Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can result from a single traumatic event or from repeated exposure to trauma over time. When trauma begins early in life and is chronic or interpersonal in nature, it often results in Complex PTSD (C-PTSD)—a condition that includes deeper disruptions to emotional regulation, identity, and relationships.
While standard PTSD may respond to 6–12 sessions of EMDR therapy, treating Complex PTSD typically requires a longer, more layered approach due to the early onset and repeated nature of the trauma.
How Early Trauma Affects the Brain and Body
Exposure to prolonged trauma during formative years disrupts:
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Psychosocial development
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Cognitive processes
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Impulse control
People with Complex PTSD often struggle with attachment, emotional regulation, and a deep-seated belief that they are permanently damaged or unworthy of connection.
Core Symptoms of Complex PTSD
Here are the primary domains in which Complex PTSD symptoms may manifest:
1. Affect and Impulse Regulation
Individuals may experience:
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Intense anger or emotional outbursts
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Suicidal ideation
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Amnesia or dissociation
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Difficulty regulating sexual behaviour
2. Distorted Self-Perception
Common experiences include:
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Deep guilt and shame
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A chronic sense of failure
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Feelings of being irreparably damaged
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Persistent aloneness and alienation
3. Perception of the Perpetrator
Symptoms may include:
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Idealising the abuser
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A strong desire for revenge
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Adopting the abuser’s belief system or worldview
4. Relationship Difficulties
These may involve:
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Mistrust of others
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Repeated patterns of victimisation or harming others
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Idealisation and sudden devaluation of close relationships
5. Loss of Meaning
Sufferers may report:
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Despair and hopelessness
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Loss of spiritual or existential belief systems
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Difficulty finding purpose
6. Somatisation
Complex PTSD often leads to physical symptoms of psychological distress, including:
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Memory problems and poor concentration
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Speech difficulties (slurred or stuttered)
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Weak limbs, motor coordination issues
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Migraines, chronic pain, and even loss of smell
Treating Complex PTSD with EMDR Therapy
Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a powerful, evidence-based therapy that helps process and resolve traumatic memories. For Complex PTSD, treatment begins by mapping out key flashbacks, beliefs, and memory networks. Once the emotional intensity of the memory is reduced through bilateral stimulation, an adaptive belief is installed in its place.
Throughout the process, I work with clients to:
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Reprogram internalised beliefs that stem from early trauma
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Rebuild trust in their own perception and judgment
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Cultivate self-compassion and emotional resilience
For more information about how EMDR works, please visit my EMDR Therapy page.
Ready to Begin Healing?
If you’re ready to explore EMDR for Complex PTSD—online or in-person—contact me to book a session or ask questions.