Access FREE support after the Dee Why Shark Attack.

Psychological First Aid

After experiencing or witnessing something traumatic, it’s normal to struggle to process what’s happened.

Need support? Free group therapy sessions are available to anyone that has been impacted by the recent shark attack at Dee Why.

The sessions involve early intervention psychological first aid protocols that are based on the principles of globally recognised EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) therapy, designed for use shortly after a traumatic event and offered as a single session.

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We’re here to help

After a traumatic event, such as an accident, natural disaster or sudden violence, fragments of the experience – images, sounds, sensations, or unwanted thoughts – can become “stuck” and replay. This can show up after the event as nightmares, intrusive memories and other distressing symptoms.

Accessing support early – in the weeks or immediate months following the event – can help to reduce the likelihood of this happening, helping your brain to heal more effectively.

Whether you’re a bystander, first responder, or someone who saw or heard too much – your reactions are valid. Healing is possible, and it doesn’t have to be painful or invasive.

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Contact Us

To register your interest in booking a complimentary session, please complete this form.

What we’re offering

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Our team of experienced volunteer psychologists, counsellors and social workers are offering one free group therapy session per person to anyone affected by the recent shark attack at Dee Why. 

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The sessions use early intervention protocols based on the principles of EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) – a therapy recommended as an effective treatment to reduce the impact of traumatic events.

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The interventions are single session trauma treatments, with the goal of reducing distress and help your nervous system regain its balance. 

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Instead of talking about the traumatic event, the sessions focus on settling your nervous system using bilaterial stimulation (e.g. eye movements and tapping).
Contact Us

Frequently asked questions

Where is the session held?

At a psychology practice in Dee Why, on Sydney’s Northern Beaches. Contact Lifeline Northern Beaches, Mosman to Kirribilli via the form above, or call (02) 9949 5522, to register and receive the exact address.

When are the sessions held?

Lifeline is currently taking expressions of interest from individuals interested in participating in the one off Psychological First Aid group session.

Dates will be advised pending sufficient interest and registrations received. If the quota required to run a group is not reached, then Lifeline will redirect individuals to other supports available.

What is involved?

A single group session based on EMDR principles. It’s a brief early intervention designed to reduce the risk of PTSD. No need to retell your trauma story. Activities may include guided eye movements, tapping, or other sensory techniques to help the brain process distressing memories.

How do I know if I need this?

You may benefit if you’ve witnessed or been close to a traumatic event, feel unsettled or emotionally numb, experience nightmares or flashbacks, avoid reminders, or were exposed to distressing content online or in person.

Do I have to talk and share feelings with other people?

No. This is not talk therapy. You are not required to share personal details or feelings. The focus is on internal processing in a safe, supported environment.

Why do we do this in a group?

Group settings reduce isolation and normalize reactions. They allow for efficient delivery of support and provide a shared, guided experience without requiring personal disclosure.

Why will this help me?

EMDR-inspired techniques help the brain reprocess distressing memories before they become entrenched. This can reduce symptoms like anxiety, sleep disturbance, and avoidance, offering a gentle, proactive step toward healing.

Ages of participants?

Open to individuals aged 18 and over. Lifeline can advise on alternative supports for younger participants.