Prolonged exposure therapy for post-traumatic stress disorder: a review of evidence and dissemination

Expert Rev Neurother. 2011 Aug;11(8):1151-63. doi: 10.1586/ern.11.94.

Abstract

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a highly prevalent, often chronic and disabling psychiatric disorder that is associated with significant adverse health and life consequences. Fortunately, there is compelling evidence that cognitive-behavioral therapies, notably exposure therapies, are effective in reducing PTSD symptomology relative to waiting list and active control conditions. Prolonged exposure is a specific exposure therapy program that is considered a first-line evidence-based treatment for PTSD. Unfortunately, barriers to treatment dissemination prevent the majority of individuals with PTSD from receiving evidence-based treatment. Strategies to increase the availability of treatment and boost the efficiency of exposure therapy are now being examined.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy / methods*
  • Evidence-Based Practice / methods
  • Humans
  • Implosive Therapy / methods*
  • Information Dissemination / methods
  • Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / epidemiology
  • Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / prevention & control
  • Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / psychology
  • Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / therapy*