The Healing Childhood Trauma Podcast

It Was Never Your Fault: Understanding Self-Blame After Childhood Trauma (Ep 36) 14.07.2026 19min

In this episode of the Healing Childhood Trauma Podcast, we explore how developmental trauma and childhood wounds shape the way we see ourselves, and why self-blame can persist long into adulthood.You'll learn how these unconscious beliefs influence your emotional triggers, relationships, confidence, and inner critic, as well as practical ways to begin questioning and healing them.We'll explore:Why children often learn to blame themselves after trauma, abuse, or neglect.How childhood experiences shape core beliefs that continue into adulthood.The role of attachment, survival, and protective adaptations in self-blame.Why the younger parts of us often continue carrying these beliefs.Practical first steps towards childhood trauma healing and trauma healing.Whether you're beginning your healing journey, exploring self healing childhood trauma, or trying to understand how your past continues to affect your present, this episode offers an evidence-based, compassionate guide to one of the most powerful beliefs trauma can leave behind.Topics covered include: childhood trauma, childhood trauma in adulthood, developmental trauma, childhood trauma healing, trauma responses, emotional triggers, inner critic, attachment wounds, healing childhood trauma, self-blame, shame, and core beliefs._________________________________📰 Join the mailing list:Mailing List - Alec Williams Therapy🌐 Visit my website for info about working with me one-to-one or in groups:www.alecwilliamstherapy.co.uk✉️ Get in touch:Contact - Alec Williams Therapy

How Childhood Trauma Shapes Your Attachment Style (Ep 35) 07.07.2026 20min

In this episode of The Healing Childhood Trauma Podcast, psychotherapist and childhood trauma specialist Alec Williams explores how our earliest relationships shape the way we connect with others throughout adult life.You'll learn:What attachment theory is and why it mattersThe four attachment styles: secure, anxious, avoidant, and disorganised attachmentHow childhood trauma, neglect, abuse, and inconsistent caregiving influence attachment patternsWhy these survival strategies continue into adulthoodHow attachment styles affect relationships, emotional regulation, trust, intimacy, and feelings of safetyWhy your attachment style is not your destiny - and how healing is possibleTopics covered: childhood trauma, attachment styles, attachment trauma, anxious attachment, avoidant attachment, disorganised attachment, secure attachment, developmental trauma, nervous system regulation, relationship trauma, emotional healing, trauma recovery, healing childhood wounds, and childhood trauma in adulthood._________________________________📰 Join the mailing list:Mailing List - Alec Williams Therapy🌐 Visit my website for info about working with me one-to-one or in groups:www.alecwilliamstherapy.co.uk✉️ Get in touch:Contact - Alec Williams Therapy

2 Ways Childhood Trauma Creates Your Inner Critic - And How to Heal (Ep 34) 29.06.2026 17min

In this episode of The Healing Childhood Trauma Podcast, trauma therapist Alec Williams explores how childhood trauma, emotional neglect and early criticism shape the inner critic that follows many people into adulthood.You'll discover why self-criticism often develops as a survival response, how childhood experiences become the way we speak to ourselves, and practical first steps towards healing.In this episode you'll learn:• Why childhood trauma creates a harsh inner critic• How emotional neglect and criticism affect adult mental health• Why your inner critic believes it's protecting you• The connection between childhood trauma, shame and self-worth• A simple exercise to begin healing childhood woundsIf you've ever struggled with feeling "I'm not enough," perfectionism, shame, people-pleasing or harsh self-judgment, this episode is for you._________________________________📰 Join the mailing list:Mailing List - Alec Williams Therapy🌐 Visit my website for info about working with me one-to-one or in groups:www.alecwilliamstherapy.co.uk✉️ Get in touch:Contact - Alec Williams Therapy

Understanding Avoidant Attachment and Childhood Trauma: Is It You or Your Relationship? (Ep 33) 22.06.2026 16min

