Intensive, Multi-Couple Group Therapy for PTSD: A Nonrandomized Pilot Study With Military and Veteran Dyads. Issue 5 (September 2020) - Fredman, Steffany J.
Abstract: Cognitive-behavioral conjoint therapy for posttraumatic stress disorder (CBCT for PTSD; Monson & Fredman, 2012) is efficacious in improving PTSD symptoms and relationship adjustment among couples with PTSD. However, there is a need for more efficient delivery formats to maximize engagement and retention and to achieve faster outcomes in multiple domains. This nonrandomized trial was designed to pilot an abbreviated, intensive, multi-couple group version of CBCT for PTSD (AIM-CBCT for PTSD) delivered over a single weekend for 24 couples that included an active-duty service member or veteran with PTSD who had deployed in support of combat operations following September 11, 2001. All couples completed treatment. Assessments conducted by clinical evaluators 1 and 3 months after the intervention revealed significant reductions in clinician-rated PTSD symptoms ( d s = -0.77 and -0.98, respectively) and in patients' self-reported symptoms of PTSD ( d s = -0.73 and -1.17, respectively), depression ( d s = -0.60 and -0.75, respectively), anxiety ( d s = -0.63 and -0.73, respectively), and anger ( d s = -0.45 and -0.60, respectively), relative to baseline. By 3-month follow-up, partners reported significant reductions in patients' PTSD symptoms ( d = -0.56), as well as significant improvements in their own depressive symptoms ( d = -0.47), anxiety ( d = -0.60), and relationship satisfaction ( d = 0.53), relative to baseline. Delivering CBCT for PTSD through an abbreviated, intensive multi-couple group format may be an efficient strategy for improving patient, partner, and relational well-being in military and veteran couples with PTSD. Highlights: Brief, intensive couple therapy for PTSD was piloted in a group format. Active-duty and veteran couples with PTSD were treated over a weekend. All couples completed treatment. Patients' PTSD, depression, anxiety, and anger significantly improved. Partners' mental health and relationship satisfaction significantly improved.