History and Preparation Phases

• Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and EMDR Research by Francine Shapiro, 8/4/97
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    • Context Specific by Francine Shapiro, 11/29/97
      
      

For an obvious and straightforward case of PTSD, with a well-balanced client with no pre-morbid pathology the history taking and preparation can be very short. It would not be unusual to complete these in one session. The DES and IES are short and straighforward, supplemented with quesioning about premorbid functioning, and any similar occurrences. If there were no previous complaints, then clearly the history-taking will be comparatively rapid. Preparation includes the utilization of self-control techniques, explanations, etc. A client who can easily and appropriately respond can be quickly treated. Of course, it could turn out after the PTSD is successfully treated that other areas emerge which could be beneficially addressed. Nevertheless, for many clients, the sole complaint may be the single-trauma PTSD and therapy can be quickly concluded.

However, clients coming to therapy for more complex reasons, will need a longer time in the history-taking and preparation phases. It might be best to think of the time/problem ratio in terms of the bell-shaped curve.

• 3-Session figure by Susan Rogers, 12/3/97