The role of relationships and families in healing from trauma

The effects of trauma and its treatment have a central role in health discussions in that trauma exposure is associated with an array of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. Treatment approaches are varied, but most empirically based protocols are individually focused, targeting intrapersonal difficulties. Although these protocols are critical, they do not directly address the relationship difficulties that may arise for survivors. In addition, limited empirical evidence supports using systemic approaches in trauma treatment. This article addresses this issue by summarizing the most salient individual and relational evidence‐based trauma protocols and by providing a description of common factors among these approaches, while also challenging the field to generate more research that emphasizes systemic interventions as a core consideration in treatment. A case study is included to illustrate the global relevance and benefit of systemic trauma approaches. Practitioner points Trauma should be treated as an event that affects everyone in the family and is nested in societal and cultural contexts. Close relationships can maintain or exacerbate problems, but they can also be a powerful source of healing. Systemic protocols that not only address intrapersonal difficulties, but also focus on survivors’ relationships are critical for healing in the aftermath of trauma.