title: Integrative approach for the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder in 9/11 first responders: three core techniques.
abstract: We describe an integrative psychotherapy for first responders to the September 11, 2001 terrorist attack, including those who continue to be psychologically impacted by these events, most of whom meet criteria for a diagnosis of posttraumatic stress disorder. Three core techniques used in this treatment are described: (a) an emphasis on meaning making, particularly regarding the traumatic event; (b) focus on the most affect-laden components of the traumatic exposure; and (c) identifying and challenging the implicit strategies used by individuals to avoid discussion of components of their traumatic memories and the attendant negative affect. For each intervention, a theoretical rationale and the presumed mechanism of operation are presented. We discuss the clinical and research implications of this intervention.
authors.affiliation: Department of Psychiatry, New York University, World Trade Center Health Program NYU School of Medicine Clinical Center of Excellence.
authors.forename: Peter T
authors.identifier: 0000-0002-3685-7896
authors.initials: PT
authors.lastname: Haugen
authors.affiliation: Department of Psychiatry, New York University, World Trade Center Health Program NYU School of Medicine Clinical Center of Excellence.
authors.forename: Allison Keisler
authors.initials: AK
authors.lastname: Splaun
authors.affiliation: Department of Psychiatry, New York University, World Trade Center Health Program NYU School of Medicine Clinical Center of Excellence.
authors.forename: Mark R
authors.identifier: 0000-0002-5858-4454
authors.initials: MR
authors.lastname: Evces
authors.affiliation: Department of Psychiatry, University of California.
authors.forename: Daniel S
authors.initials: DS
authors.lastname: Weiss
mesh_terms: D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D003299:Cooperative Behavior; D003379:Countertransference; D003674:Defense Mechanisms; D060731:Emergency Responders / Q000523:psychology*; D006801:Humans; D055048:Integrative Medicine; D009769:Object Attachment; D009784:Occupational Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D010358:Patient Participation; D011369:Professional-Patient Relations; D013811:Psychotherapeutic Processes; D047851:September 11 Terrorist Attacks / Q000523:psychology*; D013313:Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D014167:Transference, Psychology