Working with Complex Trauma

Complex trauma is caused within relationships, often in childhood and usually by one or more trusted caregivers. This course explores its impacts.

Complex trauma is ‘inter-personal’, meaning that it is caused within relationships rather than external factors.

It most commonly occurs in children who are highly dependent on caregivers for their safety and survival – but it can occur in adult relationships (such as abusive relationships).

It can lead to a lifetime of challenges and behavioural issues, which this course will explore.

By the end of the day, participants will understand:

• The nature of complex trauma, and how it relates to other forms of psychological trauma
• The causes of complex trauma, its complexities and how it impacts on day to day functioning, with particular emphasis on supporting children in different life stages
• The relationship between complex trauma, distress tolerance and emotional regulation
• The effects of complex trauma in relation to physical health including long term health consequences, relationships, emotional responses, disassociation, behaviour, learning and cognition
• The impact that experiencing Complex Trauma as a child or young person can have on education, emotional and social development, attachment, relationships and mental health