What Is Complex Trauma? Causes, Symptoms & Healing – C-PTSD

In this episode of The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast, Dr. Marianne Trent delves into the topic of complex trauma (C-PTSD). She explores what complex trauma is, how it manifests in adulthood, and most importantly, the potential for healing. Through a fictional but realistic case study, Marianne demonstrates the profound impact of complex trauma and shares effective therapeutic approaches for recovery.

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Key Takeaways

Understanding Complex Trauma: The difference between single-event trauma (PTSD) and chronic trauma (C-PTSD).

Case Study of Sarah: A powerful illustration of how childhood trauma can shape adult life.

Manifestations of C-PTSD: Anxiety, self-doubt, hypervigilance, and physical symptoms.

Therapeutic Approaches: Compassion-Focused Therapy, EMDR, Somatic Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Schema Therapy.

Hope and Healing: Recovery is possible with the right support and therapeutic interventions.

Timestamps

• 00:00 - Introduction
• 00:44 - What Is Complex Trauma?
• 01:33 - Causes of Complex Trauma
• 02:29 - Case Study: Sarah’s Childhood
• 03:27 - Sarah’s Adulthood Struggles
• 05:18 - Impact of Sexual Abuse
• 06:18 - How C-PTSD Shows Up in Adulthood
• 07:21 - Healing and Therapy Approaches
• 08:29 - Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT)
• 09:33 - Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR)
• 11:00 - Somatic Therapy and Body-Based Approaches
• 12:40 - Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Schema Therapy
• 13:31 - EMDR Training and Recommendations
• 14:29 - Message of Hope for Trauma Survivors
• 15:33 - Feel Better Academy and Support Resources
• 16:26 - How to Support the Podcast
• 17:47 - Closing Remarks

Links:

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