Trauma and PTSD Counselling in Edinburgh

Photo of Bennie Sanio - BeeSan Psychotherapy and Counselling Services, Psychotherapist, MBACP
I specialise in child sexual abuse, trauma/complex trauma, PTSD, anxiety, grief, loss relationship issues, and anger management.
Starting therapy may seem daunting at first as we try to make sense of our world, thoughts, feelings and emotions. We might be repeating patterns of behaviour in our present lives due to past experiences and patterns. I want to help you shift mental blocks, untangle complex emotions, resolve issues and reveal new perspectives. Whether it’s self-development, addressing emotional and psychological issues, or processing traumatic events, I will work with you to help you become more integrated in yourself. I offer both online and in-person appointments in the centre of Edinburgh where we will work together to help you achieve your goal.
I specialise in child sexual abuse, trauma/complex trauma, PTSD, anxiety, grief, loss relationship issues, and anger management.
Starting therapy may seem daunting at first as we try to make sense of our world, thoughts, feelings and emotions. We might be repeating patterns of behaviour in our present lives due to past experiences and patterns. I want to help you shift mental blocks, untangle complex emotions, resolve issues and reveal new perspectives. Whether it’s self-development, addressing emotional and psychological issues, or processing traumatic events, I will work with you to help you become more integrated in yourself. I offer both online and in-person appointments in the centre of Edinburgh where we will work together to help you achieve your goal.
0131 381 8083 View 0131 381 8083
Photo of Dr Beata (Bea) Michalska, Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Beata (Bea) Michalska
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Online Only
Typical problems that I have experience treating include depression, anxiety, OCD, adjustment difficulties, trauma/ PTSD, stress and relationship difficulties.
I have an extensive experience in using Cognitive Behavioural Therapy with elements of other approaches, such as mindfulness, Gestalt, Acceptance and Commitment therapy, Schema and Compassion Focused Therapy. This integrative approach helps me tailor the therapy to the individual needs of clients in order to provide the most effective treatment.
Typical problems that I have experience treating include depression, anxiety, OCD, adjustment difficulties, trauma/ PTSD, stress and relationship difficulties.
I have an extensive experience in using Cognitive Behavioural Therapy with elements of other approaches, such as mindfulness, Gestalt, Acceptance and Commitment therapy, Schema and Compassion Focused Therapy. This integrative approach helps me tailor the therapy to the individual needs of clients in order to provide the most effective treatment.
0131 381 0499 View 0131 381 0499
Photo of Dr Corinna Panagou, Psychologist, MSc, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Corinna Panagou
Psychologist, MSc, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Online Only
My expertise extends from mild to severe clinical presentations, including anxiety, OCD, depression, self-esteem issues, grief, burnout, relational difficulties, personality disorders, PTSD, complex trauma, and abuse.
Warm greetings, I'm Corinna. As a registered Clinical Psychologist and an academic with doctoral-level training, I specialize in evidence-based therapies and have a deep-seated interest in trauma and relationship dynamics. With extensive experience across diverse NHS settings, I've worked with individuals from various age groups, addressing a wide spectrum of psychological challenges. My integrative therapeutic approach combines CBT, Compassion-Focused Therapy, Mindfulness, ACT, Schema Therapy, and DBT, enhanced by psychodynamic insights.Additionally, I am trained in Flash and EMDR therapies, offering specialized support for trauma.
My expertise extends from mild to severe clinical presentations, including anxiety, OCD, depression, self-esteem issues, grief, burnout, relational difficulties, personality disorders, PTSD, complex trauma, and abuse.
Warm greetings, I'm Corinna. As a registered Clinical Psychologist and an academic with doctoral-level training, I specialize in evidence-based therapies and have a deep-seated interest in trauma and relationship dynamics. With extensive experience across diverse NHS settings, I've worked with individuals from various age groups, addressing a wide spectrum of psychological challenges. My integrative therapeutic approach combines CBT, Compassion-Focused Therapy, Mindfulness, ACT, Schema Therapy, and DBT, enhanced by psychodynamic insights.Additionally, I am trained in Flash and EMDR therapies, offering specialized support for trauma.
