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Cognitive-behavioral conjoint therapy for PTSD: pilot results from a community sample
Candice M Monson1, Steffany J Fredman, Kathryn C Adair
1VA National Center for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Boston University School of Medicine, USA. Candice.Monson@Psych.Ryerson.ca
Journal of Traumatic Stress
|February 26, 2011
Summary
Cognitive-behavioral conjoint therapy significantly reduced posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms in patients and improved relationship satisfaction for couples. Most patients no longer met PTSD criteria post-treatment.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Clinical Psychology
- Trauma Studies
Background:
- Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) significantly impacts individuals and their relationships.
- Effective conjoint therapies for PTSD are crucial for improving patient and partner well-being.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral conjoint therapy (CBCT) for couples with PTSD.
- To assess treatment outcomes for PTSD symptoms, relationship satisfaction, depression, and anger.
Main Methods:
- An uncontrolled trial involving seven couples with PTSD.
- Utilized independent clinician assessments, patient self-reports, and partner reports to measure outcomes.
Main Results:
- Five of six completers no longer met PTSD criteria.
- Large effect size improvements in PTSD symptoms (clinician, patient, partner reports).
- Significant improvements in partner-reported relationship satisfaction; patient reports showed moderate to large, nonsignificant improvements.
Conclusions:
- Cognitive-behavioral conjoint therapy shows promise for treating PTSD in couples.
- The therapy positively impacts both individual PTSD symptoms and relational dynamics.
- Further research is needed to explore treatment for traumatized individuals and their partners.
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