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Gielkens EMJ, Sobczak S, Gerrits N, Rosowsky E, Stas L, Rossi G, van Alphen SPJ. Feasibility of EMDR toward Personality Functioning in Older Adults with PTSD. Clin Gerontol 2024:1-12. [PMID: 38656832 DOI: 10.1080/07317115.2024.2344793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Severe posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in older adults (≥60 years) has been found to be associated with maladaptive personality functioning and personality disorders (PD). Emerging evidence in adults supports that reprocessing adverse events with Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) could improve personality functioning and reduce full PDdiagnosis. METHODS A multicenterfeasibilitystudy in 24 older PTSD-patients receiving weekly EMDR-sessions for either 3, 6 or 9 months. A linear-mixed-model was used with personality functioning (SIPP-SF) as dependent variable and time, PTSD-severity (CAPS-5), and "othertreatment" as predictor variables. Secondary, pre- and posttreatment percentages were calculated for the PDspresence. RESULTS Symptom changes over time showed a significant influence of CAPS-5 on SIPP-SF (b = -1.40, 95% CI=[-2.48 to -0.33], p = .012), no significant effect of time for total SIPP-SF, and a significant improvement of SIPP-SF "identityintegration"-scale over time (b = 9.20, 95% CI=[0.97-17.42], p = .029). There was a marginal significant effect of "othertreatment" (b = 8.42, 95% CI=[-0.30-17.13], p = .058). There was 31% full PDs-decrease. CONCLUSIONS Observed improvements in personality functioning from pre to post EMDRtreatment were explained by PTSD-severity. Identityintegration improved significantly over time. Results suggest that participants with "othertreatment" showed more severe baseline-pathology and thus lower personality functioning. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS EMDR, in addition to being a feasible treatment option for older adults with PTSD, improves personality functioning and reduces the presence of PDs over time.'
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen M J Gielkens
- Clinical center of excellence for older adults with personality disorders, Mondriaan Mental Health Centre, Heerlen-Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Department of Psychology, Personality and Psychopathology Research Group (PEPS), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Sjacko Sobczak
- Clinical center of excellence for older adults with personality disorders, Mondriaan Mental Health Centre, Heerlen-Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience; School for Mental Health and Neuroscience (MHeNs), Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Rotterdam Research Center Innovations in Care, Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Nienke Gerrits
- Clinical center of excellence for older adults with personality disorders, Mondriaan Mental Health Centre, Heerlen-Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Erlene Rosowsky
- William James College, Department of Clinical Psychology, Newton, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Department of Psychiatry, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Lara Stas
- Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Biostatistics and Medical Informatics Research Group, Brussels, Belgium
- Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Core Facility - Support for Quantitative and Qualitative Research (SQUARE), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Gina Rossi
- Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Department of Psychology, Personality and Psychopathology Research Group (PEPS), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Sebastiaan P J van Alphen
- Clinical center of excellence for older adults with personality disorders, Mondriaan Mental Health Centre, Heerlen-Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Department of Psychology, Personality and Psychopathology Research Group (PEPS), Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Medical and Clinical Psychology, Tilburg University, Tilburg, The Netherlands
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Aujoulat C, Vancappel A, Tapia G. [Effectiveness of psychotherapy on dissociative symptoms in adult populations: A PRISMA systematic review]. L'ENCEPHALE 2024:S0013-7006(24)00044-7. [PMID: 38523025 DOI: 10.1016/j.encep.2024.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Dissociation is a psychological process in reaction to threat which can be found in many psychiatric conditions. Dissociative symptoms can become very disabling, whether in daily life or in care. Nevertheless, few studies seem to have examined the efficacy of psychotherapy on the latter and its relevance as a therapeutic target. METHOD A systematic review of the literature (PRISMA) on the efficacy of psychotherapy on dissociative symptoms in adults with mental disorders was conducted. Effectiveness was considered in terms of reduction in dissociative symptomatology. The search was conducted on Scopus, PubMed and PsycInfo. Overall, 50 full-text articles were evaluated. RESULTS Fourteen studies were included in the review. In all, 711 adult subjects with post-traumatic stress disorder, borderline personality disorder or dissociative disorder were included. Overall, this systematic review reports a reduction in dissociative symptoms associated with a variety of psychotherapeutic interventions, without allowing any conclusions to be drawn on the superiority of one psychotherapy over another. DISCUSSION The conclusions of this work highlight three possible therapeutic orientations for reducing dissociative symptoms: (i) by reintegrating the dynamic subsystems, (ii) by treating the cognitive processes underlying dissociation, and (iii) by acting on the processes identified as common to the effectiveness of psychotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alexis Vancappel
- Laboratoire QualiPsy, EE 1901, université de Tours, Tours, France; Pôle Psychiatrie-addictologie, clinique psychiatrique universitaire - centre régional de psychotraumatologie-CVL, CHRU de Tours, Tours, France
| | - Géraldine Tapia
- Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France; Université de Bordeaux, LabPsy, UR 4139, 33000 Bordeaux, France.
