Trauma Psychologists – Experienced HCPC-Registered Clinical Psychologists
If past traumatic experiences are continuing to affect your life, our experienced Clinical Psychologists can help you understand what is happening and consider personalised trauma-focused therapy. Begin your healing journey with us now.
Private trauma support and therapy with experienced HCPC-registered Clinical Psychologists
Trauma and Complex Trauma
Private trauma psychologist appointments
National Clinical Psychology Service helps people access private trauma support with experienced HCPC-registered Clinical Psychologists.
Trauma can affect people long after the original event/s or period of difficulty has passed.
Some people experience flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, shame, anger, emotional numbness, avoidance, relationship difficulties or a sense of being constantly on “red alert”. Others may not use the word ‘trauma” but still feel that past experiences are affecting their present life.
A Clinical Psychologist can help you understand how traumatic or overwhelming experiences may be affecting your emotions, body, relationships, sense of safety and everyday functioning.
Therapy is usually based on assessment and formulation, so the approach can be adapted to your needs rather than assuming one method is right for everyone.
Appointments are available online, with some in-person availability depending on clinician and location.
Where appropriate, therapy may draw on trauma-focused CBT, EMDR, compassion-focused, psychodynamic, CAT, DBT-informed, systemic or integrative psychological approaches.
Trauma leaves its mark on us psychologically both in how we feel and in how we react to others.
There is no need to continue to suffer silently. Specific Psychological therapies and trauma-informed work can help.
Why choose a trauma psychologist?
People looking for trauma support may come across counsellors, psychotherapists, coaches, therapists and psychologists. These roles can differ in training, regulation and clinical scope.
Clinical Psychologists are trained to assess, formulate and treat a wide range of psychological difficulties, including trauma, PTSD symptoms, complex trauma, anxiety, depression, emotional regulation difficulties and relationship patterns linked with earlier experiences.
At National Clinical Psychology Service, trauma-related work is provided by HCPC-registered Clinical Psychologists. This means your psychologist can help you understand not only the traumatic experience itself, but also how it may connect with mood, anxiety, self-esteem, attachment, shame, coping strategies, physical threat responses and longer-standing psychological patterns.
Trauma therapies offered by Clinical Psychologists
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) provides guidance on psychological treatment for PTSD. For adults with PTSD or clinically important symptoms of PTSD, NICE recommends trauma-focused cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and recommends EMDR in specified circumstances.
Clinical Psychologists in our network offer trauma-focused CBT, EMDR and other psychological approaches, depending on their individual training and experience.
Following assessment and formulation, your Clinical Psychologist can discuss which approach (or bespoke combination of approaches) may be appropriate for your needs and goals.
Trauma, PTSD and complex trauma
Trauma is not limited to one type of event. It may follow a single frightening incident, repeated experiences, childhood adversity, abuse, loss, medical trauma, violence, accidents, workplace incidents, relationship trauma or other situations that overwhelmed a person’s ability to cope at the time.
Some people develop PTSD symptoms, such as intrusive memories, nightmares, avoidance, feeling on edge, sleep disturbance, emotional numbing, irritability or difficulty concentrating.
Other people experience complex trauma patterns. These may include difficulties with trust, emotional regulation, shame, self-criticism, relationships, dissociation or a persistent sense of threat.
You do not need to know whether your difficulties fit a particular diagnosis before getting in touch.
A Clinical Psychologist can help make sense of what you are experiencing and consider what type of support may be suitable.
Therapy approaches for trauma
Trauma work should be carefully paced. For some people, the first stage of therapy focuses on safety, stabilisation, emotional regulation and understanding trauma responses.
For others, it may become appropriate to work more directly with traumatic memories once there is enough psychological safety to do so.
Building a good enough relationship with your therapist helps to feel safe enough with the therapist you have chosen to work with. Giving feedback to your psychologist, as you go along, about how you are finding the appointments is important. This allows therapy to be adjusted to your pace.
Depending on your needs and the clinician you work with, therapy may include:
Trauma-focused CBT, which can help people understand trauma reactions, reduce avoidance, work with meanings attached to what happened and rebuild everyday functioning.
EMDR, which can help some people process traumatic memories that continue to feel vivid, intrusive or distressing.
