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Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is treatable even when problems present themselves many years after the traumatic event. Getting the right treatment is crucial.

NICE states that “All people with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) should be offered a course of trauma-focused psychological treatment (trauma-focused cognitive behavioural Counselling or eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR).”

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (trauma focused)

In trauma focused CBT, the therapist will teach their client ways to cope with the symptoms they are experiencing. They will then assist their client in facing the memories in a safe and controlled way. An important part of CBT will be to help the client learn how to change the negative thinking and manage other problems that have resulted from the traumatic event.

Eye Movement Desensitisation & Reprocessing (EMDR)

EMDR was developed in 1989 as a clinical treatment for trauma. It has been tested in clinical trials and found to be an effective treatment for PTSD.

The eye movements used in EMDR seem to unlock the nervous system and allow the person’s brain to process the experience. That may be similar to what is happening in Rapid Eye Movement (REM), or dream sleep. The eye movements are involved in processing the unconscious material. EMDR is a very powerful method and should only be used by properly trained practitioners.

How can I help myself

Here are some simple things that you can do following a traumatic incident that will help you recover physically and emotionally

• Talking things through with a good listener: This can help you to make sense of what happened and social support is important in your recovery so that you do not feel isolated


• Avoiding alcohol: You may believe that alcohol will help you get to sleep and take the edge of your feelings. However, it will actually disrupt your deep sleep pattern and is also a depressant. Avoid it or minimize it!


• Reducing stimulants such as caffeine


• Limiting your exposure to distressing media coverage


• Taking regular exercise will help rebalance your body’s stress hormones, provide structure to your time and release much needed “feel good” hormones


• Keeping a diary of your thoughts and feelings


• Eating regular, well-balanced meals


• Setting yourself small, realistic goals: Don’t expect too much of yourself too soon after the incident but try to keep some structure and purpose to your waking day


• Finding out more about Traumatic Stress – knowledge is power!

When to seek professional help:

• If you are finding it difficult to manage any of the reactions you are experiencing.
• If you do not have someone to share your thoughts, feelings and experience with and you think this would be helpful.
• If you feel despair or have thoughts of harming yourself.
• If you have any concerns about how you, or the people around you, are reacting.
• If, over time, you don’t feel that you are improving.
• For more information on Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, visit www.pathwaysthroughtrauma.co.uk

Choosing a therapist

At The Trauma Group we will put you in touch with some of the best Post Traumatic Stress therapists in the country, but for effective treatment you need to choose the right therapist for you. It is important that you have confidence in your therapist’s skills and experience if you are seeking assistance with PTSD. Often clients feel unable to ask the right questions or challenge whether the therapist is right for them. Accessing treatment for PTSD is the same as any other service. Check you are getting what you need and don’t settle for less!

Some questions that may help you choose your therapist are

• What are your qualifications? Are you accredited with any organisations?


• Do you have specific experience of working with people who have PTSD?


• What therapies do you use? Can you explain why these work?


• If you use EMDR, which training have you completed? (Level 1, intermediate or (ideally) level 2 training). Are you accredited?


• How long do sessions last? How long do you expect therapy to go on for?


• What exceptions do you have for confidentiality?


• How long do I have to wait for an appointment?


• How much do you charge? Do you offer any concessions for low income / ex-military etc?

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