01764 915852 View 01764 915852
Photo of Dr Katie Davis, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Katie Davis
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
With a background as a Principal Clinical Psychologist at the NHS trauma specialist service, I work with those impacted by trauma, PTSD, OCD, anxiety, low mood, low self-esteem and for those who are looking to make changes in their life, but aren’t sure where to start.
What if. Two words that send your mind down a well-worn path. Words and images that pop into your head at any moment and no matter how hard you try to push it away you find yourself stuck; thinking, feeling and doing the same thing over and over. Maybe it’s reliving the past, maybe it’s worrying about the future, or feeling you need to do something right now or something bad will happen. “What if” is hard to live with. But when your mind is stuck in the “what if’s” your brain is telling you there is something you need to figure out, something you need to rebalance.
With a background as a Principal Clinical Psychologist at the NHS trauma specialist service, I work with those impacted by trauma, PTSD, OCD, anxiety, low mood, low self-esteem and for those who are looking to make changes in their life, but aren’t sure where to start.
What if. Two words that send your mind down a well-worn path. Words and images that pop into your head at any moment and no matter how hard you try to push it away you find yourself stuck; thinking, feeling and doing the same thing over and over. Maybe it’s reliving the past, maybe it’s worrying about the future, or feeling you need to do something right now or something bad will happen. “What if” is hard to live with. But when your mind is stuck in the “what if’s” your brain is telling you there is something you need to figure out, something you need to rebalance.
0131 381 8063 View 0131 381 8063
Photo of Melissa Favre-Lorraine, Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Melissa Favre-Lorraine
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Some people need techniques, others seek understanding, and some require focused PTSD treatment
Maybe you've spent years feeling like you had to be someone else—constantly trying to meet the expectations of others. Whether it’s unresolved trauma, attachment wounds, or the weight of anxiety and depression, it can leave you feeling disconnected from your true self. You might find yourself stuck in people-pleasing, overworking, masking, or repressing your emotions. Coping can turn into unhealthy patterns like self-harming, developing addictions, OCD, or eating disorders. Together, we can unravel those patterns, understand how your past is shaping your present, and help you develop what you need to feel good in your own skin.
Some people need techniques, others seek understanding, and some require focused PTSD treatment
Maybe you've spent years feeling like you had to be someone else—constantly trying to meet the expectations of others. Whether it’s unresolved trauma, attachment wounds, or the weight of anxiety and depression, it can leave you feeling disconnected from your true self. You might find yourself stuck in people-pleasing, overworking, masking, or repressing your emotions. Coping can turn into unhealthy patterns like self-harming, developing addictions, OCD, or eating disorders. Together, we can unravel those patterns, understand how your past is shaping your present, and help you develop what you need to feel good in your own skin.
View
Photo of Jamie Wylie, Counsellor, MBACP
Jamie Wylie
Counsellor, MBACP
The person-centred approach is particularly suited to relationship trauma (Complex PTSD) work and the resulting feelings of shame, fragility, isolation, anxiety, low mood, overwhelm, disconnection etc.
Hello and welcome. I’m a person-centred therapist who believes that much damage is done in relationships. I also believe that, as hard as it might seem, it is in relationship that we heal. The core of my practice is in offering you a relationship you can trust. Where you’re accepted, held and supported. I will welcome you, exactly as you are. Whatever you are dealing with, I commit to working with you openly and sincerely as myself. I will listen, understand and engage with you sensitively and compassionately as a “fellow traveller”, in the hope that it will allow you to feel safe to explore your concerns.
The person-centred approach is particularly suited to relationship trauma (Complex PTSD) work and the resulting feelings of shame, fragility, isolation, anxiety, low mood, overwhelm, disconnection etc.
