Trauma-focused CBT
A structured, evidence-based therapy for the effects of trauma, including PTSD, at a pace that feels manageable.
Trauma-focused CBT is a form of CBT developed specifically for the effects of traumatic experiences. It is recommended in NICE guidance as a first-choice treatment for PTSD in adults.
After trauma, the mind and body can stay on high alert. Memories can feel as if they are happening now, reminders can set off intense reactions, and it is common to avoid people, places or thoughts that bring it all back. Trauma-focused CBT helps to make sense of what happened and to loosen the hold it has on the present.
What trauma-focused CBT involves
- Understanding how trauma has affected you and what keeps the symptoms going
- Building skills to feel steadier, such as grounding, before approaching difficult memories
- Working through the memory of what happened at a pace you can manage, so that it becomes a memory of the past, not a threat in the present
- Exploring the beliefs trauma can leave behind, such as ‘it was my fault’ or ‘I am not safe’
- Gradually returning to activities, places or people you have been avoiding
- Rebuilding confidence, trust and a sense of life moving forward
Who it can help
Trauma-focused CBT can help after a single frightening event, or after experiences that were repeated or went on for a long time. Trauma is not only about what might be called ‘major’ events, and you do not need a diagnosis of PTSD to benefit. Where trauma has been prolonged or complex, we may work in stages, spending more time on safety, stability and trust before going further.
How I work with trauma
You stay in control of what we do and when. I will not ask you to go further than feels manageable, and we agree together how and when to approach difficult memories. I have a particular interest and experience in working with people with lived experience of trauma, and can combine trauma-focused CBT with Compassion Focused Therapy where shame or self-criticism are part of the picture.
Related areas of support
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Contact me here to find out more information or to arrange a free consultation.