It is estimated that more almost 7% of the U.S. population will experience posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in their lifetime (National Institute of Mental Health, 2017). This debilitating
disorder often interferes with an individual’s ability to function in daily life. Common symptoms of anxiousness and depression frequently lead to behavioral issues, adolescent substance abuse issues, and even physical ailments. For this Assignment you examine a PTSD video case study and consider how you might assess and treat clients presenting with PTSD.

Client Presentation and Assessment

Observed Symptoms (from the video):

• Hypervigilance or exaggerated startle response

• Flashbacks or intrusive memories

• Nightmares and sleep disturbances

• Avoidance of trauma reminders (places, conversations)

• Emotional numbing or detachment

• Irritability or outbursts of anger

• Difficulty concentrating

How to assess and treat clients presenting with PTSD?

Assessment Tools to Use:

• Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale for DSM-5 (CAPS-5)

• PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5)

• Beck Depression Inventory or PHQ-9 (to screen for comorbid depression)

• Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7)

Diagnosis (based on DSM-5 Criteria)

The client likely meets the DSM-5 criteria for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), as evidenced by:

• Exposure to actual or threatened death or serious injury

• Presence of intrusive symptoms (e.g., flashbacks, distressing dreams)

• Avoidance of trauma-related stimuli

• Negative alterations in mood and cognition

• Marked alterations in arousal and reactivity

• Duration of more than one month and significant distress or impairment

Treatment Plan

Evidence-Based Psychotherapeutic Interventions:

• Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)

  • Helps the client challenge and reframe trauma-related thoughts

  • Incorporates gradual exposure to reduce avoidance behavior

• Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

  • Targets distressing memories and promotes adaptive reprocessing

• Prolonged Exposure Therapy

  • Helps desensitize the client to trauma cues and reduce avoidance

Pharmacological Options (if needed):

• SSRIs (e.g., sertraline or paroxetine): First-line medications for PTSD

• Prazosin: For managing trauma-related nightmares

• Monitor for side effects, adherence, and response

Holistic & Supportive Interventions:

• Mindfulness and grounding techniques for managing dissociation

• Psychoeducation about PTSD for the client and family (if appropriate)

• Support groups or peer support networks APA