A Feasibility Study of Internet Delivered Prolonged Exposure

A Feasibility Study of Internet Delivered Prolonged Exposure for Patients Wit Post-traumatic Stress Disorder

The primary objective with this study is to investigate the feasibility and acceptability of ten weeks of internet delivered prolonged exposure delivered through a digital platform with therapist support. The secondary objective is to investigate preliminary effects of internet delivered prolonged exposure in terms of reducing symptoms of post-traumatic stress, depression and increase quality of life.

The investigators will investigate internet delivered prolonged exposure delivered as a ten-week treatment comprising of six modules (psychoeducation/rational, in vivo exposure, imaginal exposure, common problems during exposure, hot spots and relapse prevention). The feasibility and acceptability and preliminary effects of treatment- and assessment procedures will be evaluated using a within-group design with repeated measurements and qualitative interviews. Recruitment is designed to be broadly inclusive with minimal exclusion criteria. Patients will be recruited from a psychiatric clinic specialized in PTSD in Stockholm, Sweden and by advertisements in newspapers and social media.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Currently primary diagnosis PTSD according to DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for PTSD
• ≥ 18 years
• Fluent in Swedish
• Signed informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• PTSD is not the primary concern
• Initiation or adjustment of any psychotropic medication within the last 4 weeks prior to commencement of treatment
• Ongoing substance dependence
• Current suicide risk meriting crisis intervention
• Psychotic disorder
• Ongoing trauma-focused psychological treatment
• Ongoing trauma-related threat (e.g. living with a violent spouse)