Brief Eclectic Psychotherapy (BEP)

Brief eclectic psychotherapy for PTSD aims to change painful thoughts and feelings that are the result of a traumatic event. While incorporating many elements found in cognitive behavioral therapy for PTSD, BEP also incorporates a psychodynamic approach with an emphasis on the emotions of shame and guilt and the relationship between patient and therapist.

This treatment is conditionally recommended for the treatment of PTSD.

As delivered in research studies underlying the clinical practice guideline, treatment consists of 16 individual sessions, each lasting between 45 minutes and one hour. As with much psychotherapy, sessions are typically scheduled once per week. Each of the 16 sessions has a specific objective. This intervention is intended for individuals who have experienced a single traumatic event.

Session 1

Treatment begins with a focus on general information about PTSD and what to expect over the course of treatment. Patients are asked to briefly describe the traumatic event that has led to the development of symptoms. Patients are encouraged to bring another person whom they feel supported by to the first session.

Sessions 2 to 6

The patient is asked to talk about the traumatic event as if it is happening in the present. Patients may bring items such as photographs or articles of clothing that remind them of the traumatic event and help them to relive it. Patients are taught relaxation exercises, such as contracting and relaxing the muscles, as that is believed to help patients concentrate. The therapist helps the patient with any distressing emotions and memories that occur. When relevant, as homework, the patient is encouraged to begin writing a letter to the person or persons whom they hold accountable for the traumatic event. The letter is to express feelings of aggression and anger but is not intended to be shared with anyone outside the treatment.

Session 7

In session 7, the patient and therapist (with the supportive person as appropriate) together assess the progress of treatment. They evaluate improvements that have been made as well as obstacles the patient may still face. Treatment is adjusted as needed.

Sessions 8 to 15

The therapist guides the patient in exploring how the traumatic event has affected the patient and what they may have learned from it. Traumatic events can change how a person views himself or herself or how the person views the world. The patient and therapist use therapy sessions to discuss these themes as they relate to the trauma.

Session 16

In the final session, a relapse prevention plan is created to review what has been learned in treatment and how it can be applied to the future. Often, a farewell ritual is also performed. The patient recognizes that the traumatic event once governed his or her life, but the PTSD symptoms and the traumatic event are now in the past. The patient, at times along with his or her support person, will say farewell to this dark period of life and celebrate better times to come.