Hello and welcome. I’m a person-centred therapist who believes that much damage is done in relationships. I also believe that, as hard as it might seem, it is in relationship that we heal. The core of my practice is in offering you a relationship you can trust. Where you’re accepted, held and supported. I will welcome you, exactly as you are. Whatever you are dealing with, I commit to working with you openly and sincerely as myself. I will listen, understand and engage with you sensitively and compassionately as a “fellow traveller”, in the hope that it will allow you to feel safe to explore your concerns.
0131 381 8252 View 0131 381 8252
Photo of Margaret Cairns - Trauma Therapist, EMDR, CBT Therapist/ Menopause, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
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, and Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT). I am also a registered Psychiatric and Adult nurse with over 18 years practice experience. Having the right fit with your therapist can be seen as the most important element in healing from your difficulties. I offer a safe, non - judgmental and confidential space that will provide both compassion 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, and Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT). I am also a registered Psychiatric and Adult nurse with over 18 years practice experience. Having the right fit with your therapist can be seen as the most important element in healing from your difficulties. I offer a safe, non - judgmental and confidential space that will provide both compassion and support with whatever has brought you to therapy.
0131 381 2220 View 0131 381 2220
Photo of Stuart P Morgan-Ayrs Msc Ba Bsc, MSc
Main specialism: Complex Trauma (C- PTSD) & disassociation, depression, NEAD, anxiety, OCD, eating & mood disorders, flashbacks, relationships.
I'm a clinical integrative & holistic psychotherapist & traumatologist, An evidence based, science informed, integrative, holistic & personal approach for mind - body - interpersonal - healing. I am a specialist at post graduate, post qualification level, certified at internationally recognised levels for trauma, complex trauma, anger grief & mental health.
Main specialism: Complex Trauma (C- PTSD) & disassociation, depression, NEAD, anxiety, OCD, eating & mood disorders, flashbacks, relationships.
I'm a clinical integrative & holistic psychotherapist & traumatologist, An evidence based, science informed, integrative, holistic & personal approach for mind - body - interpersonal - healing. I am a specialist at post graduate, post qualification level, certified at internationally recognised levels for trauma, complex trauma, anger grief & mental health.
View
Photo of Tom Lawrence, Psychotherapist, MHGI
Tom Lawrence
Psychotherapist, MHGI
1 Endorsed
If you are suffering from anxiety - depression/low mood - stress - anger problems - panic attacks - phobias - low self-esteem - self-harming - eating disorders - post-traumatic stress disorder ( PTSD, including military) - addiction (all kinds) - obsessions (OCD) - sleep problems - relationship problems, I can help.
As a Human Givens therapist I provide safe, reliable and practical help for emotional, behavioural and mental health difficulties. Using the best evidence based psychological knowledge about resolving such difficulties, I can help you move on with your life to be how you want to be.
If you are suffering from anxiety - depression/low mood - stress - anger problems - panic attacks - phobias - low self-esteem - self-harming - eating disorders - post-traumatic stress disorder ( PTSD, including military) - addiction (all kinds) - obsessions (OCD) - sleep problems - relationship problems, I can help.
As a Human Givens therapist I provide safe, reliable and practical help for emotional, behavioural and mental health difficulties. Using the best evidence based psychological knowledge about resolving such difficulties, I can help you move on with your life to be how you want to be.
07887 682291 View 07887 682291
Photo of Katalin Thomann - Mama’S Worth - Pregnancy Perinatal Counselling, Counsellor, MSc, PNCPS Acc.
I specialise in working with trauma, baby loss, infertility, PTSD and postnatal depression.
My passion for wanting to support mums was borne out of my own difficult journey into motherhood. A challenging pregnancy and a traumatic birth followed by severe postnatal depression and PTSD fuelled my drive to working with mums to make their journeys more manageable and enjoyable. Having worked hard on recovering from this difficult start to motherhood, I went on to train as a counsellor at the University of Edinburgh (MSc) and Chrysalis (Postgraduate Diploma). I have completed numerous trainings on trauma - specifically birth trauma and continue to participate in CPDs to inform my practice as a perinatal mental health therapist
I specialise in working with trauma, baby loss, infertility, PTSD and postnatal depression.
