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Integrative approach for the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder in 9/11 first responders: three core techniques.

Haugen-PT; Splaun-AK; Evces-MR; Weiss-DS

Psychotherapy 2013 Sep; 50(3):336-340

http://dx.doi.org/10.1037/a0032526

20044122

We describe an integrative psychotherapy for first responders to the September 11, 2001 terrorist attack, including those who continue to be psychologically impacted by these events, most of whom meet criteria for a diagnosis of posttraumatic stress disorder. Three core techniques used in this treatment are described: (a) an emphasis on meaning making, particularly regarding the traumatic event; (b) focus on the most affect-laden components of the traumatic exposure; and (c) identifying and challenging the implicit strategies used by individuals to avoid discussion of components of their traumatic memories and the attendant negative affect. For each intervention, a theoretical rationale and the presumed mechanism of operation are presented. We discuss the clinical and research implications of this intervention.

Psychology; Psychological-effects; Humans; Men; Women; Behavior; Diseases; Medical-personnel; Traumatic-injuries; Psychological-stress; Stress; Mental-stress; Fire-fighters; Law-enforcement-workers; Police-officers; Emergency-responders; Author Keywords: integrative psychotherapy; PTSD; first responders; meaning making; defensive operation

Peter T. Haugen, World Trade Center Health Program NYU School of Medicine Clinical Center of Excellence, Bellevue Hospital Center, Room A720, 462 First Avenue, New York, NY 10016

PSYOAD

20130901

Journal Article

peter.haugen@nyumc.org

Cooperative Agreement

2013

Cooperative-Agreement-Number-U10-OH-008223

3

0033-3204

Psychotherapy: Theory, Research, Practice, Training

NY; CA

New York University School of Medicine