In this episode of The Healing Childhood Trauma Podcast, we explore one of the most confusing aspects of avoidant attachment:How do you know whether being single is genuinely what you want…Or whether old childhood wounds and relationship trauma are pulling you away from the very thing you long for?Many people with avoidant attachment desperately want love and connection, yet find themselves repeatedly pulling away when relationships become more serious.They may struggle with hyper-independence, emotional triggers, relationship difficulties, fear of vulnerability, or the feeling that they're simply "better off alone."In this episode we explore:• What avoidant attachment actually looks like• How childhood trauma and emotional neglect can shape adult relationships• Why intimacy can feel unsafe• The difference between healthy independence and avoidant patterns• Signs that old childhood wounds may be influencing your relationships• Why many avoidant people feel caught between longing for love and pushing it away_________________________________📰 Join the mailing list:Mailing List - Alec Williams Therapy🌐 Visit my website for info about working with me one-to-one or in groups:www.alecwilliamstherapy.co.uk✉️ Get in touch:Contact - Alec Williams Therapy

The "I'm Not Enough" Wound: How Childhood Trauma Affects Self-Worth & Healing (Ep 32) 15.06.2026 19min

Why do so many people struggle with the painful feeling of "I'm not enough"?In this episode of the Healing Childhood Trauma Podcast, we explore how childhood trauma, neglect, rejection, and attachment wounds can shape our self-worth and influence the stories we tell ourselves about who we are.Together, we'll explore:• Why feelings of shame and inadequacy often begin in childhood• How childhood trauma affects self-esteem and out sense of being 'not enough'• Why these beliefs often feel like facts rather than stories• What trauma healing, self-compassion, and healthy relationships can teach us about feeling enoughIf you've experienced childhood trauma in adulthood, relationship difficulties, anxious attachment, emotional triggers, or the constant pressure to prove yourself, this episode is for you._________________________________📰 Join the mailing list:Mailing List - Alec Williams Therapy🌐 Visit my website for info about working with me one-to-one or in groups:www.alecwilliamstherapy.co.uk✉️ Get in touch:Contact - Alec Williams Therapy

Why Achievements Might Not Bring Healing: Childhood Trauma and Success (Ep 31) 08.06.2026 17min

In this episode of The Healing Childhood Trauma Podcast, we dive deep into why achievements alone may not heal deep childhood wounds. Exploring childhood trauma, attachment wounds, and the complex relationship between success and emotional healing, we draw on Self-Determination Theory and stories from elite performers like Andre Agassi and Michael Phelps. Learn why success can improve wellbeing yet still leave deeper wounds unhealed, impacting trauma recovery and emotional wellness. If you've felt stuck chasing milestones or accomplishments hoping they will make you feel enough, this episode is for you. _________________________________📰 Join the mailing list:Mailing List - Alec Williams Therapy🌐 Visit my website for info about working with me one-to-one or in groups:www.alecwilliamstherapy.co.uk✉️ Get in touch:Contact - Alec Williams Therapy

Rebuild Your Identity After Childhood Trauma | Three Steps to Healing (Ep 30) 01.06.2026 18min

In this episode, we explore one of the most common questions I hear from clients:How do you rebuild your sense of self after childhood trauma?Childhood wounds can leave you either feeling disconnected from who you are, or not really liking the person that you are.In this episode of The Healing Childhood Trauma Podcast, learn 3 powerful ways to rebuild your sense of self after childhood trauma. Explore healing through loving acceptance, building new healthy patterns, and reconnecting with your authentic self. This episode focuses on trauma recovery, emotional dysregulation, attachment wounds, nervous system regulation, and the healing process to support your journey beyond survival mode toward emotional wellness and trauma healing. 📰 Join the mailing list:Mailing List - Alec Williams Therapy🌐 Visit my website for info about working with me one-to-one or in groups:www.alecwilliamstherapy.co.uk✉️ Get in touch:Contact - Alec Williams Therapy

How Attachment Wounds Shape Adult Relationships | with Holly Roberts (Ep 29) 20.05.2026 35min

Holly's website: www.talkingrelationships.co.ukHow do attachment wounds from childhood quietly sabotage your adult relationships? In this episode, relationship psychotherapist Holly Roberts explores how unmet emotional needs, childhood trauma, and nervous system dysregulation affect trust, communication, and emotional intimacy. Discover the specific patterns that emerge and practical pathways to healing attachment wounds before they derail your relationships.____________________________🌐 Visit my website to learn more about working with me one-to-one or in groups:www.alecwilliamstherapy.co.uk✉️ Get in touch:Contact - Alec Williams Therapy📰 Join the mailing list for updates, reflections, and new episodes:Mailing List - Alec Williams Therapy

What Does Healing from Childhood Trauma Actually Look Like? Trauma Recovery Insights (Ep 28) 14.05.2026 18min