My passion for wanting to support mums was borne out of my own difficult journey into motherhood. A challenging pregnancy and a traumatic birth followed by severe postnatal depression and PTSD fuelled my drive to working with mums to make their journeys more manageable and enjoyable. Having worked hard on recovering from this difficult start to motherhood, I went on to train as a counsellor at the University of Edinburgh (MSc) and Chrysalis (Postgraduate Diploma). I have completed numerous trainings on trauma - specifically birth trauma and continue to participate in CPDs to inform my practice as a perinatal mental health therapist
0131 381 4780 View 0131 381 4780
Photo of Jocelyn Meli - Jocelyn Meli - Trauma Therapist, Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
Jocelyn Meli - Trauma Therapist
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
My 20 years of experience includes working with Complex Trauma, PTSD, Childhood and Adulthood Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Relationship Issues, Low Self-Esteem, Fears, Phobias, Addiction and Life Transitions.
My approach includes evidence-based trauma treatments, using techniques working with the body, mind, behavioural and subconscious offering effective stabilisation, emotional regulation, processing and integration. This holistic approach attends to the whole person integratively, gently and securely developing transformation and self-empowerment.
My 20 years of experience includes working with Complex Trauma, PTSD, Childhood and Adulthood Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Relationship Issues, Low Self-Esteem, Fears, Phobias, Addiction and Life Transitions.
My approach includes evidence-based trauma treatments, using techniques working with the body, mind, behavioural and subconscious offering effective stabilisation, emotional regulation, processing and integration. This holistic approach attends to the whole person integratively, gently and securely developing transformation and self-empowerment.
01992 927916 View 01992 927916
Photo of Aisan Ghaemian - The Feel Better Psychological Services , Psychotherapist, PhD, MBABCP
The Feel Better Psychological Services
Psychotherapist, PhD, MBABCP
We are specialized in psychological treatments for Depression Anxiety Aggression Trauma and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder ( PTSD) Anxiety Disorders such as OCD, General Anxiety Disorder, Health Anxiety Social Phobia, Panic & Agoraphobia, Body Dysmorphic Disorder Eating problems such as binge eating
At The Feel Better Psychological Services we provide psychological therapy to adults and their families. All of our clinicians are accredited members of the British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies (BABCP) in the United Kingdom.
We are specialized in psychological treatments for Depression Anxiety Aggression Trauma and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder ( PTSD) Anxiety Disorders such as OCD, General Anxiety Disorder, Health Anxiety Social Phobia, Panic & Agoraphobia, Body Dysmorphic Disorder Eating problems such as binge eating
At The Feel Better Psychological Services we provide psychological therapy to adults and their families. All of our clinicians are accredited members of the British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies (BABCP) in the United Kingdom.
0800 669 6281 View 0800 669 6281
Photo of Georgia Gold, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Georgia Gold
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
With experience in NHS Talking Therapies, I’ve helped people facing anxiety, trauma, PTSD, low self-esteem, depression, and stress.
Worry has a way of convincing you that the worst will happen and that you won’t be able to handle it. Worry feels uncontrollable, overwhelming and all-consuming. You try to push the thoughts away, avoid situations, or procrastinate to escape the anxiety, but you end up feeling worse. You may feel the urge to keep checking things or asking others for reassurance, but that comfort is fleeting, and doubt quickly creeps back in. Worry can drain your energy, leaving you exhausted, restless or on edge.
With experience in NHS Talking Therapies, I’ve helped people facing anxiety, trauma, PTSD, low self-esteem, depression, and stress.
