Trauma and PTSD Counselling in Belfast

Photo of Stuart Eadie - Steadfast Therapy, Counsellor, MSc, MBACP Accred
Steadfast Therapy
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP Accred
Belfast BT4
Further training in EMDR has given me both insight and the foundation necessary to work effectively with those who experience Trauma-related problems.
It has become increasingly apparent in recent years that talking to somebody outside of your family or friendship circle can bring a refreshing perspective to difficult life issues. By providing a therapy space where you can feel heard and accepted without bias, you are encouraged to share and explore those detrimental issues that have prevented you from totally embracing life.
Further training in EMDR has given me both insight and the foundation necessary to work effectively with those who experience Trauma-related problems.
It has become increasingly apparent in recent years that talking to somebody outside of your family or friendship circle can bring a refreshing perspective to difficult life issues. By providing a therapy space where you can feel heard and accepted without bias, you are encouraged to share and explore those detrimental issues that have prevented you from totally embracing life.
028 2502 2466 View 028 2502 2466
Photo of Peter McGowan, Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Peter McGowan
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Belfast BT4
In times of distress, thoughts and feelings can often be confusing and overwhelming. It may seem as though you have lost your way or sense of perspective. You may feel you need to speak to someone simply to get some emotional relief or you may wish to discuss a specific issue which is having an impact on your life. Sometimes it can be difficult to find your voice or even know what the issue is.
In times of distress, thoughts and feelings can often be confusing and overwhelming. It may seem as though you have lost your way or sense of perspective. You may feel you need to speak to someone simply to get some emotional relief or you may wish to discuss a specific issue which is having an impact on your life. Sometimes it can be difficult to find your voice or even know what the issue is.
028 9692 8106 View 028 9692 8106
Photo of Eamonn McVeigh - Eamonn McVeigh Consultant Psychotherapist, Psychotherapist, PNCPS Acc.
Eamonn McVeigh Consultant Psychotherapist
Psychotherapist, PNCPS Acc.
Belfast BT12
I can help you with any Anxiety Disorder such as Panic attacks, PTSD, Depression, Eating disorders, Sleep problems and general health conditions.
Effective, Empathetic, Empowering. Mental ill health treated with care. Providing a Professional Service for your Mental Health needs​. I am a Mental Health Consultant. I provide treatment for Mental ill health conditions. I use CBT, Schema Therapy, Hypnotherapy, EMDR, EFT, Orthomolecular advice and Psychotherapy with Nutritional Guidance. In the first session I will do a full assessment and then offer the best treatment plan for your needs. We will work together on a weekly basis.
I can help you with any Anxiety Disorder such as Panic attacks, PTSD, Depression, Eating disorders, Sleep problems and general health conditions.
Effective, Empathetic, Empowering. Mental ill health treated with care. Providing a Professional Service for your Mental Health needs​. I am a Mental Health Consultant. I provide treatment for Mental ill health conditions. I use CBT, Schema Therapy, Hypnotherapy, EMDR, EFT, Orthomolecular advice and Psychotherapy with Nutritional Guidance. In the first session I will do a full assessment and then offer the best treatment plan for your needs. We will work together on a weekly basis.
028 9694 3608 View 028 9694 3608
Photo of Kathryn Purcell, Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Kathryn Purcell
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Belfast BT4
I have undertaken further professional development in working with childhood trauma and sexual abuse, and working therapeutically with birth trauma so have many tools available for us to use.
If you want to engage with a warm, relational therapist then I believe you might find that with me. You will experience a safe space to explore feelings and your inner world, and you will be with a trained professional who is invested and hopeful for your future.
I have undertaken further professional development in working with childhood trauma and sexual abuse, and working therapeutically with birth trauma so have many tools available for us to use.
If you want to engage with a warm, relational therapist then I believe you might find that with me. You will experience a safe space to explore feelings and your inner world, and you will be with a trained professional who is invested and hopeful for your future.
028 9694 3869 View 028 9694 3869
Photo of Hannah McKimm, Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Hannah McKimm
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Belfast BT15
I support people in the creative industries - TV, film, journalism, the arts etc - as well as those healing from sexual trauma.
With professional training and lived experience, I offer compassionate, body-based support to help you move from surviving to living fully—at your pace, in your own way. Talking alone isn’t enough to heal trauma. We’ll work with the body and nervous system to gently shift what it’s been carrying.
I support people in the creative industries - TV, film, journalism, the arts etc - as well as those healing from sexual trauma.
With professional training and lived experience, I offer compassionate, body-based support to help you move from surviving to living fully—at your pace, in your own way. Talking alone isn’t enough to heal trauma. We’ll work with the body and nervous system to gently shift what it’s been carrying.
028 2044 2055 View 028 2044 2055
Photo of Seán Gallagher, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Seán Gallagher
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Belfast BT15
Waitlist for new clients
As a result of this, I have sought additional training on many topics, such as domestic violence, trauma, and the LGBTQ+ experience in Northern Ireland.
