How EMDR Therapy Can Help

What Is Trauma?

Trauma is a psychological and physiological response to a deeply distressing or overwhelming event. It can occur at any age and affects how individuals think, feel, behave, and relate to others.

When an experience exceeds your ability to cope, it can leave a lasting imprint on your nervous system. Trauma may disrupt your sense of safety, identity, and emotional regulation.

Common traumatic experiences include:

• Serious accidents or injury
• Abuse or assault
• Sudden loss or grief
• Relationship breakdowns
• Childhood neglect or adversity
• Natural disasters or witnessing distressing events

Importantly, trauma is subjective—what feels overwhelming for one person may not affect another in the same way.

Common Symptoms of Trauma

Trauma can present as a combination of emotional, psychological, and physical symptoms.

Emotional & Psychological Symptoms

• Anxiety and persistent fear
• Low mood or depression
• Guilt, shame, or anger
• Emotional numbness
• Flashbacks or intrusive thoughts
• Difficulty concentrating

Physical Symptoms

• Nausea or dizziness
• Sleep disturbances or nightmares
• Headaches or fatigue
• Gastrointestinal issues
• Increased heart rate or difficulty breathing

Behavioural Changes

• Avoidance of reminders of the trauma
• Social withdrawal
• Changes in eating patterns
• Increased use of alcohol or substances

If left untreated, trauma can contribute to long-term conditions such as anxiety disorders, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

How Trauma Affects Long-Term Health

Trauma doesn’t just impact mental health—it can also affect physical wellbeing and lifestyle behaviours.

Research into Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) shows that individuals exposed to multiple traumatic events are at increased risk of:

• Substance misuse
• Chronic illness
• Mental health disorders
• Relationship difficulties

Many individuals develop coping strategies to manage distress. While some are helpful, others—such as avoidance or substance use—can maintain or worsen symptoms over time.

Evidence-Based Trauma Treatment: EMDR Therapy

One of the most effective treatments for trauma is Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy.

EMDR is a structured, evidence-based psychotherapy that helps the brain reprocess distressing memories so they no longer trigger intense emotional or physical reactions.

How EMDR Therapy Works

EMDR helps you safely revisit traumatic memories while engaging in bilateral stimulation (such as guided eye movements, tapping, or sounds). This process supports the brain in “reprocessing” the memory.

Over time, the memory becomes less distressing and feels more like something in the past—rather than something you are still reliving.

What to Expect During EMDR Therapy

EMDR therapy follows a structured approach:

1. Assessment & Planning
   Your therapist works with you to understand your experiences and determine whether EMDR is suitable.
2. Preparation
   You’ll learn grounding and coping strategies to manage distress.
3. Processing
   You’ll focus on aspects of the traumatic memory while engaging in guided bilateral stimulation.
4. Integration
   The memory becomes less emotionally intense and is stored more adaptively.

EMDR is collaborative, paced, and tailored to your individual needs.

When to Seek Help for Trauma

You may benefit from trauma therapy if:

• Symptoms persist for weeks or months
• Your daily functioning is impacted
• You feel stuck or overwhelmed
• You avoid situations or reminders
• Your relationships or work are affected

Early support can significantly improve recovery outcomes.

Trauma Therapy in Brisbane

At CBT Professionals, we provide evidence-based trauma therapy, including EMDR, to support individuals in safely processing and recovering from traumatic experiences.

📍 Available in-person at our Brisbane clinics
💻 Telehealth appointments available across Australia

Take the First Step

If trauma is impacting your life, you don’t have to manage it alone.

📞 Contact us today to book an appointment

Helensvale: (07) 5551 0251
Mount Gravatt: (07) 3102 1366
Nerang: (07) 5668 3490

💻 Or use our online booking portal to get started

Taking the first step towards support can help you regain a sense of safety, control, and wellbeing.

FAQs

What are the signs of unresolved trauma?

Unresolved trauma may present as ongoing anxiety, emotional numbness, relationship difficulties, or physical symptoms such as fatigue and sleep disturbances.

How effective is EMDR therapy for trauma?

EMDR is a clinically validated and highly effective treatment for trauma and PTSD, supported by extensive research.

How long does trauma therapy take?

The duration varies depending on the individual and complexity of the trauma. Some people notice improvements within a few sessions, while others may require longer-term support.

Can trauma go away on its own?

Some people recover naturally over time, but persistent symptoms often require professional support to fully process and resolve.

Is EMDR therapy available online?

Yes, EMDR can be adapted for telehealth and delivered effectively online by trained professionals.

What is the difference between trauma and PTSD?

Trauma refers to the experience itself, while PTSD is a diagnosable mental health condition that can develop after exposure to trauma.

Disclaimer

This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical or psychological advice. Please consult a qualified health professional for personalised support. If you are in immediate danger, call 000 or attend your nearest emergency department.