What does healing from childhood trauma actually look like in real life?In this episode of The Healing Childhood Trauma Podcast, we explore the often messy, non-linear and deeply human reality of the healing journey after childhood trauma.From the painful truth that healing can take time, to why things can sometimes feel worse before they feel better, we unpack some of the most common - and least talked about - experiences people encounter as they begin healing.We also explore the profound shifts that can happen in relationships, identity and self-worth as you become more connected to your needs, emotions and nervous system.If you’ve ever found yourself wondering:“Am I actually healing?”“Why does this still affect me?”“Why does the process feel so confusing sometimes?"- this episode is for you._____________________________🌐 Visit my website to learn more about working with me one-to-one or in groups:www.alecwilliamstherapy.co.uk✉️ Get in touch:Contact - Alec Williams Therapy📰 Join the mailing list for updates, reflections, and new episodes:Mailing List - Alec Williams Therapy

Strong Reactions, Old Wounds: Managing Trauma Triggers from Childhood (Ep 27) 04.05.2026 19min

In this episode of The Healing Childhood Trauma Podcast, we break down trauma responses and why your nervous system can react so quickly - and intensely - to everyday situations.If you’ve ever wondered why you get triggered in arguments, shut down under pressure, or fall into people-pleasing patterns, this episode explains the psychology behind it.By the end of this episode, you’ll:Understand what trauma responses actually are and why they happenRecognise your own patterns (fight, flight, freeze, or fawn) in everyday situationsLearn how childhood experiences shape your emotional reactions todayGain simple, practical tools to interrupt reactions in real timeFeel more equipped to respond with awareness instead of reacting automatically_____________________________🌐 Visit my website to learn more about working with me one-to-one or in groups:www.alecwilliamstherapy.co.uk✉️ Get in touch:Contact - Alec Williams Therapy📰 Join the mailing list for updates, reflections, and new episodes:Mailing List - Alec Williams Therapy

Why Trust Can Feel So Hard: Attachment, Nervous System & Healing (Ep 26) 27.04.2026 20min

In this episode, we explore how childhood trauma affects trust, why trusting others can feel unsafe, and how this shows up in adult relationships - whether that’s fear of being hurt, overthinking, hyper-independence, or trusting too quickly.You’ll learn how trust is shaped by your nervous system, why trust issues are often trauma responses, and how early experiences can lead to patterns like anxious attachment, emotional withdrawal, or difficulty feeling safe with others.We also cover practical steps to start rebuilding trust after trauma, including how to feel safer in relationships, and take small, manageable steps toward healthy connection.If you’ve ever wondered “Why do I struggle to trust people?” or “How can I heal trust difficulties from childhood trauma?” - this episode will give you clear insights and realistic tools to begin healing and building secure, fulfilling relationships.______________________________🌐 Visit my website to learn more about working with me one-to-one or in groups:www.alecwilliamstherapy.co.uk✉️ Get in touch:Contact - Alec Williams Therapy📰 Join the mailing list for updates, reflections, and new episodes:Mailing List - Alec Williams Therapy

Rewiring the Abandonment Wound: Attachment, Patterns & Healing (Ep 25) 20.04.2026 20min

In this episode of The Healing Childhood Trauma Podcast, we explore one of the deepest and most painful early wounds: abandonment.Whether it’s physical absence or emotional unavailability from caregivers, abandonment trauma can leave lasting imprints on the nervous system - shaping how you see yourself, how you relate to others, and how safe you feel in relationships.You’ll learn:What an abandonment wound is and how it forms in childhoodThe difference between physical and emotional abandonmentHow abandonment trauma shows up in adult relationships (anxious attachment, avoidance, people-pleasing, trust issues)Why you may unconsciously repeat painful relationship patternsHow to begin healing through secure attachment and safe, supportive relationships______________________________🌐 Visit my website to learn more about working with me one-to-one or in groups:www.alecwilliamstherapy.co.uk✉️ Get in touch:Contact - Alec Williams Therapy📰 Join the mailing list for updates, reflections, and new episodes:Mailing List - Alec Williams Therapy

Why Childhood Trauma Creates Shame - And How You Can Heal (Ep 24) 13.04.2026 19min

