- Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (Complex PTSD) is associated with prolonged or repeated exposure to trauma, particularly when it occurs within relationships or over extended periods of time.
- At THE BALANCE, Complex PTSD is understood as a condition that affects emotional regulation, identity, relationships, and the nervous system, often alongside other mental health or behavioral difficulties.
- Complex PTSD requires a different pace and structure than single-incident trauma.
Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (Complex PTSD) is associated with prolonged or repeated exposure to trauma, particularly when it occurs within relationships or over extended periods of time.
At THE BALANCE, Complex PTSD is understood as a condition that affects emotional regulation, identity, relationships, and the nervous system, often alongside other mental health or behavioral difficulties. Care is approached with depth, patience, and clinical caution.
UNDERSTANDING COMPLEX PTSD
Unlike single-event trauma, Complex PTSD often develops in the context of:
- childhood or developmental trauma
- prolonged emotional, physical, or psychological abuse
- chronic neglect or relational instability
- repeated exposure to threat without the possibility of escape
- long-term high-stress environments
The impact is cumulative and deeply embedded, often shaping how individuals experience themselves and the world.
HOW COMPLEX PTSD MAY PRESENT
Complex PTSD may include features of PTSD alongside additional difficulties, such as:
- persistent emotional dysregulation
- deep feelings of shame, guilt, or worthlessness
- difficulties with trust and intimacy
- unstable self-image or identity confusion
- chronic hypervigilance or emotional shutdown
- relational patterns marked by avoidance or dependency
- physical symptoms without clear medical cause
Symptoms are often longstanding and may feel ingrained rather than episodic.
COMPLEX PTSD AND CO-OCCURRING DIFFICULTIES
Complex PTSD is frequently seen alongside:
- depression or anxiety
- burnout and chronic stress
- substance use or behavioral coping strategies
- eating disorders or restrictive patterns
- personality-related or relational difficulties
- psychosomatic or stress-related physical symptoms
These overlaps are considered part of the presentation, not separate problems to be treated in isolation.
A DIFFERENT APPROACH IS REQUIRED
Complex PTSD requires a different pace and structure than single-incident trauma. At THE BALANCE:
- treatment does not begin with trauma processing
- stabilisation and regulation are prioritized
- therapy focuses first on safety, containment, and capacity
- relational patterns are approached carefully over time
Depth work is introduced only when sufficient stability is present.
HOW COMPLEX PTSD IS APPROACHED AT THE BALANCE
Care for Complex PTSD is:
- highly individualized
- multidisciplinary and integrated
- trauma-informed at every level
- responsive to nervous system capacity
Treatment may include psychotherapy, psychiatric care, neurobiological support, somatic approaches, and environmental containment – applied selectively and cohesively.
THE ROLE OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM & DEVELOPMENTAL IMPACT
In Complex PTSD, the nervous system has often adapted to prolonged threat. This may result in:
- chronic hyperarousal or collapse
- difficulty sensing safety
- limited emotional flexibility
- heightened sensitivity to interpersonal cues
Supporting nervous system regulation is central and ongoing, not a preparatory step.
RESIDENTIAL & OUTPATIENT CONTEXTS
Depending on complexity and current stability, care may be provided within:
- Individualized Residential Care
- Small-Group Residential Care (where clinically appropriate)
- Outpatient & Continuity of Care
The level of care is guided by containment needs and readiness, not diagnosis alone.
IMPORTANT NOTE ON TIME & EXPECTATIONS
Complex PTSD develops over time – and recovery also takes time. There are no fixed timelines or uniform pathways. Progress is measured by:
- increased regulation
- improved relational capacity
- reduced reactivity
- greater internal stability
Treatment is paced to support lasting change rather than short-term relief.
NEXT STEPS
If you or a loved one are living with the effects of prolonged or developmental trauma, our admissions team can offer confidential guidance and help determine appropriate next steps.