While I am trained integratively, I work mostly psychodynamically. The psychodynamic approach takes nothing for granted, and understands that there is a reason for everything in our mind. In better understanding this, we can make more sense of our lives.
As a result of this, I have sought additional training on many topics, such as domestic violence, trauma, and the LGBTQ+ experience in Northern Ireland.
While I am trained integratively, I work mostly psychodynamically. The psychodynamic approach takes nothing for granted, and understands that there is a reason for everything in our mind. In better understanding this, we can make more sense of our lives.
028 9694 3400 View 028 9694 3400
Photo of Aidan Arkins, Psychotherapist, MA, BACP
Aidan Arkins
Psychotherapist, MA, BACP
1 Endorsed
Belfast BT9
I have 5 years of experience working with a range of issues, including anxiety, loneliness, eating distress, depression, complex trauma, and relationship problems.
My approach is person-centred — therapy begins and ends with you, the person, not a diagnosis. In today’s world, many are given psychiatric labels such as anxiety disorder or borderline personality disorder. While these can bring understanding, they can also make us feel broken or defined by struggle.
I have 5 years of experience working with a range of issues, including anxiety, loneliness, eating distress, depression, complex trauma, and relationship problems.
My approach is person-centred — therapy begins and ends with you, the person, not a diagnosis. In today’s world, many are given psychiatric labels such as anxiety disorder or borderline personality disorder. While these can bring understanding, they can also make us feel broken or defined by struggle.
028 9057 1223 View 028 9057 1223
Photo of Mark Rowney, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Mark Rowney
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Belfast BT9
I have a specialism in PTSD and can offer specific treatment for type 1 or type 2 trauma.
I am a BABCP accredited CBT Psychotherapist who has been practising for over 10 years. The main intervention that is employed is CBT however have been trained in Compassion Focused Therapy, DBT and Schema Therapy. The ideal person to work with is one who is motivated and determined to reach their therapeutic goals despite the presentation that they live with. Every person is an expert in their world, and therefore it is always a privilege for them to allow me to explore their difficulties in order to reach solutions that will increase their quality of life
I have a specialism in PTSD and can offer specific treatment for type 1 or type 2 trauma.
I am a BABCP accredited CBT Psychotherapist who has been practising for over 10 years. The main intervention that is employed is CBT however have been trained in Compassion Focused Therapy, DBT and Schema Therapy. The ideal person to work with is one who is motivated and determined to reach their therapeutic goals despite the presentation that they live with. Every person is an expert in their world, and therefore it is always a privilege for them to allow me to explore their difficulties in order to reach solutions that will increase their quality of life
028 9692 8955 View 028 9692 8955
Photo of Charlie McDonald, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Charlie McDonald
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Belfast BT9
I recently completed additional training with Sensorimotor Psychotherapy Institute working with trauma in the body.
My passion is my work, I love being a therapist. I want my clients to feel safe, heard, seen and validated. I work with clients from many different walks of life and with a variety of issues they want to work. Fundamentally you have to understand how your experiences in life have shaped you into the person you are. Genetics, your family system, the external culture and the systems that govern your life; all play a role in how you have learned to cope and function in this world. Anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts tend to make sense when we explore our own stories. You are not broken, you are human
I recently completed additional training with Sensorimotor Psychotherapy Institute working with trauma in the body.
My passion is my work, I love being a therapist. I want my clients to feel safe, heard, seen and validated. I work with clients from many different walks of life and with a variety of issues they want to work. Fundamentally you have to understand how your experiences in life have shaped you into the person you are. Genetics, your family system, the external culture and the systems that govern your life; all play a role in how you have learned to cope and function in this world. Anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts tend to make sense when we explore our own stories. You are not broken, you are human
028 9694 3695 View 028 9694 3695
Photo of Claire Freeman - Claire Freeman Counselling , Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Claire Freeman Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Belfast BT5
You may be viewing this page with a specific issue and not quite sure how to manage it. Through giving yourself time and space to unpack or untangle the issue in counselling, it can help you figure out how to move forward. Every counsellor you work with will offer something unique in the relationship you build. It's important that you find someone you feel you can be open and honest with. My role as your counsellor will be to support you through untangling some of that ‘stuff’ that might be holding you back, becoming a daily struggle or impacting your relationships. I offer a safe, confidential and non judgemental space.
You may be viewing this page with a specific issue and not quite sure how to manage it. Through giving yourself time and space to unpack or untangle the issue in counselling, it can help you figure out how to move forward. Every counsellor you work with will offer something unique in the relationship you build. It's important that you find someone you feel you can be open and honest with. My role as your counsellor will be to support you through untangling some of that ‘stuff’ that might be holding you back, becoming a daily struggle or impacting your relationships. I offer a safe, confidential and non judgemental space.
