Implementing a Therapy for Complex Trauma in French-Speaking Settings

Many individuals living with borderline personality disorder (BPD) have experienced childhood trauma, such as abuse or neglect. A significant number of them also meet the criteria for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, standard psychotherapies often do not address both conditions at the same time, which can affect treatment outcomes. A research team in Germany developed and validated a 45-week individual psychotherapy that has shown promising results for individuals coping with both BPD and PTSD. It has already been adapted and offered in English-speaking settings such as Toronto and Boston. This study aims to adapt this therapy into French in Quebec. Over 24 months, we will conduct a mixed-methods observational study to evaluate changes in symptoms (BPD, PTSD, and other comorbidities) and in daily functioning.