At Eleos Counselling in West Sussex, we understand the profound impact that Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can have on your life. Whether you’re dealing with the aftermath of a traumatic event, domestic abuse, or long-term exposure to distressing experiences, our specialized therapeutic services are designed to help you find relief and recovery. Using evidence-based approaches such as Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT), we are here to guide you on your journey toward healing and resilience.

 How trauma affects you, a metaphor

Life can be like starting out with a brand-new rowing boat. In the beginning, your boat glides effortlessly through the water—free from anything weighing it down. The water represents your interaction with daily life, smooth and unburdened. 

But trauma is like barnacles attaching themselves to the bottom of the boat, making movement heavier and more difficult. With every hardship, another barnacle—some small, some large—clings to the hull, slowing progress, creating resistance, and making the journey through life feel exhausting. Over time, the weight becomes overwhelming, and one day, the boat may even sink.

Therapy can be seen as a dry dock—a place where you and a skilled, empathetic therapist carefully remove the barnacles, lightening the load. Some barnacles may leave their mark, subtle impressions on the boat’s surface, reminders of where they once were. But with each removed burden, the boat regains its ability to move freely again. 

Though the barnacles once clung to your boat, you can now navigate life with greater ease and freedom, no longer held back by the weight of the past.

What is PTSD and How Does It Affect You?

PTSD is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. In the UK, around 3 in every 100 adults are affected by PTSD, with about one-third of the population reporting exposure to at least one traumatic event during their lifetime. While not everyone who experiences trauma develops PTSD, for those who do, the symptoms can be debilitating. These symptoms include:

• Re-experiencing the trauma: Flashbacks, nightmares, and intrusive thoughts.
• Avoidance: Steering clear of people, places, or situations that remind you of the event.
• Negative changes in mood and cognition: Persistent feelings of guilt, shame, or detachment from others.
• Hyperarousal: Being constantly on edge, easily startled, or irritable.

Left untreated, PTSD can severely affect personal relationships, professional life, and overall quality of life. However, with the right support, recovery is possible.

Specialised Support for Young People

Trauma doesn’t discriminate by age, and young people are particularly vulnerable to its long-term effects. Nearly one in three young people in the UK has experienced trauma, and one in four of these individuals develops PTSD by the age of 18. Domestic abuse, in particular, has a profound impact on young people, disrupting their emotional and psychological development. Without intervention, these experiences can lead to difficulties in forming healthy relationships, maintaining stable employment, and managing mental health as adults.

At Eleos Counselling, we provide a safe, supportive environment for young people to process their experiences and build resilience. Our approach focuses on empowering them to overcome the lingering effects of trauma and develop healthier coping mechanisms for the future.

Our Approach to PTSD Treatment

At Eleos Counselling, we combine compassionate care with proven therapeutic methods to support individuals on their healing journey. Two key approaches we offer are EMDR and Compassion-Focused Therapy:

Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR)

EMDR is a highly effective, evidence-based treatment for PTSD. This innovative approach helps clients process and resolve traumatic memories that remain “stuck” in the brain. By using guided eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation, EMDR allows the brain to reprocess distressing memories, reducing their emotional charge and helping clients move forward with their lives.

Benefits of EMDR include:

• Rapid symptom reduction for PTSD and other trauma-related conditions.
• A structured process that doesn’t require clients to relive traumatic experiences in detail.
• Improved emotional regulation and resilience.

At Eleos Counselling, our trained EMDR therapists provide a safe and supportive space for clients to explore and resolve their trauma at their own pace.

Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT)

CFT is another cornerstone of our therapeutic approach. This method is designed to help individuals overcome feelings of shame and self-criticism often associated with PTSD. By cultivating self-compassion, clients can develop a healthier relationship with themselves and foster emotional healing.

Key elements of CFT include:

• Building emotional awareness and understanding.
• Developing self-soothing techniques and positive self-talk.
• Reducing the inner “critical voice” that perpetuates feelings of guilt and unworthiness.

CFT is particularly effective for individuals who have experienced prolonged trauma, such as domestic abuse. It helps clients rebuild their sense of self-worth and develop the emotional tools needed to thrive.

Why Choose Eleos Counselling?

Experienced and Compassionate Therapists

Our team consists of highly qualified therapists who specialize in trauma-focused care. We are members of Addiction Professionals, the leading UK organization for those working with addictive behaviors, ensuring the highest standards of professionalism and ethics.

A Tailored Approach

We understand that every individual’s journey is unique. That’s why we create personalized treatment plans that address your specific needs, goals, and experiences. Whether you prefer EMDR, CFT, or a combination of therapies, we will work with you to find the best approach.

A Safe and Confidential Environment

At Eleos Counselling, we prioritize your comfort and privacy. Our West Sussex practice is a welcoming, judgment-free space where you can explore your feelings and experiences without fear.

The Benefits of Early Intervention

Seeking support for PTSD as early as possible can make a significant difference in your recovery journey. Early intervention not only helps alleviate immediate symptoms but also reduces the risk of long-term complications such as depression, anxiety, and physical health issues. By addressing trauma head-on, you can regain control over your life and rediscover a sense of hope and purpose.

Start Your Healing Journey Today

If you or a loved one is struggling with PTSD, Eleos Counselling in West Sussex is here to help. Our expert therapists are dedicated to providing compassionate, effective care tailored to your unique needs. With evidence-based approaches like EMDR and Compassion-Focused Therapy, we aim to help you process your trauma, rebuild your confidence, and create a brighter future.

Contact us today to book an appointment or learn more about our services. Together, we can help you find the path to healing and resilience. At Eleos Counselling, we believe that no matter how dark the past, recovery is always possible.