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Reid J, Cole C, Malik N, Bell V, Bloomfield M. The effectiveness and tolerability of trauma-focused psychotherapies for psychotic symptoms: A systematic review of trauma-focused psychotherapies. Int J Methods Psychiatr Res 2024; 33:e2005. [PMID: 38441953 PMCID: PMC10914124 DOI: 10.1002/mpr.2005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Psychological trauma is an established risk factor for psychosis. Trauma-focused psychotherapies (TFPT) have been suggested as a potential treatment for reducing psychotic symptoms in those who have experienced trauma. We therefore sought to investigate the effectiveness, tolerability, and acceptability of TFPT for psychotic symptoms. METHODS We conducted a systematic review of studies of any form of TFPT that measured psychotic symptoms across a broad range of diagnoses. RESULTS From 2584 papers initially identified, 17 studies (857 participants) met eligibility criteria. TFPT were found to be well tolerated, with very few adverse events. Acceptability was also high, with a mean dropout rate of 20%. CONCLUSIONS Whilst the evidence of effectiveness for TFPT in reducing psychotic symptoms is weak, we found tentative evidence in favour of exposure-based interventions. Methodologically rigorous trials investigating the efficacy of TFPT for the treatment of psychotic symptoms are needed to assess this promising intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan Reid
- Translational Psychiatry Research GroupDivision of PsychiatryResearch Department of Mental Health NeuroscienceInstitute of Mental HealthUniversity College LondonLondonUK
| | - Charles Cole
- Department of Clinical, Educational and Health PsychologyUniversity College LondonLondonUK
| | | | - Vaughan Bell
- Department of Clinical, Educational and Health PsychologyUniversity College LondonLondonUK
| | - Michael Bloomfield
- Translational Psychiatry Research GroupDivision of PsychiatryResearch Department of Mental Health NeuroscienceInstitute of Mental HealthUniversity College LondonLondonUK
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Burback L, Yap S, Purdon SE, Abba-Aji A, O’Shea K, Brémault-Phillips S, Greenshaw AJ, Winkler O. Randomized controlled trial investigating web-based, therapist delivered eye movement desensitization and reprocessing for adults with suicidal ideation. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1361086. [PMID: 38435978 PMCID: PMC10904458 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1361086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Promising preliminary evidence suggests that EMDR may reduce suicidal ideation (SI) when used to treat Major Depressive Disorder, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, and trauma symptoms in the context of acute mental health crises. EMDR has never been tested specifically for treating SI, and there is a lack of data regarding the safety and effectiveness of web-based, therapist-delivered EMDR in populations with known SI. The primary objective of this study was to investigate the impact of web-based, therapist-delivered EMDR, targeting experiences associated with suicidal thinking. Secondary objectives included examining the effect of EMDR treatment on symptoms of depression, anxiety, posttraumatic stress, emotional dysregulation, and dissociation, as well as safety and attrition. Methods This randomized control trial (ClinicalTrials.gov ID number: NCT04181047) assigned adult outpatients reporting SI to either a web-based EMDR intervention or a treatment as usual (TAU) group. TAU included primary and mental health services available within the Canadian public health system. Participants in the EMDR group received up to 12 web-based EMDR desensitization sessions, delivered twice weekly during the COVID-19 pandemic (2021-2023). The Health Research Ethics Board at the University of Alberta approved the protocol prior to initiation of data collection for this study (protocol ID number: Pro00090989). Results Forty-two adult outpatients received either EMDR (n=20) or TAU (n=22). Participants reported a high prevalence of early onset and chronic SI, and there was a high rate of psychiatric comorbidity. In the EMDR group, median SI, depression, anxiety, and posttraumatic symptom scale scores decreased from baseline to the four month follow-up. In the TAU group, only the median SI and posttraumatic symptom scale scores decreased from baseline to four month follow up. Although sample size precludes direct comparison, there were numerically fewer adverse events and fewer dropouts in the EMDR group relative to the TAU group. Conclusion Study results provide promising preliminary evidence that web-based EMDR may be a viable delivery approach to address SI. In this complex population, a short treatment course was associated with reductions of SI and other symptoms across multiple diagnostic categories. Further investigation is warranted to verify and extend these results. Clinical Trial Registration https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT04181047?id=NCT04181047&rank=1, identifier NCT04181047.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Burback
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Alberta Hospital Edmonton, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Heroes in Mind, Advocacy and Research Consortium, Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Sidney Yap
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Scot E. Purdon
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Adam Abba-Aji
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Alberta Hospital Edmonton, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Katie O’Shea
- Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing International Association, Austin, TX, United States
| | - Suzette Brémault-Phillips
- Heroes in Mind, Advocacy and Research Consortium, Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Andrew J. Greenshaw
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Olga Winkler
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Alberta Hospital Edmonton, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Heroes in Mind, Advocacy and Research Consortium, Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Edmonton, AB, Canada
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King JD, Cheng S, Fok MLY, Pappa S, Munjiza J. Interventions to improve the sleep quality of adults with personality disorder: A systematic review. Personal Ment Health 2024; 18:19-31. [PMID: 37674476 DOI: 10.1002/pmh.1591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
