The Latest on PTSD Treatment: Why EMDR is Considered the Gold Standard in Australia

Posted by jessicadarvell on

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) affects millions of Australians, yet understanding the most effective treatment options is still evolving. Recent updates from the Australian Psychological Society (APS) and Phoenix Australia’s national treatment guidelines highlight EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) as one of the gold-standard, evidence-based treatments for trauma and PTSD.

At Darvell Psychology in Belmont, Geelong, Jessica Darvell, Clinical Psychologist, uses trauma-focused therapies, including EMDR and psychodynamic psychotherapy, helping individuals process painful experiences and reclaim a sense of emotional balance and safety.

Understanding PTSD

PTSD can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event — such as an accident, assault, natural disaster, or ongoing exposure to distressing circumstances. It’s estimated that around one in ten Australians will experience PTSD at some point in their lives.

While it’s normal to feel distressed after trauma, for some people these reactions persist and begin to interfere with everyday life. PTSD often involves:

  • Flashbacks, nightmares, or intrusive memories

  • Avoidance of reminders of the trauma

  • Feeling constantly on edge or easily startled

  • Emotional numbness or detachment from others

  • Difficulty concentrating, sleeping, or relaxing

  • Overwhelming guilt, shame, or anger

When these symptoms continue for more than a few weeks, professional treatment can make a significant difference.

EMDR: The Gold Standard for Treating PTSD

EMDR, or Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing, is a structured psychotherapy that helps the brain process and integrate traumatic memories in a healthier way. During EMDR sessions, the therapist guides the client to recall aspects of the traumatic memory while engaging in bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements or tapping.

This process allows the brain to reprocess distressing experiences so that they become less emotionally charged and no longer trigger the same level of fear or anxiety.

Endorsed by Leading Organisations

The Australian Psychological Society (APS) and Phoenix Australia both recognise EMDR as a gold-standard treatment for trauma. It is also endorsed by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs as one of the most effective approaches for PTSD.

This level of international recognition means that EMDR has strong scientific support and is now widely recommended as a first-line treatment for trauma-related conditions.

The Benefits of EMDR Therapy

Research has shown that EMDR can:

  • Reduce the intensity of flashbacks and nightmares

  • Decrease emotional distress linked to past events

  • Improve sleep and concentration

  • Help people feel calmer, safer, and more in control

  • Promote long-term healing without needing to describe every detail of the trauma

Combining EMDR and Psychodynamic Therapy

At Darvell Psychology in Belmont, Geelong, EMDR therapy is often combined with psychodynamic psychotherapy. This integrative approach not only addresses the symptoms of trauma but also explores how past experiences shape emotional patterns, relationships, and self-perception.

Together, these therapies can help you:

  • Process traumatic memories safely and effectively

  • Understand the deeper emotional effects of trauma

  • Rebuild a sense of trust, confidence, and self-worth

  • Support ongoing emotional growth and resilience

Accessing PTSD and EMDR Treatment in Belmont, Geelong

If you’re struggling with the effects of trauma or PTSD, you don’t have to face it alone. With evidence-based therapy, recovery is possible.

At Darvell Psychology, we provide EMDR and trauma-focused psychotherapy in a supportive and confidential environment. Together, we work to reduce distress, process the impact of trauma, and help you move toward healing and wellbeing.

EMDR can be delivered via telehealth (secure video calls) or face to face in Belmont, Geelong. To find out more contact Darvell Psychology today.