Complex PTSD (C-PTSD) is a psychological condition that develops from prolonged, repeated trauma, particularly during childhood or in situations where escape was not possible. Unlike single-incident PTSD, C-PTSD results from chronic or intermittent traumatic experiences such as childhood abuse, neglect, domestic violence, or captivity. People who have experienced medical trauma (e.g., chronic serious illness or serious physical injury) and/or traumatic loss may also have symptoms of complex trauma.
The condition includes the core symptoms of PTSD (re-experiencing, avoidance, hypervigilance) plus three additional symptom clusters: difficulties with emotional regulation (intense emotions, self-harm behaviors), negative self-concept (feelings of shame, guilt, worthlessness), and interpersonal problems (difficulty maintaining relationships, social withdrawal). C-PTSD reflects how sustained trauma disrupts normal psychological development and creates lasting changes in how individuals relate to themselves, others, and the world around them.
At CMC, we know that living with Complex PTSD can feel like living in a maze of overwhelming emotions, fragmented memories, and endless internal battles. Our goal is to help you heal complex PTSD in a way that is empowering, compassionate, and achievable. With compassionate care and evidence-based tools, our c-PTSD treatment services pave the way for you to not only move past the weight of trauma but also embrace a fulfilling and empowered life.
What is Complex PTSD?
CPTSD or cPTSD is a recognized condition, supported by extensive research and clinical evidence. Officially included in the World Health Organization's International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11) in 2018, c-PTSD is distinct from general PTSD. While PTSD is often linked to a single traumatic event, c-PTSD develops after prolonged or repeated exposures to multiple traumatic experiences, usually interpersonal in nature, especially in environments that feel hopeless, where there is no escape or support.
Experiences such as childhood abuse (emotional or physical), neglect, or chronic adversity, such as food scarcity, poverty, or exposure to severe mental illness, leave a lasting imprint. Affected individuals may struggle to regulate emotions, view themselves clearly, and relate to others, whether by pulling away entirely or becoming entangled in abusive or neglectful relationships.
A recent study in the European Journal of Psychotraumatology stressed the severity of symptoms in c-PTSD compared to PTSD, particularly in areas like self-concept, emotional regulation, and relationship challenges. These findings emphasize the need for targeted, comprehensive, and compassionate treatment approaches to manage the effects of long-term trauma.
Below are c-PTSD symptoms contrasted with those of PTSD:
| Symptom Category | c-PTSD Complex Post-Traumatic Stress |
PTSD Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder |
|---|---|---|
| History of trauma | Usually involves repeated or prolonged exposure to traumatic events (“little t traumas”), often in multiple relationships or childhood | Typically arises from a single, life-threatening traumatic event (“Big T trauma”) |
| Emotional Regulation | Continuous struggles with feelings of hopelessness, guilt, anger, or intense shame | Intense emotional episodes typically happen in response to reminders of past experiences |
| Self-Perception | Self-blame, unworthiness, hopelessness, and guilt | May feel some guilt or shame, generally less severe than someone struggling with c-PTSD |
| Relationships, intrusive memories, avoidance (people, places, and activities), reactivity, and dissociation | Disruption can impact most areas of life and impair many aspects of ability to function | Disruption tends to be more limited, affecting specific areas of life directly associated with the traumatic event |
Recognizing cPTSD as a very real condition supported by research is essential. It offers a framework for healing that acknowledges the challenges individuals face while utilizing the tools and support needed for meaningful, lasting change.
At CMC, we use evidence-based strategies infused with compassion to support those navigating c-PTSD, not only to heal but also to build the skills to thrive beyond its challenges.
How C-PTSD Develops
Complex PTSD (C-PTSD) develops when individuals experience multiple traumatic events in environments that lack security, stability, and support systems. Unlike single-incident PTSD, C-PTSD emerges from prolonged or repeated exposure to trauma, usually interpersonal trauma that occurs within relationships or systems where the person cannot escape or find safety. These traumatic experiences frequently include:
- emotional or physical childhood abuse,
- experiencing or witnessing domestic violence, gang violence, or other forms of interpersonal violence,
- enduring systemic oppression and injustice
- being trapped in continuous cycles of dysfunctional relationships.
