PTSD

Join the ACT - Complex trauma network if you’d like to meet with practitioners in your local area to discuss mental health issues relevant to your community. Meetings provide access to guest speakers, peer support, and case study discussions. This group supports professionals helping those with complex PTSD. People with complex PTSD tend to experience the core symptoms of PTSD as well as disturbances in their thoughts, behaviours and emotions. Join the network to be added to the mailing list and be invited to future meetings.

Join a dynamic and supportive national community of mental health professionals dedicated to enhancing the treatment of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) through Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT). This Network fosters collaboration across disciplines, providing clinicians, researchers, and students with opportunities to exchange insights, strengthen clinical skills, and remain informed about evidence-based practice. 

Whether you're new to CPT and curious about its application, recently trained and seeking support, or an experienced practitioner looking to deepen your expertise, the community offers valuable opportunities for professional development and connection.

 **All new members are encouraged to please complete the EOI Form available in the network resources section.**

Aims of this Network

• Enhance Clinical Competence

Support mental health professionals in developing and refining their skills in delivering Cognitive Processing Therapy through peer learning and access to best-practice resources.

• Promote Evidence-Based Practice

Foster the consistent use and understanding of the CPT protocol in clinical settings by sharing current research, treatment innovations, and implementation strategies.

• Facilitate Collaboration and Peer Support

Create a collegial environment where practitioners can consult, share experiences, and problem-solve challenges in CPT delivery.

• Advance Knowledge Translation

Bridge the gap between research and practice by sharing findings from recent research, including knowledge to action, dissemination and implementation science.

• Encourage Inclusive and Culturally Responsive Practice

Promote the use of CPT with diverse populations and settings, that respects cultural, social, and individual differences.

• Support Professional Development

Offer opportunities for continuing education, training and accreditation pathways, and leadership development in CPT specific skills.

• Improve Client Outcomes

Ultimately, enhance the quality of care and recovery outcomes for individuals living with PTSD through excellence in CPT delivery.

 

Operations of the Network

1. A national network for experienced and early career clinicians, researchers and students
2. Quarterly online meetings (at a minimum)
3. Occasional in-person meetings at Coordinator’s discretion
4. Invited guest speaker/panel opportunities
5. Peer contributions shared and welcomed 
6. Attendance at a majority of meetings preferred
7. Annual review of the group and its function

Save the Dates 

Please mark your calendar to join 2026 online meeting dates as follows:

• Wednesday 11 February 2026 | Setting Up CPT for Success: A Community of Practice Session 
• Wednesday 6 May 2026 | CPT in Cross Cultural Settings and Tailoring CPT to Meet Diverse Cultural Needs
• Wednesday 12 August 2026
• Wednesday 11 November 2026
•  

Network Coordinators: Dr Marja Elizabeth & Ms Kirsten Yates 

Marja and Kirsten are clinical psychologists and qualified CPT therapists, trainers and consultants who have provided treatment using this modality across a wide range of presentations and service sectors. Having witnessed the beneficial and functional impact of successful CPT treatment, they are passionate about increasing awareness and sharing knowledge of its benefits for clients.

This network unites GPs and non-psychiatrist mental health professionals for a safe, interactive and collaborative open forum where you can ask practical questions about day-to-day work with patients experiencing mental health issues. Sessions focus on real-time advice, evidence-informed guidance, and clear management options. The style is honest, inclusive, collegial and vibrant, with direct Q&A and concise teaching points. The Network aims to strengthen collaborative care and clinician confidence in responding to mental health presentations. Meetings are held virtually via webinar every two months, ensuring accessible and timely support for practitioners.

The network meets bi-monthly and provides access to guest speakers and case-based discussions.

Join the network to be added to the mailing list and receive invitations to future meetings.

Network Coordinator:

Dr Steven Chau | MBBS BA MPSYCH FRANZCP (FADLP)

Dr Steven Chau is a senior consultant psychiatrist and Director of Melbourne Mental Health with over a decade of experience in private practice. He is passionate about improving public mental health literacy and sincerely believes in a collaborative biopsychosocial framework of care. He practises with open and honest communication with patients and referrers. Dr Chau’s areas of expertise include sports psychiatry, mood and anxiety disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD and addiction.

Save the Dates:

Please mark your calendar with the FY26-27 online meeting dates, held from 6-7:30pm (NSW/VIC time).

Tuesday 28 July 2026 | Network Launch

Of the 1 in 22 parents who receive a prenatal diagnosis of a major congenital anomaly, many experience shock, distress and anxiety and PTSD. Parents can find it difficult to find support at this time-sensitive period and beyond. This network aims to bring the psychosocial side of prenatal diagnosis out of the shadows. Network members will share experiences and expertise for supporting families through prenatal diagnosis and what comes beyond.