An introduction to Nema's innovative PTSD treatment: Understand our approach and how it benefits those we serve.
Fortunately for survivors, many treatment options for PTSD exist. However, not all therapies are created equal: some treatments are more effective than others. Many survivors believe that any type of therapy will be helpful for their symptoms – but as physicians and therapists, we know that this is not always the case. In fact, some types of therapies, such as psychological debriefing, may actually be harmful or ineffective for recovery.
Because choosing the right therapy or therapist can be incredibly confusing for survivors, we only offer the most evidence-based and effective treatments for PTSD that we can. This way, survivors can rest assured they’re getting the best treatment possible with Nema Health.
We’ve spent dozens of hours poring over the research to design a therapy program rooted in evidence. Through this, we’ve come to a clinical protocol we call the Nema Method. Our approach incorporates best-in-class therapy with a rapid treatment schedule, so patients get better as quickly as possible. Our program gives patients a great shot at recovery with enduring results.
For our first treatment modality, we use a gold standard of PTSD treatment, called Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT).
CPT is a cognitive behavioral therapy that explores the relationships between situations, thoughts and feelings. Many survivors of trauma often experience shame and guilt after the event, which are often caused by thoughts of self-blame surrounding the trauma. CPT is designed to examine such thoughts, termed “stuck points,” which may not be true nor helpful for the person. CPT teaches patients a set of skills to help them systematically examine their thoughts related to their trauma. By examining the thoughts and learning to change them, patients can lessen their shame or guilt. The learned skills facilitate recovery from the event. These skills are then practiced diligently throughout the therapy, until patients feel comfortable using them on their own.
CPT is specifically designed for the treatment of PTSD. It is very well studied and works for any kind of trauma. CPT can also be used to address multiple traumas across one’s lifetime.
Our program begins with a 75-minute mental health evaluation to formally determine whether you have a diagnosis of PTSD. We will also discuss any other medical or mental health issues that you may have. We’ll discuss possible treatment options together, including Nema’s therapy program. If a patient does indeed have PTSD, they will be offered Nema’s treatment.
If you elect to start treatment, your symptoms will be measured using a PTSD scale. Symptoms are measured frequently to track improvement over time. You and your therapist will discuss when to complete treatment based on your goals and improvement. A course of CPT is generally completed in 8-15 sessions, with the clinic average numbering 12 sessions total.
At Nema, our goal is to treat PTSD as fast as possible so that you can live the life you choose. Follow up studies of CPT demonstrate that treatment gains last over time. After your treatment, you will be contacted in one month to complete a PTSD symptom scale, and may complete a “booster” session with your therapist if you like. Most patients find that practicing the skills learned in therapy is enough to address any lingering symptoms, and do not require followup.
Schedule a free 20-minute call with us today.