Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE) is one of the most thoroughly studied and researched treatments for PTSD and is designated as a gold standard treatment for PTSD across multiple clinical practice guidelines. After dozens of research studies across all types of people, across cultures, and any type of trauma, PE has been determined to be a very safe and effective treatment. Even for people struggling with symptoms of dissociation, increased urges to use substances, and urges to self harm, PE remains an effective treatment option. The staff at CABT are experts in PE and how to deliver PE in order to maximize recovery and limit the common challenges of treating PTSD, including these complications. 

Research studies in both CPT and PE have shown that both treatments are highly effective at treating PTSD no matter the type of trauma that led to its development. This includes research on survivors of repeated childhood physical or sexual abuse, complex trauma, sexual assault, combat, physical assault, neglect, bullying, natural disasters, witnessing a traumatic event, car accidents, etc. The symptoms of PTSD are effectively treated by CPT and PE because these are gold standard therapies that are proven to be effective regardless of the type of trauma causing the PTSD. We also know that time since the trauma does not impact treatment results. Meaning, your trauma could be six months ago, 6 years ago, or 6 decades ago - CPT and PE have been shown to be effective despite when the trauma occurred. 

The short answer is YES. Research studies that have compared CPT and PE being delivered in person versus over telehealth have shown no difference in treatment outcomes. Understanding your preference for in person versus virtual is an important decision to be made with your provider since both options are highly effective.

The most effective treatments for PTSD are specific talk therapies, including PE and CPT. Medication for PTSD is considered a “second-line” option, and the FDA has approved four medications that are identified as effective medications for PTSD. These include fluoxetine, paroxetine, sertraline, and venlafaxine. Other medications may be effective for managing specific symptoms, and you should consult with a specialist provider (like a psychiatrist or psychiatric nurse practitioner) to get more information about the medications that may be right for you. PE and CPT do not require medication in order to be effective in treating PTSD. 

It is not unusual for people to have intense emotions in the presence of trauma reminders and traumatic memories. The staff at CABT are trained to help patients regulate and manage strong emotions so they can learn skills to be in the presence of their feelings in order to do the trauma work required for healing. Also, as treatment progresses, the intensity of the emotions a person experiences in the presence of trauma reminders often subsides as healing and recovery occurs. One indicator of recovery from PTSD is feeling less intense emotions in the presence of trauma reminders. It is our goal to help you learn the skills you might need to be safe in the presence of a trauma reminder and the strong emotions that can elicit.