Trauma and PTSD Counselling in Edinburgh
You might be someone who thinks deeply—but ends up stuck in loops of overthinking. Replaying conversations, second-guessing decisions, lying awake trying to “figure things out”, yet never quite getting relief.
I specialise in working with people caught in patterns of rumination and anxiety. Often thoughtful and self-aware, they still feel stuck.
Together, we’ll understand what keeps these patterns going and find ways to step out of them—so you can feel clearer, calmer, and more in control.
You might be someone who thinks deeply—but ends up stuck in loops of overthinking. Replaying conversations, second-guessing decisions, lying awake trying to “figure things out”, yet never quite getting relief.
I specialise in working with people caught in patterns of rumination and anxiety. Often thoughtful and self-aware, they still feel stuck.
Together, we’ll understand what keeps these patterns going and find ways to step out of them—so you can feel clearer, calmer, and more in control.
Seeking counselling can feel like a big step. Perhaps a confusing one. Let me tell you a little about myself so that you can decide if I am the right counsellor for you. I have a COSCA accredited Diploma in Person Centred counselling meaning that I offer a safe, non-judgemental space for you to explore your thoughts and feelings. I have a creative, eclectic approach and can bring other models into the counselling room where appropriate such as CBT, small world, gestalt and even music. At the moment I offer on-line and telephone counselling, however, post pandemic would also offer outdoor walking therapy.
Seeking counselling can feel like a big step. Perhaps a confusing one. Let me tell you a little about myself so that you can decide if I am the right counsellor for you. I have a COSCA accredited Diploma in Person Centred counselling meaning that I offer a safe, non-judgemental space for you to explore your thoughts and feelings. I have a creative, eclectic approach and can bring other models into the counselling room where appropriate such as CBT, small world, gestalt and even music. At the moment I offer on-line and telephone counselling, however, post pandemic would also offer outdoor walking therapy.
We all need support and you probably already know this even if you're not sure what it could look or feel like. It might be that you've been struggling alone with an issue or concern or it may be that you just have a sense that things in your life aren't the way that you'd like them to be. Therapy provides a space to focus on you, & allows you to share with someone who is separate from your daily life but committed to understanding you and what you are experiencing. In our work together, I provide a safe and supportive space where you can explore your inner world without judgment.
We all need support and you probably already know this even if you're not sure what it could look or feel like. It might be that you've been struggling alone with an issue or concern or it may be that you just have a sense that things in your life aren't the way that you'd like them to be. Therapy provides a space to focus on you, & allows you to share with someone who is separate from your daily life but committed to understanding you and what you are experiencing. In our work together, I provide a safe and supportive space where you can explore your inner world without judgment.
In individual therapy I have a particular interest in self esteem, identity struggles, trauma, addictions, self harm, suicidality and eating disorders.
Are you struggling with moments of anxiety or going through a hard time you cannot seem to shake off? Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious or numb? Life can be challenging at times, as though nothing will feel right again. Sometimes, it can feel as though life 'should feel good' and you cannot understand why you feel so low. It can feel isolating and lonely to not be able to express to your family and friends how you feel - perhaps this has made you feel 'invisible'. Or others' needs have come first for so long that you no longer are in touch with what you need for yourself and find it hard to truly feel connected with others.
In individual therapy I have a particular interest in self esteem, identity struggles, trauma, addictions, self harm, suicidality and eating disorders.
Are you struggling with moments of anxiety or going through a hard time you cannot seem to shake off? Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious or numb? Life can be challenging at times, as though nothing will feel right again. Sometimes, it can feel as though life 'should feel good' and you cannot understand why you feel so low. It can feel isolating and lonely to not be able to express to your family and friends how you feel - perhaps this has made you feel 'invisible'. Or others' needs have come first for so long that you no longer are in touch with what you need for yourself and find it hard to truly feel connected with others.
I offer trauma-informed psychological therapy, where developing a shared understanding of how your experiences have shaped these patterns is at the heart of the process of creating meaningful and sustainable change.
My work is evidence based and formulation-led, drawing on Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) alongside CBT and Trauma-focused CBT. Therapy is relational and non-judgemental, building trust while supporting careful processing of experiences, where helpful, so that the past has less impact on the present, at a pace that feels safe and manageable.
I offer trauma-informed psychological therapy, where developing a shared understanding of how your experiences have shaped these patterns is at the heart of the process of creating meaningful and sustainable change.