Worry has a way of convincing you that the worst will happen and that you won’t be able to handle it. Worry feels uncontrollable, overwhelming and all-consuming. You try to push the thoughts away, avoid situations, or procrastinate to escape the anxiety, but you end up feeling worse. You may feel the urge to keep checking things or asking others for reassurance, but that comfort is fleeting, and doubt quickly creeps back in. Worry can drain your energy, leaving you exhausted, restless or on edge.
View
Photo of Doreen Morici, MSc
Doreen Morici
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH10
With over 15 years of therapeutic practice, specialising in trauma and PTSD therapy.
Therapy is a an act of self-care--giving yourself permission to receive, to be heard, to learn healthy & adaptive ways to be in relationship to self and others. Helping identify and transmute beliefs that no longer serve, from "I'm not good enough" to "I am worthy"; moving from fear to love & acceptance. Offering a wholistic, integrative, and person-centered approach to wellness and empowerment while supporting you to feel and understand your emotions, regulate the nervous system, hold boundaries, explore spirituality, and connect to your authentic self--moving out of your head and grounding into your heart and body.
With over 15 years of therapeutic practice, specialising in trauma and PTSD therapy.
Therapy is a an act of self-care--giving yourself permission to receive, to be heard, to learn healthy & adaptive ways to be in relationship to self and others. Helping identify and transmute beliefs that no longer serve, from "I'm not good enough" to "I am worthy"; moving from fear to love & acceptance. Offering a wholistic, integrative, and person-centered approach to wellness and empowerment while supporting you to feel and understand your emotions, regulate the nervous system, hold boundaries, explore spirituality, and connect to your authentic self--moving out of your head and grounding into your heart and body.
0131 381 0296 View 0131 381 0296
Photo of Dr Alan Grieve (Consultant Clinical Psychologist), Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Alan Grieve (Consultant Clinical Psychologist)
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
I am a Consultant Clinical Psychologist and have a special interest in helping people with different issues including PTSD and complex trauma.
I have experience of working in the private sector and for the NHS. I have been working in private practice helping people for many years and people have found my services to be very helpful. The main approach that I use is CBT and this can be effective in helping to resolve a number of difficulties. I also use ACT, EMDR and mindfulness.
I am a Consultant Clinical Psychologist and have a special interest in helping people with different issues including PTSD and complex trauma.
I have experience of working in the private sector and for the NHS. I have been working in private practice helping people for many years and people have found my services to be very helpful. The main approach that I use is CBT and this can be effective in helping to resolve a number of difficulties. I also use ACT, EMDR and mindfulness.
01592 407456 View 01592 407456
Photo of Dr Lucy Anne Abraham - Dr Lucy Abraham, Consultant Clinical Psychologist, Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Lucy Abraham, Consultant Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
I’m experienced in the treatment of a large range of mental health difficulties including depression, anxiety, PTSD and interpersonal problems.
I'm skilled in a range of evidence based approaches (EMDR, TFCBT, CAT, IPT & CBT) which means we can develop a personalised plan - whatever your needs may be. I offer individual psychological therapy, group therapy and offer clients complimentary community wellbeing meets in the outdoors. Online therapy offered to anyone in UK and East Lothian clinic for all
I’m experienced in the treatment of a large range of mental health difficulties including depression, anxiety, PTSD and interpersonal problems.
I'm skilled in a range of evidence based approaches (EMDR, TFCBT, CAT, IPT & CBT) which means we can develop a personalised plan - whatever your needs may be. I offer individual psychological therapy, group therapy and offer clients complimentary community wellbeing meets in the outdoors. Online therapy offered to anyone in UK and East Lothian clinic for all
View
Photo of Aaron Plant - Therapy-Helps, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Therapy-Helps
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Serves Area
I can treat a range of conditions, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, phobias and more.
I'm passionate about helping you understand and effectively address your challenges. My unique approach combines CBT with Clinical Hypnotherapy, allowing us to efficiently work with your subconscious mind to create lasting change. This integrated method helps you gain clarity on your issues and develop practical strategies to overcome them.
