The Effects of Experiential Therapy on Emotional Regulation and Posttraumatic Growth in Adult Women with Relational Trauma

The purpose of this study is to examine the effects of experiential therapy on emotional regulation and post-traumatic growth in adult women with relational trauma.The study involved 10 female participants who had experienced relational trauma.The experiential therapy group program was developed based on theoretical foundations and validated by experts.The effectiveness of the program was assessed using a mixed-methods approach: quantitative analysis was conducted through pre-and post-tests utilizing emotional regulation and post-traumatic growth scales.At the same time, qualitative changes were examined through behavioral observations and interviews.The results indicated the following: First, all 10 participants showed improved scores on the emotional regulation scale.Behaviorally, they demonstrated a marked enhancement in their ability to recognize, understand, and express their emotions and needs more clearly.This improvement was facilitated by the gradual integration of bodily sensations, emotional awareness, and cognitive understanding throughout the therapeutic process.Second, all participants also showed improved scores on the post-traumatic growth scale.In terms of behavioral change, participants became more attuned to their internal resources.Their previously negative perceptions of themselves, others, and the world were meaningfully restructured in a more positive direction, enabling them to discover renewed possibilities and meaning in life.This study is significant in that it offers practical evidence supporting the application of experiential therapy as an effective intervention for women experiencing psychological distress as a result of relational trauma.