Premium
Cognitive‐Behavioral Conjoint Therapy for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: Application to a Couple's Shared Traumatic Experience
Author(s) -
BrownBowers Amy,
Fredman Steffany J.,
Wanklyn Sonya G.,
Monson Candice M.
Publication year - 2012
Publication title -
journal of clinical psychology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.124
H-Index - 119
eISSN - 1097-4679
pISSN - 0021-9762
DOI - 10.1002/jclp.21850
Subject(s) - psychoeducation , psychology , cognition , clinical psychology , psychotherapist , affect (linguistics) , posttraumatic stress , cognitive behavioral therapy , cognitive therapy , psychiatry , intervention (counseling) , communication
Cognitive‐behavioral conjoint therapy for posttraumatic stress disorder (CBCT for PTSD) is designed to improve PTSD symptoms and enhance intimate relationship adjustment. Phase 1 includes psychoeducation about the reciprocal influences of PTSD symptoms and relationship functioning, exercises to promote positive affect and behaviors, and conflict management skills. In Phase 2, behavioral methods are used to address avoidance and emotional numbing and to increase relationship satisfaction. Couples engage in activities to promote approaching, rather than avoiding, feared situations. Phase 3 focuses on specific trauma appraisals and here‐and‐now cognitions that maintain PTSD and relationship problems. This article provides an overview of the treatment, a review of the outcome research, and a case illustration of a couple with a shared trauma (a stillborn child).