Trauma and PTSD services: understanding your options

Read this first

Reading about trauma can be difficult. This guide is educational only and does not diagnose. If you feel unsafe at any point, contact NHS 111 (mental health option), your GP, or 999 in an emergency. Samaritans is free on 116 123.

How assessment usually works

A trauma assessment is led by the clinician and should be paced. You are not required to describe everything that happened in a first appointment. Clinicians typically want to understand current symptoms — such as intrusive memories, nightmares, avoidance, feeling constantly on edge, and changes in mood or beliefs — how long they have been present, and their impact on daily life. They will also ask about safety, other health conditions, alcohol and substance use, and existing support.

Therapies described in UK guidance

NICE guidance on post-traumatic stress disorder describes trauma-focused psychological therapies for adults, including trauma-focused cognitive behavioural therapy and eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR). Guidance also addresses children and young people, and covers circumstances in which medication may be considered. Which approach fits depends on the individual picture and is a decision for a qualified clinician with you.

Choosing a provider carefully

• Ask what specific trauma-focused training the clinician holds, and their registration or accreditation
• Ask how they pace treatment and what stabilisation work comes first if needed
• Ask how many sessions are typically involved and how progress is reviewed
• Ask what support exists between sessions and what the plan is if symptoms intensify temporarily
• If your experience relates to a specific context — military service, sexual violence, bereavement, workplace incidents, refugee or asylum experience — ask directly whether the service works with it

Pacing and safety

Trauma-focused therapy can feel harder before it feels easier, which is why pacing, a clear plan and an agreed approach to distress between sessions matter. A provider should be able to explain all three before you start.

Specialist and free support

NHS talking therapies services provide trauma-focused therapy in England, and specialist NHS services exist for more complex presentations, including services for veterans. Charities also offer support for specific experiences.

What NeuroLynk does not do

We do not assess trauma, ask about your trauma history in enquiry forms, or triage risk. Our enquiry form collects only the minimum information needed to route your enquiry to the provider you choose.