Article

Prolonged exposure (PE) is an effective first-line treatment for posttraumatic
stress disorder (PTSD), regardless of the type of trauma, for Veterans and
military personnel. Extensive research and clinical practice guidelines from
various organizations support this conclusion. PE is effective in reducing PTSD
symptoms and has also demonstrated efficacy in reducing comorbid issues such as
anger, guilt, negative health perceptions, and depression. PE has demonstrated
efficacy in diagnostically complex populations and survivors of single- and
multiple-incident traumas. The PE protocol includes four main therapeutic
components (i.e., psychoeducation, in vivo exposure, imaginal exposure, and
emotional processing). In light of PE's efficacy, the Veterans Health
Administration designed and supported a PE training program for mental health
professionals that has trained over 1,300 providers. Research examining the
mechanisms involved in PE and working to improve its acceptability, efficacy, and
efficiency is underway with promising results.

Langue : ANGLAIS