Compassion-focused, psychodynamic, systemic, CAT, DBT-informed or integrative approaches, particularly where trauma is linked with shame, relationship patterns, emotional regulation difficulties, self-criticism or earlier life experiences.
Your Clinical Psychologist will discuss the options with you and recommend an approach based on assessment, formulation, your goals and what feels manageable.
Common effects of trauma
Trauma can affect the body, emotions, thinking, relationships and everyday functioning. People may experience:
- flashbacks or intrusive memories
- nightmares or disturbed sleep
- feeling constantly alert or easily startled
- panic, anxiety or a sense of danger
- low mood, hopelessness
- emotional numbness
- shame, guilt, anger or self-blame
- avoiding reminders of what happened
- difficulty trusting others
- relationship or intimacy difficulties
- feeling detached from yourself or other people
- problems concentrating or feeling present
- using work, substances, food or other strategies to block out distress
These reactions can make sense in the context of what a person has lived through.
Psychological therapy can help you understand these patterns and work towards feeling safer, more connected and more able to live in the present.
Where appropriate, we can consider clinicians who offer trauma-focused approaches such as EMDR, trauma-focused CBT, compassion-focused therapy, psychodynamic therapy, CAT, DBT-informed approaches or integrative psychological therapy.
Clinical Psychologists offering trauma-focused therapy
Several Clinical Psychologists in our network have substantial experience working with trauma, PTSD and complex trauma.
Some clinicians in our network have particular experience in trauma, PTSD, complex PTSD, early life experiences, emotional regulation, shame, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties and major life transitions.
National Clinical Psychology Service can help match you with an HCPC-registered Clinical Psychologist whose experience fits the difficulties you are bringing.
Depending on the clinician and your needs, trauma-focused work may include EMDR, trauma-focused CBT and other evidence-based psychological approaches. Your psychologist will discuss which approach may be most appropriate following assessment.
- Dr Adele Stevens
Trauma, PTSD & complex PTSD · EMDR · Narrative Exposure Therapy
Online - Dr Alan Hebben-Wadey
Trauma & PTSD · EMDR
Eastbourne + online - Dr Jeff Arnold
Single-event trauma & complex childhood trauma · Accredited EMDR practitioner Online - Dr Lisa Tomlinson
Childhood trauma · EMDR · CBT · CFT · CAT-informed · DBT
Stockton-on-Tees, Durham + online - Dr Sharon Harvey
Trauma, PTSD & complex PTSD · EMDR · CBT · CFT · ACT · DBT · Systemic approaches
Holmfirth, West Yorkshire + online - Dr Simone Peters
Trauma, PTSD & complex PTSD · EMDR · CFT
Online - Dr Zounish Rafique
Trauma-focused therapy · EMDR · CAT · DBT
Online - Dr Natalie Southall
Stressful & traumatic experiences · EMDR · CAT · CBT
Stone, Staffordshire + online - Dr Claire Cartwright
Trauma-informed psychological therapy · EMDR · CBT · CFT · CAT-informed · Systemic approaches
Liverpool + online - Dr Laura Draycott
Trauma & PTSD · EMDR · CBT · ACT · Compassionate Mind Therapy
Online + some outdoor/walking therapy in Lichfield, Staffordshire - Dr Ann-Marie Munday
Complex PTSD & trauma · EMDR · CBT
Coventry + online - Dr Ann Kilanska
Trauma · European Accredited EMDR Practitioner
Online - Dr Amy Elliott
Trauma · EMDR · CBT
Online - Dr Ellen Khan
Trauma · EMDR · CBT · CAT · Compassion-focused approaches
Remote
Not sure which psychologist would be the best fit?
Tell us briefly what you would like help with and whether you prefer online or face-to-face appointments, and we can help identify an appropriate Clinical Psychologist.
Trauma Clinical Psychologist FAQ
What is a trauma psychologist?
“Trauma psychologist” is not a separate protected professional title. On this page, we use the term to describe HCPC-registered Clinical Psychologists who have experience in helping people with trauma-related difficulties, PTSD and/or complex trauma; helping people understand and work through the effects of traumatic or overwhelming experiences.
Do I need a PTSD diagnosis to see a trauma psychologist?
