ABSTRACT
A number of writers and professional societies have developed a consensus model for the treatment of complex trauma and/or dissociation. This chapter provides a brief guide to this overall model. The major societies and theorists writing about trauma treatment have adopted a three-stage model as the relevant conceptual paradigm. The three stages commonly accepted are: Safety and stabilization; Working through and reassessing traumatic memories; and Community reintegration and connection. Complex trauma clients often enter therapy with numbers of potentially dangerous and disabling symptoms. Complex trauma clients are often isolated and life may focus primarily on management of symptoms and survival. The client presents differently to others and often receives different interpersonal acceptance. Either spontaneously or through therapist suggestion and encouragement, the person begins to make more social connections. The issue then comes up of how to terminate the therapy without disturbing a healing relationship that has been central to resolution and growth.