I can treat a range of conditions, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, phobias and more.
I'm passionate about helping you understand and effectively address your challenges. My unique approach combines CBT with Clinical Hypnotherapy, allowing us to efficiently work with your subconscious mind to create lasting change. This integrated method helps you gain clarity on your issues and develop practical strategies to overcome them.
01626 240776 View 01626 240776
Photo of Dr Lisa Keegan, Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Lisa Keegan
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Serves Area
I work with clients who experience a range of psychological challenges including:Depression; anxiety; PTSD; trauma; stress; phobia; relationship issues; interpersonal difficulties; work stress; grief & bereavement; sleep wake issues; addictive behaviours; health anxiety; pain; birth trauma; post-natal depression; problems with self-esteem and confidence.
I draw on Schema Therapy, EMDR, and Compassion-Focused approaches to create a way of working that fits you—your needs, your pace, your goals. While each person’s path is different, the thread that runs through everything I do is compassion: helping you respond to yourself with kindness, especially in the places that feel stuck or painful.
I work with clients who experience a range of psychological challenges including:Depression; anxiety; PTSD; trauma; stress; phobia; relationship issues; interpersonal difficulties; work stress; grief & bereavement; sleep wake issues; addictive behaviours; health anxiety; pain; birth trauma; post-natal depression; problems with self-esteem and confidence.
I draw on Schema Therapy, EMDR, and Compassion-Focused approaches to create a way of working that fits you—your needs, your pace, your goals. While each person’s path is different, the thread that runs through everything I do is compassion: helping you respond to yourself with kindness, especially in the places that feel stuck or painful.
01924 943830 View 01924 943830
Photo of Ansaa Haider - Tranquillity of the Soul, Counsellor
Tranquillity of the Soul
Counsellor
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I have worked with anxiety, PTSD, insomnia, navigating the unspoken expectations and challenges that can arise within family or home life, and supporting individuals impacted by addiction.
My approach is person-centred with integrative elements, creating a space that feels grounded, warm and attuned to challenges women face. I understand how family pressures, cultural values, marriage dynamics, and generational roles shape our lives. I also bring experience supporting wellbeing, emotional challenges, and addiction across diverse settings.
I have worked with anxiety, PTSD, insomnia, navigating the unspoken expectations and challenges that can arise within family or home life, and supporting individuals impacted by addiction.
My approach is person-centred with integrative elements, creating a space that feels grounded, warm and attuned to challenges women face. I understand how family pressures, cultural values, marriage dynamics, and generational roles shape our lives. I also bring experience supporting wellbeing, emotional challenges, and addiction across diverse settings.
0141 673 5367 View 0141 673 5367
Photo of Mhairi Spence, Counsellor, MBACP
Mhairi Spence
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have worked extensively with clients experiencing drug and alcohol addiction, anxiety and trauma, including those diagnosed with PTSD.
Do you have a strong desire to lead a happier, more fulfilling life? If you struggle with managing your emotions and feel overwhelmed by life’s demands I can help you navigate the issues you face. You may be experiencing a range of challenges such as anxiety, stress, burnout, depression, trauma, addiction, or grief. If you would like to develop effective coping strategies, gain deeper self-understanding, and build resilience I will be there to help you implement change to achieve emotional wellbeing and personal growth.
I have worked extensively with clients experiencing drug and alcohol addiction, anxiety and trauma, including those diagnosed with PTSD.
Do you have a strong desire to lead a happier, more fulfilling life? If you struggle with managing your emotions and feel overwhelmed by life’s demands I can help you navigate the issues you face. You may be experiencing a range of challenges such as anxiety, stress, burnout, depression, trauma, addiction, or grief. If you would like to develop effective coping strategies, gain deeper self-understanding, and build resilience I will be there to help you implement change to achieve emotional wellbeing and personal growth.
01655 509988 View 01655 509988

See more therapy options for Edinburgh

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.