Navigating usage of complex PTSD in adult mental health services: A scoping review on clinicians’ perspectives.
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Systematic Review
Abstract: OBJECTIVE: necessitating research into how clinicians are adapting to its use. This scoping review aimed to examine qualitative literature on clinicians' experiences with the C-PTSD diagnosis in adult mental health services since 2018. METHOD: A comprehensive search from 2018 to March 9, 2024, was conducted across seven databases (MEDLINE, PubMed, Scopus, APA PsycArticles, APA PsycInfo, CINAHL, and ProQuest) using the population-concept-context framework for scoping reviews. The focus was on clinicians working with C-PTSD in adult mental health services, targeting qualitative data since 2018. RESULTS: A total of 890 articles were identified, of which 11 met the inclusion criteria. Included studies were conducted across diverse settings, including private practice, public health, and trauma-specific services, involving a total of 303 participants. Where gender was reported, most participants were female (74.6%). Four key areas were identified from studies on clinicians adapting to C-PTSD in clinical practice: (a) understanding C-PTSD as a diagnosis, (b) the challenge of the therapeutic relationship and person-centered C-PTSD treatment, (c) barriers to C-PTSD treatment, and (d) impact of C-PTSD work on clinicians and organizational support. CONCLUSIONS: Despite significant advancements in understanding C-PTSD, clinicians often struggle with awareness and detection. This scoping review underscores the need for tailored training and resources to support clinicians in effectively managing C-PTSD. As recognition of this condition evolves in clinical and research settings, both clinicians and mental health services must adapt policies and practices to address the distinct needs of individuals with C-PTSD. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved).
DOI: 10.1037/tra0002061
Authors: John Ahern, Lorraine O'Connor, Donal G. Fortune
Institution: University of Limerick
Language: English
Subfield: Clinical Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W4415476506