Sudden Gains and Deteriorations in the Treatment of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder in World Trade Center Responders

Abstract

This study sought to examine the prevalence of sudden gains and deteriorations (i.e., symptom reduction/improvement during treatment) and their influence on treatment outcomes among World Trade Center responders with probable posttraumatic stress disorder. Thirty-six outpatient clients received at least three sessions of integrative psychotherapy, which included elements of psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioral therapy approaches, under routine clinical conditions. Approximately 19% of clients experienced a sudden gain and 27% of clients experienced a sudden deterioration. Those who experienced deteriorations had worse therapy outcomes compared with those who did not. Clinical implications are discussed, including the importance of routine monitoring of client treatment response for sudden deteriorations to enhance positive treatment outcomes. Future research with larger samples is needed to further evaluate the mechanisms of sudden gains and sudden deteriorations in this population.