Using a Veterans Affairs Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Group Therapy Program With Refugees.

Abstract

The PTSD Recovery Program, an intervention based on guidelines for the treatment of combat Veterans diagnosed with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) that includes group therapy as adjunctive treatment to medication and individual therapy, was used for the treatment of PTSD in refugees at a clinic in central Texas. Eighteen clients diagnosed with PTSD completed 10 weekly group therapy sessions in addition to individual therapy and medication use. An in-service presentation educated providers on the PTSD Recovery Program and the group therapy intervention. Data were collected using a pre- and postintervention questionnaire. Statistical analysis supports the effectiveness of the PTSD Recovery Program as an adjunctive treatment for PTSD in the refugee population. Participant statements and provider satisfaction are included as qualitative data. Participant statements about symptom improvement, as well as providers reported satisfaction with the PTSD Recovery Program, support this intervention as an effective adjunctive treatment for PTSD in the refugee population. [Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 57(5), 21-28.].