Do I have Complex PTSD?
Complex PTSD (CPTSD) is also known as Developmental PTSD or Complex Developmental Trauma (CDT).
Most people will experience trauma in their lifetime whether it’s a car accident, the sudden loss of a loved one, a violent criminal act, or a natural disaster. A single incident traumatic event is more likely to be a public event. It is a shared experience within a community and therefore, there is a sense of acceptance and validation, rather than shame or feeling alone in the experience. Secondly, the event tends to have a beginning and an end. Once the event is over, safety returns, help can be sought, and recovery obtained.
When a person experiences repeated traumatic events and unable to escape, as a child experiencing abuse by a parent for example, safety is not met, there is an inability to develop a secure attachment, or a core sense of self. In addition, these events will have an impact on the developing brain and nervous system, creating defensive reactions. These defenses are difficulty to break even when you have full awareness they're related to past trauma.
Complex PTSD is when a person experiences:
> prolonged exposure to multiple or repeated traumatic events
> the events are often invasive
> involve someone close to you and whom you trust, and
> you were unable to escape the situation. Examples are childhood abuse (physical, sexual, emotional, neglect), domestic violence, enslavery, torture, or war.
Symptoms of Complex PTSD can include:
> Difficulty regulating emotions
> Difficulty with relationships
> Negative Self-Perception and/or Core Beliefs of self, deep seeded in guilt and shame
> Lack trust and safety, leading to persistent hypervigilance
> Problems with anger and impulsivity
> Symptoms of Dissociation
> Often comorbid with other mental health diagnoses
Is healing possible?
Yes. The symptoms of Complex PTSD are physiological and psychological in nature. Our brain has the ability to rewire, create new neural pathways, and calm the nervous system. Just as our internal system has an alarm to warn us of danger, it also has the ability to turn off. With Complex PTSD, the alarm system is stuck in the "on" position, leaving you in persistent survival mode. This is where the combination of EMDR, Somatic, and Parts Work Therapy is especially important and effective.
Our job together is to slow down, pace steps of healing that is right for you, and apply techniques that brings the nervous system to a more regulated state of calm, safety, and presence.
If you're ready, please contact me to get started.