Understanding Complex PTSD: The Impact of Prolonged Trauma & Path to Healing

Trauma affects everyone differently, but for those who have endured prolonged or repeated traumatic experiences, the impact can be particularly profound.

Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD) is a mental health condition that arises from prolonged or repeated trauma, often in situations where escape is difficult or impossible. It is commonly associated with experiences such as childhood abuse, domestic violence, human trafficking, war captivity, or prolonged neglect and abuse. Unlike PTSD, which typically stems from a single traumatic event, C-PTSD involves chronic exposure to trauma, leaving lasting effects on emotional regulation, self-perception, and relationships. The effects of C-PTSD go beyond the traditional symptoms of PTSD, deeply impacting one’s sense of identity and ability to connect with others on a deep and human level. Many people with C-PTSD struggle in silence, feeling misunderstood, isolated, and alone. While C-PTSD shares core symptoms with PTSD, it also includes additional elements that make it distinct, as talked about below

Symptoms of C-PTSD

Symptoms of C-PTSD include difficulties with emotional regulation, leading to intense mood swings, persistent sadness, or anger. Individuals may also experience dissociation, feelings of detachment from themselves or reality, and a deep sense of shame or guilt. Interpersonal challenges are common, such as difficulty trusting others, struggles with forming or maintaining relationships, and a tendency to isolate. Additionally, people with C-PTSD may suffer from intrusive thoughts, nightmares, or flashbacks, reliving traumatic events repeatedly. They might also develop negative self-perceptions, feeling helpless, unworthy, or permanently damaged forever. Physical symptoms, such as chronic pain, headaches, or gastrointestinal issues, can accompany the psychological distress. Altogether, these symptoms can severely impact daily life, making it difficult for individuals to function in work, social, and personal environments. It can be deeply and profoundly debilitating for a person to simply function on a day-to-day basis. Keep in mind that symptoms are on a spectrum, ranging from mild to severe, depending on the individual.  

Relation to Identity and C-PTSD

Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder can deeply impact a person’s sense of identity, often leading to feelings of confusion, fragmentation, or a distorted self-image. Individuals with C-PTSD may struggle with a persistent sense of worthlessness, shame, or feeling fundamentally “broken” due to prolonged exposure to trauma. This can result in difficulties establishing a stable self-concept, as their identity may have been shaped by experiences of control, abuse, or neglect. People with C-PTSD may also develop different personas or coping mechanisms to survive traumatic environments, leading to identity disturbances. Some people might develop Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID).  They may feel disconnected from their true selves, unsure of their likes, dislikes, or core values. Some might struggle with a sense of belonging, feeling alienated from others or society. Additionally, because C-PTSD affects emotional regulation and self-perception, individuals may experience intense self-doubt or difficulty asserting their needs, often placing others’ desires above their own.

How to Get Help

Getting help for Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD) involves seeking professional support, building a support network, and developing coping strategies. Therapy, particularly trauma-focused approaches such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), can help individuals process past trauma and develop healthier ways to manage emotions. Seeking a therapist who specializes in trauma can be beneficial in addressing identity struggles, emotional regulation, and trust issues.

In addition to therapy, support groups—whether in-person or online—can provide a sense of community and validation. Medications, such as antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications, may also be prescribed to help manage symptoms. Self-care practices, including mindfulness, journaling, exercise, and creative expression, can support healing by promoting emotional stability and self-awareness. Building safe, supportive relationships with trusted friends or family members is also crucial in the recovery process.

Healing from C-PTSD takes time, but with the right resources and support, individuals can regain a sense of control, self-worth, and overall well-being. While the effects of prolonged trauma can be challenging, recovery is possible. With time, support, and self-compassion, individuals with C-PTSD can regain a sense of self, build healthier relationships, and move toward a life of stability and well-being. Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is a deeply challenging condition, but it is not insurmountable. There is hope! Understanding the impact of prolonged trauma and taking steps toward healing can empower individuals to reclaim their lives. 

Start Trauma Therapy in Englewood, CO, Greenwood Village, Littleton, and Across the State

If you know or you know someone who is suffering from Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, reach out to Mountain Vista Psychology today to talk with a highly trained mental health professional. Our team can offer the support, empathy, and expertise to help you heal. You can start your therapy journey by following these simple steps:

1. Schedule a free phone consultation
2. Begin meeting with a caring therapist
3. Start recovering from past trauma!

Other Services Offered by Mountain Vista Psychology

At Mountain Vista Psychology, we provide many services to help empower individuals on their journey toward mental and emotional well-being. So in addition to offering trauma therapy, we also provide counseling services in child counseling, adult counseling, family counseling, & more. We also provide Neurofeedback Therapy services for Neurofeedback for ADHD, Neurofeedback for Autism, Neurofeedback for Concussion/ TBI, and Neurofeedback for Sports/Performance. Our team also provides testing for learning disabilities, ADHD, and Autism. Be sure to check out our Blog and FAQs for more about us and our services!

Dr. Steffanie Stecker

Dr. Steffanie Stecker a licensed psychologist and the owner and clinical director of Mountain Vista Psychology, PLLC.

In addition, she is a board certified neurotherapist (BCN E5669) and board certified in QEEG (QEEG-D). Less than 100 people world wide are board certified in QEEG, which indicates competency in reading QEEGs and choosing neurofeedback protocols. Dr. Stecker is passionate about brain based effective therapy and creating a safe relationship for her clients to create change. She loves what she gets to do each day!

www.mountainvistapsychology.com/