Intensive trauma-focused therapy (TFT) is a specialised psychological treatment for individuals experiencing Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) or Complex PTSD (C-PTSD).
Unlike traditional weekly therapy delivered over many months, intensive treatment condenses evidence-based trauma processing therapy into a concentrated timeframe, resulting in faster recovery with less disruption to work and family life.
Our intensive TFT programme delivers 12-24 hours of trauma-focused therapy online over 1-2 weeks, using internationally recognised evidence-based treatment, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing).
Requirements: Initial Assessment (90 minutes)
A comprehensive psychological assessment is required initially to determine suitability for intensive treatment and whether this is the right approach at the time. During this session we will assess:
• Psychometric baseline measures (PTSD, Complex PTSD and other key measures)
• Clinical history and symptom assessment
• Risk evaluation and safety planning
• Determination of treatment suitability
• Discussion of treatment options and next steps.
Intensive TFT Programme Structure
Preparatory Session
(60 minutes)
Once suitability is confirmed, this session establishes the foundation for intensive treatment. During this session:
• Treatment goal identification
• Collaborative treatment plan development
• Psychoeducation about trauma and the treatment process
• Review of coping strategies and stabilisation techniques
• Initial homework assignments (where appropriate)
• Practical arrangements and expectations for intensive phase
• Risk management planning
Intensive Treatment Phase (1-2 weeks)
12-24 hours of trauma-focused psychological therapy delivered in one of two formats:
Option 1 (1-week model): 6 x 2-hour sessions over 3 consecutive days
Option 2 (2-week model): 3 x 2-hour sessions per week over 2 weeks
Treatment includes:
• Evidence-based trauma processing (EMDR)
• Goal-setting for next phase of recovery
• Stabilisation strategies
• Ongoing monitoring and support
Post-Intensive Treatment Phase
3-Week Follow-Up (30 minutes)
• Post-treatment psychometric measures
• Review treatment progress
• Discuss outstanding treatment requirements (if any)
• Consolidate gains and adjust recovery plan as needed
3-Month Follow-Up (60 minutes)
• Post-treatment psychometric measures
• Comprehensive outcome assessment
• Long-term recovery planning and maintenance strategies
• Evaluation of treatment gains
Evidence Base of Intensive Trauma-Focused Treatment
Intensive trauma-focused treatment is supported by extensive international research demonstrating equivalent or superior outcomes compared to traditional weekly therapy models. Research from the Netherlands showed a study in which 74% of patients no longer met diagnostic criteria for PTSD and 87% no longer met criteria for Complex PTSD after 8 days of intensive treatment (Voorendonk et al., 2020). A separate study of with patients with PTSD found that intensive treatment produced significant symptom reduction as well as a significantly lower dropout rates than the typical weekly treatment format (Van Woudenberg et al., 2018). The concentrated format results in faster symptom reduction, improved treatment completion rates, and reduced disruption to daily life.
In the UK, Combat Stress and Police Care UK have pioneered intensive treatment delivery for military veterans and police officers, demonstrating consistently strong clinical outcomes with many individuals achieving clinically significant recovery within weeks rather than months. This evidence base has been instrumental in establishing intensive treatment as a viable and effective alternative to traditional models for anyone experiencing PTSD or Complex PTSD. The therapeutic approaches used in our programme are recommended by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) and are recognised internationally as gold-standard treatments for trauma-related difficulties.
Who Is Intensive Trauma-Focused Therapy For?
This intensive treatment programme is suitable for individuals who:
Clinical Suitability
• Are experiencing PTSD or Complex PTSD as their primary presenting problem
• Are re-experiencing trauma symptoms that interfere with daily functioning
• Have treatment goals aligned with trauma processing work
• Are likely to tolerate the emotional intensity of concentrated trauma work
• Have sufficient psychological stability to engage safely with trauma processing
Practical Considerations
• Have access to strong, reliable internet connection
• Can commit to all scheduled appointments
• Have access to a tablet or laptop (ideally)
• Can access a quiet, confidential space without distraction for all sessions
• Are able to abstain from substances for the duration of intensive treatment
• Have life circumstances that will not interfere with 1-2 weeks of intensive treatment
• Have made a considered decision to engage (rather than crisis-driven urgency).
