Charura, Divine ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3509-9392 and Smith, Penn ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7522-4461 (2024) A duoethnographic exploration of Relational Psychotraumatology: research, training, and practice considerations. Counselling and Psychotherapy Research.

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Abstract

Introduction
Using a duoethnological approach, supported by relational trauma theories, this paper synthesises idiosyncratic formulations and perspectives of working with relational trauma.

Aim
Initially, focus is centred on reflecting on the authors' research with different and diverse groups. These include in-reach rehabilitation and recovery services for people with profound and enduring mental health needs, as well as experiences of trauma, loss, grief and post-traumatic growth of sanctuary seekers.

Method
Duoethnography, which is a collaborative research methodology that promotes introspection and critical reflexivity in researchers, was followed for over a year, and this provided rich data, which were analysed.

Results
Duoethnological dialogue offered rich data, which was conceptualised into four themes, which are presented and elaborated on: (i) the importance of the therapists acknowledging and witnessing meaning-making with those who present with relational trauma and engaging with the evolving process of remembering, repeating and working through their trauma; (ii) the importance of therapists clarifying the aim or function of therapy from their modality; (iii) the importance of the idiosyncratic experiencing and processing of relational trauma; and (iv) the importance of the dynamic process and diversity of possible stages in working through relational trauma.

Discussion
These themes support an argument for a praxis of relational trauma and exploration of different approaches that may be helpful in therapeutic practice, training and psychotraumatology research.

Conclusions
The paper concludes with reflections on how a human rights trauma-informed approach entails facilitating hope in trauma work and offers recommendations for psychotraumatology therapeutic practice and trauma-informed training.

Item Type:	Article
Status:	Published
DOI:	https://doi.org/10.1002/capr.12749
School/Department:	School of Education, Language and Psychology
URI:	https://ray.yorksj.ac.uk/id/eprint/9559

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