No. You do not need a PTSD diagnosis before contacting National Clinical Psychology Service. A Clinical Psychologist can help assess what you are experiencing and consider whether trauma-focused therapy, another psychological approach or a different form of support may be suitable.
What can a trauma psychologist help with?
A trauma psychologist can help with difficulties such as flashbacks, nightmares, avoidance, anxiety, shame, emotional numbness, anger, low mood, relationship difficulties, feeling constantly on “red alert” and patterns linked with complex or repeated trauma.
What is the difference between trauma and PTSD?
Trauma refers to experiences that overwhelmed a person’s ability to cope at the time. PTSD is a specific pattern of symptoms that can develop after trauma. Some people have PTSD symptoms, while others have trauma-related difficulties that do not fit neatly into one diagnosis.
Can a Clinical Psychologist help with complex trauma?
Yes. Clinical Psychologists can help people whose difficulties are linked with repeated, prolonged or early life trauma. Therapy may need to be carefully paced and may include work on emotional regulation, shame, trust, relationships, self-criticism, traumatic memories and patterns that developed as ways of surviving.
Which therapies can a trauma psychologist use?
Depending on assessment and formulation, therapy may include trauma-focused CBT, EMDR, compassion-focused therapy, psychodynamic therapy, CAT, DBT-informed approaches, systemic approaches or integrative therapy. The approach should be matched to the person, the type of trauma and what feels clinically appropriate.
Is EMDR suitable for trauma?
EMDR is one of the psychological therapies recommended by NICE for some adults with PTSD or clinically important symptoms of PTSD. Whether EMDR is appropriate for you should be considered following assessment with a suitably trained clinician.
EMDR can be helpful for some people with trauma-related symptoms, particularly PTSD symptoms. It is not the only option, and suitability should be discussed with a properly trained clinician after assessment. See more on our EMDR page.
Do you offer online appointments with a trauma psychologist?
Yes. Online appointments are available with Clinical Psychologists in our network. Some in-person appointments may also be available depending on clinician and location.
How much does it cost to see a trauma clinical psychologist?
Fees typically range from £110–£140 for a 50- or 60-minute appointment, depending on the clinician you choose. The fee will always be confirmed in advance.
How long does trauma therapy take?
The length of trauma therapy varies depending on your needs, experiences and goals. Work following a single traumatic event may sometimes be relatively brief, while therapy for complex, repeated or longstanding childhood-based trauma may take longer.
An initial assessment with a skilled Clinical Psychologist can help you understand what may be appropriate for you.
Psychologist Counselling For Trauma Issues
If you’re looking for an experienced psychologist offering counselling for trauma problems, our clinical psychologists offer effective psychological therapies.
You can also contact us about available counselling appointments by clicking on the button below.
Author
Dr Jurai Darongkamas
Jurai is a Consultant Clinical Psychologist who worked in Mental Health in the National Health Service (NHS), 1986 – 2019.
She now works part time alongside select colleagues offering high quality Psychological Therapies privately.
She is an Associate Fellow of the British Psychological Society (AFBPsS), an experienced trainer and supervisor; previously Lead in an NHS Trust for people with complex difficulties and Board Trustee.
Note
This page has been written to provide a brief overview for the reader. It should not be used as a basis for any action until after obtaining a professional opinion about your unique difficulties, strengths, circumstances, life history, etc.
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Clinical Psychology: FAQs
What is Clinical Psychology?
Clinical psychology is the scientific study of the human mind and behaviour. Its principles and theories are applied to help individuals, couples, families, groups, and organisations.
What is the training process for becoming a Clinical Psychologist?
Clinical Psychologists usually undergo 7-8 years of training, which includes obtaining a Psychology degree (usually 3 years), plus the doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology (usually 3 years).
Additionally, some relevant experience, such as working as an assistant psychologist, IAPT worker, nursing assistant, researcher, etc., is often required to secure a place on the Clinical Psychology training course.
What kinds of therapies can Clinical Psychologists offer?
Clinical Psychologists are trained in a wide range of psychological assessment, intervention, and therapies. They can offer a tailored approach to individuals, including integrative therapies, which combine two or more types of therapy in a theoretically coherent practical way.
How does the training of Clinical Psychologists compare to that of Mental Health Counsellors?
