Therapy for Trauma
Most people will experience trauma in their lifetime, whether it’s a car accident, abuse or neglect, the sudden death of a loved one, a violent criminal act, exposure to the violence of war, a natural disaster, or a collective trauma like the COVID-19 pandemic. While some individuals may recover over time with the love and support of family and friends, others may struggle with the long-lasting effects of trauma. When trauma is ongoing and occurs in the context of relationships, such as repeated childhood abuse, neglect, or exposure to domestic violence, it can lead to Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD).
What is C-PTSD?
C-PTSD is a psychological disorder that develops due to prolonged exposure to relational trauma. This can include:
Sexual abuse or assault
Physical abuse
Childhood neglect
Witnessing domestic violence
Repeated emotional abuse or manipulation
Traumatic loss or abandonment in early life
Unlike PTSD, which can develop from a single traumatic event, C-PTSD arises from repeated trauma over time, often in childhood or within significant relationships. The chronic nature of the trauma affects brain development, emotional regulation, and sense of self, leading to deep-seated difficulties in relationships and daily functioning.
C-PTSD Symptoms
The symptoms of C-PTSD often overlap with PTSD but include additional challenges related to self-identity and relationships:
Avoidance Symptoms:
Avoiding specific locations, sights, situations, or people that serve as reminders of trauma
Emotional numbness, detachment, or dissociation
Persistent guilt, shame, or self-blame
Self medicating with addictions such as substance misuse
Re-experiencing Symptoms:
Intrusive thoughts, nightmares, or flashbacks
Emotional flooding and overwhelming distress when triggered
Hyperarousal Symptoms:
Chronic anger, irritability, and hypervigilance
Reckless or self-destructive behavior, including self-harm
Sleep disturbances or difficulty relaxing
Negative Mood and Negative Thoughts Symptoms:
Difficulty remembering details of traumatic events
Loss of interest in activities once considered enjoyable
Deep-seated beliefs of worthlessness, helplessness, or being "broken"
Difficulty trusting others and forming healthy relationships (anxious, avoidant or disorganized attachment styles)
Treatment for C-PTSD
Healing from C-PTSD requires a holistic approach that addresses both emotional and physiological aspects of trauma. Research has shown that psychotherapy is the most effective form of treatment, with particular emphasis on:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Identifying and reframing negative core beliefs about self, others, and the world
Developing practical coping strategies for distressing symptoms
Reducing shame and self-blame associated with past trauma
Somatic and Body-Based Therapies
Utilizing movement, breathwork, and sensory engagement to regulate the nervous system
Helping the body release stored trauma responses
Art Psychotherapy
We integrate art therapy with CBT to help trauma survivors process experiences in a way that is less overwhelming than verbal discussion. Making art allows clients to express emotions visually, which can:
Provide a sense of containment and safety while exploring difficult memories
Engage the brain on a non-verbal, sensory level to access stored trauma
Foster creativity and self-compassion in the healing process
How We Work Together
In therapy, we will work collaboratively to:
Develop healthy coping tools for symptoms of C-PTSD
Build emotional resilience and self-trust
Address relational patterns that stem from past trauma
Reframe limiting beliefs and reclaim personal power
If you or someone you know is struggling with the symptoms of C-PTSD, you are not alone. I invite you to contact me today for a free consultation to explore how therapy can support your healing journey.