Trauma and PTSD
Traumatic events can be difficult to come to terms with and the best support for you would be a blend of different approaches and techniques. It is equally as important to find a Trauma therapist who makes you feel comfortable and safe, so there is no additional fear or anxiety about the counselling you are about to begin. Finding a therapist who is trauma trained, also known as Trauma Informed, will help you get the most out of your sessions.
I have worked in trauma therapy for over three years, including time spent working with a sexual assault charity here in Milton Keynes. I continue to prioritise ongoing training in order to develop and strengthen the trauma support I offer to my clients. More recently, much of my work has focused on supporting clients with childhood trauma, helping them to understand how early experiences can shape patterns in adulthood and where these patterns stem from.
Symptoms of Trauma and PTSD include
- poor sleep
- flashbacks
- panic attacks
- feeling like you’re always on the outside looking in.
Living with Trauma and PTSD can impact all aspects of life.
Experiences can be felt in the mind and in the body. If we don’t completely remember what happened, the body still does.
Exploring these experiences and the complex emotions that come with them can lead to a reduction in symptoms and feeling like life is manageable again.
Frequently asked Questions
It can be difficult to start working through something you have spent time avoiding. So here are some frequently asked questions that may help get you started;
Do you use a trauma-informed approach? What does that mean for my sessions?
Trauma informed practice means focusing on “what has happened” to a person rather than “what’s wrong with a person”. I offer a range of techniques and approaches to suit your trauma recovery process. In your initial sessions I will discuss with you what that process may look like, in order for you to feel safe in exploring your trauma.
I’m not sure where to start — is that okay?
Sure! I can ask you open questions that will help get the session started. Some clients have a lot to say and spend a few sessions just off loading everything they have kept inside. Others need more time and support to feel comfortable. Both are ok places to be when getting started.
Will I be expected to talk about the trauma right away?
No! Trauma Informed Practice means working at your pace, in a way you feel comfortable with. Even if you start talking about something and find it too much you can stop and talk about something else. Working through trauma takes time and I will be patient and compassionate throughout the process.
Will you teach me grounding or coping techniques before we get into the trauma itself?
Yes! It is important you feel safe before starting to delve deeper into For you to get a sense of safety in the therapy room it will be helpful to understand which coping techniques you prefer. It can also give you reassurance that I can support you if it gets too much.
What happens if I need to pause or take a break from trauma work?
We pause! Part of working at your pace means listening when you feel its time to take a break In trauma work it can be helpful to pause and give you time to implement some of the strategies and to process everything so far.