You deserve to feel safe, understood, and supported. Our trauma-informed psychologists offer compassionate, evidence-based therapy to help you heal from the past and reclaim your life.
Trauma-Focused Therapy is an umbrella term for a range of evidence-based psychological approaches specifically designed to address the impact of traumatic experiences on mental health, behaviour, and everyday functioning.
Trauma can result from a single event — such as an accident, assault, or medical emergency — or from prolonged, repeated experiences such as childhood abuse, neglect, or domestic violence (sometimes called Complex Trauma or C-PTSD). Trauma affects people differently; what matters is not the event itself, but how it has impacted you.
At The Talk Shop, all of our psychologists practise from a trauma-informed foundation — meaning every session is grounded in safety, trust, and respect for your pace. Specific trauma-focused approaches include Trauma-Focused CBT, Prolonged Exposure, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and EMDR.
Trauma responses are normal reactions to abnormal events. Understanding them is the first step to healing:
Your psychologist will recommend the approach best suited to your trauma history, symptoms, and goals:
An evidence-based adaptation of CBT specifically for trauma. TF-CBT addresses the thoughts, feelings, and behaviours that maintain trauma symptoms — combining psychoeducation, coping skills, and gradual processing of traumatic memories. Highly effective for PTSD and widely used for both adults and young people.
A structured therapy that gradually reduces avoidance by helping you safely approach trauma-related memories, feelings, and situations. PE has extensive research support for PTSD and is recommended by international trauma guidelines.
CPT focuses on identifying and challenging “stuck points” — unhelpful beliefs about yourself and the world formed as a result of trauma (such as self-blame or the world being completely unsafe). It combines written trauma accounts with cognitive restructuring.
EMDR uses bilateral stimulation to help the brain reprocess traumatic memories, reducing their emotional charge. It is one of the most well-researched trauma treatments available. Learn more about EMDR →
For complex or childhood trauma, Schema Therapy addresses the deep-rooted beliefs and patterns formed as a result of early traumatic experiences — healing trauma at a fundamental level.
Every psychologist at The Talk Shop is trained to work in a trauma-informed way — meaning every interaction is guided by these principles:
Establishing emotional and physical safety is always the first priority. We move at your pace — there is never any pressure to discuss more than you are ready for.
We explain what we are doing and why at every step. You are always in control of your treatment.
Trauma often involves a loss of control. Our approach restores choice and agency to you — in how sessions run, what you focus on, and what goals you set.
Therapy is a partnership. Your psychologist works alongside you, not to you. Your lived experience is always central to the work.
Trauma therapy at The Talk Shop is accessible through a range of funding options:
Medicare Rebates
A Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP) from your GP provides Medicare rebates for up to 10 individual sessions per calendar year.
Private Health & Self-Funded
Private health extras may apply. Self-funded appointments welcome. View fee schedule
Available in-clinic and via Telehealth. Find your nearest location:
No. A trauma-informed approach always prioritises your safety. Processing traumatic memories is done gradually, only when you have the coping skills and readiness to do so. You will never be pushed to go faster than you are comfortable with.
Your psychologist will discuss your history, symptoms, and preferences with you and recommend the most appropriate approach. Many people benefit from a combination of techniques tailored to their specific needs.
This varies widely depending on the nature and complexity of your trauma. Single-incident trauma may resolve in 8–16 sessions. Complex or childhood trauma typically requires longer-term work. Your psychologist will discuss realistic timelines with you.
Yes — all of our trauma-focused approaches can be adapted for Telehealth. This includes EMDR, TF-CBT, and Schema Therapy. Telehealth can be particularly helpful for trauma survivors who find it difficult to leave home.
No. Many people who have experienced trauma do not meet the full criteria for PTSD but still benefit greatly from trauma-focused therapy. You do not need a diagnosis to access support.
All of our therapies can be delivered through a trauma-informed lens:
Our trauma-informed psychologists are here to support you with care, compassion, and expertise. Sessions available in-clinic across Melbourne and via Telehealth.
