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Ep 59 — Dr. Gillian O’Shea Brown — Understanding Complex Trauma: Healing and Growth

Jan 31, 2025
Join Dr. Gillian O’Shea Brown, an Irish psychotherapist and EMDR consultant, as she dives into the realm of complex trauma. She distinguishes complex trauma from standard PTSD, shedding light on the origins rooted in childhood experiences and relational dysfunctions. Dr. Brown shares effective healing strategies, including EMDR, and emphasizes the importance of self-care and trust in therapeutic relationships. The discussion also delves into managing trauma during family gatherings, and even connects ancient Greek mythology to modern psychological healing, offering insightful perspectives on personal narratives.
58:17

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Complex trauma originates from prolonged relational dysfunctions, leading to deeply ingrained feelings of unworthiness that differ from single-incident trauma.
  • Understanding personal relational dynamics is crucial for healing, as individuals often repeat patterns seeking validation from those reminiscent of their past.

Deep dives

Understanding Complex Trauma

Complex trauma, often resulting from prolonged exposure to relational trauma, manifests differently than single-incident trauma. It centers on chronic emotional harm within environments such as dysfunctional families or intimate partner relationships, leading to deeply ingrained feelings of unworthiness. The evolution of complex PTSD as a diagnosis illustrates societal recognition of this complex condition, highlighting the differentiation between acute traumas and the ongoing pain experienced in complex trauma situations. Addressing these chronic feelings allows individuals to understand their defense mechanisms and the roots of their emotional struggles.

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