Date
Wednesday, October 15, 2025
Time
9:00 AM - 10:15 AM
Name
Case Study: Addressing Trauma-Coerced Attachment and Complex Trauma Through Physician Intervention
Track
Physical and Mental Health
Ronald Chambers Pamela Davis
Description

Two physicians from a leading national healthcare organization will present case studies which demonstrate expertise in developing best practices for identifying the immediate and extended physical and mental health challenges faced by victims and survivors, as well as the implementation of effective treatment strategies aimed at promoting lasting well-being. This case study examines the critical role of physician intervention in addressing the complex needs of human trafficking victims and survivors, specifically focusing on the impact of Trauma-Coerced Attachment (TCA) and complex trauma. Human trafficking, a pervasive and insidious crime, inflicts profound physical and psychological harm on its victims. Beyond the immediate dangers and exploitation, physicians have begun to address and treat survivors who often grapple with long-lasting trauma, including complex trauma stemming from prolonged abuse and coercion. The dynamics of TCA can significantly complicate the recovery process, requiring specialized and trauma-informed approaches.Complex trauma,can manifest in a wide range of psychological and physiological symptoms, including but not limited to: post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), dissociation, depression, anxiety, difficulty regulating emotions, challenges in interpersonal relationships, and physical health problems. The intersection of complex trauma and TCA creates a particularly challenging landscape for survivors seeking to rebuild their lives. Research conducted “The Trauma Informed Care: Trafficking Out-Comes (TIC TOC) study” will elucidate how trauma-informed healthcare possesses the inherent capacity to enhance patient engagement, treatment adherence, and health outcomes. The fundamental strength of adopting a trauma-informed approach within a medical clinic context resides in the provision of a secure and supportive environment for patients who may have previously experienced re-traumatization through judgment, stigma, impatience, and a lack of empathy. Within this safe space, patients are welcomed and attended to in a non-judgmental, empathetic manner, prioritizing their healing above all other considerations. With promising outcomes evidenced in over 7,000 patient encounters, the MSH stands as a sustainable model that not only delivers widespread care but concurrently trains future physicians to administer compassionate treatment to this vulnerable patient population.Key to case studies presented, with demonstrated outcomes for victims and survivors, could not be achieved without multidisciplinary stakeholders. This collaborative model will be shared, with key learning from the program's national director who has led the expansion of this unique model of care within seven family medicine clinic sites throughout California and Arizona