Understanding PTSD: Bridging neuroscience and treatment
Professor Kim Felmingham, a dedicated clinician and researcher, explores the intricate dynamics of PTSD, fueled by personal experiences. Her work delves into mechanisms, including emotional memory and hormonal influences, aiming to enhance treatment efficacy. Championing women's presence in academia, she emphasises perseverance and mentorship. Through collaboration, notably with Richard Bryant and Ben Harrison, her research promises advancements in PTSD treatment, offering hope to sufferers worldwide.
A passionate clinician and researcher, Professor Kim Felmingham has devoted her career to unravelling the complexities of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and improving treatment outcomes for those affected.
"I have always been captivated by the intricate interplay between the brain and body, particularly in response to trauma," reflects Professor Felmingham as she looks back on her journey. Her personal experiences have fuelled the passion behind her research. "My fascination with trauma stems from my childhood encounters with PTSD following a car accident,” she explains. “PTSD, characterised by profound mind-body interactions, intrigued me from an early age."
Professor Felmingham’s research interests lie in the powerful mechanisms involved in PTSD, including emotional memories, fear learning, and the impact of stress and sex hormones.
“Women develop PTSD at twice the rates of men, but we still don’t have a clear understanding of why,” she says, underscoring the importance of delving into these processes. “By better understanding these mechanisms – why PTSD develops and why it remains chronic after the trauma is over – we can develop more effective exposure-based therapies.”
Her current clinical trial sees Professor Felmingham explore the potential of aerobic exercise to augment the effects of exposure therapy.
“I get surprised every day with my research – which is part of the joy in doing it,” she enthuses. "Seeing the resilience and unwavering motivation of the individuals with PTSD who contribute to our research is truly humbling."
Professor Felmingham credits her colleagues and collaborators, Richard Bryant and Ben Harrison for their collective dedication to advancing PTSD research and treatment. In particular, she highlights the pivotal roles played by individuals such as Professors Meaghan O’Donnell, Trevor Steward and Amy Jordan, among others, in their shared commitment to propelling PTSD research forward.
Addressing the challenges encountered by women in academia, Professor Felmingham advocates for perseverance and mentorship.
"Never give up – persist in pursuing your passion. Seek mentorship opportunities, like the SWiM program. And don’t buy into imposter syndrome or the idea that you don’t belong; you do."
As we commemorate International Women's Day, Professor Felmingham's unwavering dedication underscores the resilience and resolve of women in neuroscience and clinical psychology. Her research offers promise for advancing treatments and bolstering support for those grappling with PTSD's debilitating impact.