An Intensive Treatment Program for Chronic Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: 2-Year Outcome Data

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: The present study evaluates the efficacy of a closed-cohort treatment program for chronic posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). METHOD: The treatment orientation was a combined approach involving cognitive behaviour therapy and pharmacotherapy. Treatment involved an inpatient phase of 4 weeks, with group and individual follow-up sessions of at least 6-month duration. The treatment population consisted largely of Australian Vietnam veterans. Standardised psychometric measures were obtained pre-treatment, on completion of the residential phase; and at 6, 12 and 24 months post discharge from the residential program. RESULTS: The results obtained from 64 patients demonstrate significant reductions in depression, anxiety and PTSD symptoms, maintained at 2 years post discharge from the residential phase of the treatment program. CONCLUSIONS: This paper presents encouraging findings for treatment with this troubled population.