The Impact and Ripple effect of Trauma and Dissociation on the child in therapy, the therapeutic process and the family system

Abstract

Impact is defined as the action of one object coming forcibly into contact with another. Ripple effect is defined as the continuing and spreading results of the action. Trauma impacts on the individual and left unaddressed changes the trajectory of the life of the original primary target in all areas. However, the impact does not stop with the individual, the ripple effect changes the psychological and behavioural characteristics of those the traumatised child comes into relationship with vis a vis parents and siblings. Case material will be used to explore the complexities of this interaction and reference the impact this potentially can have on the therapeutic progress.

Level: Any

Intended Audience: Any

Max audience size: Any

Learning outcomes

An increased understanding of:
The complexity of, and unique difference, in the adoptive family system.
The formulation of patterns between none birth siblings.
The influence of the imported pattern on the functioning of the family system. The impact of the wider picture on the efficacy of the therapeutic process.

Biography

Les is a therapist at Integrate Families, National Centre for Child Trauma and Dissociation. She has 29 years of experience working with children and families and adolescents in multiple settings ranging from local authorities, voluntary agencies and adoption support agencies. She is a registered social worker, psychotherapeutic child counsellor and an EMDR practitioner.