A practice-based pilot evaluation of the Human Givens Rewind technique within a residential addiction treatment setting

Purpose Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is highly prevalent among individuals receiving treatment for substance use disorders (SUD), yet trauma-focused interventions are not consistently integrated within residential addiction services. This study aims to evaluate the feasibility of implementing the Human Givens Rewind technique within a residential addiction treatment programme and to explore preliminary changes in core PTSD symptom domains. Design/methodology/approach A quantitative practice-based pilot study using a pre–post design was conducted within a 12-week residential addiction service. Residents were screened for PTSD using DSM-5 criteria supported by the PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5). Participants meeting criteria for probable PTSD were offered the Rewind intervention. Pre–post symptom change was assessed using construct-aligned measures of intrusion, avoidance and hyperarousal. Paired-samples analyses and effect size estimation were conducted for participants with complete data sets. Findings Structured trauma screening identified probable PTSD in 32.4% of assessed residents. Complete pre–post data were available for 13 participants. