Exposure, Relaxation, & Rescripting Therapy-Child

Exposure, Relaxation, & Rescripting Therapy-Child

Untreated trauma-related nightmares and sleep-related disorders are associated with chronic health problems, burdening both the suffering individual and the health-care system. The study implements an innovative, cost-efficient, nightmare treatment for trauma-exposed children. It is the first randomized clinical trial with children, adapting an efficacious adult therapy to a 5-session nightmare treatment for 5-17 year-olds. Trauma nightmares are a mechanism in development and maintenance of secondary post-trauma psychopathology, medical problems and family dysfunction. Therefore, this treatment may prevent long-term secondary health and behavioral problems. It provides a viable healthcare option to Oklahomans, lessening long-term financial medical and behavioral health expenses. Scientific models currently view PTSD treatment as primary, often leaving nightmares untreated. That approach does not address the pernicious impact of trauma-nightmares in individuals with sub-threshold PTSD or whose nightmares are a primary condition. The theoretical innovation of this therapy can advance the field's understanding of the development of trauma sequelae.

Inclusion Criteria:

• children age 5-17 with traumatic or potentially traumatic/adverse experiences and nightmares occurring at least once per week over a minimum of one month
• have a parent or legal guardian who is able to participate in treatment assignments at home and be able to read and speak English

Exclusion Criteria:

• adult, no traumatic experience, no nightmares, apparent psychosis, pervasive developmental disorder, or mental retardation, not able to read and speak English
• in order to ensure the verbal comprehension of the child, the PPVT will be used to help evaluate if a child is suitable for treatment, as an index to ensure they can verbally comprehend the cognitive component of treatment