PE for PTSD: Final Session and Recommendations
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
- The last session incorporates imaginal exposure of the entire memory and an evaluation of the patient’s progress.
- Avoidance prevents learning in the long term.
- Under-engagement is one of the biggest obstacles to exposure therapy.
- Over-engagement is when they’re so distressed that they’re not learning what they need to learn.
- Treating the PTSD is the best way to help with other problems.
- Treatment for PTSD is often difficult, but it’s extremely rewarding.
Materials Downloads
Transcript
Video 9: Take-Home Messages.
The last session incorporates imaginal exposure to the entire memory. Part of the final session involves an evaluation and discussion of the patient’s progress. In the final session, re-rate each item on the in vivo exposure hierarchy form that you completed in session 2. Remind the patient to maintain her new healthy habits. She needs to continue practicing them, approaching rather than avoiding.
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.
There’s usually a strong bond that develops during exposure therapy. Make the time to terminate properly and say goodbye.
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.
