eiseEducation

Complex trauma is typically interpersonal in origin, involving abuse of power, betrayal, and repeated or chronic exposure that often escalates over time. First introduced by Judith Herman (1992) to describe the developmental impact of prolonged child abuse, the concept has since expanded to include a wide range of human-caused traumatic experiences, including interpersonal violence, exploitation, displacement, and collective trauma. These experiences profoundly shape psychological development, identity, and relational functioning.

The treatment of complex trauma presents significant relational challenges. Clients frequently develop trauma-based transference patterns, such as expectations of abandonment, mistrust, or exploitation within the therapeutic relationship. In parallel, therapists may experience countertransference responses shaped by both the client’s material and their own personal history, as well as vicarious trauma arising from repeated exposure to distressing narratives. The therapeutic field itself is often post-traumatic and, at times, dissociative. These relational dynamics are not inherently problematic; when recognised and reflected upon, they can provide valuable clinical information and guide therapeutic intervention.

The first webinar will explore different forms of transference and countertransference within complex trauma treatment, alongside the contextual factors that shape them. It will examine the emotional and cognitive impact of trauma work on therapists and address the recognition and management of vicarious trauma, with an emphasis on therapist self-awareness and self-care.

The second webinar will focus on common treatment traps and challenges, particularly those associated with complex trauma and dissociative conditions. Practical strategies will be offered to assist therapists in identifying, understanding, and managing these dynamics in clinically effective ways.

The aim of this webinar series is to provide in-depth understanding of the relational issues and challenges inherent in the treatment of complex trauma, equipping therapists to anticipate these dynamics and respond with greater clarity, confidence, and clinical effectiveness