Specialist therapy for ptsd, cptsd, and complex trauma (UK)
What trauma can look like
Trauma isn't just “something terrible that happened once.”
It’s also the lasting impact of experiences that overwhelmed you, especially when you didn’t have support at the time.
For many people, the effects show up long after the event is over - not always as clear memories, but as feelings, reactions, and patterns that are hard to shift.
You don’t need a formal diagnosis to relate to this work.
How trauma can show up day-to-day
Trauma responses often appear in the present, even when you know the past is over.
• Feeling constantly on alert
• Struggling to switch off or relax
• Difficulty trusting others or letting people close
• Feeling detached, numb, or disconnected from yourself
• Sudden drops in mood you can’t explain
• Feeling “too much” or “not enough”
• Going blank, zoning out, or feeling far away
• Feeling intense emotions that don’t match the moment
• Working hard to stay in control of everything
These responses aren't random. Some are learned patterns that helped you cope. Some are our brain and body still thinking we’re under threat.
How trauma can show up in your body
• Exhaustion or burnout
• Tension, pain, or shaking
• Trouble sleeping
• Sudden spikes of anxiety or panic
• Feeling shut down or frozen
• Difficulty sensing what you feel physically or emotionally
Your body may still be trying to protect you from things that no longer pose the same threat.
How trauma can show up emotionally
• Guilt or shame about what happened
• Blaming yourself for how you coped
• Feeling like you should be “over it by now”
• Feeling wrong, different, or out of place
• A strong inner critic or self-punishing thoughts
• Feeling unreachable or difficult to know
These often come from experiences where your needs weren’t seen, believed, or supported.
PTSD and complex PTSD
Some people meet criteria for PTSD, where trauma shows up through things like flashbacks, nightmares, or avoidance of reminders.
Others relate more to complex trauma or CPTSD - when difficult experiences were prolonged or repeated, especially in childhood or relationships. This can lead to long-term patterns around trust, shame, identity, and relationships.
You don’t have to know which applies to you.
What matters is how it feels now, and what you need support with.
Why these responses make sense…
Your reactions were shaped by what you went through. They helped you survive. They’re not flaws, they’re protection.
If they feel overwhelming or hard to shift now, that doesn’t mean they’re “wrong.” It may just mean your body hasn’t realised it’s safe enough to let go yet.
If you’re beginning to recognise yourself in this…
Therapy can help you make sense of these responses and work with what feels stuck - gently, and at your pace. If you’re reading this and are feeling you are in crisis, have a read HERE for some support.
Ready to take the next step?
If you’d like to see whether we’re a good fit, you can book a free consultation below.