Shame is one of the most painful emotions many people carry after childhood trauma, yet it’s also one of the least talked about.In this episode of The Healing Childhood Trauma Podcast, we explore the powerful role shame can play in shaping how we see ourselves and why it can become so deeply embedded after difficult early experiences.In this episode we explore:• What shame is and why all humans experience it• The difference between healthy shame and toxic shame• Why childhood trauma can cause shame to become part of our identity• How the inner critic develops• Gentle ways to begin healing shame through self-compassionIf you’ve ever felt like you’re “not good enough,” fundamentally flawed, or somehow broken, this episode may help you understand where those feelings come from - and how healing can begin.______________________________🌐 Visit my website to learn more about working with me one-to-one or in groups:⁠www.alecwilliamstherapy.co.uk⁠✉️ Get in touch:⁠Contact - Alec Williams Therapy⁠📰 Join the mailing list for updates, reflections, and new episodes:⁠Mailing List - Alec Williams Therapy⁠

Breaking Free From the Story Childhood Trauma Created (Ep 23) 07.04.2026 17min

In this episode of The Healing Childhood Trauma Podcast, we explore how early experiences form deep core beliefs and narratives around self-worth, identity, and relationships - often without us even realising it.This episode will help you understand where those narratives came from - and more importantly, how to begin changing them.You’ll learn how to:Recognise the hidden story driving your thoughts and behavioursSeparate your past experiences from your identityGently question long-held beliefs that feel like factsStart creating new, healthier ways of seeing yourselfTake practical steps to break free from old trauma patternsThis episode is for anyone looking to heal childhood trauma, improve self-worth, and stop being controlled by old emotional patterns.Because the story you’re living in… isn’t the only one available to you.______________________________🌐 Visit my website to learn more about working with me one-to-one or in groups:www.alecwilliamstherapy.co.uk✉️ Get in touch:Contact - Alec Williams Therapy📰 Join the mailing list for updates, reflections, and new episodes:Mailing List - Alec Williams Therapy

4 Myths That Might Stop You From Healing Childhood Trauma (Ep 22) 30.03.2026 18min

In this episode of the Healing Childhood Trauma Podcast, we explore 4 common misunderstandings and myths about childhood trauma that can quietly block healing.By the end of this episode you'll have a deeper understanding of why:You don’t need clear memories for trauma to affect you“Good parents” doesn’t always mean you won't be carrying woundsAnd why you might still feel stuck, even years laterIf you’ve ever found yourself thinking “it wasn’t that bad”, 'I don't remember it so it can't really have impacted me' or “I should be over it by now”, this episode will help you better understand how childhood trauma shows up in adulthood, from anxiety and relationship patterns to self-worth and emotional regulation.You’ll come away with a clearer understanding of trauma - and a simple, practical step you can begin using to support your own healing journey.______________________________🌐 Visit my website to learn more about working with me one-to-one or in groups:www.alecwilliamstherapy.co.uk✉️ Get in touch:Contact - Alec Williams Therapy📰 Join the mailing list for updates, reflections, and new episodes:Mailing List - Alec Williams Therapy

3 Ways Childhood Trauma Affects How You See Yourself (Ep 21) 23.03.2026 19min

In this episode of The Healing Childhood Trauma Podcast, we explore how childhood trauma shapes your self-image, self-worth, and identity.If you’ve ever felt not good enough, too much, or unsure of who you really are, this episode will help you understand why.We break down three common ways childhood trauma affects how you see yourself and you’ll learn why these patterns form in early life, how they continue to influence your thoughts, relationships, and sense of worth in adulthood - and, importantly, how to start changing them.By the end of this episode, you’ll:Gain a deeper understanding of how early experiences shape self-perceptionRecognise common trauma-driven patterns affecting your confidence and self-worthBegin noticing the lens through which you see yourself, others, and the worldLearn a simple, practical step to help you build a healthier, more compassionate sense of selfThis episode is for anyone looking to heal childhood trauma, overcome self-doubt, and develop a stronger sense of identity and self-worth.______________________________🌐 Visit my website to learn more about working with me one-to-one or in groups:www.alecwilliamstherapy.co.uk✉️ Get in touch:Contact - Alec Williams Therapy📰 Join the mailing list for updates, reflections, and new episodes:Mailing List - Alec Williams Therapy

Can Childhood Trauma Really Change The Brain? Exploring Neuroscience and Healing (Ep 20) 16.03.2026 22min

