Alcohol Use Disorders (AUDs) and Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Treatment for Victims of Partner Violence

AUDs and PTSD Treatment for Victims of Partner Violence

The goal of this study is to evaluate a psychotherapy for PTSD and substance use disorders among women who have experienced domestic violence. The hypothesis is that women who receive present-focused, integrated treatment will have greater PTSD symptom reduction and have less substance use after treatment than women in the control condition who will receive supportive therapy based on a 12-step approach.

The goal of this study is to evaluate an integrated psychotherapy for PTSD and substance use disorders among female victims of intimate partner violence. The hypothesis is that women who receive present-focused, integrated treatment will have greater PTSD symptom reduction and have less substance use post-treatment than women in the control condition who will receive supportive therapy based on a 12-step approach.

Inclusion Criteria:

• female victims of partner violence
• at least one month out of the abusive relationship
• meet DSM-IV (American Psychiatric Association, 1994) criteria for PTSD and an alcohol use disorder
• literate in English
• have not changed psychotropic medications or dosages within the past two months and agree not to during the active phase (first 12 weeks) of the intervention
• have an identified primary care physician

Exclusion Criteria:

• moderate or severe cognitive impairment as measured by a Mini-Mental State Examination score less than or equal to 18
• Histories of psychosis or mania may be excluded because the presence of these disorders is thought to impede progress in psychotherapy