Counselling First

Counselling First A safe place to explore your concerns. We are qualified therapists/ traumatologists and online counselling and supervision. EMDR available

We are a team of 3 therapists all specialising in trauma.

Does PTSD Get Worse with Age?It's a question I hear often from clients: "Will my trauma symptoms get worse as I get olde...
15/11/2025

Does PTSD Get Worse with Age?

It's a question I hear often from clients: "Will my trauma symptoms get worse as I get older?"

The short answer? Not necessarily – and here's what the research actually shows.

PTSD doesn't automatically worsen with age. What *can* change is how it shows up. Some people find their symptoms actually improve over time, especially with proper support and evidence-based treatment like EMDR. Others may experience shifts in how trauma affects them – maybe physical symptoms become more noticeable, or emotional triggers feel different.

What matters most isn't your age – it's getting the right help. Trauma that's been untreated for years can feel heavier, yes. But that's not because of age itself; it's because the wound has had time to deepen without healing.

The good news? It's never too late. I've worked with clients in their 70s and 80s who've experienced profound healing from trauma they've carried for decades. Age isn't a barrier to recovery – it's just part of your story.

If you're wondering whether your PTSD might worsen, or you're ready to explore healing at any age, let's talk. Recovery is possible, whatever stage of life you're in.

📞 Book a consultation today – flexible online and in-person options available.

Myth: "Only big events count as trauma" ❌Truth: Trauma isn't about size—it's about impact. Your nervous system doesn't c...
12/11/2025

Myth: "Only big events count as trauma" ❌

Truth: Trauma isn't about size—it's about impact. Your nervous system doesn't compare. A "small" event can absolutely create a trauma response if it overwhelmed you at the time. Repeated criticism, feeling unsupported, witnessing something distressing—these all count. If it affected you deeply, it matters. You deserve support. 💙

Freud’s Defence Mechanisms Series: Regression.Ever caught yourself reaching for old comforts during stress, like a child...
12/11/2025

Freud’s Defence Mechanisms Series: Regression.

Ever caught yourself reaching for old comforts during stress, like a childhood snack or favourite book? That’s regression—returning to familiar habits when life feels overwhelming. It’s a gentle way our minds try to find safety, even well into adulthood.

When do you notice yourself “going back” to old comforts and how do they help?

PTSD isn’t a life sentence—healing happens.Many people believe trauma is something you just ‘live with’. In reality, evi...
12/11/2025

PTSD isn’t a life sentence—healing happens.

Many people believe trauma is something you just ‘live with’. In reality, evidence-based therapies like EMDR can help your brain process trauma and find relief. You don’t have to face it alone, and recovery is possible at any age.

Curious about how trauma therapy works, or if it’s right for you? Visit counsellingfirst.com to learn more about our gentle, personalised approach. 🦋

Take the first step—your story isn’t over.

Myth: "You should just get over it" ❌Truth: Trauma doesn't have a timeline. Healing is personal, not linear. Your nervou...
11/11/2025

Myth: "You should just get over it" ❌

Truth: Trauma doesn't have a timeline. Healing is personal, not linear. Your nervous system needs time to learn it's safe again. There's no "should." Only your pace. You're not broken. You're healing. 💙

Real change begins with a single step.One client arrived feeling lost in the aftermath of trauma—overwhelmed, anxious, u...
11/11/2025

Real change begins with a single step.

One client arrived feeling lost in the aftermath of trauma—overwhelmed, anxious, unsure if hope was possible. With patience and evidence-based support, they found clarity, confidence, and a sense of peace they hadn’t felt in years.

Every journey is unique, and healing is possible—no matter how long you’ve carried the weight.

If you’re ready to take your first step, reach out in confidence today. 🌱

Myth: "Talking about trauma makes it worse" ❌Truth: Avoidance keeps trauma stuck. Speaking about it—safely and with supp...
10/11/2025

Myth: "Talking about trauma makes it worse" ❌

Truth: Avoidance keeps trauma stuck. Speaking about it—safely and with support—is how healing happens. Your nervous system needs to know it's safe. A trained therapist can help you process at your own pace. Silence doesn't protect you. Connection does. 💙

PTSD doesn’t have to last forever.Many people believe trauma is a life sentence—but science tells a different story. Wit...
07/11/2025

PTSD doesn’t have to last forever.

Many people believe trauma is a life sentence—but science tells a different story. With the right support and evidence-based treatments, recovery is possible for everyone.

If you or someone you care about is struggling, you’re not alone. Reach out today to learn how therapy can help you move forward. 💬

Trauma doesn’t have to be a life sentence.Many people believe trauma is something you just have to live with. But the tr...
06/11/2025

Trauma doesn’t have to be a life sentence.

Many people believe trauma is something you just have to live with. But the truth is, trauma is treatable—and real recovery is possible with the right support.

At Counselling First, we use evidence-based therapies like EMDR and Alpha Stims, tailored to your unique story. Therapy isn’t about ‘fixing’ you—it’s about helping you reclaim your life, at your pace, with understanding and expertise.

Curious how trauma therapy actually works? Or wondering if it could help you or someone you love?

Let’s talk. Reach out for a confidential conversation today. 💬

Freud’s Defence Mechanisms Series: Sublimation.Ever felt powerful emotions but found a creative way to channel them—like...
04/11/2025

Freud’s Defence Mechanisms Series: Sublimation.

Ever felt powerful emotions but found a creative way to channel them—like painting, running, or volunteering? That’s sublimation: turning difficult feelings into something positive and meaningful. It’s one of the healthiest defence mechanisms and a beautiful way to grow.

How do you use creativity or activity to process tough emotions?

Hope restored, even when it felt lost.One client arrived at Counselling First feeling overwhelmed by trauma and uncertai...
03/11/2025

Hope restored, even when it felt lost.

One client arrived at Counselling First feeling overwhelmed by trauma and uncertainty. With gentle, evidence-based support, they discovered new strength—and a path forward. Their words: “I found hope again.”

Every journey is unique, and healing is possible. Ready to talk? Message for a confidential chat or visit our website to learn more. 🌱

What if trauma recovery isn’t what you think?Many people believe trauma therapy is only for the most severe experiences,...
31/10/2025

What if trauma recovery isn’t what you think?

Many people believe trauma therapy is only for the most severe experiences, or that it’s overwhelming and mysterious. The truth? Trauma can affect anyone, and help is both gentle and evidence-based.

With nearly 20 years’ experience, I specialise in making sense of trauma—using proven methods like EMDR and Alpha Stims, tailored to you.

Curious about how trauma therapy actually works, or unsure if it’s right for you? Let’s break the myths together. Message me to start a confidential conversation today. 🌱

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Romford
RM53EL

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