Exclusion Criteria
To ensure safety and maximise treatment effectiveness, intensive trauma-focused therapy is not suitable for individuals currently experiencing:
• Mental health crisis
• Suicidality with plans/intent
• Current self-harming behaviour
• Active psychotic symptoms
• Substance misuse
• Unmanaged dissociation or emotional dysregulation
If any of these factors are present, we will work collaboratively to identify the appropriate treatment pathway, which may include stabilisation work, skill development, or referral to specialist services before returning to trauma-focused treatment when clinically appropriate.
Measuring Outcomes of Intensive Trauma-Focused Therapy
All clients complete validated psychometric assessments at baseline (initial assessment) and post-treatment (3-week and 3-month follow-up) to measure treatment effectiveness. These include standardised measures of:
• PTSD symptoms
• Complex PTSD symptoms
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Dissociation
• Substance use
• Core Routine Outcomes Evaluation
These measures provide objective data on symptom change and inform ongoing treatment planning.
Enquire About Intensive Trauma-Focused Psychological Therapy
If you believe intensive trauma-focused treatment may be appropriate for you, the first step is to book an initial 90-minute assessment. During this session, we will determine together whether intensive treatment is the right approach at this time, or whether alternative treatment pathways may be more appropriate.
Treatment is delivered online via secure video conferencing, making this programme accessible regardless of your location.
Intensive Trauma-Focused Therapy FAQs
How do I know if I'm ready for intensive trauma treatment?
Timing is crucial for trauma-focused therapy, particularly intensive treatment. The work is emotionally challenging and requires adequate preparation. During your initial assessment, we will explore your current symptoms, support systems, coping strategies, and life circumstances to determine whether this is the right time for intensive trauma processing. Some individuals may benefit from preparatory work to develop emotional regulation skills before beginning intensive treatment.
What if I've tried therapy before and it didn't work?
Many people who haven’t responded to previous therapy benefit from intensive treatment. The concentrated format can be particularly effective for individuals continuing to experience symptoms which have not been relieved by traditional weekly therapy. We will discuss your previous treatment experiences during the initial assessment to understand what has or hasn’t been helpful and develop an approach that addresses your specific needs.
What happens after the initial assessment?
After the assessment, we review all of the information gathered from your psychometric questionnaires together with the information gathered during the initial assessment to help us make an informed decision. You will be contacted following this to advise you of the outcome and all recommendations will be provided to you in writing.
Can I continue working during intensive treatment?
It is not suitable to continue working during intensive treatment as this would impact your recovery. With organisational contracts, we require authorisation to allow staff members to engage with intensive treatment. Private clients can request leave in the traditional ways from their employers. We will discuss practical arrangements during your initial assessment to help you plan appropriately.
Is this treatment only for military or emergency services personnel?
No. While Dr Aguilera specialises in working with military, defence, and emergency services personnel, intensive trauma-focused treatment is suitable for anyone experiencing PTSD or Complex PTSD, regardless of the origin of their trauma.
What happens if I find the intensive format too difficult?
Your safety and wellbeing are the priority. Treatment intensity can be adjusted if needed, and regular check-ins throughout the intensive phase allow us to monitor how you’re managing. We will ensure that treatment, although challenging, will not feel unmanageable.
What happens if intensive treatment isn’t found suitable after my assessment?
In the event that intensive TFT isn’t found suitable at the time of assessment, you will be provided with recommendations for other treatment options.
Is intensive treatment available in-person?
Our intensive TFT programme is currently only offered online, via secure video conferencing, to ensure accessibility regardless of your location.
Is the initial assessment included in the programme?
The initial assessment is separate to the intensive TFT programme and is arranged as a standalone appointment, therefore there is no commitment to the full programme until this has been agreed with you.
How much does intensive treatment cost?
Please contact us directly for current pricing information. We offer organisational contracts as well as private individual treatment.