Intensive outpatient treatment for PTSD: a pilot feasibility study combining prolonged exposure therapy, EMDR, physical activity, and psychoeducation

Abstract

Background: Intensive treatment could be effective for patients with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Objective: The aim of the study was to test the feasibility of an 8-day (2-week) intensive outpatient treatment for PTSD. Method: Treatment each day consisted of individual Prolonged Exposure (PE), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and psychoeducation and physical activity in groups. Patients met different therapists from session to session. Results: Six patients started and completed treatment. Levels of attendance of sessions was high. Patients reported that they were satisfied with the treatment, describing it as emotionally taxing, but meaningful. Therapists also described several positive aspects of the treatment format. There were large reductions in PTSD symptoms. Conclusions: Given these promising, but preliminary findings on the programme’s feasibility, future research should investigate this treatment format using larger samples and controlled designs.