Post-traumatic stress disorder is a type of anxiety disorder that could develop as a response to a traumatic event or a series of traumatic events. Example of traumatic events that could cause PTSD include, traffic accidents, work accidents, natural disasters, abuse (physical or sexual), severe neglect, receiving a diagnosis of life-threatening illness, military combat, threatening work situations (e.g., firefighters, police, A&E stuff), witnessing violent acts or someone else being in danger, or experiencing any other life-threatening situation.
People that are suffering from PTSD often experience vivid flashbacks and/or nightmares, reliving the traumatic event. The PTSD symptoms can become so severe and unpleasant that can significantly affect the sufferer’s day to day functioning and relationships.
Some Common Symptoms of PTSD include:
PTSD Physiological symptoms
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Light headiness
- Pain (e.g., chest and stomach pain)
- Heart Palpitations
- Muscle aches
- Trembling
- Sweating
Psychological symptoms of PTSD
- Angry outbursts and/or irritability
- Concentration problems
- Feeling on edge (e.g., anxious, frightened, panicky, frustrated)
- Feelings of guilt or shame
- Disturbed sleep
- Hyper-vigilance
- Intense distress when encountering reminders
- Nightmares
- Repetitive, intrusive and distressing images or sensations
- Vivid flashbacks
PTSD Behavioural Symptoms
- Avoiding places that trigger memories of the traumatic event
- Destructive behaviour such as alcohol or drug misuse
- Self-harm
- Reckless behaviour
- Withdrawal or isolation
There are three different types of PTSD:
Single incident PTSD: could occur as a result of a one-off traumatic event (e.g., road accident, fire, sexual/physical assault). Symptoms often appear soon after the traumatic event.
Complex PTSD: could occur both in adults or children as a result of experiencing repeated traumatic events such as physical/emotional/sexual abuse or neglect. Often in complex PTSD, the sufferer can develop PTSD much later in life because of trauma experienced in childhood.
Birth trauma: is referred to PTSD that might occur after giving birth
My approach
I am a highly trained and experienced Psychologist with more than 10 years in clinical practice, offering evidence based psychological treatment tailored to your unique needs. My approach allows me to draw from different therapeutic models and skills to offer a thoughtful therapeutic service and the best psychological care.
My qualifications
I am a Chartered Psychologist HCPC, BPS and BACP registered with more 10 years of experience in the NHS, third sector and private practice. I am a highly trained and experienced practitioner psychologist providing evidence based psychological services to individuals and couples. I apply my clinical expertise in a wide range of psychological and emotional difficulties offering a psychological service tailored to your unique needs. I aim to help you develop insight into your difficulties, acquire healthy coping strategies in order to lead a meaningful life and build meaningful relationships.