Trauma counselling
Trauma can continue to affect the body, emotions and relationships long after the immediate danger has passed.
When the past continues to feel present
People use the word trauma to describe many different experiences. Trauma may follow a single event, such as an accident, assault, sudden loss or frightening medical experience. It can also arise from repeated or prolonged experiences, including abuse, neglect, coercive relationships, family violence or growing up in an unpredictable environment.
Not every painful or frightening experience leads to lasting trauma. People respond differently depending on the circumstances, their earlier experiences, the support available to them and the meaning the event holds.
When an experience has not been fully processed, reminders may cause intense emotional or physical reactions. You may experience intrusive memories, nightmares, anxiety, numbness, irritability or a sense of being constantly alert to danger. You may avoid particular places, people, conversations or activities because they trigger distress.
Trauma can also affect trust, self-worth and relationships. You may find it difficult to feel safe with other people, express your needs or understand why particular situations produce such a strong response. Sometimes the connection between present difficulties and past experiences is not immediately apparent.
These responses are not signs of weakness. They can reflect ways in which the mind and body have tried to protect you from experiences that felt overwhelming at the time.
How counselling can help
Trauma counselling should proceed at a pace that feels manageable for you. You will not be required to disclose every detail of an experience before you are ready.
I provide a calm and supportive environment in which we can understand how past experiences are affecting your present life. Initial work may focus on safety, emotional regulation and helping you feel more able to manage distress before directly processing traumatic memories.
Depending on your circumstances, counselling may help you to:
- understand your emotional and physical responses to trauma;
- recognise triggers and develop ways to manage them;
- reduce feelings of shame or self-blame;
- strengthen your sense of safety and personal control;
- manage intrusive memories, nightmares or heightened alertness;
- reconnect with emotions that have become difficult to access;
- develop boundaries that support healthier relationships;
- understand survival responses such as avoidance, freezing or people-pleasing;
- process traumatic memories when you are ready; or
- rebuild confidence, connection and a sense of possibility.
Alongside talk therapy and other counselling approaches, I have training in Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing, commonly known as EMDR. Where appropriate, we can discuss whether EMDR may be suitable as part of your counselling.
Living with greater safety and freedom
Trauma can make your world feel unpredictable and restricted. Counselling cannot change what happened, but it can help reduce the extent to which the past continues to control your present.
With appropriate support, it is possible to develop greater stability, reconnect with yourself and others, and live with less fear, anxiety and emotional distress.
01.
Next Steps & 15-minute free initial consultation.
Discover if we are a good fit
02.
Book Your Counselling Sessions
I meet with clients in person or online and have some availability to meet during evenings and weekends. I suggest in person meetings, at least initially, if possible.
03.
Results
Practical strategies to deal with trauma.