Abstract

Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a complex condition with a variety of potential causes and symptoms, and it requires multifaceted treatment. Practitioners are cautioned to take great care in the informed consent process to ensure that clients know their treatment options, the level of support, and pros and cons of each option before giving consent. Practitioners need to be familiar with both the clinical and research data when developing a rationale and treatment approach that is individualized for the specific client. Moreover, practitioners should be competent in diagnosing a wide variety of conditions that are comorbid with PTSD and should ensure that they can legally make such a diagnosis and provide treatment for the specific conditions from which the client suffers. In addition, it is strongly recommended, if not legally required, that practitioners have an appropriate background in a mental health discipline so they are competent to help a client work through the traumas, symptoms, and side effects experienced by the client before undertaking the treatment of those suffering from PTSD.