Poor quality sleep is common for people who have a diagnosis of personality disorder (PD). Core cognitive and behavioral features of PD may cause and perpetuate poor sleep, but to date, no review has collated the evidence on the efficacy of interventions to improve sleep quality for people with PD. Structured searches for interventional studies among adults with PD and reporting validated measures of sleep quality were conducted up to November 2022 in multiple databases. Single-case reports were excluded. Study quality was assessed with standardized risk of bias tools. Unreported data was sought systematically from authors. This review was pre-registered with an international prospective register of systematic reviews (PROSPERO) (CRD42021282105). Of the 3503 identified studies, nine met inclusion criteria, representing a range of psychological, pharmaceutical, and other interventions and outcome measures. Meta-analytic methods were not feasible because of the serious risk of bias in all studies, and results were therefore synthesized narratively. There is limited and low-quality evidence of the effects of a variety of interventions to improve the sleep quality of people living with PD. Further research might consider specifically including people diagnosed with PD in trials of sleep interventions and using sleep outcome measures in trials of established PD treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob D King
- Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Division of Psychiatry, Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Shee Cheng
- Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | | | - Sofia Pappa
- Division of Psychiatry, Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK
- West London NHS Trust, Southhall, UK
| | - Jasna Munjiza
- Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Division of Psychiatry, Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK
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De Jongh A, Hafkemeijer L, Hofman S, Slotema K, Hornsveld H. The AIP model as a theoretical framework for the treatment of personality disorders with EMDR therapy. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1331876. [PMID: 38304286 PMCID: PMC10832037 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1331876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Research has shown that the impact of traumatic events and circumstances on individuals is cumulative and potentially has a wide range of harmful consequences, including negative consequences on mental health. One such consequence is the development of a personality disorder, a persistent mental condition characterized by a pronounced pattern of difficulties in impulse control, emotional regulation, cognitive functions, self-esteem, and interpersonal relationships. A wide array of studies indicates that the personal history of individuals with a personality disorder is often marked by exposure to traumatic events or other types of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). Because existing treatments for personality disorders are usually long and costly, it is essential to continue exploring alternative and complementary interventions. Nowadays, knowledge and clinical experience in regard to personality disorders have been gained in addressing ACEs by processing memories of these events through eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. In this paper, we present a theoretical framework for this treatment approach, based on Shapiro's Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model, describe its current empirical basis, and provide guidance on how to formulate a useful case conceptualization that can serve as a basis for the treatment of personality disorders with EMDR therapy. This approach is illustrated with a case example.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ad De Jongh
- Research Department, PSYTREC, Bilthoven, Netherlands
- Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA), University of Amsterdam and VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- School of Psychology, Queen’s University, Belfast, Ireland
- Institute of Health and Society, University of Worcester, Worcester, United Kingdom
- School of Health Sciences, Salford University, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | | | - Simon Hofman
- Department of Personality Disorders, Parnassia Psychiatric Institute, The Hague, Netherlands
| | - Karin Slotema
- Department of Personality Disorders, Parnassia Psychiatric Institute, The Hague, Netherlands
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Erasmus University Rotterdam, The Hague, Netherlands
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Wilhelmus B, Marissen MAE, van den Berg D, Driessen A, Deen ML, Slotema K. Adding EMDR for PTSD at the onset of treatment of borderline personality disorder: A pilot study. J Behav Ther Exp Psychiatry 2023; 79:101834. [PMID: 36645926 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbtep.2023.101834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) is an effective treatment for individuals suffering from posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, EMDR is not typically offered to people with PTSD who also meet the criteria for borderline personality disorder (BPD). This study examines the feasibility and clinical benefits of EMDR for PTSD delivered in addition to the onset of treatment as usual (TAU) for BPD. METHODS In a non-concurrent, multiple baseline design, 12 patients with BPD and PTSD received fifteen weekly 45-min sessions of TAU. During this period, eight weekly 90-min EMDR sessions were added. Outcome measures were obtained weekly for self-reported PTSD symptoms (PTSD checklist for DSM-5), levels of psychopathology (Brief Symptom Checklist), and the effect of psychopathology on different areas of life (Sheehan Disability Scale). RESULTS 9 participants completed the treatment protocol. In the EMDR phase, PTSD severity scores decreased significantly between sessions, while no between-session drop in scores occurred during the TAU only phase. Similar results were obtained for general symptoms and disability. No adverse events were reported. LIMITATIONS Results on the efficacy and safety of EMDR in patients with BPD and PTSD need to be replicated in larger samples and in RCTs before they can be generalized to the entire population. CONCLUSIONS The results of our study suggest that EMDR may be feasible and effective in reducing PTSD symptoms in patients concurrently receiving BPD treatment. EMDR appears to be a promising intervention for patients with BPD and comorbid PTSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bobbie Wilhelmus
- Parnassia Psychiatric Institute, Lijnbaan 4, 2512, VE, The Hague, the Netherlands.
