Evidence-based treatments for PTSD, new directions, and special challenges

Ann N Y Acad Sci. 2010 Oct:1208:82-9. doi: 10.1111/j.1749-6632.2010.05793.x.

Abstract

This paper provides a current review of existing evidence-based treatments for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), with a description of psychopharmacologic options, prolonged exposure therapy, cognitive processing therapy, and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, especially as they pertain to military populations. It further offers a brief summary of promising treatments with a developing evidence base, encompassing both psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy. Finally, challenges to the treatment of PTSD are summarized and future directions suggested.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
  • Couples Therapy
  • Evidence-Based Medicine / methods
  • Evidence-Based Medicine / trends
  • Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing
  • Family Therapy
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Implosive Therapy
  • Male
  • Military Personnel / psychology
  • Psychotropic Drugs / therapeutic use
  • Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / therapy*
  • User-Computer Interface

Substances

  • Psychotropic Drugs