Trauma can follow a single overwhelming event, or build over time through ongoing experiences such as family violence, childhood neglect, displacement or loss. Its effects can stay long after the event has passed. Whatever your experience, your reactions make sense, and healing is possible.

You might notice

• Memories, nightmares or flashbacks that feel hard to control
• Feeling on edge, easily startled, or always on guard
• Avoiding people, places or reminders
• Feeling numb, disconnected or “not yourself”
• Shame, guilt or self-blame
• Difficulty trusting others or feeling safe in relationships

How therapy can help

Trauma therapy goes at your pace. The first focus is building safety, stability and ways to manage strong feelings. When you’re ready, Zohreh works with you to make sense of your experiences and how they’ve shaped you, without you having to tell your story before you’re ready.

Zohreh draws on Narrative Therapy, Trauma-Focused CBT for children and adolescents, Schema Therapy, DBT skills and ACT. She has worked with young people, families affected by domestic and family violence, and people from refugee and culturally diverse backgrounds. Narrative practice helps separate you from the problem: you are not the trauma, and your story also holds strength, survival and hope.

Funding

• Medicare: rebates with a GP Mental Health Treatment Plan. See the Fee page.
• NSW Victims Support Scheme: if you’ve experienced a violent crime in NSW, you may be eligible for free counselling. Zohreh is an approved counsellor.

Getting started

Book a free 15-minute intake call to talk about whether Oakwise Therapy is the right fit for you.

If you’re in crisis or feel unsafe, call Lifeline on 13 11 14, 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, or 000 in an emergency.