Cognitive processing therapy versus supportive counseling for acute stress disorder following assault: a randomized pilot trial

Behav Ther. 2012 Dec;43(4):825-36. doi: 10.1016/j.beth.2012.05.001. Epub 2012 May 11.

Abstract

The study tested the efficacy and tolerability of cognitive processing therapy (CPT) for survivors of assault with acute stress disorder. Participants (N=30) were randomly allocated to CPT or supportive counseling. Therapy comprised six individual weekly sessions of 90-min duration. Independent diagnostic assessment for PTSD was conducted at posttreatment. Participants completed self-report measures of posttraumatic stress, depression, and negative trauma-related beliefs at pre-, posttreatment, and 6-month follow-up. Results indicated that both interventions were successful in reducing symptoms at posttreatment with no statistical difference between the two; within and between-group effect sizes and the proportion of participants not meeting PTSD criteria was greater in CPT. Treatment gains were maintained for both groups at 6-month follow-up.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy / methods*
  • Counseling / methods*
  • Early Medical Intervention
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Pilot Projects
  • Sex Offenses / psychology
  • Stress Disorders, Traumatic, Acute / therapy*
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Violence / psychology*