Complex PTSD (CPTSD) arises from prolonged or repeated trauma, such as abuse or captivity. Alongside core PTSD symptoms like flashbacks and avoidance, CPTSD includes difficulties with emotional regulation, a persistent negative self-image, and challenges in relationships. Treatment focuses on addressing these symptoms to foster recovery and resilience.
“Childhood trauma shaped how I see myself and others. I struggle with trust, emotions, and feeling worthy of love. Therapy is helping me face the past and rebuild a sense of safety and connection.”
Complex PTSD (CPTSD) develops in response to prolonged or repeated trauma, such as childhood abuse, domestic violence, or captivity. Unlike classic PTSD, which often stems from a single traumatic event, CPTSD involves additional symptoms that reflect the pervasive impact of chronic trauma.
Individuals with CPTSD experience the core symptoms of PTSD, including flashbacks, nightmares, avoidance, and hyperarousal. However, they also face challenges in three key areas:
Emotional Regulation: Difficulty managing intense emotions, such as anger, shame, or despair.
Negative Self-Concept: Persistent feelings of worthlessness, guilt, or failure.
Interpersonal Relationships: Struggles with trust, intimacy, and navigating connections with others.
CPTSD often emerges when trauma occurs during developmental stages, profoundly shaping an individual’s sense of self and relationships. Treatment combines trauma-focused therapy and skills for emotional regulation, self-compassion, and rebuilding trust to foster healing and resilience.1
“Complex PTSD can reflect the deep scars of prolonged trauma. Treatment focuses on helping patients process their experiences, rebuild self-worth, and develop tools for emotional regulation and trust. Healing is possible with patience, compassion, and tailored care.”
CPTSD symptoms are pervasive, reflecting the profound impact of prolonged trauma. Effective treatment addresses these interconnected challenges to support recovery.
At Bloomfield Health, we provide a multidisciplinary, phased-based approach to treating Complex PTSD, aligned with international guidelines. Our treatment begins with stabilization, focusing on emotional regulation, safety, and building coping skills. The second phase involves trauma-focused therapy, helping patients process traumatic memories in a supportive, structured way. The final phase emphasizes reintegration, fostering self-compassion, rebuilding relationships, and enhancing daily functioning. Our team of experienced clinicians, including therapists, psychiatrists, and other specialists, works collaboratively to create tailored treatment plans. This comprehensive approach ensures patients receive compassionate, evidence-based care to support their recovery and long-term resilience.
CPTSD arises from prolonged or repeated trauma, combining PTSD symptoms with challenges in emotional regulation, self-esteem, and relationships.
CPTSD includes additional difficulties with managing emotions, negative self-image, and interpersonal issues, often linked to chronic trauma.
Yes, with a phased-based approach including stabilization, trauma-focused therapy, and reintegration, recovery is achievable.
Treatment combines therapy for trauma processing, skills for emotional regulation, and support for rebuilding relationships and self-worth.
Medication can help manage severe symptoms like anxiety or depression, but therapy is the cornerstone of treatment.
Recovery varies; some patients see progress within months, while others need longer-term support.
With the right care, many individuals regain control, improve relationships, and lead fulfilling lives.
Yes, we use internationally recognized, evidence-based guidelines to ensure the highest standard of care.
We are registered by the Care Quality Commission (CQC),
the independent regulator of health and social care in England.
