Narrative reconstruction: An integrative intervention module for intrusive symptoms in PTSD patients

The high rates of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) patients who are not helped by current effective psychotherapy methods call for the development of additional new treatment methods (Hoge, 2011; Schnyder, 2005). Memory disturbances related to the lack of integration of the traumatic memory within the autobiographical knowledge base are seen as a major factor contributing to intrusion symptoms in PTSD (Brewin, 2011). This work proposes Narrative Reconstruction (NR) as a novel module for the treatment of intrusive symptoms and memory disturbances in PTSD patients. NR is a brief and focused intervention (up to 12 sessions) combining elements of cognitive-behavioral treatment (CBT) such as exposure and cognitive restructuring, albeit in a unique way, alongside psychodynamic elements. The goal of NR is to create a cohesive and chronological narrative of the trauma while simultaneously addressing the personal significance of the trauma and integrating it in the patienta's autobiographical memories. Theoretical background, treatment description, and potential therapeutic advantages are discussed. In addition, preliminary results of six PTSD patients are reported. Treatment outcome showed significant reduction in PTSD and depressive symptoms demonstrating that NR may be an effective module in the treatment of PTSD patients and encourages further study of this intervention.