Integrating object-relations and schema models to treat complex trauma: A case study of splitting and integrating traumatic experiences

•Based on the object-relations and schema models, there seems to be a sequence in the therapeutic process of treating traumatic experiences, in which splitting should be achieved sufficiently first, followed by the process of integrating the ‘split’.•A case study with multiple long-term interpersonal traumas is presented to illustrate the application of this splitting-and-integrating sequence.•Through 24 sessions of therapy, her PTSD symptoms, EMS and schema modes have significantly reduced. The schema model's therapeutic process focuses on understanding, expressing and processing different sides of traumatic experiences to achieve a sense of order in the chaotic experiences. The object-relations model supported this and named this process as the ‘splitting’. Nevertheless, the object-relations model also emphasizes that after achieving a sufficient ‘split’, the next step would be to integrate the traumatic experiences to achieve a healthy and coherent self. When viewing both models together, there seems to be a sequence in the therapeutic process of treating traumatic experiences, in which splitting should be achieved sufficiently first, followed by the process of integrating the ‘split’. A case study of a young Malaysian female adult who suffered from multiple long-term interpersonal traumas is presented to illustrate the application of this splitting-and-integrating sequence. She suffered from developmental and sexual traumas in her past, and the COVID-19 pandemic has retriggered her traumatic memories, resulting in elevated levels of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) symptoms. Through 24 sessions of therapy, her PTSD symptoms, Early Maladaptive Schemas (EMS) and schema modes have significantly reduced. In addition, she has demonstrated a more integrated personality.