Find a Mental Health Professional for PTSD

About PTSD support

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can develop after a person experiences or witnesses a traumatic event, such as an accident, assault, natural disaster, medical emergency, or combat. Not everyone who goes through a traumatic event will develop PTSD, and the response is not a sign of weakness. Common symptoms include intrusive memories or flashbacks, nightmares, hypervigilance, avoidance of reminders, emotional numbness, and difficulties with sleep and concentration. Evidence-based treatments for PTSD are effective and can produce significant improvement even for people who have been living with symptoms for a long time. Trauma-Focused CBT and EMDR are both recommended as first-line psychological treatments. These approaches help the brain process traumatic memories in a way that reduces their emotional charge. Treatment is paced carefully and does not require a person to recount every detail of their experience. In Australia, GPs can refer people to eligible practitioners through Medicare's Better Access initiative. Open Arms provides free counselling for veterans and their families, and Phoenix Australia is the national centre for posttraumatic mental health with resources for both clinicians and the public. Lifeline (13 11 14) and Beyond Blue also provide 24/7 phone support for people in distress.

Frequently asked questions

What is PTSD and how is it diagnosed in Australia?

PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) develops after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. In Australia, diagnosis is made by a psychologist or psychiatrist using DSM-5 criteria, typically involving intrusive memories, avoidance, negative mood changes, and heightened reactivity lasting more than a month. A GP referral and Mental Health Care Plan is the usual starting point.

Is PTSD treatment covered by Medicare in Australia?

Yes. With a Mental Health Treatment Plan from your GP, you can access up to 10 Medicare-rebated sessions per calendar year with a registered psychologist for PTSD treatment. Evidence-based therapies like Trauma-Focused CBT and EMDR are available through many practitioners on Mental Health Directory.

What therapy works best for PTSD?

The most effective PTSD treatments are Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT), EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing), and Prolonged Exposure therapy. All are widely available in Australia and practised by psychologists and counsellors listed on Mental Health Directory. Your therapist will recommend the best fit based on your history and preferences.

How do I find a trauma-trained therapist near me?

Search Mental Health Directory by your suburb or postcode and filter by PTSD or trauma. You can also filter by Medicare rebates, telehealth, and bulk billing to narrow down options that suit your budget and location. All practitioners are verified against AHPRA or relevant professional bodies.