Veterans have high rates of ACEs that interact with military trauma, increasing risk for CPTSD, depression, and suicidality. This case report illustrates how VA assessment focused on a single military trauma led to worsening of symptoms after prolonged exposure therapy. A lifespan-informed assessment revealed complex trauma, and EMDR addressing both childhood and military trauma resulted in sustained symptom reduction highlighting the need for routine ACEs screening and CPTSD-informed treatment.