028 9057 1764 View 028 9057 1764
Photo of Justin Bradley, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Justin Bradley
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Belfast BT9
I am also an EMDR practitioner which is a highly effective treatment which enables the client to reconcile the maladaptive thoughts and feelings connected to Trauma.
Making the decision to come to counselling can be perceived to be a daunting prospect. It is my aim to change this perception and change the unknown into the known, making your journey in counselling an empowering, rewarding and enlightening experience.
I am also an EMDR practitioner which is a highly effective treatment which enables the client to reconcile the maladaptive thoughts and feelings connected to Trauma.
Making the decision to come to counselling can be perceived to be a daunting prospect. It is my aim to change this perception and change the unknown into the known, making your journey in counselling an empowering, rewarding and enlightening experience.
028 9590 8935 View 028 9590 8935
Photo of Steven Dunn, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Steven Dunn
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Online Only
I understand navigating life’s challenges—whether related to anxiety, depression, ADHD, stress, relationship or sexual issues—can be overwhelming. I offer a confidential, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings one-to-one. What sets me apart is my focus on not just your current struggles but also understanding how your past has shaped you. Together, we’ll work through these challenges, helping you build a future that truly excites and motivates you, at a pace that feels right for you. To help you move forward, with clarity, confidence & purpose. For more information visit: www.TheJourneyTherapists. com
I understand navigating life’s challenges—whether related to anxiety, depression, ADHD, stress, relationship or sexual issues—can be overwhelming. I offer a confidential, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings one-to-one. What sets me apart is my focus on not just your current struggles but also understanding how your past has shaped you. Together, we’ll work through these challenges, helping you build a future that truly excites and motivates you, at a pace that feels right for you. To help you move forward, with clarity, confidence & purpose. For more information visit: www.TheJourneyTherapists. com
028 9163 8624 View 028 9163 8624
Photo of Jacqui Charles, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Jacqui Charles
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Belfast BT4
Whether your issues are past trauma, interpersonal relationships, low self-esteem or addiction.
Hi. Welcome to my profile. I am fully qualified counsellor and Sensorimotor Psychotherapist. I work in an integrative way within a humanistic framework. Which simply means drawing upon a range of therapeutic approaches in my work. My therapy is tailored to each persons needs as a unique individual. Always delivered in a caring, non-judgmental empathetic way.
Whether your issues are past trauma, interpersonal relationships, low self-esteem or addiction.
Hi. Welcome to my profile. I am fully qualified counsellor and Sensorimotor Psychotherapist. I work in an integrative way within a humanistic framework. Which simply means drawing upon a range of therapeutic approaches in my work. My therapy is tailored to each persons needs as a unique individual. Always delivered in a caring, non-judgmental empathetic way.
028 9694 3071 View 028 9694 3071
Photo of Marie-Claire Desgranges-Rodgers, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Marie-Claire Desgranges-Rodgers
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Online Only
My background in psychology has deepened my understanding of trauma, particularly Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), and their impact on mind, body, and spirit.
I hold a BSc (Hons) in Psychology and an FdSc in Integrative Therapy, with professional training in Humanistic, Cognitive Behavioural (CBT), and Psychodynamic approaches. My passion lies in the healing potential of the therapeutic relationship, and I deeply value the collaborative nature of this process. I believe that each person is the expert in their own life, and my role is to support and empower you as you explore your experiences and move toward meaningful change. I bring flexibility and creativity to each session, always honouring your values, autonomy, and personal goals.
My background in psychology has deepened my understanding of trauma, particularly Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), and their impact on mind, body, and spirit.
I hold a BSc (Hons) in Psychology and an FdSc in Integrative Therapy, with professional training in Humanistic, Cognitive Behavioural (CBT), and Psychodynamic approaches. My passion lies in the healing potential of the therapeutic relationship, and I deeply value the collaborative nature of this process. I believe that each person is the expert in their own life, and my role is to support and empower you as you explore your experiences and move toward meaningful change. I bring flexibility and creativity to each session, always honouring your values, autonomy, and personal goals.
028 9692 8901 View 028 9692 8901
Photo of Angela Caroline Farrelly - Voyage Counselling NI, Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Voyage Counselling NI
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Belfast BT14
I specialise in trauma-focused counselling and CBT, supporting children, young people, and adults with challenges like worry, anxiety, and low confidence.
As an integrative counsellor with extensive experience, I provide compassionate, tailored support for children, young people, and adults. My approach focuses on understanding your unique circumstances and addressing emotional difficulties, life transitions, or self-confidence struggles. Together, we create a safe environment to explore challenges and work toward meaningful solutions. My goal is to help you build resilience, develop practical coping strategies, and achieve personal growth. I’m here to support you in moving forward with greater clarity, confidence, and well-being, always keeping your needs at the heart of our work.
