Effectiveness of Acupuncture and Brief Telehealth Intervention for Individuals With Posttraumatic Stress Disorder

Purpose This open-trial pilot study evaluated the feasibility and effectiveness of acupuncture with brief therapy (ABT) for individuals with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Method Participants included 27 individuals with PTSD diagnoses confirmed using the Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale for DSM-5. Before ABT, 22 participants completed eight acupuncture sessions and three telehealth sessions of a brief treatment program for PTSD (Brief Relaxation, Education, and Trauma Healing [BREATHE]). Results ABT significantly reduced PTSD symptoms, depression symptoms, anxiety, and improved trauma-related cognition. Conclusion Acupuncture can play an important role in mental health recovery, and combining acupuncture with a brief, telehealth-based treatment (BREATHE) may assist recovery among individuals with PTSD. [ Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 62 (11), 35–45.]