Treating PTSD with Cognitive-behavioral Therapies

"This book aims to guide clinicians through existing CBT interventions for adults with PTSD by briefly presenting the theoretical underpinnings of empirically supported interventions, providing an overview of the treatment elements themselves, and reviewing treatment packages that have been put forth comprising these interventions (e.g., prolonged exposure, cognitive processing therapy, stress-inoculation training). We distinguish between therapies that are predominantly behavioral and cognitive, and between those that are trauma-focused versus non-trauma-focused. We discuss common problems and provide ways to troubleshoot them when necessary, and we conclude with a discussion of promising practices in, and future directions for, CBT for PTSD. Finally, we provide suggested readings for clinicians wishing to further develop their clinical skills in treating PTSD. The book is written to be as clinician friendly as possible to increase the likelihood that clinicians will use these interventions with their clients. Although learning and providing these interventions may be more up-front work for clinicians who are not familiar with their delivery, we have observed that clinicians who have endeavored to learn and apply these interventions improve their clinical practice skills more generally. To illustrate the concepts, we have included a number of case examples that have been adequately disguised to protect client confidentiality. Ultimately, we hope that this book results in more clients with PTSD receiving evidence-based therapies that hold good promise to improve their symptoms and well-being"--Introduction. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2014 APA, all rights reserved).