My work is evidence based and formulation-led, drawing on Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) alongside CBT and Trauma-focused CBT. Therapy is relational and non-judgemental, building trust while supporting careful processing of experiences, where helpful, so that the past has less impact on the present, at a pace that feels safe and manageable.
I have extensive experience supporting individuals from a range of different backgrounds in a variety of settings, including in the NHS substance use service, a PTSD service in the third-sector as well as in private practice.
You might be experiencing a range of different thoughts, emotions or bodily states that you find difficult to make sense of, and that might be unsettling to you. Or you might feel stuck with a specific issue, perhaps something that has come up before that you feel is holding you back.
Whatever might be going on for you, I can support you to gain a better understanding of your current difficulties. In my experience, this can help you to act from a place of self-understanding and curiosity, rather than in reaction to unconscious behavioural patterns that might have once been helpful but no longer feel supportive now.
I have extensive experience supporting individuals from a range of different backgrounds in a variety of settings, including in the NHS substance use service, a PTSD service in the third-sector as well as in private practice.
You might be experiencing a range of different thoughts, emotions or bodily states that you find difficult to make sense of, and that might be unsettling to you. Or you might feel stuck with a specific issue, perhaps something that has come up before that you feel is holding you back.
Whatever might be going on for you, I can support you to gain a better understanding of your current difficulties. In my experience, this can help you to act from a place of self-understanding and curiosity, rather than in reaction to unconscious behavioural patterns that might have once been helpful but no longer feel supportive now.
Seeking support through counselling can be a difficult first step on a journey to better mental health, but the process can be truly life-changing. My aim is to create a safe, non judgemental, compassionate space in which to explore your problems, enabling you to gain a better understanding of your difficulties. I believe it is important to look at the roof of your issues to try and gain the necessary insight to help change your mindset or any patterns of behaviour that are troubling you.
Seeking support through counselling can be a difficult first step on a journey to better mental health, but the process can be truly life-changing. My aim is to create a safe, non judgemental, compassionate space in which to explore your problems, enabling you to gain a better understanding of your difficulties. I believe it is important to look at the roof of your issues to try and gain the necessary insight to help change your mindset or any patterns of behaviour that are troubling you.
We are Trauma/ CPTSD/Abuse Specialists, Gender Specialist (BPS National Register), BAGIS Member and specialist in plastic surgery.
Psychological treatment for adults, children/ young people and families.
general mental health assessments,
Specialists in:
Plastic surgery assessments /gender affirming surgery assessments
Assessments for gender incongruence
Trauma/abuse
Physical illness (Post COVID, diabetes/children diabetes, skin conditions)
We are Trauma/ CPTSD/Abuse Specialists, Gender Specialist (BPS National Register), BAGIS Member and specialist in plastic surgery.
Psychological treatment for adults, children/ young people and families.
general mental health assessments,
Specialists in:
Plastic surgery assessments /gender affirming surgery assessments
Assessments for gender incongruence
Trauma/abuse
Physical illness (Post COVID, diabetes/children diabetes, skin conditions)
Harper Clinical Psychology is based in Edinburgh and managed by Dr Alison Harper. Alison has over 20 years’ experience of working with a wide range of mental health issues. Also working in the practice with Alison are 6 psychological therapists who offer assessment, formulation and therapy, offering a flexible and collaborative approach to addressing mental health issues. Our website www.harperclinicalpsychology.com gives a more detailed view of our services.
Harper Clinical Psychology is based in Edinburgh and managed by Dr Alison Harper. Alison has over 20 years’ experience of working with a wide range of mental health issues. Also working in the practice with Alison are 6 psychological therapists who offer assessment, formulation and therapy, offering a flexible and collaborative approach to addressing mental health issues. Our website www.harperclinicalpsychology.com gives a more detailed view of our services.
I'm Jacek, an integrative psychotherapist specialising in depersonalisation, dissociation, and the long-term effects of trauma on identity and relationships.
I have several years of experience across different clinical and mental health settings, including residential care with children and young people affected by trauma, and mental health and neurodiversity services at academic institutions. I am particularly interested in the mind's responses to adversity and have contributed to research on dissociation.
I'm Jacek, an integrative psychotherapist specialising in depersonalisation, dissociation, and the long-term effects of trauma on identity and relationships.
I have several years of experience across different clinical and mental health settings, including residential care with children and young people affected by trauma, and mental health and neurodiversity services at academic institutions. I am particularly interested in the mind's responses to adversity and have contributed to research on dissociation.
