The Unique Trauma of Police Work: Insights from EMDR Therapy

With Guest Krystal Hawkins

In the challenging world of policing, officers face years of traumatic experiences that can lead to significant mental health challenges. In the previous Episode, former NSW police officer and author, Justyn Backhouse, spoke movingly about his experience of PTSD and the role EMDR has played in his journey of recovery. In this Episode, Krystal Hawkins, an EMDR consultant and mental health social worker, shares what she’s learned as a therapist working extensively with police and other First Responders. She provides insights into the unique trauma experienced by police, how to tailor EMDR to their needs, and the importance of collaboration, early intervention, and systemic support.

Keywords: EMDR, police trauma, mental health, early intervention, trauma therapy, PTSD, first responders, neurobiology, trauma processing

Upcoming training on EMDR with Police and First Responders

If you work with, or would like to feel more confident supporting police officers and other first responders, join Krystal Hawkins for our exclusive half day webinar Understanding EMDR with Police and First Responders on 27 November 2026. Proudly sponsored by EMDR Academy Australia.

Registrations and information available at: https://emdracademy.com.au/events/

Episode Resources

To access an article Krystal wrote for the National FireFighter Magazine, Summer Edition 2024, pp34-39 use the link below

https://www.thenationalfirefighter.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/TNF-Summer-24-PRINTREADY_compressed.pdf

Understanding EMDR podcast is Proudly sponsored by EMDR Academy Australia.

Leading providers of EMDR training across Australasia. Specialist training in Early Intervention, Group EMDR, Adaptations for Children and Adolescents and international guests. Online and in-person trainings available.

https://emdracademy.com.au

Follow us on Social Media

LinkedIn: /emdracademyaus

Instagram: /emdracademyaus

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