Complex PTSD or C-PTSD can make one feel helpless as they struggle with not just traumatic memories but also difficulties regulating emotions and feeling a lack of control over their life. However, according to therapist Summer Forlenza, focusing on certain goals in therapy can help combat C-PTSD.
Forlenza shared that for her clients dealing with C-PTSD, she keeps eight key goals in mind which act as a guide and help navigate through confusing periods in the treatment process. Some of the important goals include challenging avoidance tendencies and facing traumatic experiences instead of running away from them. This allows one to better understand triggers and gain a sense of predictability over distressing emotions.
Another goal is to enhance self-determination and autonomy by reflecting on past trauma to change unhelpful thought patterns. Improving emotion regulation by learning how to identify feelings and bodily sensations associated with them aids in developing coping strategies. Repairing the disconnect between mind and body through focus on increasing body awareness and connection is also beneficial.
Setting and striving towards personal goals while celebrating small wins fosters a feeling of control over one’s life. Recognizing patterns from the past that get unconsciously repeated, called traumatic reenactments, helps disrupt continuing harmful behaviors as well. Addressing the pervasive sense of helplessness is critical too, with safety planning and decision making playing a role.
By keeping these eight practice-oriented goals at the core of trauma therapy, Forlenza has found it helpful for clients in making progress with C-PTSD recovery, even during challenging periods. Facing trauma head-on while improving self-efficacy appears to be key in transforming suffering into healing and growth.
