Experiences from the past can sometimes continue to affect how we feel, think, and respond in the present. Difficult or overwhelming events may leave lasting impressions on the nervous system, shaping patterns of anxiety, self-criticism, emotional reactivity, or a sense of being stuck.
At Lumaura Psychology in Toowong, Brisbane, registered psychologist Mike Spiller offers trauma-informed therapy designed to support people in understanding and gently processing these experiences. Therapy focuses on helping the mind and body integrate difficult memories so that they no longer carry the same emotional intensity.
Appointments are available in person in Toowong or via secure telehealth across Brisbane, Queensland, and Australia.
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Understanding Trauma
Trauma does not always refer to a single dramatic event. For many people, trauma can develop through experiences that felt overwhelming, frightening, or emotionally painful at the time.
These experiences may include:
- childhood adversity or neglect
- relationship betrayal or loss of trust
- emotional or psychological abuse
- difficult life events that occurred during vulnerable periods
- repeated experiences of feeling unsafe, powerless, or unsupported
When the nervous system does not have the opportunity to fully process these experiences, memories and emotional responses can remain active beneath the surface. Over time this may lead to patterns such as heightened anxiety, emotional sensitivity, or strong internal self-criticism.
Trauma therapy focuses on helping the brain and body process these experiences safely and gradually, allowing them to become part of the past rather than something that continues to shape present-day reactions.
Make a Booking EnquiryHow Trauma Can Affect People
Trauma can influence people in many different ways. Some individuals notice clear memories or emotional triggers, while others simply experience a persistent sense of tension, worry, or self-doubt without fully understanding why.
Common experiences associated with unresolved trauma may include:
- feeling easily overwhelmed or emotionally reactive
- intrusive memories or distressing thoughts about past events
- difficulty trusting others or feeling safe in relationships
- persistent anxiety, hypervigilance, or difficulty relaxing
- strong inner criticism or feelings of shame
- patterns of overworking, perfectionism, or emotional shutdown
Many people seeking therapy describe appearing high-functioning on the outside, while internally carrying a heavy emotional load. Trauma-informed therapy provides a space where these experiences can be explored with curiosity, compassion, and care.
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EMDR & Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy
EMDR Therapy
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) is a structured psychotherapy approach widely used for trauma treatment. EMDR helps the brain process distressing memories so that they become less emotionally overwhelming.
Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy
Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy focuses on understanding the different "parts" of ourselves that carry emotions, beliefs, and protective strategies. Many of these parts develop in response to overwhelming or difficult life experiences. IFS supports people in approaching these parts with curiosity and compassion, rather than judgment or avoidance.
Integrating IFS and EMDR
IFS and EMDR can work together effectively within trauma therapy. IFS may help build internal awareness and stability before deeper memory processing begins, while EMDR supports the brain in resolving the emotional intensity held within difficult memories. Together, these approaches can offer a compassionate and effective pathway through trauma toward greater emotional balance and self-connection.
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Trauma Therapy with Mike Spiller
Mike Spiller is a registered psychologist based in Toowong, Brisbane, supporting individuals experiencing trauma, anxiety, emotional overwhelm, and significant life challenges across both public and private settings in Queensland and New Zealand.
His therapeutic style is calm, compassionate, and collaborative. Mike takes a trauma-informed and integrative approach to therapy, drawing on Internal Family Systems (IFS), EMDR, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Motivational Interviewing. Therapy is tailored to each person's individual experiences, relational patterns, and goals.
Mike works from a place of warmth, curiosity, and genuine care, creating a supportive space where clients can explore their experiences with greater self-understanding and emotional clarity.
Trauma Therapy in Toowong Brisbane
Lumaura Psychology offers trauma therapy in person at the Toowong practice and online via secure telehealth.
Appointments are available:
- In person at the Toowong practice in Brisbane
- Online via secure Telehealth across Brisbane, Queensland, and Australia
Taking the First Step
Beginning trauma therapy can feel like a significant step. If you would like to learn more about the approach used at Lumaura Psychology, you are welcome to get in touch.