Reuniting the couple: systemic couples counseling for combat veterans with co-occurring posttraumatic stress and substance use disorders

Includes bibliographical references (pages 48-67)The purpose of this project was to develop a military-specific manual-based couples counseling program for Veterans with co-occurring posttraumatic stress disorder and substance use. The manual combines pre-existing evidence-based treatments such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for PTSD and substance use with the goal of re-establishing boundaries and increasing differentiation within the couple to increase relationship satisfaction. This manual incorporates military culture and has military language within each Reuniting the Couple session. Overall, the manual emphasizes honor, courage, and a commitment to each other within the relationship