PTSD vs. C-PTSD: Understanding the Differences
When people talk about trauma, the term “PTSD” often comes up. But in recent years, another diagnosis has gained recognition: Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD). While both involve the lasting impact of trauma, they are not the same. Understanding the differences can help individuals find the right kind of support and healing.
What is PTSD?
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) typically develops after experiencing or witnessing a single traumatic event—or a few distinct traumatic events. These events often involve life-threatening situations, such as:
Military combat
Natural disasters
Serious accidents
Assault or violent crime
Symptoms of PTSD often include:
Flashbacks or intrusive memories
Nightmares
Hypervigilance or being “on edge”
Avoidance of reminders of the trauma
Emotional numbing or detachment
PTSD is the mind and body’s way of staying on alert after something overwhelming and unsafe has happened.
What is C-PTSD?
Complex PTSD (C-PTSD) develops from ongoing or repeated trauma over time, especially in situations where a person feels trapped and powerless. This might include:
Chronic childhood abuse or neglect
Domestic violence
Long-term captivity, trafficking, or oppression
Repeated emotional, physical, or sexual abuse
In addition to the core PTSD symptoms, people with C-PTSD often experience:
Deep shame or guilt
Difficulty trusting others
A negative self-image (“I’m worthless,” “I’m broken”)
Emotional regulation struggles (intense anger, sadness, or numbness)
Persistent feelings of helplessness or hopelessness
Challenges with relationships and attachment
While PTSD may feel like the nervous system is “stuck in the past,” C-PTSD often feels like trauma has woven itself into a person’s sense of identity and daily life.
Why the Distinction Matters
Recognizing the difference between PTSD and C-PTSD is important for healing. Traditional PTSD treatments may not fully address the relational wounds, shame, and chronic stress patterns seen in C-PTSD. Complex trauma often requires a slower, gentler, and relationship-focused approach to restore safety and self-worth.
Pathways to Healing
The good news is that both PTSD and C-PTSD are treatable. Therapy can help you reconnect with your body, process memories safely, and begin to rewrite the story trauma has left behind. Helpful approaches may include:
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)
Somatic and body-based therapies
Trauma-informed cognitive or narrative therapy
Supportive group therapy or community connection
Final Thoughts
Whether you identify with PTSD or C-PTSD, you are not alone—and what happened to you does not define your worth. Healing may look different for each person, but with the right support, it is possible to find peace, strength, and connection again.
At Summit Family Therapy, I specialize in working with trauma survivors, helping them gently rebuild safety, self-trust, and resilience. If you’re ready to take the next step in your healing journey, I invite you to schedule a session with me, Dr. Courtney Stivers.