| | - Marlies A E Marissen
- Erasmus School of Social and Behavioural Sciences, Burg. Oudlaan 50, 3062, PA, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - David van den Berg
- Parnassia Psychiatric Institute, Lijnbaan 4, 2512, VE, The Hague, the Netherlands; Department of Clinical Psychology, VU University and Amsterdam Public Health Research, van der Boechorststraat 7, 1081, BT, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Annemieke Driessen
- Parnassia Psychiatric Institute, Lijnbaan 4, 2512, VE, The Hague, the Netherlands.
| | - Mathijs L Deen
- Parnassia Psychiatric Institute, Lijnbaan 4, 2512, VE, The Hague, the Netherlands.
| | - Karin Slotema
- Parnassia Psychiatric Institute, Lijnbaan 4, 2512, VE, The Hague, the Netherlands; Erasmus School of Social and Behavioural Sciences, Burg. Oudlaan 50, 3062, PA, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
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Hofman S, Hafkemeijer L, de Jongh A, Starrenburg A, Slotema K. Trauma-focused EMDR for Personality disorders among Outpatients (TEMPO): study protocol for a multi-centre, single-blind, randomized controlled trial. Trials 2022; 23:196. [PMID: 35246228 PMCID: PMC8896281 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-022-06082-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Existing recommended treatment options for personality disorders (PDs) are extensive and costly. There is emerging evidence indicating that trauma-focused treatment using eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy aimed at resolving memories of individuals’ adverse events can be beneficial for this target group within a relatively short time frame. The primary purpose of the present study is to determine the effectiveness of EMDR therapy versus waiting list in reducing PD symptom severity. Furthermore, the effects of EMDR therapy on trauma symptom severity, loss of diagnosis, personal functioning, quality of life, and mental health outcomes will be determined. In addition, the cost-effectiveness of EMDR therapy in the treatment of PDs is investigated. Moreover, predictors of treatment success, symptom deterioration and treatment discontinuation will be assessed. Lastly, experiences with EMDR therapy will be explored. Method In total, 159 patients with a PD will be included in a large multicentre single-blind randomized controlled trial. The Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-5 Personality Disorders will be used to determine the presence of a PD. Participants will be allocated to either a treatment condition with EMDR therapy (ten biweekly 90-min sessions) or a waiting list. Three months after potential treatment with EMDR therapy, patients can receive treatment as usual for their PD. All participants are subject to single-blinded baseline, post-intervention and 3-, 6- and 12-month follow-up assessments. The primary outcome measures are the Assessment of DSM-IV Personality Disorders and the Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale for DSM-5. For cost-effectiveness, the Treatment Inventory of Costs in Patients with psychiatric disorders, EuroQol-5D-3L, and the Mental Health Quality of Life Questionnaire will be administered. The PTSD Checklist for DSM-5, Brief State Paranoia Checklist and Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale will be used to further index trauma symptom severity. Type of trauma is identified at baseline with the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire-SF and Life Events Checklist for the DSM-5. Personal functioning and health outcome are assessed with the Level of Personality Functioning Scale-BF 2.0, Outcome Questionnaire-45 and Mental Health Quality of Life Questionnaire. Experiences with EMDR therapy of patients in the EMDR therapy condition are explored with a semi-structured interview at post-intervention. Discussion It is expected that the results of this study will contribute to knowledge about the effectiveness, and cost-effectiveness of trauma-focused treatment using EMDR therapy in individuals diagnosed with a PD. Follow-up data provide documentation of long-term effects of EMDR therapy on various outcome variables, most importantly the reduction of PD symptom severity and loss of diagnoses. Trial registration Netherlands Trial Register NL9078. Registered on 31 November 2020
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Hofman
- Department of Personality Disorders, Parnassia Psychiatric Institute, Lijnbaan 4, 2512VA, The Hague, The Netherlands
| | | | - Ad de Jongh
- Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA), University of Amsterdam and VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Research Department, PSYTREC, Bilthoven, The Netherlands.,School of Health Sciences, Salford University, Manchester, UK.,Institute of Health and Society, University of Worcester, Worcester, UK.,School of Psychology, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland
| | | | - Karin Slotema
- Department of Personality Disorders, Parnassia Psychiatric Institute, Lijnbaan 4, 2512VA, The Hague, The Netherlands. .,Department of Psychology, Education and Child Studies, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
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Niemantsverdriet MBA, van Veen RJB, Slotema CW, Franken IHA, Verbraak MJPM, Deen M, van der Gaag M. Characteristics and stability of hallucinations and delusions in patients with borderline personality disorder. Compr Psychiatry 2022; 113:152290. [PMID: 34959004 DOI: 10.1016/j.comppsych.2021.152290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Revised: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Psychotic features have been part of the description of the borderline personality disorder (BPD) ever since the concept "borderline" was introduced. However, there is still much to learn about the presence and characteristics of delusions and about the stability of both hallucinations and delusions in patients with BPD. METHODS A follow-up study was conducted in 326 BPD outpatients (median time between baseline and follow-up = 3.16 years). Data were collected