Preliminary Effectiveness of Brief Prolonged Exposure Therapy for PTSD: Expanding Access to Effective Therapies

Abstract

Over the last three decades, several empirically supported trauma therapies have been developed to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Yet issues such as access to treatments and dropout are ongoing barriers to adequate dissemination and implementation, especially in low resource settings. To this end, we present results on the preliminary effectiveness of a brief prolonged exposure therapy (PE) for PTSD in South Africa, a low resource setting. Based on a case-series design, seven participants ( n = 7) from diverse socio-cultural backgrounds were recruited and started a six-session brief PE for PTSD and co-morbid depression and anxiety. To examine the treatment outcomes, participants were assessed at baseline, during treatment, post-intervention, and at 3-month follow-up. Overall, brief PE reduced symptoms of PTSD, depression, and anxiety from baseline to post-intervention, and at 3-month follow-up. A downward trend in symptoms was evident during treatment, with slight symptom variations during exposure sessions. In conclusion, a six-session brief PE intervention produced positive outcomes for PTSD, depression, and anxiety at two community counseling centers in South Africa. We reflect on the implementation of brief PE in a South African context.

A Case Study of Prolonged Exposure for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder With a Latino Male with Polysubstance Use, Severe Depression, and Anger in a Residential Substance Use Treatment Program

“…When treatment began, the client was homeless, unemployed, and estranged from his family and friends. The present outcome is consistent with recent reports that PE therapy can be effective for individuals who experience ongoing adversity (Booysen & Kagee, 2020, 2021). Another consideration is that the client in this case study was a Latino male, which is noteworthy because LatinX individuals are underrepresented in PE therapy research (Benuto et al, 2020).…”

Trauma survivors’ perceptions and experiences of prolonged exposure for PTSD at a psychology clinic

“…18 Yet reflecting on gender differences, especially in trauma therapy, can allay certain anxieties and potentially strengthen the therapeutic alliance, thus enhancing the outcome of treatment. 23 Fourthly, a misconception of exposure therapies is that they are more technique driven and devoid of therapeutic factors such as empathy, trust and safety. 23 For example, Buyiswa reported that she felt she could be honest with the therapist and even let him know that she was reluctant to be in therapy but that she also felt supported throughout the treatment process.…”

“…23 Fourthly, a misconception of exposure therapies is that they are more technique driven and devoid of therapeutic factors such as empathy, trust and safety. 23 For example, Buyiswa reported that she felt she could be honest with the therapist and even let him know that she was reluctant to be in therapy but that she also felt supported throughout the treatment process. Sherwood 21 found that recovery in therapy is when clients feel safe and supported in therapy, which is what is reflected in Buyiswa's statement.…”

Neuropsychological Consequences of Massive Trauma: Implications and Clinical Interventions

“…The effectiveness of prolonged exposure (PE) is widely recognized, and valuable resources, such as Foa, Hembree, and Rothbaum's Therapist's Guide, provide a thorough overview for healthcare professionals [100]. Another pioneering approach is virtual reality exposure therapy (VRET), which uses a virtual environment simulation to immerse PTSD patients, particularly veterans, in their traumatic experiences and is particularly effective in military mental health [101][102][103][104]. Studies by Wald and Taylor [105] demonstrated the effectiveness of anxiety management techniques in the context of exposure therapy in alleviating acute stress symptoms and PTSD.…”