The psychological treatment of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in adult refugees: A review of the current state of psychological therapies

Background: Large numbers of refugees flee their countries of origin each year. A proportion of these people will have witnessed or experienced traumatic events and may be suffering from psychological distress requiring intervention. Aims: The article aims to review the literature relating to the psychological treatment of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in adult refugees. The clinical implications of existing research and specific challenges faced by health services in meeting the mental health needs of non-western individuals are discussed. Method: A literature search of English language journals was conducted using the Web of Science, Medline and PsycInfo databases. Findings: There is a dearth of research in this area and the majority of studies conducted have significant methodological limitations. Despite this, the psychotherapeutic studies to date indicate some potentially effective treatments with traumatized refugees and have attempted to employ innovative treatment elements taking into account issues of diversity. Conclusions: Research and practice in this area is in its infancy and further research is necessary. Culturally sensitive adaptations of CBT seem promising and further research is needed to clarify the value of such specific elements in therapy. The need for greater therapist awareness of issues of diversity raises issues for training and continual professional development