Suggestions for Continued Practice at the End of PE Therapy for PTSD
Associate Vice-Chair of Clinical Research, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine
Director, Emory Healthcare Veterans Program
Director, Emory Trauma and Anxiety Recovery Program
Paul A. Janssen Chair in Neuropsychopharmacology
Key Points
- Prepare the patient for a temporary increase in PTSD symptoms when under significant stress.
- We want to hear that the patient can apply what they learned in therapy.
- Identify warning signs. Have them list these signs and come up with a plan if they occur.
- If you continue seeing the patient for other issues, make it clear that PE has ended.
- There’s usually a strong bond that develops during exposure therapy.
- Make time to terminate properly and say goodbye.
Materials Downloads
PE for PTSD Online Training
Learn how to apply prolonged exposure therapy principles for patients with PTSD.
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Transcript
Video 3: How to Continue Practice.
Handling symptom increases and suggestions for continued practice.
Finally, prepare the patient for the likelihood of a temporary increase in PTSD and related symptoms when under significant stress, such as the anniversary of the trauma or during more general difficulties at work or in the family.
Foa, E., Hembree, E. A., Rothbaum, B. O., & Rauch, S. (2019). Prolonged exposure therapy for PTSD: Emotional processing of traumatic experiences - Therapist guide (2nd ed.). Oxford University Press.,Rothbaum, B. O., Foa, E., Hembree, E. A., & Rauch, S. (2019). Reclaiming your life from a traumatic experience: Client workbook (2nd ed.). Oxford University Press.