Trauma & PTSD Treatment

Evidence-based therapy for trauma, stress and PTSD

Traumatic experiences can leave lasting emotional and physical effects. Many people recover naturally over time, but for others, the memories, stress responses and changes in mood can continue long after the event has passed. If this sounds like something you are experiencing, support from a trained clinician can make a significant difference.

At Aperture Psychology, our clinical psychologists in Randwick and Marrickville provide structured, evidence-based treatments to help you understand your symptoms, regain a sense of safety, and move forward with confidence.

What is trauma?

Trauma refers to the emotional and physiological impact of experiencing-or witnessing-an event that felt overwhelming, dangerous or threatening. This may include:

  • Physical or sexual assault

  • Accidents or medical emergencies

  • Sudden loss of a loved one

  • Domestic violence

  • Natural disasters

  • Workplace or military incidents

  • Repeated exposure to traumatic stories or events

Everyone responds differently. Some people experience changes immediately, while others notice symptoms months or even years later.

What is PTSD?

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can develop when the effects of trauma persist and begin to interfere with daily life. PTSD symptoms often fall into three main groups:

Re-experiencing symptoms

  • Unwanted memories, flashbacks or nightmares

  • Feeling as though the event is happening again

  • Intense distress when reminded of the trauma

Avoidance symptoms

  • Trying not to think or talk about what happened

  • Avoiding people, places, or situations that trigger memories

  • Feeling emotionally numb or disconnected

Changes in mood and arousal

  • Irritability, anger or difficulty relaxing

  • Feeling constantly “on alert”

  • Trouble sleeping or concentrating

  • Persistent negative thoughts or guilt

These symptoms can be distressing and exhausting, and they often affect work, relationships and overall wellbeing. However, PTSD is treatable, and many people recover with the right support.

When to seek help

It may be time to speak with a psychologist if:

  • Symptoms have lasted more than a month

  • You feel stuck, overwhelmed or constantly stressed

  • You’re avoiding activities you previously enjoyed

  • Sleep or concentration problems are getting in the way of daily life

  • You feel detached from others or from yourself

  • The trauma is affecting your work, study or relationships

You do not need a formal PTSD diagnosis to seek help. If the trauma is still affecting you in any way, a psychologist can help you make sense of your experiences and reduce symptoms.

How we help with trauma and PTSD

Our clinicians use evidence-based psychological treatments that are proven to reduce trauma-related symptoms and support long-term recovery. Treatment is personalised based on your goals, symptoms and readiness for trauma-focused work.

Therapies may include:

Our approach is structured, practical and supportive. Sessions move at a pace that feels safe for you, with clear treatment planning, progress monitoring and regular check-ins.

What treatment looks like at Aperture Psychology

You’ll begin with an initial consultation, where your psychologist will take time to understand your symptoms, history and goals. From there, we develop a tailored treatment plan that may include:

  • Education about trauma and the nervous system

  • Skills for managing anxiety, panic and emotional intensity

  • Gradual trauma processing when you’re ready

  • EMDR, trauma-focused CBT or another treatment modality as appropriate

  • Strategies to improve sleep, concentration and daily functioning

  • Relapse-prevention planning to support long-term recovery

Our team has extensive experience working with trauma and PTSD in adults and young adults. We provide care that is warm, evidence-based and grounded in the latest clinical research.

Ready to take the next step?

You don’t need to manage the effects of trauma on your own. Help is available, and most people notice meaningful improvement with targeted psychological treatment.

If you have questions about trauma or PTSD treatment-or you’re ready to book an appointment, our team in Randwick and Marrickville is here to help.

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