Prolonged Exposure Therapy for PTSD Emotional Processing of Traumatic Experiences

by Foa, Edna; Hembree, Elizabeth; Rothbaum, Barbara Olaslov

• ISBN13: 9780195308501
• ISBN10: 0195308506
• Edition: 1st
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2007-03-22
• Publisher: Oxford University Press

Summary

An estimated 70% of adults in the United States have experienced a traumatic event at least once in their lives. Though most recover on their own, up to 20% develop chronic Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. For these people, overcoming PTSD requires the help of a professional. This guide gives clinicians the information they need to treat clients who exhibit the symptoms of PTSD. It is based on the principles of Prolonged Exposure Therapy, the most scientifically-tested and proven treatment that has been used to effectively treat victims of all types of trauma. Whether your client is a veteran of combat, a victim of a physical or sexual assault, or a casualty of a motor vehicle accident, the techniques and strategies outlined in this book will help. In this treatment clients are exposed to imagery of their traumatic memories, as well as real-life situations related to the traumatic event in a step-by-step, controllable way. Through these exposures, your client will learn to confront the trauma and begin to think differently about it, leading to a marked decrease in levels of anxiety and other PTSD symptoms. Clients are provided education about PTSD and other common reactions to traumatic events. Breathing retraining is taught as a method for helping the client manage anxiety in daily life. Designed to be used in conjunction with the corresponding client workbook, this therapist guide includes all the tools necessary to effectively implement the prolonged exposure program including assessment measures, session outlines, case studies, sample dialogues, and homework assignments. This comprehensive resource is an exceptional treatment manual that is sure to help you help your clients reclaim their lives from PTSD.

Author Biography

Edna B. Foa is affiliated with the Center for the Treatment and Study of Anxiety at the University of Pennsylvania.

Elizabeth Hembree is affiliated with the University of Pennsylvania.

Table of Contents

Introductory Information for Therapists	p. 1
Assessment and Special Considerations in Treating Trauma Survivors	p. 23
Session 1	p. 37
Session 2	p. 45
Session 3	p. 77
Intermediate Sessions	p. 97
Final Session	p. 103
Anticipating Problems and Tailoring Treatment to the Individual: Promoting Effective Engagement	p. 111
Trauma Interview	p. 127
In Vivo Exposure Hierarchy	p. 136
References	p. 139
About the Authors	p. 145
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