I specialise in trauma-focused counselling and CBT, supporting children, young people, and adults with challenges like worry, anxiety, and low confidence.
As an integrative counsellor with extensive experience, I provide compassionate, tailored support for children, young people, and adults. My approach focuses on understanding your unique circumstances and addressing emotional difficulties, life transitions, or self-confidence struggles. Together, we create a safe environment to explore challenges and work toward meaningful solutions. My goal is to help you build resilience, develop practical coping strategies, and achieve personal growth. I’m here to support you in moving forward with greater clarity, confidence, and well-being, always keeping your needs at the heart of our work.
028 9124 4750 View 028 9124 4750
Photo of Shane Morrow, Counsellor, MSc, MBACP Accred
Shane Morrow
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP Accred
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I have had extensive experience in working with Adult & Adolescent clients experiencing anxiety, low self esteem, depression, trauma
Often we feel we cannot share issues with family or friends, for fear of impacting these relationships or attempts at being rescued, where all we need is to be listened to. Often we are experiencing emotional turmoil, doubt , guilt, fear or sadness to the point we perceive ourselves as carrying the burden alone. This is the opportunity for you to be heard, to explore and consider solutions and new possibilities for the future in a non-judgemental and collaborative therapeutic relationship. We can explore the past, the present or we can explore future plans and/or work on solutions to current problems.
I have had extensive experience in working with Adult & Adolescent clients experiencing anxiety, low self esteem, depression, trauma
Often we feel we cannot share issues with family or friends, for fear of impacting these relationships or attempts at being rescued, where all we need is to be listened to. Often we are experiencing emotional turmoil, doubt , guilt, fear or sadness to the point we perceive ourselves as carrying the burden alone. This is the opportunity for you to be heard, to explore and consider solutions and new possibilities for the future in a non-judgemental and collaborative therapeutic relationship. We can explore the past, the present or we can explore future plans and/or work on solutions to current problems.
028 9692 8118 View 028 9692 8118
Photo of Ian Atkinson, Counsellor, ACC Reg
Ian Atkinson
Counsellor, ACC Reg
Belfast BT16
I want to help you help you travel the path from trauma to growth.
With years of experience helping people through post traumatic stress, anxiety, depression I get you. I also specialise in sex and porn addictions, problematic sexual behaviours. I am also extremely sensitive to those partners who have have been betrayed through problematic sexual behaviours.
I want to help you help you travel the path from trauma to growth.
With years of experience helping people through post traumatic stress, anxiety, depression I get you. I also specialise in sex and porn addictions, problematic sexual behaviours. I am also extremely sensitive to those partners who have have been betrayed through problematic sexual behaviours.
028 9694 3434 View 028 9694 3434
Photo of Linda Skeats - Oriel CBT Clinic, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Oriel CBT Clinic
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Belfast BT8
Are you experiencing unhelpful thoughts, or engaging in unhelpful behaviours? Would you like to better understand how these have developed, and how you might change them? Are you motivated to make changes in your life, to help maximise your potential and live life to the full?
Are you experiencing unhelpful thoughts, or engaging in unhelpful behaviours? Would you like to better understand how these have developed, and how you might change them? Are you motivated to make changes in your life, to help maximise your potential and live life to the full?
028 9693 1075 View 028 9693 1075
Photo of Edith Izabela Huynh - Psychology and Counselling Centre, Psychologist, MSc, CPsychol
Psychology and Counselling Centre
Psychologist, MSc, CPsychol
Belfast BT14
Hello and welcome, I see you made the first, very important step. You came to realisation you have a problem and that you need professional support. I can help you to specify, name, give a meaning and assist you in your way to recovery of your mental balance while keeping you on the course you chose.I strongly believe that Clients know themselves the best, therefore are the experts of the “knowledge of themselves”; however sometimes they need support to uncover or unblock the inner resources. I encourage taking responsibility for yourself, “can do” attitude to stimulate your mental healing and growth process.
Hello and welcome, I see you made the first, very important step. You came to realisation you have a problem and that you need professional support. I can help you to specify, name, give a meaning and assist you in your way to recovery of your mental balance while keeping you on the course you chose.I strongly believe that Clients know themselves the best, therefore are the experts of the “knowledge of themselves”; however sometimes they need support to uncover or unblock the inner resources. I encourage taking responsibility for yourself, “can do” attitude to stimulate your mental healing and growth process.
028 9163 8320 View 028 9163 8320
Photo of Isabel Mary Stewart, Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
Isabel Mary Stewart
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
Belfast BT11
My particular specialist areas are trauma, addictions and chronic health conditions as well as being a generalist.
I provide a safe, supportive, empathic and therapeutic space and service for those who wish to explore and address any issues and concerns.
My particular specialist areas are trauma, addictions and chronic health conditions as well as being a generalist.
I provide a safe, supportive, empathic and therapeutic space and service for those who wish to explore and address any issues and concerns.
01571 590100 View 01571 590100

