Factors Influencing the Trajectory of Psychological Therapy V1
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Exploring Relational Factors Influencing the Trajectory of Psychological Therapy for Individuals with a History of Complex Trauma
IRAS ID
348310
Contact name
Caroline Millar
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Edinburgh
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 4 months, 25 days
Research summary
Complex trauma (CT) is a term given to the experience of multiple traumatic events which happen in the context of someone’s relationship with others. There are some factors related to CT symptoms that may contribute to whether someone is ready for psychotherapy. One of these is mentalisation, which is the ability to understand others and one’s own mental state. Issues with mentalisation may complicate one’s ability to reflect and work with their own mental processes. Another is the relationship with the therapist. If individuals with histories of CT have difficulty developing emotional bonds with others, then it may be difficult to develop a trusting relationship with the therapist.
This study aims to investigate how mentalisation ability and attachment with therapist are associated with psychotherapy engagement for individuals with a history of CT . Participants will be individuals with a history of CT who are beginning psychotherapy in West Lothian Adult Mental Health Psychological Therapies Service (WL AMH PTS). Participants will complete questionnaires at their first therapy session assessing their readiness for psychotherapy, mentalisation ability, attachment style with therapist, and general mental health symptoms. They will complete those same questionnaires along with a therapist attachment questionnaire every four sessions thereafter and again at their last session. Every session, they will answer four questions about the therapy process and perceived improvement to gauge their engagement with therapy.
It is hoped that findings learned from this study will highlight areas that might be explored with service users who have CT histories to facilitate better engagement and symptom improvement throughout therapy. It will also aim to identify particular age groups with a history of CT that may have a harder time engaging with therapy.
REC name
West of Scotland REC 3
REC reference
25/WS/0064
Date of REC Opinion
6 Aug 2025
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion