Experiences of therapeutic services for people with histories of complex trauma: a mixed-methods study

Complex PTSD (CPTSD) is a newly-identified disorder linked to adverse childhood experiences which presents similarly to borderline personality disorder (BPD).

The primary objective of this study is to understand how individuals accessing specialist services for personality disorders identify with their given mental health diagnosis and whether stigma exists behind diagnostic terms. Through questionnaires and interviews, the study investigates how individuals identify with their diagnosis and how they understand the role of past trauma in their presenting difficulties.

Statistical tests and reflexive thematic analysis will be used to uncover whether these individuals feel their identity has changed throughout the therapeutic process and how a diagnosis of CPTSD fits within the remit of personality disorder services.

The findings of the systematic review, as presented at conferences, uncovered the similarities and differences between CPTSD and BPD.

The implications advocated clinicians to look beyond similarity and towards specificity, with evidence that CPTSD and BPD remain separate diagnoses.

A mixed-method study is being conducted across three personality disorder services to address how individuals who have experienced trauma identify with their mental health diagnosis and how this relates to their presenting problems and life experiences. Specifically, is there a preference towards a diagnosis of BPD or CPTSD and does stigma exist towards the diagnostic terms?

Kent And Medway NHS and Social Care Partnership Trust

Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust

South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation