Evidence-Based Approaches to Trauma
Cognitive Processing Therapy
Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) is an evidence-based psychotherapy entailing 8-15 sessions (typically 50 minutes). Its efficacy has been shown in the treatment of decreasing PTSD symptoms related to traumatic events such as physical/sexual abuse, natural disasters and combat. While collaborating with the therapist, the individual will explore the impact of an identified traumatic event. This is done by challenging, along with changing maladaptive thoughts. For instance, the individual will examine how these unhelpful thoughts associated with the event have generated beliefs about self, others, and the world.
Prolonged Exposure
Prolonged Exposure (PE) is a form of therapy requiring 8-15 sessions over a period of approximately 3 months. Individuals are initially provided education on the model of the therapy, in addition to techniques in managing anxiety during imaginal and in-vivo exposures. Imaginal exposure is done in session with the participant describing the traumatic event in detail while being guided by the therapist. Collaboratively, the individual and therapist process emotions evoked by the exposure. During this time, the individual is being recorded as describing the trauma. This is done so the individual can review the recording, continue to process identified emotions, all while cultivating effective breathing techniques taught in session. In-vivo exposure is also a component of PE, and is typically assigned as homework. Individuals are coached in approaching stimuli that has been deemed fearful outside of treatment. The individual and therapist, again collaboratively, investigate potential feared stimuli and how it has been associated to the trauma, then generalized to particular people or environments. Lastly, a plan is established on sequence to confront in-vivo exposures between therapy sessions.
Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TF-CBT)
Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TF-CBT) requires between 8-25 therapy sessions. This therapy is for children and adolescents whom have been impacted by emotional, physical, or sexual abuse. This can include dealing with the loss of a loved one to being exposed to a natural disaster. A diagnosis of posttraumatic stress disorder is not essential in order to participate in TF-CBT. It has been found effective in treating trauma along with cognitive/behavioral issues, depression, and anxiety. Parents/caregivers report a significant decrease in their stress though learning about the child/adolescent’s trauma, while gaining effective parenting skills.