Information and Resources
Post traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Complex PTSD
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can develop after experiencing a powerfully distressing or frightening event. Common experiences include flashbacks, nightmares, avoiding reminders of what happened, feeling on edge, or changes in mood.
Complex PTSD (C-PTSD) can develop after longer-term or repeated trauma, often in situations where escape wasn’t possible, such as childhood abuse or difficult relationships. Alongside PTSD symptoms, people may also find it harder to manage emotions, feel negatively about themselves, or struggle with relationships.
Both PTSD and C-PTSD can feel overwhelming, but recovery is possible. With the right support and therapies, many people go on to live meaningful and fulfilling lives.
Further Reading & Resources
Accessible Trauma Resources
- Beacon House – Free resources on developmental trauma and attachment.
- UK Trauma Council – Guidance on childhood trauma (Anna Freud Centre).
- Trauma-Informed Schools UK – Practical tools for educators, parents, and professionals.
- Blue Knot Foundation – Resources on complex trauma and childhood abuse.
- Complex PTSD Foundation – Survivor-led information hub.
Open-Access Clinical & Academic References
- WHO ICD-11 Classification – Official PTSD & Complex PTSD diagnostic criteria.
- Complex PTSD: History and Definitions (VA)
- Complex PTSD: Assessment and Treatment (VA)
- Giourou et al. (2018) – Complex PTSD review
- Maercker et al. (2021) – ICD-11 development
- Cloitre (2020) – ICD-11 diagnosis
- Rød (2021) – Clinical utility of C-PTSD
Further Academic Reading (May Require Subscription)
What is schema therapy?
Schema Therapy is an integrative, evidence-based approach that helps people understand and change long-standing patterns in how they think, feel, and relate to others. These patterns—called schemas and modes—often develop from unmet emotional needs or difficult experiences earlier in life. Schema Therapy combines elements of CBT, attachment theory, and experiential techniques such as chairwork and imagery to reduce self-defeating cycles, build healthier coping strategies, and strengthen a more compassionate, resilient sense of self.
Learn More Resources (UK-Based)
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Schema Therapy Institute, London – ISST-certified training, therapy, and workshops across the UK.
Also listed at the Schema Therapy Society (ISST). - Schema Therapy Scotland – Specialist workshops, trainings, supervision, and recordings for Scotland & Northern England.
- Schema Therapy Society / ISST UK Training – Directory of UK-approved ISST training providers.
- NHS Patient Leaflet on Schema Therapy – NHS overview of what schema therapy involves, common coping styles, and schemas.
What is EMDR?
Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a therapy that helps people process traumatic or distressing memories so they feel less overwhelming. These short UK-produced animations from the EMDR Association UK explain how EMDR works in a clear and reassuring way — one focused on adults, and one designed for children and families.
▶ EMDR Explained for Adults
▶ EMDR Explained for Children & Families
Learn More About EMDR
- EMDR Association UK – “The Basics” – A clear overview of what EMDR is and how it works.
- EMDR Association UK (homepage) – Official site with further information, therapist directory, and training resources.
- EMDR Animation for Children & Families (YouTube) – Gentle animated explanation designed for younger audiences and parents.
- EMDR Animation for Adults (YouTube) – UK-produced animation explaining EMDR therapy for adults.