C-PTSD reflects how chronic trauma fundamentally alters a person's sense of safety in the world and their capacity to trust others, often beginning in developmental years when these foundations are being formed. The early onset of repeated trauma has been shown to put people at greater risk for additional trauma exposure and cumulative impairment in adolescence and adulthood (Cook et al. 2005).
At CMC, we approach these symptoms with empathy, understanding that each person’s experiences are unique and require personalized strategies that acknowledge their journey.
C-PTSD and Substance Use: Understanding the Connection
C-PTSD often coexists with other challenges, such as substance use or compulsive behaviors (gambling, over- or undereating, sexual compulsivity, etc.). They are usually coping mechanisms that individuals struggling with c-PTSD use to numb emotional pain, manage intrusive thoughts, or achieve a sense of control.
How does this happen?
Trauma impacts the brain's stress response, making it harder to regulate emotions. As a result, individuals may turn to substances or behaviors to manage these feelings. Though these coping methods provide temporary relief, repeating them can lead to habits difficult to part with, which creates additional problems, often intensifying c-PTSD over time.
How do we address this?
Our c-PTSD treatment involves addressing these co-occurring challenges with science-backed practices, free from judgment. Through compassionate support and evidence-based tools, we help individuals discover healthier coping strategies that restore emotional regulation and cultivate a positive mindset, enabling them to create a more fulfilling life.
A Deeper Look at C-PTSD Treatment at CMC
At CMC, we offer a supportive and collaborative approach to complex PTSD treatment. Our methods are grounded in evidence-informed techniques designed to meet you where you are.
We combine evidence-based therapies to offer a comprehensive approach to healing. Our main methods include:
We also incorporate the Invitation to Change (ITC) approach, which empowers loved ones to offer proven support to those struggling with C-PTSD. Each treatment plan is tailored to fit the individual's unique needs, leading to lasting healing and growth.
What Makes CMC Different?
When seeking answers to treat complex PTSD, you deserve a space where your experiences are validated, your strengths are recognized, and your goals are prioritized. That's what sets CMC apart.
We offer:
Person-Centered Care
We believe in focusing on you as a person, not a diagnosis. We don't use labels or terms that might make you feel defined by your traumatic experiences. Instead, we emphasize your ability to grow and change.
Proven Tools and Resources
CMC integrates evidence-informed methods with practical resources to help you navigate life’s challenges. The Beyond Addiction book and companion workbook, The Beyond Addiction Workbook for Family and Friends, are centered on compassionate communication and practical strategies that offer additional support to help you become grounded in techniques that work.
Personalized Care
We know that healing complex PTSD looks different for everyone; one size doesn’t fit all. We collaborate with you to understand your unique needs and preferences, ensuring our care is tailored to what feels right for you and truly supports your healing journey.
How to Get Started
Taking the first step toward complex PTSD treatment can feel overwhelming, but we’re here to make the process as stress-free as possible. Here’s how it’ll go:
- Reach Out for a Free Consultation: Schedule a no-obligation consultation to discuss your needs, values, and goals.
- Engage in our Collaborative Treatment Planning: We’ll work with you to create a personalized plan that aligns with your needs, goals, and preferences.
- Select Flexible Session Options: Choose the option that works best for you — in-person, virtual, or hybrid and individual and/or group sessions.
We are ready to help you discover how to treat complex PTSD in a way that is manageable and effective for you.
We are ready to help you discover how to treat complex PTSD in a way that is manageable and effective for you.
Take the first step toward healing at your own pace — we’re here to offer the support and tools you need to move beyond the challenges of C-PTSD.
Contact us today for your free consultation.
Cook A, Spinazzola J, Ford J, Lanktree C, Blaustein M, Cloitre M, van der Kolk B. Complex trauma in children and adolescents. Psychiatric Annals. 2005;35:390.