Chronic mistrust and complex trauma: Australian psychologists' perspectives on the treatment of young women with a history of childhood maltreatment

ObjectiveTo explore Australian psychologists' perspectives on the psychological treatment of complex posttraumatic stress disorder in young women aged 18–25-years with a history of childhood maltreatment.MethodSemi‐structured interviews were conducted with 10 psychologists from Melbourne, Australia experienced in the provision of psychological services to young women with complex trauma and a history of childhood maltreatment. Data were analysed thematically.ResultsTwo overarching themes revealed the significance of (a) the need for psychologists to establish trust with young women with complex trauma and a history of childhood maltreatment in the therapy context and (b) the development of trust within young women's intra and interpersonal relationships as a baseline for further growth and recovery, which is facilitated by the trust which develops within the therapeutic relationship.ConclusionQualitative studies of this kind provide valuable insight into the experiences and opinions of psychologists who provide treatment to young women with complex trauma and a history of childhood maltreatment in their daily psychological practices. This study revealed that according to psychologist–participants, the development and facilitation of trust and the ability to trust others is a central goal of psychological treatment for young women with complex trauma.