Cognitive-behavioral conjoint therapy for posttraumatic stress disorder (CBCT for PTSD) is a time-limited intervention consisting of 15 treatment sessions scheduled for 75 minutes each. There are three phases of treatment that build upon one another to simultaneously accomplish the two treatment goals: 1) Decrease PTSD symptoms, and 2) improve the couple’s relationship.
The acronym below is designed to reflect these sequential phases and the recovery-focused nature of the therapy: R.E.S.U.M.E. Living.
Phase 1 |
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| R = Rationale for Treatment
E = Education about PTSD and Relationships |
Session 1: Introduction to Treatment
Session 2: Safety Building |
Phase 2 |
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| S = Satisfaction Enhancement
U = Undermining Avoidance |
Session 3: Listening and Approaching
Session 4: Sharing Thoughts and Feelings – Emphasis on Feelings Session 5: Sharing Thoughts and Feelings – Emphasis on Thoughts Session 6: Getting U.N.S.T.U.C.K. Session 7: Problem-Solving / Decision-Making |
Phase 3 |
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| M = Making Meaning of the Trauma(s)
E = End of therapy – commitment to ongoing betterment |
Session 8: Acceptance
Session 9: Blame Session 10: Trust Session 11: Control Session 12: Emotional Closeness Session 13: Physical Intimacy Session 14: Post-traumatic Growth Session 15: Review and Reinforcement of Treatment Gains |