Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
PTSD develops when the brain's normal processing of a traumatic event is disrupted, leaving memories stored in a fragmented, emotionally raw way. This results in intrusive memories, flashbacks, nightmares, hypervigilance, and emotional numbing. These are not signs of weakness -- they are the normal response of a human nervous system to an abnormal experience. With specialist therapy, PTSD is highly treatable.
Complex PTSD and the Impact of Prolonged Trauma
CPTSD develops from prolonged, repeated trauma -- such as childhood abuse, domestic violence, or sustained emotional abuse -- rather than a single event. Alongside the core PTSD symptoms, CPTSD involves profound difficulties with emotional regulation, identity, and relationships. It requires a particularly skilled, carefully paced therapeutic approach that addresses both the trauma itself and its wider impact on the sense of self.
Support in Northern Ireland
NI Counselling provides specialist PTSD and CPTSD therapy across Northern Ireland. Our therapists are trained in evidence-based trauma approaches including EMDR and trauma-focused CBT. We work at your pace and your safety is always the central priority. In-person and online sessions are available.
Our Service Areas:
Belfast City
Co. Antrim
Co. Down
Derry/L'Derry
Remote NI
UK-wide Online
Expert Methodologies for Lasting Relief
We don't believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. We utilize the gold standard of evidence-based psychological interventions.
EMDR Therapy
EMDR is our primary tool for processing single-incident PTSD and is also used as part of a phased approach to CPTSD. Our EMDR-trained therapists work carefully within the evidence-based protocol, adapting the pace and approach to your specific presentation and level of stability.
Trauma-Focused CBT
Trauma-focused CBT is a highly evidenced approach that works with the specific thoughts, beliefs and behaviours that maintain trauma responses. We use it for PTSD and elements of it within CPTSD treatment to address the cognitive dimensions of trauma alongside the emotional and physiological.
Stabilisation and Resourcing
Particularly for CPTSD, building stability and internal resources before processing traumatic material is essential. We take as much time as needed on this stabilisation phase, ensuring you have the internal tools and capacity to approach trauma processing safely and effectively.