via telephone (n = 267) and face-to-face interviews (n = 60) including the Comprehensive Assessment of Symptoms and History interview, Positive And Negative Syndrome Scale and the Psychotic Symptom Rating Scale. RESULTS The point prevalence of delusions was 26%, with a median strong delusion conviction. For the group as a whole, the presence and severity of both hallucinations and delusions was found to be stable at follow-up. Participants with persistent hallucinations experienced more comorbid psychiatric disorders, and they differed from those with intermittent or sporadic hallucinations with their hallucinations being characterized by a higher frequency, causing a higher intensity of distress and more disruption in daytime or social activities. CONCLUSIONS Delusions in patients with BPD occur frequently and cause distress. Contrary to tenacious beliefs, hallucinations and delusions in participants with BPD are often present in an intermittent or persistent pattern. Persistent hallucinations can be severe, causing disruption of life. Overall, we advise to refrain from terms such as "pseudo", or assume transience when encountering psychotic phenomena in patients with BPD, but rather to carefully assess these experiences and initiate a tailor-made treatment plan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria B A Niemantsverdriet
- Department of Psychology, Education & Child Studies, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Personality Disorders, Parnassia Psychiatric Institute, The Hague, the Netherlands; Pro Persona Mental Health Care, Wolfheze, the Netherlands.
| | - Rosemarij J B van Veen
- Department of Personality Disorders, Parnassia Psychiatric Institute, The Hague, the Netherlands
| | - Christina W Slotema
- Department of Psychology, Education & Child Studies, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Personality Disorders, Parnassia Psychiatric Institute, The Hague, the Netherlands
| | - Ingmar H A Franken
- Department of Psychology, Education & Child Studies, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - Mathijs Deen
- Department of Personality Disorders, Parnassia Psychiatric Institute, The Hague, the Netherlands
| | - Mark van der Gaag
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, VU University, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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Zeifman RJ, Landy MSH, Liebman RE, Fitzpatrick S, Monson CM. Optimizing treatment for comorbid borderline personality disorder and posttraumatic stress disorder: A systematic review of psychotherapeutic approaches and treatment efficacy. Clin Psychol Rev 2021; 86:102030. [PMID: 33894491 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpr.2021.102030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2020] [Revised: 04/08/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Comorbid borderline personality disorder (BPD) and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a severe and complicated clinical presentation characterized by especially high rates of suicide, healthcare utilization, and psychosocial impairment. Although guidelines exist for treating each of these disorders alone, there remains limited guidance on the optimal treatment in cases where BPD and PTSD co-occur. Therefore, this systematic review synthesizes the existing research on the treatment of BPD-PTSD with the aim of optimizing treatment for this population. First, the prevalence and clinical severity of comorbid BPD-PTSD is reviewed. Next, we describe the results of our systematic review, which identified 21 articles that examined treatment outcomes in the context of BPD-PTSD or subclinical BPD-PTSD. Based on our results, we describe existing psychotherapeutic approaches, including BPD-specific treatments, trauma-focused and non-trauma-focused treatments for PTSD, and stage-based treatments for BPD-PTSD. We also summarize BPD-PTSD treatment outcomes, including whether each disorder interferes with treatment and recovery of the other. Results related to treatment safety and concerns regarding conducting trauma-focused treatment for BPD-PTSD are addressed. We end by highlighting important gaps in the literature and provide recommendations for further research.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Meredith S H Landy
- Department of Psychology, Ryerson University, Toronto, Canada; Mind Beacon Health Inc., Toronto, Canada
| | - Rachel E Liebman
- Department of Psychology, Ryerson University, Toronto, Canada; Department of Psychology, York University, Toronto, Canada
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Dansiger S, Chabra R, Emmel L, Kovacs J. The MET(T)A Protocol: Mindfulness and EMDR Treatment Template for Agencies. SUBSTANCE ABUSE-RESEARCH AND TREATMENT 2020; 14:1178221820977483. [PMID: 33311983 PMCID: PMC7716072 DOI: 10.1177/1178221820977483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Accepted: 10/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Evidence indicating the relationship between trauma and substance use disorders (SUDs), in addition to relapse and treatment retention rates for this population, suggests there is a need for a trauma-focused solution to treat SUDs. Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy has been studied extensively as an effective approach for treating trauma and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). The research evaluating its treatment for other mental health disorders such as SUDs is promising. Merging mindfulness and ethical mindfulness practices with EMDR therapy lends additional evidence-based elements to make the case for this integrative system of treatment to be studied as a trauma-focused primary psychotherapy to treat SUDs. The resulting treatment, the MET(T)A Protocol (Mindfulness and EMDR Treatment Template for Agencies), has been created to address the need for a trauma-focused solution to treat SUDs. Procedures of the MET(T)A Protocol as applied in each of the 8 phases of EMDR therapy are described in detail. Clinical examples are provided to explain the application of the MET(T)A Protocol.
