Effective Treatments for PTSD

Book excerpt: Developed under the auspices of the PTSD Treatment Guidelines Task Force of the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies, this comprehensive volume offers best practice guidelines for the treatment of PTSD. The book represents the collaborative work of experts across a range of theoretical orientations and professional backgrounds. After addressing general treatment considerations and methodological issues, chapters review and evaluate the salient literature on treatment approaches for children, adolescents, and adults. Approaches covered include acute interventions, cognitive-behavioral therapy, pharmacotherapy, EMDR, group therapy, psychodynamic therapy, inpatient treatment, psychosocial rehabilitation, hypnotherapy, marital and family treatment, and creative therapies. Standardized ratings are provided of each modality's efficacy for reducing core symptoms, and therapeutic goals, methods, and treatment planning recommendations are summarized. Synthesizing a vast body of knowledge into a cohesive, practical framework, this volume will be the definitive resource for all clinicians and researchers working in the area of PTSD.