Most people will experience a potentially traumatic event in their lifetime, and most recover well with time and adequate support.¹ For some however, trauma triggers persistent symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) — a treatable condition that responds well to evidence-based psychological intervention.

PTSD develops when the brain’s natural recovery process becomes disrupted after a traumatic event. Rather than processing and integrating the memory over time, the mind remains stuck in a heightened state of alertness — as though the danger is still present. This can lead to intrusive memories, emotional numbness, difficulty sleeping, and avoidance of anything associated with the trauma. PTSD is not a sign of weakness; it is a recognised medical condition that affects how the brain stores and retrieves traumatic memories.

The good news is that PTSD is one of the most treatable mental health conditions. With structured, evidence-based therapy, the majority of people experience significant improvement — often within 8 to 16 sessions. Early intervention leads to better outcomes, though treatment is effective at any stage.

At Mind Health, our registered psychologists in Parramatta and Sydney are experienced in delivering trauma-focused therapies recommended by the World Health Organisation and Australian treatment guidelines.

Signs & Symptoms

PTSD refers to a set of symptoms that emerge following exposure to actual or threatened death, serious injury, or sexual violence — whether experienced directly, witnessed, or learned about happening to someone close.²

Without treatment, PTSD can become chronic and increases risk of developing depression, anxiety, or substance use problems.³ With sound psychological intervention, the chances of recovery are good.⁴

Symptoms fall into four categories:^2,5

• Re-experiencing: Unwanted and distressing memories, flashbacks, nightmares, or feeling as though the event is recurring
• Avoidance and numbing: Avoiding people, places, thoughts and activities associated with the trauma; feeling emotionally flat or disconnected
• Negative changes in thinking and mood: Persistent negative beliefs about self or the world; distorted views about the causes and consequences of the event
• Hyperarousal: Feeling irritable, angry, over-alert or edgy; difficulty concentrating or sleeping

A diagnosis is made when symptoms persist for more than one month and cause significant distress or interfere with work, study, or relationships.²

Causes

Not everyone who experiences trauma develops PTSD. Research has identified several models for understanding how the disorder develops:²

Biological models

The core symptoms of PTSD — agitation, heightened startle response, and memory disturbances — have a basis in how the brain processes stress. Differences in the sympathetic nervous system and brain circuitry related to anxiety may differ between individuals with and without PTSD.⁶

Psychological models

Previously neutral stimuli can become associated with the traumatic event, triggering fear responses even in the absence of danger. This classical conditioning underlies many PTSD symptoms.⁷

Information processing models

High stress at the time of trauma impacts how information is encoded in memory, which may underlie the experience of “reliving” the event.⁸

Other risk factors include: the type and severity of trauma (sexual assault, combat, and terrorism carry higher risk), lack of social support, and subsequent life stress.⁹

Our Approach to PTSD Treatment

At Mind Health, we use the two treatments recognised as most effective for PTSD, along with supporting approaches tailored to your needs:⁴

Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR)

In EMDR, you focus on traumatic images, thoughts and bodily sensations while following bilateral stimulation (typically eye movements). This dual attention helps reprocess the trauma, reducing the emotional charge of the memory.¹¹ The WHO recommends EMDR as a first-line treatment for PTSD.

Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (TF-CBT)

TF-CBT helps you confront memories and reminders of trauma, change how you think and feel about the experience, and develop more helpful coping strategies. Both imaginal and in vivo exposure techniques have been found to be highly effective.¹⁰

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

Builds psychological flexibility, helping you be present with difficult emotions while moving towards what matters most to you.

Schema Therapy

Particularly effective for complex and developmental trauma, addressing deep-seated emotional patterns formed during formative experiences.

Social and Behavioural Interventions

Social support is the best predictor of recovery from trauma.¹² Treatment may involve strengthening your support network alongside lifestyle changes such as reducing alcohol use, relaxation exercises, balanced diet, and routine exercise.¹³

Tips on Managing PTSD

While professional treatment is recommended, there are practical strategies that can help:

• Coping with flashbacks: Focus on slow breathing, carry a grounding object, tell yourself you are safe now, try describing your surroundings out loud
• Know your triggers: Certain smells, sounds, places or dates may trigger symptoms — recognising patterns helps you prepare
• Confide in someone: You don’t need to describe the trauma — just sharing how you feel currently can help
• Give yourself time: Everyone’s recovery timeline is different. Be patient and avoid self-judgement
• Look after your physical health: Regular meals, exercise, time outdoors, and avoiding alcohol and drugs all support recovery
• Seek specialist support: Phoenix Australia, Open Arms (Veterans), and 1800RESPECT offer specialised help

What to Expect

Your first session involves a comprehensive psychological assessment where your psychologist takes time to understand your experience, symptoms and goals. This is a collaborative process — you set the pace, and will never be pushed beyond what feels manageable.

Sessions are typically 50–60 minutes, scheduled weekly or fortnightly. Most clients begin to notice meaningful improvement within 8–16 sessions, though duration varies with the nature and complexity of the trauma.

Accessing Treatment

References

1. Kessler, R. C. et al. (1995). Archives of General Psychiatry, 52, 1048-1060.
2. American Psychiatric Association (2013). DSM-5.
3. Creamer, M. et al. (2001). Psychological Medicine, 31(7), 1237-1247.
4. ACPMH (2013). Australian Guidelines for PTSD Treatment.
5. World Health Organization (2008). ICD-10.
6. Pole, N. (2007). Psychological Bulletin, 133(5), 725-746.
7. Keane, T. M. et al. (1985). Behavior Therapist, 8(1), 9-12.
8. Janoff-Bulman, R. (1985). Victimology, 10(1-4), 498-511.
9. Brewin, C. R. et al. (2000). Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 68(5), 748-766.
10. Hembree, E. A. et al. (2003). Cognitive and Behavioral Practice, 10(1), 22-30.
11. Shapiro, F. (1989). Journal of Traumatic Stress, 2(2), 199-223.
12. Schnurr, P. P. et al. (2004). Journal of Traumatic Stress, 17(2), 85-95.
13. Back, S. E. et al. (2003); Read et al. (2004); Taylor et al. (2003); and others.