Our beginnings
Complex Trauma WA (COTWA) was founded to address the unique challenges of childhood trauma, which was historically overlooked or confused with PTSD. With growing awareness of trauma’s neurobiological impacts, the World Health Organization now recognises PTSD and complex trauma as distinct conditions, each requiring specialised treatment.
Recognising the need for a trauma-informed organisation tailored to Western Australia’s specific context, members of the Perth Complex Trauma Mental Health Professionals Network (MHPN) came together in November 2015. A dedicated group of clinical psychologists initiated the establishment of COTWA, aiming to enhance service delivery for individuals with complex trauma by considering the local culture and realities of life in Western Australia.
Our vision
From the start, our goal was to foster a coordinated, collaborative approach to trauma care across the state. We sought to build upon the existing expertise of skilled service providers and trauma support services, particularly in rural areas where peer support networks were lacking. Rather than duplicating efforts, our focus has been on strengthening connections and resources to better serve our community.
Our growth
In August 2018, Complex Trauma WA became a registered Not-For-Profit Incorporated Association. We believe that by building trauma-informed communities and increasing awareness of childhood trauma, we can help reduce its incidence. Our commitment extends to providing ongoing professional development opportunities for practitioners in Western Australia, ensuring they have access to best-practice approaches in trauma care.
Where we are today Since our registration, COTWA has grown into a leading body for health professionals in Western Australia who work with individuals affected by complex trauma. We have formed strategic partnerships with organisations like angelhands and the Blue Knot Foundation, Australia’s National Centre of Excellence for adult survivors of childhood abuse and neglect. Additionally, we are recognised as a health-promotion charity with Gift Recipient Status, furthering our mission to support those impacted by childhood trauma.
Going forward
Our focus moving forward is on community education, practitioner training, and the promotion of internationally recognised best-practice guidelines for service delivery. We are committed to collaborative advocacy for those with a lived experience of complex trauma.
To better connect individuals with the care they need, we have established an online spatial directory of complex trauma-trained practitioners. This directory will be expanded to include other services that adhere to trauma-informed principles. Additionally, we plan to offer COTWA-accredited courses for Western Australian businesses and service providers aiming to become recognised as trauma-aware.
Our commitment to the principles of trauma-informed care—safety, trust, choice, empowerment, collaboration, and respect—remains central to our mission. We will continue to provide affordable, WA-based professional development opportunities, featuring internationally recognised experts in the treatment of complex trauma. Through these efforts, we aim to foster a more trauma-aware community and support practitioners in delivering the highest standard of care.