Abstract
Complex trauma (CT) results from exposure to severe stressors that occur within the caregiver system, are chronic, and largely begin in childhood or adolescence. This article describes the evidence-informed treatment of a 9-year-old female with chronic CT symptoms, resulting from long-term sexual, physical, and psychological abuse within her family. Treatment lasted 17 months and followed an assessment-driven, phase-based process. This process was flexibly implemented based on the unique circumstances of the case, while remaining consistent with the intent of the treatment models. Pre- to post-treatment data indicated significant reductions in trauma-related symptoms. Verbatim clinical vignettes illustrate specific interactions between family members and therapists, as well as interventions related to the treatment.
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Lawson, D.M., Hight, S.M. Treating Complex Trauma: An Evidence-Based Case Example of Severe Childhood Abuse. Journ Child Adol Trauma 8, 211–225 (2015). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40653-015-0054-z
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s40653-015-0054-z