Exploring mothers’ experiences of trauma and violence-informed cognitive behavioural therapy following intimate partner violence: a qualitative case analysis

Abstract

Purpose Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a pervasive public health issue impacting one in three women, worldwide. Broadly defined as any act of coercive control within the context of an intimate relationship, IPV often results in significant negative health outcomes. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), a mainstay treatment for relational trauma, has particular relevance for women undergoing the many transformations associated with the perinatal period. The findings of this case analysis build upon existing literature supporting the positive impact of Trauma and Violence- Informed CBT (TVICBT) for women who have experienced IPV and are living with mental health challenges. Methods As part of a larger mixed-methods study, three women who experienced IPV and received TVICBT during pregnancy participated in in-depth, semi-structured interviews to determine the perceived value and acceptability of this intervention. Findings Insights gained herein, serve to enrich current evidence, suggesting that TVICBT provided during pregnancy may hold promise for the treatment of IPV-related mood and anxiety disorders. Conclusions Given that improved perinatal mental health has been linked to enhanced maternal resiliency and quality of life, greater maternal-infant attachment, and positive child health outcomes, this research has the potential to bridge the critical knowledge gap at the intersection of motherhood, trauma, and mental health.

Keywords

• intimate partner violence
• women’s health
• cognitive behavioral therapy
• mental health
• perinatal