Under the guidance of highly trained clinicians, PE gradually helps survivors to confront trauma-related memories, emotions, and situations that they have avoided, either intentionally or unintentionally. Prolonged exposure (PE) is a form of cognitive behavioural therapy that empowers people to confront their fears. However, there are also notable differences between these treatments. This initial phase serves to increase survivors’ understanding of their experiences, provides a vocabulary to articulate their struggles, and reassures them that their reactions and challenges are not uncommon. Each approach begins the therapeutic journey with an introduction to PTSD, providing insight into typical symptoms and their underlying causes. Ī common thread running through these treatments is the inclusion of psychoeducation. Evidence-Based Treatments for PTSDĪmong the most widely accepted trauma-focused treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), prolonged exposure (PE), cognitive processing therapy (CPT), and trauma-focused cognitive behavioural therapy (TF-CBT) for children stand out as prominent options.Ī comprehensive overview and list of evidence-based treatments specifically designed for adults with PTSD can be found on the American Psychological Association website. Given the relatively recent emergence of PTSD as a recognised diagnosis within the mental health field, it is remarkable to witness the considerable research effort devoted to developing effective treatments for this disorder. It was the aftermath of events such as the Vietnam War and the women’s liberation movement that led to societal recognition of the profound psychological and personal impact of war, sexual violence and other traumatic experiences. It is worth noting that PTSD was not officially recognised as a diagnosable condition until 19804, when it was included in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. Non-trauma-focused treatments, on the other hand, emphasise the cultivation of present support, empathy, warmth, and insight, but do not explicitly address the systematic processing of the traumatic event. Such therapies involve willingly confronting reminders of the trauma and dealing with associated memories. To be considered trauma-focused, a treatment must prioritise processing the traumatic event through cognitive, behavioural and/or emotional strategies, often combining these approaches. Within the field of psychological interventions for trauma-related disorders, such as PTSD, there is an important distinction between trauma-focused and non-trauma-focused treatments. Trauma-focused versus non-trauma-focused treatments Just as one would want well-researched and effective medications for physical ailments, it is equally important to be aware of the evidence-based psychotherapeutic interventions offered by mental health professionals. Mental health literacy, a crucial facet for consumers of mental health services, includes awareness of current research-supported treatment approaches. Understanding the types of therapy offered by psychologists, counsellors, social workers and mental health providers, and identifying the most beneficial options, can greatly impact one’s journey towards healing. Whether seeking comfort from loved ones or professional help such as psychotherapy or medication, the road to recovery is often uncertain. Trauma-Focused or Non-Trauma Focused Treatments?įollowing a personal or witnessed traumatic experience, finding appropriate support can be a challenge.Non-Trauma-Focused Treatments: Supportive Counseling and PCT.Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |