Using a Veterans Affairs Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Group Therapy Program With Refugees.

Area of Science:

• Psychosocial Nursing
• Mental Health Services
• Trauma Treatment

Background:

• Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) significantly impacts refugees.
• Existing treatments often require adjunctive therapies for optimal outcomes.
• The PTSD Recovery Program, based on veteran treatment guidelines, was adapted for refugees.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of the PTSD Recovery Program as an adjunctive treatment for PTSD in refugees.
• To assess participant symptom improvement and provider satisfaction with the intervention.

Main Methods:

• Eighteen refugee clients diagnosed with PTSD participated in 10 weekly group therapy sessions.
• Intervention was delivered alongside individual therapy and medication.
• Pre- and postintervention questionnaires and qualitative participant/provider feedback were collected.

Main Results:

• Statistical analysis indicated the PTSD Recovery Program's effectiveness as an adjunctive treatment for refugee PTSD.
• Participant statements confirmed symptom improvement.
• Provider satisfaction with the program was reported.

Conclusions:

• The PTSD Recovery Program is an effective adjunctive treatment for PTSD in the refugee population.
• The intervention demonstrates successful adaptation from veteran-focused guidelines.
• Qualitative data support the program's positive impact on refugee mental health.