The purpose of this study is to identify how trauma-focused psychotherapy changes the function of brain circuitry in posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and how this mediates improvements in the diminished ability to experience positive emotions following a traumatic or extremely stressful life event. In this instance, the investigators will be using cognitive processing therapy (CPT), a widely-utilized and evidence-based treatment for PTSD.
English as primary language, and comprehension suitable to understand experimenter instructions.
Current and chronic syndromic PTSD, defined as being exposed to a DSM-5 Criterion A traumatic event, with the presence DSM-5 qualifying PTSD symptoms for at least 3 months, as assessed by the Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale for DSM-5.
Able and willing to undergo functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI).
Willingness to participate in repeated assessments and as part of a delayed treatment group.
Evidence of current or prior history of psychosis or bipolar disorder as evidenced by self-report or clinical interview.
Active substance dependence within the past 6 months as evidenced by clinical interview.
Current regular psychiatric medication use (i.e. antidepressants), except for as-needed benzodiazepine or opiate medication no more than three times per week, on average, or for short-duration stimulant medication for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder that can be skipped within 24 hours of study visits.
A recent (<6 months) suicide attempt or current active ideation with intent.