Complex and Developmental Trauma Counselling
in the Sutherland Shire

Complex and developmental trauma refers to the effect of ongoing stress, neglect, abuse or disrupted caregiving, usually beginning early in life and repeated over time. Rather than a single event, it develops within relationships, and its effects can continue from childhood into adulthood.

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At Evolving Minds Counselling and Psychology, our psychologists and counsellors work with children, adolescents and adults affected by complex and developmental trauma across the Sutherland Shire. Childhood trauma therapy is available in person and via secure online appointments across Australia.

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What is complex and developmental trauma?

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Developmental trauma is also referred to as complex trauma. Blue Knot Foundation, Australia's national centre for complex trauma, notes that these patterns often begin in childhood and can continue to affect a person throughout life. When the harm is ongoing and comes from people meant to provide care, it can lead to complex post-traumatic stress, also known as complex PTSD.

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How does childhood trauma affect children?

 

When a child has not felt safe in their early relationships, developmental trauma often shows in how they manage emotion, behave, learn and relate to others. You may notice:

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• Strong emotional reactions or difficulty settling

• Heightened alertness or sensitivity to perceived threat

• Withdrawal, shutdown or disconnection

• Difficulty trusting adults or forming secure relationships

• Challenges with attention, learning or boundaries

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How does childhood trauma affect adults?

 

The effects of childhood trauma often continue into adulthood. Where trauma was prolonged or began in early relationships, it can develop into complex PTSD and show up as anxiety, low mood, difficulty trusting others, persistent self-criticism, or relationship patterns that feel hard to shift. Trauma counselling provides a safe space to understand these patterns and work through them in your own time.

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What does childhood trauma therapy involve?

 

Counselling creates a safe and predictable environment that supports emotional regulation, trust, and connection over time. For adults, this includes recognising how early patterns continue to influence the present. For children, we aim to strengthen attachment and connection to their caregivers using a range of approaches including those within a reparative parenting framework.

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Approaches draw from EMDR therapy, attachment informed therapy, trauma informed approaches, somatic psychotherapy, schema therapy or play and art therapy. Therapy is adapted to each person's developmental stage and presentation.

 

When should you consider counselling?"

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You may wish to consider counselling if you or your child are:

• Struggling to feel safe, settled or connected

• Finding emotions difficult to manage

• Noticing how earlier events still affect daily life

• Living with ongoing anxiety, low mood, withdrawal or behavioural changes

 

Developmental and complex trauma can overlap with PTSD, anxiety and difficulties with emotional regulation.

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Contact Us

 

Our psychologists and counsellors provide trauma counselling across the Sutherland Shire, including Menai, Sutherland, Miranda, Caringbah, Engadine, Gymea, Kirrawee, Illawong and Bangor. We also provide trauma counselling for Hurstville and the St George area, including Penshurst and Mortdale, in person or online.

 

If you’re unsure where to begin, our Client Care Team can assist. Call 02 8519 4197 or use the button below to request an appointment.