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Hafkemeijer L, de Jongh A, van der Palen J, Starrenburg A. Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) in patients with a personality disorder. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2020; 11:1838777. [PMID: 33425243 PMCID: PMC7755323 DOI: 10.1080/20008198.2020.1838777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Little is known about the effects of targeting memories of adverse (childhood) events in people with a personality disorder (PD). Objective: Determining the effectiveness of brief EMDR therapy in individuals with PD. Method: In a randomized-controlled trial, 97 outpatients with a PD as main diagnosis were allocated to either five (90 minutes) sessions of EMDR therapy (n = 51) or a waiting list (WL) control condition (n = 46) followed by 3 months of treatment as usual for their PD. Individuals with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) were excluded. Measurements were performed on psychological symptoms, psychological distress, and personality dysfunctioning. Outcomes were compared at baseline, post-treatment, and at 3-month follow up. Data were analysed as intent-to-treat with linear mixed models. Results: EMDR therapy yielded significant improvements with medium to large effect sizes for the primary outcomes after treatment, i.e. psychological symptoms (EMDR: d =.42; control group: d =.07), psychological distress (EMDR: d =.69; control group: d =.29), and personality functioning (EMDR: d =.41; control group: d = -.10) within groups. At 3-month follow-up, after 3 months of TAU, improvements were maintained. Significant differences were found between both groups regarding all outcome measures in favour of the EMDR group at post-treatment (ds between -.62 and -.65), and at follow-up, after 3 months of TAU (ds between -.45 and -.53). Conclusions: The results suggest that EMDR therapy can be beneficial in the treatment of patients with PDs. More rigorous outcome research examining long-term effects and using a longer treatment track is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ad de Jongh
- Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA), University of Amsterdam and VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Research Department, PSYTREC, Bilthoven, The Netherlands.,School of Health Sciences, Salford University, Manchester, UK.,Institute of Health and Society, University of Worcester, Worcester, UK.,School of Psychology, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland
| | - Job van der Palen
- Department of Research Methodology, Measurement and Data Analysis, University of Twente, Enschede & Department of Epidemiology, Medisch Spectrum Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
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Slotema CW, Wilhelmus B, Arends LR, Franken IHA. Psychotherapy for posttraumatic stress disorder in patients with borderline personality disorder: a systematic review and meta-analysis of its efficacy and safety. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2020; 11:1796188. [PMID: 33062206 PMCID: PMC7534189 DOI: 10.1080/20008198.2020.1796188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Revised: 07/05/2020] [Accepted: 07/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is common in patients with personality disorders. This comorbidity is accompanied by a lower quality of life, and a higher risk of suicide attempts than patients with only one of these diagnoses. Objective: The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate the scientific evidence of the efficacy of PTSD treatments for this population. Method: A literature search was performed from 1946 through June 2020. Standardized mean effect sizes of psychotherapy for PTSD were computed. Results: The literature search revealed that psychotherapy was the only intervention that was systematically explored. Fourteen studies were included. In 12 of these studies solely patients with borderline personality disorder participated. Analysis of the four RCTs showed a significant, moderate to high standardized effect size for reducing PTSD symptom severity (Hedges' g = 0.54), with effects being maintained at least 3 months (Hedges' g = 0.82). Effect sizes for all studies were also significant, with moderate to high standardized values for symptoms of PTSD (Hedges' g = 1.04). PTSD improvements were again maintained at 3-month follow-up and beyond (Hedges' g = 0.98). In addition, a significant decrease in symptoms of depression, anxiety, borderline symptoms, and PTSD in patients with borderline personality disorder could be revealed for all studies (Hedges' g 0.48-1.04). No increase in self-injurious behaviour, suicide attempts, or hospitalization was observed, while the mean weighted dropout rate during PTSD treatment was 17%. Conclusions: Psychotherapy for PTSD is efficacious and safe for patients with borderline personality disorder and should not be withheld from these vulnerable individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina W. Slotema
- Department of Personality Disorders, Parnassia Psychiatric Institute, The Hague, the Netherlands
| | - Bobbie Wilhelmus
- Department of Personality Disorders, Parnassia Psychiatric Institute, The Hague, the Netherlands
| | - Lidia R. Arends
- Department of Psychology, Education and Child Studies, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ingmar H. A. Franken
