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Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a particularly rewarding condition to treat, as individuals often experience significant improvements in quality of life once the trauma is properly addressed. Unlike other psychiatric diagnoses, PTSD is not a sign of weakness or instability—it is a natural response to highly distressing or life-threatening events. With the right therapeutic approach, recovery can be both meaningful and lasting.

PTSD is not classified as a “mental illness” in the traditional sense, but rather as a trauma-related condition triggered by overwhelming experiences. It can occur following a single traumatic event or after prolonged exposure to distress, and it affects people of all ages and backgrounds. There is often overlap with other conditions such as depression, anxiety disorders, substance misuse, and dissociative disorders.

A common question is whether PTSD is becoming more prevalent. While it is unclear whether the actual incidence has increased, awareness and diagnosis have certainly improved over the past few decades. In the past, individuals affected by PTSD may have been misunderstood or misdiagnosed—sometimes described as “nervous,” “difficult,” or “overly sensitive.” Today, we are better equipped to identify the condition, understand its effects, and offer treatments that genuinely help.

Many people live with undiagnosed PTSD for years before seeking help. The good news is that with the right support, people can process their trauma, manage their symptoms, and regain control over their lives.

Therapy session
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What We Offer

​At Psyche Clinic, we offer tailored treatment for PTSD grounded in evidence-based therapies and delivered by expert clinicians. Our approach may include:
 

  • Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (TF-CBT)

  • Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR)

  • Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT)

  • Psychiatric support and medication management, where appropriate

  • Integrative psychotherapy, blending psychological insight with practical coping strategies
     

We prioritise creating a safe, non-judgmental environment where you can process your experience and begin to reclaim a sense of safety and control.

Our Approach to Treatment

At Psyche Clinic, we treat Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) using a combination of evidence-based psychotherapeutic approaches and, where appropriate, medication. While medication can play a supportive role in alleviating specific symptoms such as anxiety, hypervigilance, or sleep disturbances, the primary and most effective treatment for PTSD is talking therapy. Therapy addresses the underlying trauma and helps individuals process and integrate distressing experiences in a safe, structured way.
 

We offer a range of therapies tailored to the individual, including Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (TF-CBT), Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT). These approaches are designed to reduce re-experiencing symptoms (such as flashbacks and nightmares), improve emotional regulation, and rebuild a sense of safety and control.
 

In some cases, medication may be recommended to manage particular symptoms or co-occurring conditions such as depression, anxiety, or insomnia. The most commonly prescribed medications for PTSD are Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs), such as Sertraline and Paroxetine, which are approved for use in PTSD and have been shown to reduce symptoms in many individuals. For patients with significant sleep disruption or nightmares, low doses of sedating medications like Mirtazapine or Prazosin may be used. However, medication is generally seen as an adjunct to therapy, not a replacement.
 

Treatment for PTSD is highly individualised, and we work collaboratively with each patient to determine the most suitable therapeutic pathway. Some individuals may prefer to begin with talking therapy alone, while others may benefit from the temporary support of medication, especially during periods of acute distress.

PTSD can be a long-standing condition, particularly if left untreated, and it may qualify as a disability under the UK Equality Act. We can provide documentation to support requests for workplace or educational accommodations if symptoms are significantly affecting day-to-day functioning. These letters can help secure reasonable adjustments, such as flexible deadlines, reduced workload, or additional support services.
 

Recovery from PTSD is entirely possible. With the right combination of clinical support, therapy, and, where necessary, medication, individuals can experience significant improvement in their symptoms and overall quality of life.

Your Next Step

Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. If you're ready to begin your healing journey or want to know more about how our psychology services can support you, we invite you to get in touch. Our admissions team is here to guide you with care and discretion.

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