Mental health · Trauma
Trauma-related support
A paced, collaborative approach to the impact of overwhelming or threatening experiences.
The starting point
Trauma responses can include intrusive memories, avoidance, hypervigilance, shame, emotional numbness, sleep disruption and changes in trust or relationships. Experiences and reactions vary widely.
Safety before detail
Useful work does not depend on recounting everything immediately. Early sessions may focus on safety, present-day stability, understanding responses and deciding together what the person is ready to address.
A wider view
Therapy considers the event and its effects without assuming every difficulty comes from trauma. Physical health, current relationships, work, culture and other pressures may also need attention.
Specialist care
Some people need a specialist trauma service, medical care, safeguarding response or multidisciplinary support. Suitability must be considered carefully before work begins.