Concurrent treatment of PTSD and alcohol use disorder via telehealth in a female Iraq veteran

Am J Addict. 2017 Mar;26(2):112-114. doi: 10.1111/ajad.12481. Epub 2017 Jan 24.

Abstract

Background and objectives: A growing literature provides evidence for the use of integrated treatments (e.g., Concurrent Treatment of PTSD and Substance Use Disorders Using Prolonged Exposure; COPE); however, no known studies have applied COPE via telehealth.

Method: COPE was delivered via telehealth to treat one black female veteran with combat trauma and alcohol use disorder.

Results: The patient demonstrated significant reductions in alcohol consumption and PTSD and depressive symptoms.

Conclusions and scientific significance: Although preliminary, findings demonstrate that integrated treatment via telehealth is feasible and effective, and may be useful for female veterans reluctant to seek services at male-dominated VAMCs. (Am J Addict 2017;26:112-114).

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Alcohol Drinking
  • Alcohol-Related Disorders* / complications
  • Alcohol-Related Disorders* / diagnosis
  • Alcohol-Related Disorders* / psychology
  • Alcohol-Related Disorders* / therapy
  • Black or African American
  • Combat Disorders* / complications
  • Combat Disorders* / diagnosis
  • Combat Disorders* / psychology
  • Combat Disorders* / therapy
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Iraq War, 2003-2011
  • Psychological Techniques*
  • Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic* / complications
  • Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic* / diagnosis
  • Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic* / psychology
  • Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic* / therapy
  • Telemedicine / methods*
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Veterans / psychology