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Research and clinical experience over the past twenty years have led to a re-conceptualisation of the term "trauma" to encompass far more than the "Criterion A" events traditionally used to diagnose PTSD. Further, while only a minority of trauma victims develop full-blown PTSD symptoms, the negative effects of these disturbing life experiences have important cognitive, affective and somatic implications from intra- and interpersonal function throughout the lifespan, and appear to underlie a wide range of clinical complaints.
An integrated approach to both case conceptualisation and evidence-based practice will be described that applies to both individual and social dysfunction. Research, including neurobiological findings and clinical reports, will be used to illustrate the effects of efficient treatment, including the ability to simultaneously alleviate personal suffering, help stop the cycle of violent or predator behaviour, and prevent the trans-generational transmission of pathology. The clinical implications for simple symptom reduction versus personal growth and resiliency will also be explored.
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