Cognitive-Behavioral Interventions for Disorders of Extreme Stress

Abstract

In this chapter, we review the current literature on cognitive-behavioral treatments for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and acute stress disorder (ASD). Particular attention is paid to treatments for PTSD that have strong empirical support, specifically cognitive processing therapy, prolonged exposure, and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy. Cognitive-behavioral treatments for ASD have evolved differently, with greater emphasis on treatment packages; notably, this literature is less well developed and deserving of considerable more study, relative to the PTSD literature. Throughout the chapter, we have addressed areas for future study, as well issues that are currently salient in the treatment of these two conditions.