As an EMDR & CBT therapist I work with people experiencing a variety of issues, such as Anxiety disorders, Depression, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties, Grief, Personality difficulties, CPTSD, PTSD & Neurodiversity.
My name is Maggie and I am trained in a number of different therapeutic modalities, including (EMDR) Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing, (CBT) Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Schema Therapy and The Poly Vagal Theory. I am also a registered Psychiatric and Adult nurse with over 20 years practice experience. Having the right fit with your therapist can be seen as the most important element in healing from your difficulties. I aim to provide a very safe, non - judgmental and confidential space that will provide both compassion, empathy and support with whatever has brought you to therapy.
As an EMDR & CBT therapist I work with people experiencing a variety of issues, such as Anxiety disorders, Depression, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties, Grief, Personality difficulties, CPTSD, PTSD & Neurodiversity.
My name is Maggie and I am trained in a number of different therapeutic modalities, including (EMDR) Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing, (CBT) Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Schema Therapy and The Poly Vagal Theory. I am also a registered Psychiatric and Adult nurse with over 20 years practice experience. Having the right fit with your therapist can be seen as the most important element in healing from your difficulties. I aim to provide a very safe, non - judgmental and confidential space that will provide both compassion, empathy and support with whatever has brought you to therapy.
As a trauma informed integrative psychotherapist trained in person-centred and psychodynamic therapy, I work with people who experience the effects of childhood trauma, low self-worth, anxiety, estrangement, familial relationship issues, shame and attachment issues.
My approach is rooted in being non-judgemental and kind, allowing you to safely express your thoughts and process both past and present experiences. In using an integrative approach, I strive to provide a 'soft place to land' for those looking to explore how their lived experience has impacted who they are today.
As a trauma informed integrative psychotherapist trained in person-centred and psychodynamic therapy, I work with people who experience the effects of childhood trauma, low self-worth, anxiety, estrangement, familial relationship issues, shame and attachment issues.
My approach is rooted in being non-judgemental and kind, allowing you to safely express your thoughts and process both past and present experiences. In using an integrative approach, I strive to provide a 'soft place to land' for those looking to explore how their lived experience has impacted who they are today.
My approach is based on the core principles of trauma-informed practice which means that I work within a non-hierarchical framework that offers safety, choices, collaboration, trustworthiness and transparency.
During our sessions, we will engage in gentle and explorative conversations about your life and the impact of past or current experiences on your feelings and the way you relate to yourself and others. Some of the issues I have supported clients explore include anxiety and panic, depression, loss, low self-esteem and CPTSD, in particular domestic abuse.
My approach is based on the core principles of trauma-informed practice which means that I work within a non-hierarchical framework that offers safety, choices, collaboration, trustworthiness and transparency.
During our sessions, we will engage in gentle and explorative conversations about your life and the impact of past or current experiences on your feelings and the way you relate to yourself and others. Some of the issues I have supported clients explore include anxiety and panic, depression, loss, low self-esteem and CPTSD, in particular domestic abuse.
I can help you to heal from childhood trauma and neglect, PTSD and complex PTSD, overcome difficulties in relationships and burnout, anxiety, and depression — often linked to long-term emotional stress.
My approach is slightly different from any other professionals you might have worked with. I am trained as a clinical and counselling psychologist. This means I can help my clients with a full range of mental health issues. Either it's anxiety, depression or you just simply want to improve your life quality - I am here to help.
I can help you to heal from childhood trauma and neglect, PTSD and complex PTSD, overcome difficulties in relationships and burnout, anxiety, and depression — often linked to long-term emotional stress.
My approach is slightly different from any other professionals you might have worked with. I am trained as a clinical and counselling psychologist. This means I can help my clients with a full range of mental health issues. Either it's anxiety, depression or you just simply want to improve your life quality - I am here to help.
I am a qualified Counsellor working primarily with anxiety and trauma, and I often support people who carry deep-rooted feelings of shame, inadequacy, or self-doubt that began in early life.
Trauma can impact us in many ways. It may leave us feeling overwhelmed, stuck, disconnected, hyper-alert, or deeply self-critical. Together, we explore how these patterns developed, not as flaws or weaknesses, but as creative survival strategies that once helped you cope.
I am a qualified Counsellor working primarily with anxiety and trauma, and I often support people who carry deep-rooted feelings of shame, inadequacy, or self-doubt that began in early life.
