Overcoming Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder - Client Manual

Empirically based treatment protocols distill the results of carefully designed and replicable scientific studies into a step-by-step, session-by-session treatment plan. Effective protocols save time, increase the probability of obtaining good results, make it easier to train and supervise new therapists, and satisfy the needs of third parties to know that the proposed treatment follows the best available practices.

All of the therapist protocols in the Best Practices series share these common features:

•A consistent format and organization
•A detailed, session-by-session treatment program that includes worksheets, homework assignments, in-session treatment exercises, and didactic material
•Specific assessment measures—both for the target disorder and for the overall treatment program
•A treatment plan summary for managed care requirements

Each therapist protocol is accompanied by its own corresponding step-by-step client manual, containing all the education materials, worksheets, and skill-building assignments that the client will need.

Larry Smyth received his doctorate degree in clinical psychology from Michigan State University in 1977. He is a Vietnam veteran and has been working with PTSD since 1982, when he began seeing combat-induced PTSD at Florida State University and in his private practice. He has been employed by the Department of Veteran Affairs since 1985 as a team leader, associate regional manager, and a regional manager for the Vet Center Program. Currently he is a member of Trauma Services at the Baltimore Division of the Department of Veteran Affairs Maryland Health Care System. He also has a private practice and a courtesy staff appointment through Sheppard Pratt Hospital, where he specializes in the treatment of anxiety disorders on an outpatient basis.