Written by Louis Chalouhi, Counsellor (Master’s in Counselling), ACA Level 2 and PACFA member.
Published · 3 min read
What is PTSD?
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can develop after a traumatic event, such as an accident, an assault, a disaster or war.
Many people have strong reactions after trauma, and for most these ease with time and support.
PTSD describes reactions that persist and affect daily life.
The core symptoms fall into 3 groups.
- Re-experiencingFlashbacks, nightmares or intrusive memories that feel as if the event is happening again.
- AvoidanceSteering clear of reminders, places, people or thoughts linked to the event.
- A sense of threatFeeling on edge, easily startled, or constantly watchful for danger.
What is complex PTSD?
Complex PTSD became its own diagnosis in the World Health Organization's ICD-11, which came into effect in 2022.
It usually develops after prolonged or repeated trauma, such as childhood abuse or neglect, family violence or long periods of coercive control.
CPTSD includes the 3 core PTSD symptom groups, plus 3 further areas of difficulty, which ICD-11 calls disturbances in self-organisation.
- EmotionsFeelings that are very intense, or a sense of being shut down and numb.
- Self-worthDeep, lasting feelings of shame, guilt or worthlessness.
- RelationshipsFinding it hard to trust, feel close to others or stay connected.
PTSD and CPTSD side by side
| PTSD | Complex PTSD | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical trauma | A single event, or a few events | Prolonged or repeated trauma, often between people |
| Core symptoms | Re-experiencing, avoidance and a sense of threat | The same 3 groups |
| Further symptoms | Outside the diagnosis | Lasting difficulties with emotions, self-worth and relationships |
| In ICD-11 (WHO) | Listed | Listed as its own diagnosis |
| In DSM-5-TR (US) | Listed | Described within PTSD rather than listed separately |
Getting a diagnosis
A GP, psychiatrist or psychologist can assess and diagnose PTSD and CPTSD.
A diagnosis opens the door to treatments with strong evidence, such as trauma-focused CBT and EMDR, and trauma counselling can sit alongside that care.
How trauma counselling helps
Trauma counselling starts with safety and stabilisation: skills to steady your body and mind before going near painful memories.
From there, we work at your pace on understanding what happened, easing shame, and reconnecting with people and the parts of life that matter to you.
I draw on somatic-informed approaches, DBT skills and Compassion-Focused Therapy, and I'm glad to work alongside your GP or treating team.
Read more about trauma counselling, or about how childhood trauma shows up in adulthood.
Common questions
Is CPTSD more serious than PTSD?
CPTSD involves more areas of difficulty, and it often takes longer to work through.
Both are serious, both respond to support, and many people recover well from each.
Can you have CPTSD without clear memories of the trauma?
Memories of early or prolonged trauma can be patchy or unclear.
A GP, psychiatrist or psychologist can assess what you're experiencing, whatever you remember.
What are the signs of CPTSD in adults?
Alongside flashbacks and feeling on edge, people often describe intense or numb emotions, deep shame or worthlessness, and difficulty trusting others or staying close.
Can counselling help with CPTSD?
Counselling can be a valuable part of recovery, especially for building safety, managing emotions and rebuilding relationships, ideally alongside a GP or treating team.
Sources
- World Health Organization, ICD-11, 6B41 Complex post traumatic stress disorder
- Phoenix Australia, Centre for Posttraumatic Mental Health
- Blue Knot Foundation
This guide is general information, written to help you understand your options. It isn’t a diagnosis or a substitute for advice from your GP or treating team.
Support at any hour
Mind Therapy Room offers booked appointments, so for urgent support please use one of these services.
- Emergency000
- Lifeline, 24 hours, 7 days13 11 14
- 1800RESPECT (domestic, family and sexual violence)1800 737 732
- NSW Mental Health Line1800 011 511