Dissemination and Implementation of Evidence-Based Interventions for Adults with PTSD

Abstract

This chapter reviews current efforts to disseminate and implement evidence-based interventions (EBIs) for adult posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), like cognitive processing therapy and prolonged exposure. As the body of empirical support for EBIs has been amassed and best practices identified, concerted efforts are being made to integrate EBIs for PTSD into behavioral health organizations. However, implementation is a complex, multi-faceted process, with a range of factors that can benefit or hinder efforts to diffuse an innovation. Working through each stage of implementation, these factors are reviewed from the initial stage of a needs assessment, through the preparation, active implementation, and finally sustained delivery stages. Factors discussed include those related to the broader sociopolitical and cultural context, the organization, the individuals providing and receiving treatment, as well as those specific to the characteristics of the intervention. Strategies to address these barriers and to amplify the effects of factors that facilitate implementation are also discussed. Finally, the chapter discusses future directions and remaining pressing issues for the field.