Child Trauma Psychologist
Supporting children through distressing or traumatic experiences requires care, specialist knowledge and a setting they can feel safe in. At CY&A Psychology, our team of Clinical Psychologists provides thoughtful and evidence-based care to children, adolescents and young adults who are processing trauma in all its forms.
Whether the difficulties stem from a single upsetting event or a complex set of experiences over time, we help children and their families understand what is happening and how to move forward. Our approach is nurturing, developmentally appropriate and grounded in psychological evidence.
What Trauma May Look Like in a Child
Children who have experienced trauma often struggle to make sense of their thoughts, behaviours or emotions. While some may show clear signs of distress, others might appear quiet or withdrawn. In some cases, a child may seem easily overwhelmed, prone to angry outbursts or constantly anxious without obvious reason.
It can be difficult for parents and carers to know how to respond. Our clinicians provide a safe space to explore these concerns without judgement. Using age-appropriate strategies, we work with both the child and the family to build a clearer picture of what is going on.
- Nightmares, flashbacks or disrupted sleep
- Avoidance of places, people or conversations
- Changes in mood or behaviour at home or school
- Physical symptoms such as stomach aches or headaches
- Difficulty trusting others or forming relationships
- Heightened emotional sensitivity or ‘shutdown’ responses
We always take the time to understand what might be contributing to these responses. Our psychologists draw on the latest research and clinical thinking to offer interventions that are practical, sensitive and meaningful.
ContactOur Approach to Trauma Therapy
Each child is unique. At CY&A Psychology, we don’t use a one-size-fits-all model. Instead, we use clinical formulations to build an individual understanding of what has happened and what the child might need now. Our psychologists are trained in a wide range of trauma-focused therapies, including:
- Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR)
- Narrative Exposure Therapy (NET)
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
- Trauma-Focused CBT
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
These may be used in combination with systemic support for families, psychoeducation and parenting guidance, depending on what feels most appropriate for your situation. Therapy is paced carefully and introduced in a way that the child or young person can manage.
A Supportive, Flexible Setting
Our practice space in Marylebone has been designed to help children feel calm and at ease. Active seating options, low-stimulus surroundings and carefully selected therapeutic tools all help support focus and comfort. Many families tell us that our townhouse “feels like a home” which is exactly what we hope for.
We also offer online sessions if this feels more accessible for your family or is preferred by the young person. Our clinicians regularly work with children of all ages and developmental stages, including those with additional needs or neurodevelopmental differences. We value neurodiversity and ensure therapy is adapted sensitively throughout.
Talk to a Clinical Child Trauma Psychologist
Please fill out the form below and we’ll get back to you. Alternatively, you can call us on 020 7458 4570 or send us a WhatsApp.
Don’t forget to check our frequently asked questions.