Trauma can leave lasting effects on how we feel, think, and relate to the world. But the good news is that recovery is possible. It doesn’t matter how long ago the trauma happened healing can still happen with the right support.

In this blog series , we’ll explore different therapies that are particularly effective for healing from childhood trauma, including psychodynamic, attachment, and somatic therapies. These approaches can help you understand and process the deep, emotional wounds left by early trauma. Whether you’re just beginning to consider therapy or have been working through your trauma for a while, I hope this guide gives you insight and hope.

I’ll also answer many of the common questions people have about trauma and recovery. How do you know if you have developmental trauma? What’s the best type of therapy for childhood trauma? Can you really heal from complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD)?

Whether you’re looking for a Bromley trauma psychotherapist or a London trauma therapist, it’s important to find the right support.

What Is Developmental Trauma?

Developmental trauma refers to trauma that occurs in early childhood, a time when our brains and emotional systems are still developing. It’s often the result of chronic stress, neglect, or abuse during those critical years. Unlike a single traumatic event—sometimes called shock trauma—developmental trauma is more about what was missing in your early environment. It might be the love, safety, or attention that wasn’t there when you needed it most.

There are three main types of developmental trauma:

1. Emotional neglect – When a child’s emotional needs for connection, support, and understanding are unmet.
2. Abuse – This can include physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, where a child experiences harm in a way that impacts their sense of safety.
3. Attachment disruptions – When a child is unable to form a secure bond with their primary caregivers, which can create long-term struggles with relationships and self-worth.
   

Developmental trauma often flies under the radar because the effects may not show up until later in life. As adults, we might struggle with relationships, self-esteem, or regulating our emotions without realising these issues are tied to our early experiences. So, how do you know if you have developmental trauma?

Some signs include:

• Difficulty trusting others or forming close relationships.
• Feeling like you’re always on high alert or anxious, even when things are going well.
• Experiencing emotional numbness or having difficulty expressing your feelings.
• Recurring feelings of shame, unworthiness, or low self-esteem.

If these feelings resonate with you, it’s possible that developmental trauma may be a part of your story.