The Lyceum

Trauma and PTSD Subtypes: Assessment Led Guidance

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

Trauma can affect people in different ways. Some people describe intrusive memories, nightmares, hypervigilance or avoidance following a specific event. Others describe a more pervasive pattern of difficulty with trust, emotional regulation, relationships or a sense of self that has developed over time. A guide cannot diagnose PTSD, complex PTSD or another trauma related condition or determine which pattern applies to an individual. Descriptions of trauma presentations in clinical literature can help clinicians and individuals find language for experiences that are difficult to name. They do not establish a diagnosis, determine a cause or predict the outcome of treatment. A guide cannot determine whether a person has PTSD, complex PTSD, developmental trauma or another difficulty. An assessment can consider the person's current experience, history, health, safety and priorities. 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. Trauma focused CBT may be considered after individual assessment where trauma is affecting daily life. 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. 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 and relationships at https://lyceumclinic.co.uk/guides/trauma relationships west london/. 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 complex PTSD?

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

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.

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.

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
  • Trauma focused CBT evidence
  • How trauma focused CBT works
  • Book a free 15 minute consultation
  • The Neuroscience of Trauma: What Actually Happens in the Brain and Body
  • Trauma Recovery: What the Evidence Says About Getting Better
  • Trauma and Relationships: Assessment Led Guidance
  • Explore all clinical guides

Keep evidence close

If this was useful, you can choose The Lyceum Clinic as a Preferred Source on Google. Google may then highlight relevant new reading from us in its personalised search experiences.

Make The Lyceum a Preferred Source on Google

Your choice is voluntary and can be changed in your Google settings.

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.

Home CBT therapy services CBT approaches Clinical guides Clinical blog About The Lyceum Sanah Younis Clinical faculty Clinical standards Clinical evidence Frequently asked questions Find a support pathway Support for anxiety and overwhelm Support for low mood and disconnection Therapy for mental health difficulties Proactive mental clarity support Relationship and boundary therapy Online CBT outside London CBT methodology Sleep, movement and wellbeing Insurance and cash plans Check insurance cover Professional referrals Contact The Lyceum Anxiety therapy West London OCD therapy West London Depression therapy West London CBT therapist Chiswick CBT therapist Hammersmith CBT therapist Ealing Fees and insurance Book a free 15 minute consultation Book a session