Trauma can impact us in many ways. It may leave us feeling overwhelmed, stuck, disconnected, hyper-alert, or deeply self-critical. Together, we explore how these patterns developed, not as flaws or weaknesses, but as creative survival strategies that once helped you cope.
“At a certain point in our lives, we lose control of what’s happening to us, and our lives become controlled by fate.” The refreshing twist is: “That’s the world’s greatest lie.” I share this belief with Paulo Coelho. Choosing therapy is a meaningful act of self‑care, and I’m here to support you throughout the process.
“At a certain point in our lives, we lose control of what’s happening to us, and our lives become controlled by fate.” The refreshing twist is: “That’s the world’s greatest lie.” I share this belief with Paulo Coelho. Choosing therapy is a meaningful act of self‑care, and I’m here to support you throughout the process.
I specialise in the treatment of anxiety disorders, low mood, trauma, issues facing the LGBT+ community & sports performance.
I have a Diploma in CBT Counselling and Groupwork from The Centre of Therapy and Counselling Studies in Glasgow, and I am an accredited psychotherapist. I am a trainee EMDR Therapist and look to offer EMDR sessions from August 2024.
I specialise in the treatment of anxiety disorders, low mood, trauma, issues facing the LGBT+ community & sports performance.
I have a Diploma in CBT Counselling and Groupwork from The Centre of Therapy and Counselling Studies in Glasgow, and I am an accredited psychotherapist. I am a trainee EMDR Therapist and look to offer EMDR sessions from August 2024.
Throughout my career, I have supported clients facing anxiety, depression, bereavement, relationships challenge, abuse, trauma, low self-esteem, racism, self-harm, gender transition supports and more.
My integrative approach combines person-centered and psychodynamic therapy. Together, we explore your emotions and experiences from your perspective, using thoughtful questions to deepen understanding. At the same time, we examine relational dynamics, uncovering how past experiences have shaped your patterns of connection, fostering insight and growth.
Throughout my career, I have supported clients facing anxiety, depression, bereavement, relationships challenge, abuse, trauma, low self-esteem, racism, self-harm, gender transition supports and more.
My integrative approach combines person-centered and psychodynamic therapy. Together, we explore your emotions and experiences from your perspective, using thoughtful questions to deepen understanding. At the same time, we examine relational dynamics, uncovering how past experiences have shaped your patterns of connection, fostering insight and growth.
Therapy can be for anyone, it can be for growth, healing and learning, as much as for working through something. Choosing to set aside a pocket of time and space just for you, can provide relief from stresses of modern-day living, giving you a chance to recognise what is really important to you and working out what steps you want to take towards the life you want for yourself. I provide a safe, confidential and non-judgmental space for you to explore things that are troubling you, process past experiences and work towards any goals you might have.
Therapy can be for anyone, it can be for growth, healing and learning, as much as for working through something. Choosing to set aside a pocket of time and space just for you, can provide relief from stresses of modern-day living, giving you a chance to recognise what is really important to you and working out what steps you want to take towards the life you want for yourself. I provide a safe, confidential and non-judgmental space for you to explore things that are troubling you, process past experiences and work towards any goals you might have.
It is a courageous step to reach out to a therapist and, in recognition of this, I have wholeheartedly devoted over 30 years of my life to helping people create real and lasting change. I have completed a vast amount of psychological training and am guided by extensive experience in really hearing the parts of my clients’ experience which are keeping them ‘stuck’ or are barriers to happiness. I help people to understand crucial scientific findings about how the brain affects our happiness and I use the most effective techniques to help clients become liberated from unhelpful repetitive behaviours or thought patterns.
It is a courageous step to reach out to a therapist and, in recognition of this, I have wholeheartedly devoted over 30 years of my life to helping people create real and lasting change. I have completed a vast amount of psychological training and am guided by extensive experience in really hearing the parts of my clients’ experience which are keeping them ‘stuck’ or are barriers to happiness. I help people to understand crucial scientific findings about how the brain affects our happiness and I use the most effective techniques to help clients become liberated from unhelpful repetitive behaviours or thought patterns.
See more therapy options for Edinburgh
Nearby Trauma and PTSD Counsellors Searches for Edinburgh
- Blackford
- Burntisland
- Dalgety Bay
- Dalkeith
- Dunfermline
- Gorebridge
- Linlithgow
- Livingston
- Musselburgh
- Penicuik
- South Queensferry
- Tranent
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.