See more therapy options for Belfast

Trauma and PTSD Counsellors

When should I seek treatment for trauma?

Not everyone who undergoes trauma needs therapy to heal, but many do. If, after experiencing a traumatic event, you find yourself struggling with symptoms such as nightmares, dissociation, irritability, or emotional numbness—especially if these symptoms last more than a month and are severe enough to interfere with your daily functioning—you may benefit from seeking out therapy with a trauma-informed provider.

How long does trauma therapy take?

Different types of therapy for trauma unfold on different timelines. Prolonged exposure therapy and cognitive processing therapy, for example, each take about three months, while trauma-informed CBT may last anywhere from 8 to 25 sessions. Other approaches, especially those that are less structured or that incorporate elements from multiple modalities, may be more open-ended, though many patients report feeling better within the first few months of treatment.

What happens if trauma is left untreated?

Unaddressed trauma can have serious—even devastating—effects on relationships, career, and day-to-day functioning. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can lead people to distrust or lash out at others, making it difficult to maintain intimate relationships; it can also trigger symptoms such as flashbacks or hyperreactivity that can interfere with a person’s ability to function effectively, personally and/or professionally. Some sufferers turn to drugs to find relief. Symptoms may lessen on their own with time, but there is no guarantee that PTSD will resolve on its own.

Can PTSD come back after treatment?

It is possible for PTSD symptoms to recur months or years after successful treatment. This is because, like most mental health disorders, it is not possible to “cure” PTSD, and stressful life events may cause symptoms to recur in even the most resilient individuals. There is no shame in re-experiencing PTSD symptoms nor in returning to therapy when such relapses occur; indeed, many forms of trauma therapy explicitly encourage periodic “maintenance sessions” to reinforce coping skills and ensure that symptoms stay manageable.