Psychological Treatments for PTSD

Abstract

This chapter reviews what specific psychosocial treatments are available for adults with PTSD, as well as those for children and adolescents. Each treatment approach is described along with data from clinical trials with regard to its effectiveness. Psychoeducation and peer counseling approaches are described. Individual psychotherapeutic approaches discussed include cognitive-behavior therapy (CBT) such as prolonged Exposure (PE) and cognitive processing therapy (CPT). In addition, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), psychodynamic psychotherapy and other individual therapies are discussed as well as couples, family and group approaches (inculding school-based treatments). Applications of internet, telehealth and mobile app technology to enhance treatment effectiveness is also discussed.