The training of Clinical Psychologists is much more extensive than that of most Mental Health Counsellors. In addition to their foundational training, many Clinical Psychologists go on to receive specialist training in particular approaches.
What are the main Psychological Therapy Approaches used?
We view each person as unique. Rather than use a label regarding which mental health problem you have, we work out with you what’s contributed/led to, the present difficulties and what’s the best way forward.
We offer a range of therapy approaches.
Sometimes, it is appropriate to offer an individualised, integrative approach (combining 2 or more in a theoretically coherent practical way).
We will advise you, out of many possible psychological approaches including:
- Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT),
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT),
- Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR),
- Experiential Dynamic Therapy (EDT),
- Compassion Focussed Therapy (CFT),
- Emotion Focused Therapy, etc.
How do I make an appointment for help?
To see one of our clinical psychologists, complete our brief, online form or call us on 0330 223 1844 for a free, no-obligation consultation where we will aim to help us fix a good day and time for you.
Click the following link below to see more information about the individual psychologists that work with us.
Who do you see?
We see individuals, couples and families.
Do you offer both online and in-person appointments?
We see people over the internet with some in same-room appointments, for talking therapy or psychological therapy remotely using Zoom.
Psychological therapy has been shown to be effective on-line – it is more than counselling over the internet.
As well as psychologists based across the UK, e.g., in Birmingham, Staffordshire, Shropshire, London, North of England and other areas,
What is the process involved when starting therapy with a Clinical Psychologist?
As seeing a Clinical Psychologist can be a very personal journey, you would normally first meet up to see if you can work together as client – psychologist, as two people.
The first, and any subsequent, session is charged at the rate for the psychologist you see.
The Clinical Psychologist will offer an assessment. That is, getting to know you to understand possible issues linked to how the difficulties started and how they persist.
This assessment will usually consist of asking you to share about your background, key family members (past and current), relationship history, and anything else you feel is significant.
How long do I see a Clinical Psychologist for?
How long you will meet for can be agreed between you and your Clinical Psychologist at the first /first few meeting/s depending on the help required, the clinical understanding reached and your preferences.
We would not offer to see you for longer than necessary.
Alternatively, you might choose to be seen for a few sessions (1-4) just for assessment.
After an assessment, you can be advised if psychological approaches could help you and the approach needed in the Clinical Psychologist’s opinion.
Will I be given information about the Clinical Psychologist?
How much does it cost to see a psychologist?
Clinical Psychologists have a wide range of experience. Depending on your specific needs and which Psychologist you see, the cost is usually in the range of £100-£140 per appointment. It depends on which person you decide to meet.
We can be more specific once we have considered your particular presenting needs.
We will always let you know the exact cost before you agree to meet.
What courses can I join to help me improve my psychological health?
From time to time, we also offer classes (courses and workshops) to those interested in learning skills in a group setting and meeting others. These cover areas such as: self-esteem, confidence, understanding more about interactions with others, understanding “rules” from childhood.
Please email letting us know of your interest and/or ask the person you see for more information about this. When we have the dates for our next course, information will be posted here.
How will my confidentiality be maintained?
We would normally ask you for details of your GP. We will agree with you whether you would like us to write to your GP to let him/her know that you seeing a Clinical Psychologist. We would normally prefer to write.
We take your GP’s details because, should the situation dictate and we become concerned for you welfare, then we would have to let him/her know. As part of our duty of care, we aim to tell you that we are doing so first.
We would usually only break confidentiality where absolutely necessary, for example, if we were informed that a crime was to be committed.
How are Clinical Psychologists regulated?
You are entitled to make a complaint about any Clinical Psychologist you are unhappy with to either the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and/or the professional association for Clinical Psychologists, the British Psychological Society.
(The former was set up for the protection of the public and potentially can strike someone off the register so they cannot practice again in future, if found guilty of misconduct).
Many professional organisations have published codes of conduct and code of ethics.
All individual practitioners should carry professional indemnity insurance for their work. You can ask to see a copy of their up to date certificate.
What is your complaints procedure?
We hope, and expect, that you will receive an excellent service from our Clinical Psychologists.
However, in the event of you not being satisfied with the service you receive from your Clinical Psychologist, you have several options available to you, depending on your degree of dissatisfaction.
Please visit our complaints procedure page for more details.