crucial. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) provides guidelines on effective treatments for PTSD, recommending evidence-based therapies such as Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (TF-CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Therapist:
- Specialisation in Trauma & PTSD – Look for therapists trained in trauma-focused approaches like EMDR, TF-CBT, or somatic therapy.
- Accreditation & Qualifications – Ensure they are registered with a recognised body such as the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) or UK Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP).
- Therapeutic Approach – Different therapies work for different people; ask about their methods and how they align with your needs.
- Experience & Client Reviews – Consider their experience in treating PTSD and, if available, client testimonials.
- Comfort & Connection – A strong therapist-client relationship is key to healing, so trust your instincts about how comfortable you feel.
In the first instance, doctors may recommend self-help resources or support groups. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, professional therapy is advised. In some cases, a combination of therapy and medication may be considered.
Read the full NICE guidelines: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: Management