In this episode of The Healing Childhood Trauma Podcast, we explore the neuroscience of childhood trauma, and explain how early life experiences can impact key areas of the brain, including the amygdala, hippocampus, and prefrontal cortex.Research from neuroscience and trauma psychology shows that the brain is not permanently damaged by trauma. Thanks to neuroplasticity, the brain can reorganize, heal, and build new pathways throughout life.You’ll gain a deeper understanding of:• What the nervous system actually does• How childhood trauma can shape brain development• Why trauma can keep the nervous system stuck in survival mode• The role of neuroplasticity in healing trauma• Practical ways to begin healing your brain and nervous systemIf you've ever wondered why trauma affects the body so deeply - and whether healing is truly possible - this episode will help you understand both the science and the hope behind trauma recovery.______________________________Neurobiological Development in the Context of Childhood Trauma - PMC“The Biological Effects of Childhood Trauma” - PMCWorlds largest childhood trauma study uncovers brain rewiring | University of Essex______________________________🌐 Visit my website to learn more about working with me one-to-one or in groups:www.alecwilliamstherapy.co.uk✉️ Get in touch:Contact - Alec Williams Therapy📰 Join the mailing list for updates, reflections, and new episodes:Mailing List - Alec Williams Therapy

Inner Child Work Explained: How to Heal Childhood Wounds (Ep 19) 09.03.2026 24min

In this episode of The Healing Childhood Trauma Podcast, we delve deep into inner child work and how it facilitates healing childhood trauma and wounds.Discover what inner child healing truly means from trauma-informed and psychological perspectives. We discuss how childhood trauma and attachment wounds influence adult emotional patterns and behaviours, and share effective techniques for reparenting your inner child.By the end of the episode, you'll understand signs that your inner child is triggered, learn practical strategies for inner child healing and emotional regulation, and begin fostering self-compassion and healthier relationships with yourself.If you seek to heal childhood trauma, improve emotional well-being, or break repetitive emotional patterns, this episode offers valuable insights and actionable steps to start your healing journey today.______________________________🌐 Visit my website to learn more about working with me one-to-one or in groups:www.alecwilliamstherapy.co.uk✉️ Get in touch:Contact - Alec Williams Therapy📰 Join the mailing list for updates, reflections, and new episodes:Mailing List - Alec Williams Therapy

Childhood Neglect: Signs, Impact & How to Heal (Ep 18) 02.03.2026 20min

In this episode, of the Healing Childhood Trauma Podcast we explore childhood neglect - one of the most overlooked yet impactful forms of developmental trauma - and how unmet relational needs can shape emotional wellbeing, attachment patterns, and adult relationships.By the end of this episode, you’ll be able to:Understand what childhood neglect and relational trauma actually areRecognise the difference between normal mis-attunement and developmental neglectLearn why unmet emotional needs leave lasting psychological and nervous system imprintsIdentify common signs of neglect wounds in adult relationships and self-perceptionExplore practical pathways toward healing attachment wounds and rebuilding relational safetyThis episode is ideal for listeners interested in trauma recovery, attachment theory, emotional healing, psychotherapy, or personal development.______________________________🌐 Visit my website to learn more about working with me one-to-one or in groups:www.alecwilliamstherapy.co.uk✉️ Get in touch:Contact - Alec Williams Therapy📰 Join the mailing list for updates, reflections, and new episodes:Mailing List - Alec Williams Therapy

How to Start Healing Childhood Trauma as an Adult: A Holistic Approach (Ep 17) 23.02.2026 16min

In this episode, of The Healing Childhood Trauma Podcast, we explore why trauma doesn’t live in just one place - and why healing often requires a more holistic, integrative approach.By the end of this episode, you’ll:Understand why healing childhood trauma is rarely solved by a single therapy approachLearn the main ways trauma shows up in adulthood - thoughts, behaviours, nervous system, attachment, and inner partsIdentify where trauma is showing up most strongly in your life right nowGain clarity on practical next steps for starting (or refining) your healing journeyIf you’re ready to move beyond quick fixes and begin working with trauma in a way that meets the whole of you - this episode will give you a powerful and compassionate starting point._____________________________🌐 Visit my website to learn more about working with me one-to-one or in groups:www.alecwilliamstherapy.co.uk✉️ Get in touch:Contact - Alec Williams Therapy📰 Join the mailing list for updates, reflections, and new episodes:Mailing List - Alec Williams Therapy