Private PTSD and Complex PTSD Assessment in London
If memories of a traumatic experience are affecting your sleep, relationships or sense of safety, an assessment can help you understand what is happening and what support may be appropriate.
BritMed Healthcare offers private PTSD and complex PTSD assessment with Prof. Ahmed El-Missiry, a consultant psychiatrist. Your consultation explores your symptoms, relevant experiences and the effect on daily life, with personalised recommendations for further care.
BritMed Healthcare offers private PTSD and complex PTSD assessment with Prof. Ahmed El-Missiry, a consultant psychiatrist. Your consultation explores your symptoms, relevant experiences and the effect on daily life, with personalised recommendations for further care.
Book telehealth call OR Book prescription only
Book telehealth call
OR
Book prescription only
What is PTSD and Complex PTSDand When Should You Consider It?
PTSD can develop after exposure to a traumatic event or events. Experiences may include a serious accident, assault, abuse, a life-threatening medical event or traumatic childbirth. People respond differently, and experiencing trauma does not automatically mean you have PTSD.
Complex PTSD includes the core symptoms of PTSD alongside persistent difficulties in managing emotions, how you see yourself and relationships with others. It is recognised as a separate diagnosis in ICD-11. Repeated or prolonged trauma can increase the risk, but the diagnosis depends on the symptom pattern rather than the number of events alone.
- Distressing memories or flashbacks
- Nightmares affecting sleep
- Emotional numbness or detachment
- Difficulty trusting or constant alertness
- Avoidance of trauma reminders
- Irritability, poor concentration, or startle reactions
PTSD and Complex PTSD Assessment
Comprehensive evaluation and tailored therapy to manage trauma symptoms.- 45–50 min
- Remote Sessions
- Pre-assessment and risk evaluation
- Trauma history and symptom review
- Personalized CBT/EMDR treatment plan
- Strategies to restore emotional control
Note
- Payment Options: Klarna interest-free installments available
- Insurance Providers Accepted: Aviva, AXA Health, Preferred Health Care Ltd., Vitality Health, Bupa UK, WPA, Allianz Worldwide Care
- Pre-authorization required with GMC number 06032945
How the PTSD and Complex PTSD Process Works
Complete pre-assessment questionnaires and risk evaluation
In-depth consultation via secure video or in-person
Review trauma history, symptoms, and treatment options
Develop a personalized plan to manage symptoms and promote healing
Implement therapy sessions focused on recovery and emotional regulation
Why Chooseprof. Ahmed EL-Missiry?
- Trauma-informed, individualized approach for each patient
- Expert in evidence-based therapies like EMDR and CBT
- Supportive care for both PTSD and Complex PTSD
- Guidance focused on practical recovery and symptom management
PTSD Assessment Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get assessed for PTSD in the UK?
The clinical pathway typically involves:
- GP Appointment: Discuss your trauma history and symptoms (flashbacks/nightmares).
- NHS Referral: You may be referred to an IAPT service or a specialist trauma clinic.
- Private Assessment: You can consult a private GMC-registered psychiatrist for a faster, in-depth diagnostic interview and treatment plan.
What is the 17-question PTSD test?
This refers to the PCL-C (PTSD Checklist – Civilian):
- Focus: A self-report rating scale based on older DSM-IV criteria.
- Measurement: It tracks symptom severity over the past month.
- Modern Version: Clinicians now often use the PCL-5, which has 20 questions to align with current diagnostic standards.
What are the 4 F's of PTSD?
These represent the nervous system’s survival responses to perceived threats:
- Fight: Confronting the threat aggressively.
- Flight: Physically or mentally escaping.
- Freeze: Becoming immobilised or “numb.”
- Fawn: Attempting to appease the threat or “people-please” to avoid further harm.
What are the 4 hallmarks of PTSD?
Clinicians categorise PTSD symptoms into four distinct clusters:
- Intrusions: Unwanted flashbacks or nightmares.
- Avoidance: Shunning reminders, people, or thoughts of the trauma.
- Negative Changes: Shifts in mood, memory, or beliefs about the world.
- Hyperarousal: Feeling constantly “on edge,” irritable, or easily startled.
What are the 17 symptoms of PTSD?
These are the clinical indicators defined in the DSM-IV, grouped as:
- Re-experiencing (5): Flashbacks and distress at reminders.
- Avoidance (2): Dodging thoughts or physical triggers.
- Numbing (7): Memory gaps, loss of interest, and feeling detached.
- Arousal (5): Sleep issues, anger, and hyper-vigilance.
What not to say to someone with PTSD?
To support someone effectively, avoid phrases that minimise their experience:
- “Just get over it”: This ignores the biological nature of trauma.
- “It could be worse”: Comparison invalidates their specific pain.
- “Why didn’t you just…”: This implies blame or second-guesses survival instincts.
- “I know how you feel”: Unless you have shared the exact experience.