The Lyceum

Trauma-Focused CBT: Assessment-Led Guidance

Specialist CBT therapy for anxiety, OCD, depression and more in West London

Research has explored the effectiveness of trauma-focused cognitive behavioural therapy for PTSD and related difficulties. Published trials and clinical guidelines can inform discussion of what trauma-focused CBT involves and what it may offer. Research findings are group-level associations. They do not predict an individual outcome, determine whether a particular person has PTSD or decide what support is appropriate. Trauma-focused CBT may be considered after individual assessment where trauma is affecting daily life. It can involve understanding the links between a difficult experience, current thoughts, body sensations, emotions and behaviour, and working collaboratively to reduce the impact of intrusive memories, avoidance and distress. The pace, focus and methods used depend on the person's assessment, safety, health and goals. Trauma-focused or exposure-based work should be planned with a suitably qualified clinician after discussion of the rationale, alternatives, safety and pacing. A guide is not a self-directed programme for trauma processing. Some people may need medical, safeguarding, social, specialist trauma or crisis support first, or alongside therapy. Physical symptoms can have many possible explanations, including medical conditions, medication, sleep disruption, physical health conditions, neurodivergence and other factors. New, severe or changing physical symptoms should be discussed with an appropriate medical professional. A psychological explanation and a medical question can both need attention at the same time. For related information, see trauma-focused CBT at https://lyceumclinic.co.uk/therapy/trauma/, the trauma and PTSD guide at https://lyceumclinic.co.uk/guides/trauma-ptsd-comprehensive-guide/, trauma neuroscience at https://lyceumclinic.co.uk/guides/trauma-neuroscience/ and trauma at work at https://lyceumclinic.co.uk/guides/trauma-work-relationships/. If there is immediate danger, thoughts of self-harm, an inability to stay safe or a sudden marked deterioration, call 999, attend A&E or use urgent local crisis or medical support.

Frequently asked questions

Can a guide diagnose PTSD or determine whether trauma-focused CBT is appropriate?

No. A guide can describe general patterns from research. An individual assessment can consider your specific experience, health, safety and context.

Can I use this guide to work through trauma on my own?

No. Trauma-focused or exposure-based work should be planned with a suitably qualified clinician after individual assessment, consent and collaborative planning.

Can physical symptoms be assumed to be trauma-related?

No. New, severe or changing physical symptoms should be discussed with an appropriate medical professional. A psychological explanation and a medical question can both need attention at the same time.

When should I seek urgent support?

If there is immediate danger, thoughts of self-harm, an inability to stay safe or a sudden marked deterioration, call 999, attend A&E or use urgent local crisis or medical support.

Related pages

  • Trauma-focused CBT
  • Trauma and PTSD clinical guide
  • How trauma-focused CBT works
  • Book a free consultation
  • Trauma and PTSD at Work: Workplace Guidance and Support Options in West London
  • Trauma and the Body: Assessment-Led Guidance
  • The Neuroscience of Trauma: What Actually Happens in the Brain and Body
  • Specific Phobias in West London: Assessment-Led Guidance
  • Explore all clinical guides

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Written by Sanah Younis, BABCP-accredited CBT Therapist at The Lyceum Clinic.

Last clinically reviewed: 14 August 2026

Clinical information on this page is general and does not replace personalised assessment. If you are in immediate danger, call 999 or attend A&E.

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