Specialist therapy for trauma, stress and psychological strain
Specialist therapy for trauma, stress and psychological strain
I offer specialist psychological therapy for adults affected by trauma, stress, and related psychological difficulties. My work is grounded in evidence-based trauma treatment and informed by doctoral-level expertise in police psychology, trauma reduction and trauma treatment. While I work with a broad range of clients, the practice has a particular emphasis on the blue-light services and others working in high-pressure professional roles.
Where clinically appropriate, I place particular emphasis on in-person sessions, especially for trauma-focused work.
Trauma Treatment
Trauma can affect people in many different ways. For some, the impact relates to a specific event. For others, it develops through repeated exposure, cumulative strain, or prolonged periods of pressure without sufficient recovery.
Its effects may include intrusive memories, disturbed sleep, hypervigilance, anxiety, emotional numbing, irritability, avoidance, or a reduced sense of steadiness in daily life. Trauma treatment is aimed at helping people understand these responses, reduce their impact, and move towards greater stability and recovery.
The NHS lists trauma-focused CBT among recognised treatments for PTSD, and NICE recommends individual trauma-focused CBT for adults with PTSD or clinically important PTSD symptoms. Trauma-focused CBT normally requires between 12 and 16 sessions, usually once a week until treatment is complete.
My trauma work is informed by
- Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (TF-CBT)
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for Trauma (TFACT)
- Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT)
Psychological Assessment
I offer psychological assessment where a structured professional evaluation is needed in relation to trauma, stress, coping, psychological wellbeing, or related concerns.
An assessment may be helpful in clarifying the nature of current difficulties, identifying clinically relevant factors, and informing recommendations for treatment or support. It can also provide a more focused understanding of what may be contributing to distress and what form of intervention is likely to be most useful.
Assessments are approached carefully, professionally, and with attention to the purpose of the work and the context in which they are requested.
Single-Session Integrated Therapy
Single-Session Integrated Therapy offers a focused therapeutic appointment for those seeking support in relation to a specific difficulty, incident, decision, or period of strain.
For some, a single session provides sufficient clarity, containment and direction. For others, it offers a useful starting point in deciding whether further therapy would be beneficial.
This may be particularly helpful for people who
- Want support with a clearly defined issue
- Are not looking for ongoing therapy at present
- Need a structured space to think clearly about next steps
- Would benefit from a clinically informed consultation following a difficult or significant experience
Telephone and Video Consultation
I also offer consultation by telephone and video where this is appropriate and practical. Remote sessions can be helpful where travel, location, work commitments, or other circumstances make face-to-face appointments difficult.
For trauma treatment in particular, I generally place greater emphasis on in-person work where possible, as this is often better suited to the depth and nature of the work. Telephone and video consultations can nevertheless provide an effective and useful option in many circumstances and can be discussed on an individual basis.
Blue-light service arrangements
My practice has a particular emphasis on work with the blue-light services, especially policing. Some blue-light services hold occupational health contracts with me for therapy and related support. Where such arrangements are in place, referrals may be made through the relevant occupational health pathway.
For serving and retired Police, Fire & Rescue and Ambulance personnel whose occupational health department does not hold a contract with me, discounted rates are available.
Fees
Discounted rates are available for serving and retired police officers where occupational health funding is not in place.
Choosing the right service
The most appropriate format will depend on the nature of the difficulty, the purpose of the work, and what is likely to be clinically useful. For some, ongoing trauma treatment is the most appropriate approach. For others, a psychological assessment, a single-session consultation, or remote support may be a better fit.
This can be discussed during an initial enquiry.
For information on the use of AI and digital support tools in relation to this practice, please see the AI Statement.
Taking the next step
If you are considering therapy, assessment, or consultation, you are welcome to get in touch to discuss what may be most appropriate for your circumstances.
Get in touch