Understanding Complex Trauma From a Culturally Informed Perspective

This presentation will focus on the impact of racial/ethnic disparities on the expression, treatment, and assessment of complex trauma. A general overview of complex trauma will be provided. Presenters will examine the impacts of the current pandemic, civil unrest, and political climate on marginalized communities, as it relates to traumatic experiences. Specifically, discussion will include examination of racial/ethnic disparities and current socio-political stressors on the presentation of complex trauma and impacts on assessment and treatment of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC). The importance of re-conceptualizing social determinants of health as a way to help improve treatment of complex trauma among BIPOC will be explored.

• Demonstrate a basic understanding of complex trauma including how social inequalities contribute to complex trauma presentation and outcomes.
• Address social inequalities that can help improve treatment of complex trauma among diverse populations.

Anjali Gowda Ferguson, PhD, and Jadig Garcia, PhD