Trauma-Focused CBT in Bella Vista

Evidence-based trauma therapy for adults, teens and children, in person in the Hills District or by telehealth at the Creating Change Trauma Centre.

If something frightening or overwhelming has happened to you or your child, it can stay with you long after the event. Trauma-focused CBT (TF-CBT) is a proven, structured therapy that helps you understand what happened, manage distressing memories and feel safe and in control again.

There’s no waitlist. Evening and Saturday appointments are available.

Book Now or call 02 8883 3185

What is trauma-focused CBT?

Trauma-focused cognitive behavioural therapy (TF-CBT) is a type of talking therapy designed specifically for people who have experienced trauma. It combines practical skills for managing stress and emotions with gentle, gradual work on the trauma itself, always at a pace that feels safe for you.

Australia’s PTSD treatment guidelines recommend trauma-focused therapies, including TF-CBT, as a first-line treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

At Creating Change, all our work is trauma-informed. That means we put your safety, choice and trust first in every session.

Who can trauma-focused CBT help?

TF-CBT can help adults, teenagers and children who are struggling after experiences such as:

car accidents, workplace incidents and injuries
assault or violence
domestic and family violence
childhood abuse or neglect
sudden loss or traumatic grief
medical trauma or a difficult birth
natural disasters
trauma experienced through work, such as in emergency services and health care

You might notice:

intrusive memories, flashbacks or nightmares
avoiding people, places or reminders of what happened
feeling on edge, jumpy or unable to relax
trouble sleeping or concentrating
guilt, shame, anger or feeling numb
in children: clinginess, behaviour changes, re-enacting the event in play, or problems at school

You don’t need a PTSD diagnosis to benefit. If something that happened is still affecting your life, TF-CBT may help.

What to expect

A 2-hour first session. We take the time to listen, understand what happened and how it’s affecting you, and agree on your goals.
Building safety and skills. You’ll learn practical tools to calm your body, manage strong emotions and handle unhelpful thoughts.
Working through the trauma. When you’re ready, your psychologist will gently help you process the memories, so they become less distressing and lose their power over your daily life.
Moving forward. You’ll build confidence, strengthen your relationships and plan how to stay well.

Many people complete TF-CBT in around 30 sessions, but your plan is tailored to you. We check your progress regularly through Feedback Informed Treatment, so therapy stays on track.

TF-CBT for Children and Teens

Children and teenagers recover best with support from the adults who care for them. In TF-CBT for young people, parents and carers are part of the process. You’ll learn how to support your child, respond to their reactions and help them feel safe at home and at school.

Why choose Creating Change?

No waitlist: start when you’re ready
Evenings until 9pm and Saturdays, plus telehealth
Experienced trauma psychologists trained in TF-CBT and EMDR
A 2-hour first appointment, so you never feel rushed
Medicare rebates with a Mental Health Treatment Plan, and WorkCover and CTP claims welcome
Free onsite parking, a fully accessible building and the Metro 500m away

Frequently asked questions

What’s the difference between trauma-focused CBT and EMDR? Both are recommended, evidence-based treatments for trauma. TF-CBT works through talking, skills and gradually processing memories. EMDR uses guided eye movements or tapping while you recall the memory. Your psychologist will help you choose the approach that suits you best.

Will I have to talk about everything that happened? Not straight away, and never before you’re ready. We start by building skills and safety. You stay in control of the pace.

Can I claim Medicare for TF-CBT? Yes. With a Mental Health Treatment Plan from your GP, you can claim a Medicare rebate for your sessions, in person or by telehealth. See our fees and rebates FAQ.

Does trauma-focused CBT work by telehealth? Yes. Research shows therapy by video works well for many people, and it means you can have sessions from the comfort and safety of your own home.

Can I use WorkCover or CTP? Yes. If your trauma follows a workplace incident or motor vehicle accident in NSW, approved sessions can be paid by the insurer. We handle the paperwork.

Take the first step

You don’t have to keep carrying this alone. Our caring trauma psychologists are here to help you feel safe, calm and like yourself again.

If you’re in immediate danger or crisis, call 000 or Lifeline on 13 11 14.

Book a TF-CBT Session Here

The Next Step: Healing

Ready to transform your life and move forward with greater peace of mind? Here’s what to do next:

Schedule a Consultation: Contact us today to book your initial consultation.
Reach Out for More Information: Call or fill out our contact form to get answers to any questions you may have.
Stay Connected: Follow us on facebook, instagram, linked in for updates, tips, and a supportive community.