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Handbook of Sex Trafficking pp 163–180Cite as

Evidence-Based Psychotherapy Programs for Complex Trauma

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Abstract

This book chapter explores the most commonly used evidenced-based psychotherapy programs for complex trauma. At the time this chapter was written, there were no evidence-based psychotherapies specifically designed to target distinct issues experienced by victims of sex trafficking. Research indicates that the majority of victims experienced another incident of sexual abuse unrelated to their sex trafficking histories. Psychotherapy treatment programs that are designed to treat complex trauma are the best fit for victims of sex trafficking. This chapter begins with a discussion surrounding the benefits and limitations of evidence-based treatments in psychotherapy. Evidence-based psychotherapies are research-based and considered to be the gold standard for treatment. This chapter also discusses what factors are necessary for a program to be deemed as evidence-based. While it is important for a therapist to choose a treatment that is effective and research-based, it is also imperative that the therapist consider and integrate individual client characteristics into the therapeutic relationship. This chapter then explores the unique symptoms and research behind treating complex trauma. Recommendations on how evidence-based psychotherapy treatments can be modified to address the specific mental health needs for victims of sex trafficking are provided.

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Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, Ohio, FL, USA

    Chelsey Mahler

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  1. Chelsey Mahler
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Editors and Affiliations

  1. Nova Southeastern University, College of Psychology, Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA

    Lenore Walker

  2. Walker and Associates, Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA

    Giselle Gaviria

  3. SAFE Coalition for Human Rights, Chicago, IL, USA

    Kalyani Gopal

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Mahler, C. (2018). Evidence-Based Psychotherapy Programs for Complex Trauma. In: Walker, L., Gaviria, G., Gopal, K. (eds) Handbook of Sex Trafficking. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-73621-1_19

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