What question did this study set out to answer?

To compare prolonged exposure therapy and psychoeducation in treating psychogenic nonepileptic seizures and PTSD.

April 7, 2026Open Access

A pilot randomized controlled trial of prolonged exposure therapy vs. psychoeducation for psychogenic nonepileptic seizures and comorbid post-traumatic stress disorder

Key Points

To compare prolonged exposure therapy and psychoeducation in treating psychogenic nonepileptic seizures and PTSD.
Conducted a pilot randomized controlled trial
Compared two treatment groups: Prolonged Exposure and Psychoeducation
Assessed treatment effects on seizure frequency, PTSD, and depression symptoms
Prolonged Exposure group showed reduced seizure frequency and PTSD symptoms at follow-up
Psychoeducation group maintained improvements in depression and PTSD symptoms but not seizure frequency
Findings indicate different benefits from each treatment modality

Abstract

This pilot trial demonstrated benefits of both treatment modalities. At final follow-up, the PE group retained reduced seizure frequency and posttraumatic symptoms. At final follow-up, the Psychoeducation sample sustained improved depression and PTSD symptoms but not seizure frequency. Results suggest PE can reduce seizures and PTSD symptoms, while Psychoeducation can improve depression symptoms and PTSD; larger trials will be needed.

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Cite This Study

Myers et al. (Sat,) studied this question.

synapsesocial.com/papers/69d49f1cb33cc4c35a2278fc https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1016/j.yebeh.2026.111019

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