Evolving research and clinical insights, as well as the continuing challenges of treating the multifaceted syndrome described as 'complex' trauma, have necessitated a publication to build on the original 2012 Blue Knot guidelines, the information within which still stands.

The 2019 Practice Guidelines include substantial additions to the original underpinning research base in the following areas:

• the nature of complex trauma
• dissociation and the related clinical challenges
• phased therapy in the context of current debates
• `new’ and emerging treatment approaches
• issues with respect to `evidence-based’ treatment

Now more than ever it is important for clinicians to be aware of ways to enhance complex trauma treatment.

A wealth of relevant and potentially valuable material is now available. But the diversity of this material, and the range of forums and formats in which it appears, can make it hard for clinicians to navigate.

The updated Practice Guidelines help do this.

As happened in 2012, again in 2019, and prior to publication, Blue Knot’s updated Practice Guidelines have been extensively nationally and internationally endorsed.

The following are samples:

These updated Practice Guidelines for Treatment of Complex Trauma represent a description of state-of-the-art trauma treatment as it has developed over the past thirty years. No therapist or client can fare badly if these guidelines are followed. They are compassionate, reflect expert knowledge, and yet are eminently practical. They should be recommended reading for all therapists who treat complex trauma—i.e., most of us.

As evidenced by these revised and updated guidelines, Australia has taken an international leadership role in developing clinical guidance for the treatment of complex trauma. The authors have consolidated a vast amount of research and clinical literature to arrive at an updated and state-of-the-art treatment formulation….. I repeat what I wrote in my endorsement of the earlier guideline: `This document is a singular and pioneering achievement in its depth and scope…Bravo to all involved in its development!

Practice Guidelines for Clinical Treatment of Complex Trauma Receives Award

The Pierre Janet Award is given to an individual/s for the best clinical, theoretical or research paper in the field of dissociative and/or trauma within the past year. 

This was granted to Dr Cathy Kezelman and Dr Pam Stavropoulos for the “Practice Guidelines for Clinical Treatment of Complex Trauma” by ISSTD (International Society for Study of Trauma and Dissociation).

“I am delighted that Pam and I and especially the Practice Guidelines for Clinical Treatment of Complex Trauma have been recognised by the peak international body in the field, the ISSTD. Hopefully it will mean better support for more people living with the legacy of repeated trauma over time.” - Dr Cathy Kezelman