Complex trauma refers to repeated or prolonged exposure to traumatic events, often beginning in childhood or adolescence. Unlike a single traumatic event, complex trauma typically involves ongoing experiences such as neglect, abuse, or disrupted attachments. The long-term impact can be profound, affecting not only emotional well-being but also physical health, relationships, and cognitive development.
At Alessi Psychiatry and Life Center, we recognize the deep and lasting effects that complex trauma can have on individuals across the lifespan. Led by Dr. Norman Alessi, a nationally recognized psychiatrist with more than 40 years of clinical and academic experience, our team specializes in evaluating and treating even the most challenging trauma-related cases with a compassionate approach and evidence-based therapies.
Signs and Symptoms of Complex Trauma
The symptoms of complex trauma are wide-ranging and may affect emotional regulation, physical health, cognition, and relationships. Individuals may experience:
- Family Support: When trauma affects children and adolescents, involving caregivers can be critical to recovery and long-term stability.
- Significant physiological reactivity, such as rapid heart rate or breathing
- Overactive or underactive nervous system responses (including “shutting down”)
- Sensory processing difficulties or somatic symptoms (physical complaints without medical explanation)
- Re-enactment of past trauma, such as entering unhealthy or abusive relationships
- Difficulty forming secure attachments or trusting others
- Self-harming behaviors, including head banging, cutting, or burning
- Substance use, eating disorders, or oppositional behavior
- Feelings of detachment from the body or surroundings
- Dream-like states or a sense that experiences are not real
- Fractured perception of time and difficulty maintaining continuity of experience
- Challenges with language development, abstract reasoning, and problem-solving
- Learning difficulties, distractibility, and impaired ability to plan for the future
Recognizing these signs is the first step toward providing the specialized care needed to address them.
Our Approach to Complex Trauma Treatment
Dr. Norman Alessi has authored over 225 peer-reviewed publications and professional presentations and continues to make significant contributions to the advancement of psychiatry. He has been honored as one of America’s Best Doctors for 26 consecutive years, reflecting his unwavering dedication to patient care.
- Trauma-Informed Psychotherapy:patient’ses such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and trauma-focused approaches that help patients process painful experiences safely.
- Polyvagal-Informed Treatment: Addressing the nervous system’s regulation to reduce over-reactivity or dissociation.
- Medication Managesystem’sen appropriate, to support emotional stability, reduce anxiety, or improve mood.
- Mindfulness and Coping Strategies: Practical tools to manage stress, improve self-regulation, and increase resilience.
Our goal is to alleviate symptoms and help patients establish healthier relationships, foster a stronger sense of self-identity, and regain a sense of safety in their daily lives.
Why Choose Alessi Psychiatry and Life Center?
Dr. Norman Alessi has authored over 225 peer-reviewed publications and professional presentations, making many meaningful contributions to advancements in psychiatry and trauma care. As Professor Emeritus at the University of Michigan School of Medicine and a recipient of the Best Doctors in America honor for 26 consecutive years, Dr. Alessi brings unparalleled expertise to every evaluation and treatment plan.
Begin Healing From Complex Trauma Today
Complex trauma can be overwhelming, but with the right support, recovery is possible. Alessi Psychiatry and Life Center in Ann Arbor, MI, provides specialized care for individuals living with the long-term effects of trauma. Contact us today at (734) 222-6222 family’s to schedule a consultation.