Understanding Military-Related Struggles

Military life can shape a person in profound and lasting ways. Whether you’re currently serving or adjusting to life after service, you may carry experiences that are difficult to make sense of alone. These might include trauma, grief, moral conflict, or the complex shift from military to civilian identity.

From a psychodynamic perspective, the emotional effects of military life—especially those left unspoken or suppressed—can influence how you feel, behave, and relate to others, often beneath the surface. Counselling provides a safe and confidential space to begin working through these layers.

Paul Gledhill - Psychodynamic Therapist. Anxiety Counselling. Trauma Counselling. Relationship Counselling. Military Counselling. Police Counselling.

How Counselling Can Help

Psychodynamic counselling doesn’t rely on set techniques or symptom management alone. Instead, it focuses on understanding your emotional world—past and present—so that change can come from the inside out.

Counselling can support you with:

  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and complex trauma
  • Flashbacks, nightmares, or intrusive memories
  • Moral injury or guilt about decisions made in service
  • Loss of identity or purpose after leaving the forces
  • Anger, emotional numbness, or hypervigilance
  • Difficulties with relationships, trust, or intimacy
  • Anxiety, depression, and long-term stress
  • Struggles adjusting to civilian life or work

Whether your experiences are recent or from many years ago, counselling can help you begin to process what’s unresolved—and support you in finding clarity, meaning and relief.

My Background

You will find that I speak your language and have an in depth understanding of the nuances of military life. I served with HM Forces for 8 years.

What to Expect

As someone with lived experience of military culture, I understand the value of trust, privacy, and respect. You will not be pushed to talk about anything before you’re ready. We work at your pace.

I offer a confidential, professional counselling relationship—online or in person—where you can feel heard and understood without judgement or pressure.

Locations and Availability

Sessions are available:

  • In person – in Chelmsford and Colchester
  • Online – for serving personnel and veterans anywhere in the UK

I also offer a free 15-minute consultation, giving you the chance to ask questions and decide if counselling feels right for you.

Special Rates

Discounted rates are available for:

  • Serving military personnel
  • Veterans
  • Armed Forces families and dependants (upon request)