Complex PTSD & Trauma

Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD) can result from experiencing chronic trauma in childhood such as abuse or domestic violence. CPTSD is often associated with chronic trauma in childhood, adults who experience chronic trauma can also develop this disorder.

What’s the difference between CPTSD and PTSD?

The main differences between PTSD and CPTSD are the length of trauma and the symptoms. When PTSD first became a diagnosis in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, it required the individual to experience or witness a short-term trauma, such as a vehicle accident or a natural disaster. However as time went on and more research was conducted, it has been recognized that people who experience long-term, repeated trauma tend to have other symptoms in addition to the “traditional” symptoms of PTSD.

CPTSD and PTSD both share symptoms of psychological and behavioral stress responses, such as flashbacks, hypervigilance and efforts to avoid distressing reminders of the traumatic event(s).

CPTSD involves additional symptoms, including chronic and widespread issues with:

• Emotion regulation

• Identity and sense of self

• Relationships

CPTSD can be extraordinarily difficult to navigate on your own. Our therapists at TLA Therapy are trained to help you regain control of your life through various evidence based trauma treatments and CPTSD specific trauma treatments. We invite you to reach out to us if you or a loved one are impacted by CPTSD and are ready to begin a path towards healing.