Three New APA Guidelines Broaden the View on Treating PTSD and Trauma

Three new APA guidelines on treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and complex trauma have been approved by APA council. These guidelines aim to help psychologists broaden their practice with adults who have experienced traumatic events and guide clinicians on how to personalize treatments while still relying on evidence-based practice. This article focuses on the content of these guidelines, including which interventions for PTSD and trauma have a strong evidence base, the special considerations that psychologists should weigh when providing trauma-informed care, and ways in which psychologists may need to pivot in their approaches to treating complex trauma. Copyright 2025. 

After reading the CE Corner article, you will be asked to complete a “Commitment-to-Change” (CTC) exercise. The CTC exercise is designed to help facilitate the translation of your learning into practice. Completion of the CTC is required prior to the completion of the CE Test based on the APA Monitor CE Corner article.

This product is not included in the APA Unlimited CE program.

New York state psychologists: This program is not currently in compliance with the unique requirements imposed by the New York State Board of Education for New York licensed psychologists CE.

• Identify interventions for PTSD and trauma with the strongest evidence base.
• Discuss special considerations that psychologists should weigh when providing trauma-informed care.
• Define complex trauma and explain ways in which psychologists may need to adjust their approach in treating complex trauma survivors.

Stephanie Pappas