- Department of Psychology, Education and Child Studies, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
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Gainer D, Alam S, Alam H, Redding H. A FLASH OF HOPE: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy. INNOVATIONS IN CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCE 2020; 17:12-20. [PMID: 33520399 PMCID: PMC7839656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
DEPARTMENT EDITORS Julie P. Gentile, MD Professor and Chair, Department of Psychiatry, Wright State University, Boonshoft School of Medicine, Dayton, Ohio Allison E. Cowan, MD Associate Professor, Department of Psychiatry, Wright State University, Boonshoft School of Medicine, Dayton, Ohio EDITORS' NOTE The patient cases presented in Psychotherapy Rounds are composite cases written to illustrate certain diagnostic characteristics and to instruct on treatment techniques. The composite cases are not real patients in treatment. Any resemblance to a real patient is purely coincidental. ABSTRACT Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) is a specific treatment modality that utilizes bilateral stimulation to help individuals who have experienced trauma. This stimulation can occur in a variety of forms, including left-right eye movements, tapping on the knees, headphones, or handheld buzzers, known as tappers. This type of psychotherapy allows the individuals to redefine their self-assessment and responses to a given traumatic event in eight defined steps. While EMDR is relatively new type of psychotherapy, existing literature has demonstrated positive results using this form of therapy when treating patients with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) by utilizing eye movements to detract from negative conceptualizations as a response to a specific trigger, while reaffirming positive self-assessments. Research indicates that EMDR could be a promising treatment for mental health issues other than PTSD, including bipolar disorder, substance use disorders, and depressive disorders. In this article, the eight fundamental processes of EMDR are illustrated through a composite case vignette and examined alongside relevant research regarding its efficacy in treating PTSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle Gainer
- Dr. Gainer, Sarah Alam, and Ms. Redding are with Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine in Fairborn, Ohio. Harris Alam is with University of Central Florida in Orlando, Florida
| | - Sarah Alam
- Dr. Gainer, Sarah Alam, and Ms. Redding are with Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine in Fairborn, Ohio. Harris Alam is with University of Central Florida in Orlando, Florida
| | - Harris Alam
- Dr. Gainer, Sarah Alam, and Ms. Redding are with Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine in Fairborn, Ohio. Harris Alam is with University of Central Florida in Orlando, Florida
| | - Hannah Redding
- Dr. Gainer, Sarah Alam, and Ms. Redding are with Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine in Fairborn, Ohio. Harris Alam is with University of Central Florida in Orlando, Florida
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15
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De Jongh A, Groenland GN, Sanches S, Bongaerts H, Voorendonk EM, Van Minnen A. The impact of brief intensive trauma-focused treatment for PTSD on symptoms of borderline personality disorder. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2020; 11:1721142. [PMID: 32128048 PMCID: PMC7034475 DOI: 10.1080/20008198.2020.1721142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2019] [Revised: 01/08/2020] [Accepted: 01/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: It is generally recommended to exercise caution in applying trauma-focused treatment to individuals with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and comorbid borderline personality disorder (BPD). Objective: To investigate the effects of a brief, intensive, direct trauma-focused treatment programme for individuals with PTSD on BPD symptom severity. Methods: Individuals (n = 72) with severe PTSD (87.5% had one or more comorbidities; 52.8% fulfilled the criteria for the dissociative subtype of PTSD) due to multiple traumas (e.g. 90.3% sexual abuse) participated in an intensive eight-day trauma-focused treatment programme consisting of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) and prolonged exposure (PE) therapy, physical activity, and psychoeducation. Treatment did not include any form of stabilization (e.g. emotion regulation training) prior to trauma-focused therapy. Assessments took place at pre- and post-treatment (Borderline Symptom List, BSL-23; PTSD symptom severity, Clinician Administered PTSD Scale for DSM-5, CAPS-5), and across the eight treatment days (PTSD Checklist, PCL-5). Results: Treatment resulted in significant decreases of BPD symptoms (Cohen's d = 0.70). Of the 35 patients with a positive screen for BPD at pre-treatment, 32.7% lost their positive screen at post-treatment. No adverse events nor dropouts occurred during the study time frame, and none of the patients experienced symptom deterioration in response to treatment. Conclusion: The results suggest that an intensive trauma-focused treatment is a feasible and safe treatment for PTSD patients with clinically elevated symptoms of BPD, and that BPD symptoms decrease along with the PTSD symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- A De Jongh
- Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA), University of Amsterdam and VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Psychotrauma Expertise Centre (PSYTREC), Bilthoven, The Netherlands.,School of Health Sciences, Salford University, Manchester, UK.,Institute of Health and Society, University of Worcester, Worcester, UK.,School of Psychology, Queen's University, Belfast, Northern Ireland
| | - G N Groenland
- Psychotrauma Expertise Centre (PSYTREC), Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - S Sanches
- Psychotrauma Expertise Centre (PSYTREC), Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - H Bongaerts
- Psychotrauma Expertise Centre (PSYTREC), Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - E M Voorendonk
- Psychotrauma Expertise Centre (PSYTREC), Bilthoven, The Netherlands.,Behavioural Science Institute (BSI), Radboud University Nijmegen, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - A Van Minnen
- Psychotrauma Expertise Centre (PSYTREC), Bilthoven, The Netherlands.,Behavioural Science Institute (BSI), Radboud University Nijmegen, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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Olff M, Amstadter A, Armour C, Birkeland MS, Bui E, Cloitre M, Ehlers A, Ford JD, Greene T, Hansen M, Lanius R, Roberts N, Rosner R, Thoresen S. A decennial review of psychotraumatology: what did we learn and where are we going? Eur J Psychotraumatol 2019; 10:1672948. [PMID: 31897268 PMCID: PMC6924542 DOI: 10.1080/20008198.2019.1672948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
On 6 December 2019 we start the 10th year of the European Journal of Psychotraumatogy (EJPT), a full Open Access journal on psychotrauma. This editorial is part of a special issue/collection celebrating the 10 years anniversary of the journal where we will acknowledge some of our most impactful articles of the past decade (also discussed below and marked with * in the reference list). In this editorial the editors present a decennial review of the field addressing a range of topics that are core to both the journal and to psychotraumatology as a discipline. These include neurobiological developments (genomics, neuroimaging and neuroendocrine research), forms of trauma exposure and impact across the lifespan, mass trauma and early interventions, work-related trauma, trauma in refugee populations, and the potential consequences of trauma such as PTSD or Complex PTSD, but also resilience. We address innovations in psychological, medication (enhanced) and technology-assisted treatments, mediators and moderators like social support and finally how new research methods help us to gain insights in symptom structures or to better predict symptom development or treatment success. We aimed to answer three questions 1. Where did we stand in 2010? 2. What did we learn in the past 10 years? 3. What are our knowledge gaps? We conclude with a number of recommendations concerning top priorities for the future direction of the field of psychotraumatology and correspondingly the journal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miranda Olff
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam
University Medical Centers (location AMC), University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam
Neuroscience, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- ARQ National Psychotrauma
Centre, Diemen, The Netherlands
| | - Ananda Amstadter
- Departemnts of Psychiatry, Psychology, &
Human and Molecular Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond,
USA
| | - Cherie Armour
- School of Psychology, Queens University
Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - Marianne S. Birkeland
- Section for implementation and treatment
research, Norwegian Centre for Violence and Traumatic Stress Studies, Oslo
Norway
| | - Eric Bui
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts
General Hospital & Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA,
USA
| | - Marylene Cloitre
- National Center for PTSD Dissemination and
Training Division, Palo Alto, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral
Sciences, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Anke Ehlers
- Department of Experimental Psychology,
University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Julian D. Ford
- Department of Psychiatry, University of
Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, USA
| | - Talya Greene
- Department of Community Mental Health,
University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Maj Hansen
- Department of Psychology,
Odense, Denmark
| | - Ruth Lanius
- Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Research
Unit, Western University of Canada, London, ON,
Canada
| | - Neil Roberts
- Psychology and Psychological Therapies
Directorate, Cardiff & Vale University Health Board, Cardiff,
UK
- Division of Psychological Medicine &
Clinical Neurosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff,
UK
| | - Rita Rosner
- Department of Clinical and Biological
Psychology, KU Eichstaett-Ingolstadt, Eichstaett,
Germany
| | - Siri Thoresen
- Section for trauma, catastrophes and forced
migration – children and youth, Norwegian Centre for Violence and Traumatic Stress
Studies, Oslo, Norway
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