If something overwhelming has happened to you, the effects can linger long after the event itself — through flashbacks, hypervigilance, broken sleep, numbness, or a sense that you are no longer quite yourself. If that sounds familiar, you are not broken, and you are not alone.
Trauma is a normal response to an abnormal experience, and it is treatable.
This article explains how trauma therapy works, what to expect, and how to take a safe first step here in Townsville.
What trauma does to us
Trauma isn’t only about the event — it’s about how that event lives on in your nervous system. When something is too much, too fast, or too soon, the brain can store the memory in a “raw”, unprocessed way. That’s why a sound, a smell or a date can suddenly bring it all rushing back, as though it’s happening now.
Common signs include anxiety, irritability or anger, trouble sleeping, avoiding reminders, feeling on edge, and emotional numbness. None of these mean something is wrong with you — they’re your alarm system stuck in the “on” position.
What is trauma therapy?
Trauma therapy is evidence-based psychological treatment that helps your mind process what happened, so the memory settles into the past and loses its grip on your present. Importantly, you do not have to relive every detail to recover. The goal is not to force you back into the worst moments, but to help you feel safe, steady and more like yourself again.
The approaches I use
I tailor the approach to you, drawing on:
- EMDR — a well-researched therapy that helps the brain reprocess distressing memories using gentle, guided eye movements, without needing to talk through every detail.
- Trauma-focused cognitive behavioural therapy (TF-CBT) — helps you understand and shift the thoughts and patterns that trauma leaves behind.
- Trauma-informed care — an approach where your safety, choice and control guide every step.
- Grounding and stabilisation — practical skills to calm your nervous system, which we build before doing any deeper processing.
What to expect in trauma therapy
The first sessions are mostly about getting to know you and helping you feel safe — there’s no pressure to share more than you’re ready to.
From there, we go at a pace that feels manageable, build coping skills you can use straight away, and only move into processing the experience once you feel steady enough. You stay in control throughout, and we check in regularly on what’s helping.
Who trauma therapy can help
I work with adults living with the effects of trauma, including post-traumatic stress (PTSD), childhood abuse and sexual assault. I have a particular focus on those whose work or service exposes them to trauma — serving Defence members, veterans and their families, and first responders and frontline workers such as police, paramedics, nurses and doctors.
When to reach out
It might be time to talk to someone if the past keeps intruding on your mood or relationships are suffering, or if it simply feels like too much to carry alone. Seeking support isn’t weakness — it’s one of the bravest, most practical things you can do.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to talk about my trauma in detail?
No. A good trauma therapist works at your pace, and approaches like EMDR don't require you to describe every detail out loud. We build safety and stability first, and you stay in control the whole way through.
How long does trauma therapy take?
It varies from person to person. Some people find relief from a single distressing event in a handful of sessions, while complex or long-standing trauma can take longer. We regularly check what's helping and adjust.
What's the difference between trauma therapy and EMDR?
EMDR is one of several evidence-based approaches used within trauma therapy. Trauma therapy is the broader work; EMDR is a specific method that helps the brain reprocess distressing memories so they lose their charge.
Do I need a referral to start?
No — you can book directly. If you'd like a Medicare rebate, ask your GP about a Mental Health Care Plan and bring it to your first session.