Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Complex PTSD (C-PTSD): Understanding and Treatment

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. These events may include accidents, natural disasters, combat, abuse, or other life-threatening situations. PTSD is more than just a difficult memory - it can interfere with daily life, relationships, and overall well-being.

Common Symptoms of PTSD

While symptoms vary, many people with PTSD experience:

• Intrusive memories, flashbacks, or nightmares
• Avoidance of reminders of the trauma
• Heightened anxiety, irritability, or hypervigilance
• Feelings of detachment, numbness, or disconnection
• Trouble concentrating or sleeping

These symptoms can persist for months or years if not addressed and often require professional support.

Complex PTSD (C-PTSD)

Complex PTSD develops from long-term or repeated trauma, such as ongoing abuse, neglect, captivity, or exposure to violence.

In addition to the core PTSD symptoms, C-PTSD may involve:

• Persistent negative self-image or feelings of worthlessness
• Difficulty regulating emotions (intense sadness, anger, or emptiness)
• Strong feelings of shame or guilt
• Struggles in building or maintaining relationships
• Dissociation or feeling “disconnected” from self or surroundings

“Small t” Trauma and C-PTSD

Not all trauma comes from extreme or life-threatening events. “Small t” traumas - such as repeated criticism, emotional neglect, bullying, ongoing stress at home, or subtle but persistent invalidation - can also accumulate over time and deeply affect emotional well-being. Recognising the impact of “small t” trauma helps validate the experiences of many people who may not see their struggles reflected in stereotypical images of trauma but who are still deeply affected by what they have lived through.

Evidence-Based Treatments

Our clinicians use approaches supported by research and clinical practice:

• Trauma-Focused Therapy: Structured treatments such as Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) or Prolonged Exposure (PE) help reduce the emotional weight of traumatic memories.
• Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): A therapy that assists the brain in reprocessing traumatic experiences in a less distressing way.

Trauma-Informed Care

Beyond specific treatments, our practice is grounded in trauma-informed care. This approach is based on the understanding that distress, emotional pain, and many mental health challenges often have roots in traumatic or overwhelming experiences.

A trauma-informed perspective shifts the question from “What is wrong with you?” to “What has happened to you?” - creating a foundation of safety, respect, and compassion.

What This Means for You

• You are safe here: We work hard to create an environment where you feel comfortable, respected, and not judged.
• Your story matters: We listen with care and at your pace, so you never feel rushed or pressured.
• You have choices: Therapy is collaborative—we’ll work together to find approaches that feel right for you.
• Your reactions make sense: Symptoms are not “failures” or “weaknesses.” They are natural responses to what you’ve been through.
• Healing goes beyond symptoms: Recovery is not only about reducing distress—it’s also about rebuilding trust, connection, and a sense of control in your life.

Why this matters for PTSD and C-PTSD:

• Reduces the risk of re-traumatization during therapy or medical care
• Provides a framework that validates clients’ experiences and symptoms
• Helps shift the focus from “what’s wrong” to “what happened” and “what can help”
• Supports recovery that extends beyond symptom relief, promoting empowerment, connection, and personal growth

Path to Recovery

Whether from a single traumatic event or long-term experiences, living with PTSD or C-PTSD can feel overwhelming. With the right therapeutic approach, and supportive care, many people experience significant relief and are able to rebuild fulfilling lives. Our clinicians are dedicated to providing care that is evidence-based, compassionate, and sensitive to the impact of trauma.

You do not have to face trauma alone.

Attuned Psychology and Psychiatry