Treatment for Veterans With Military Sexual Trauma

CPT is a cognitive therapy based on information processing theory and includes components which help the client to (a) access her or his memory of the event, (b) identify and experience her or his emotions until they have been extinguished, and (c) identify and challenge beliefs about the event itself and beliefs about self and the world which have been altered because of the rape.

PCT consists of general support and education focused on current issues in the patient's life. It emphasizes the focus on the individual's current life, and conceptualizes the problems addressed as manifestations of PTSD that, in some cases, may have been present for long periods of time. Emphasis is on problem solving and improving relationships. Connections are made between current problems and PTSD symptoms. PCT provides the emotional support for the trauma patient that is thought to help in recovery and helps the victim gain a better understanding of the nature of the patient's problems and connection with PTSD.