karin.usher@proton.me 0141 538 9938

Trauma and PTSD

Support for women living with the effects of trauma, abuse, or overwhelming experiences — offered with care, and at your pace.

Book a Free Consultation

Therapy online, or in-person (available at my offices in Barrhead (G78) and Clarkston (G76), Glasgow).

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Trauma & PTSD


Trauma can change the way you see yourself, others, and the world around you. For many women who have experienced childhood abuse, neglect, or sexual violence in adulthood, the effects can feel overwhelming, isolating, and persistent. Trauma doesn't always leave visible scars, but it can shape your thoughts, emotions, and relationships in ways that are hard to put into words.

You might feel constantly on edge, easily startled, or disconnected from your own emotions. Memories from the past might surface unexpectedly, leaving you feeling vulnerable or powerless. Or maybe you've spent years trying to move on, only to feel that something still doesn't feel right. These are not personal failings — they are survival responses from a nervous system that has been through too much.


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Understanding Trauma & PTSD


Trauma is not just a memory — it's a bodily experience. The brain and nervous system often react as if the danger is still present, even when it's not. This can manifest as hypervigilance, nightmares, difficulty trusting others, or feeling emotionally numb. Trauma therapy can help you make sense of these reactions and learn how to soothe your body's alarm systems.

Common Symptoms and Reactions

  • Hypervigilance and feeling on high alert
  • Flashbacks or intrusive memories
  • Emotional numbness or detachment
  • Difficulty forming or maintaining relationships
  • Physical symptoms like tension, fatigue, or chronic pain
  • Self-blame or intense feelings of shame
  • Avoidance of places, people, or situations that trigger memories

These symptoms are not your fault. They are your mind and body's way of coping when the world has felt unsafe. Healing doesn't mean erasing what happened — it means learning how to reclaim your sense of safety and connection.


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How Trauma Therapy Can Help


Therapy offers a space to explore your feelings at your own pace. We will work together to understand how your past is affecting your present, using approaches that focus on safety and self-compassion. Techniques like grounding exercises, mindfulness, and body awareness can help you regain control when memories or emotions feel overwhelming.

Trauma therapy is not about reliving the pain, but about building tools to manage its impact. It's about reconnecting with your body, your emotions, and your sense of self.

What to Expect in Trauma Therapy

During our sessions, we will take the time to establish safety and trust. You will never be pushed to share more than you feel comfortable with. Whether you are dealing with childhood trauma, adult sexual violence, or both, we will focus on helping you feel more grounded and present. The goal is not to force change but to support you in reclaiming your life at your own pace.


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The Role of Compassion and Patience


Healing from trauma is not a straight line. It's completely understandable to have days where everything feels overwhelming. Together, we will practice self-compassion — recognising that recovery is not about doing it perfectly but about giving yourself permission to heal. Being patient with yourself is an act of courage.

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Your Next Step

If you're considering therapy, I'm here to support you. We can start with a free 15-minute consultation to see how you feel about working together. Taking that first step can feel daunting, but you don't have to carry the weight of it all on your own.

Book a Free Consultation

Available in Glasgow (Barrhead & Clarkston) and Online.

Blog

I like to write articles about how trauma can affect your thoughts, emotions, and relationships — and how therapy can gently support you to become yourself again.