Diemen

Researchers are evaluating whether an intensive trauma-focused treatment program can effectively reduce symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in adults receiving their first treatment, while also assessing the societal costs compared to standard weekly treatment. This randomized controlled trial focuses on adults diagnosed with PTSD from multiple traumatic events who have had little or no prior treatment for PTSD. The study aims to determine if the intensive program can improve PTSD symptoms and be more cost-effective than typical weekly therapy. Participants are assigned to either an intensive treatment group or a standard weekly treatment group. The intensive treatment includes two weekly preparatory sessions, followed by five days of twice-daily therapy sessions consisting of prolonged exposure (PE) and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), and ends with two closing sessions focused on integration and prevention planning. This total treatment lasts six weeks and involves 800 minutes of therapy. The standard treatment group receives 800 minutes of weekly therapy over 13 to 16 weeks, using evidence-based methods such as PE, EMDR, brief eclectic psychotherapy, narrative exposure therapy, or imaginary rescripting. During the study, participants complete questionnaires and interviews at five different times over nine months: at baseline, after intensive treatment (7 weeks), after weekly treatment (17 weeks), and at 6 and 9 months follow-up. Researchers will monitor treatment adherence, symptom changes using the Clinician Administered PTSD Scale, and cost-effectiveness through quality of life and cost inventories. Continuous monitoring ensures safety and data collection throughout the study period.