Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Complex Trauma & Relationship Patterns Check-In?
A 24-question self-reflection tool that takes about 5 minutes and looks at patterns tied to trauma that was prolonged or repeated, not a single event: intrusive memories, avoidance, and feeling on guard, plus three additional domains, affect dysregulation, negative self-concept, and disturbed relationships. This is a self-reflection tool, not a clinical diagnosis. If you are struggling, talk to a licensed professional.
How is this different from the Trauma Response Check-In (PTSD screener)?
The Trauma Response Check-In screens for PTSD, which can follow any distressing event, including a single incident. This check-in screens specifically for Complex PTSD, an ICD-11 diagnosis tied to trauma that was prolonged or repeated, like ongoing childhood abuse, domestic violence, or captivity. It shares the three core clusters with PTSD, re-experiencing, avoidance, and a sense of current threat, and adds three domains PTSD alone doesn't cover: difficulty regulating emotions, a damaged sense of self-worth, and lasting difficulty trusting or feeling close to other people.
What are the three DSO domains this check-in measures?
DSO stands for 'disturbances in self-organization,' the ICD-11 term for the three patterns that distinguish Complex PTSD from PTSD: affect dysregulation (emotions swinging further and faster than feels manageable, or shutting down entirely), negative self-concept (persistent shame, worthlessness, or feeling permanently damaged), and disturbed relationships (difficulty trusting or feeling close to people). Research found these three cluster together statistically in people who lived through prolonged or repeated trauma.
How long does the check-in take?
About 5 minutes for 24 questions across six clusters, three shared with PTSD and three DSO domains. You get an instant result with a plain-language tier (minimal, mild, moderate, or significant complex trauma symptoms).
What should I do if my result is high?
Reach out to a mental health professional experienced in complex trauma soon. Phase-based trauma treatment, building safety and emotional-regulation skills before processing traumatic memories, along with EMDR and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), are leading evidence-based approaches. These patterns, however entrenched they feel, are genuinely treatable. If you're in crisis, contact a crisis line or emergency services in your area.
Is this a replacement for therapy or medication?
No. This is a self-reflection tool intended to help you notice patterns worth discussing with a professional. It does not replace clinical evaluation, complex-trauma-focused therapy, or medical treatment.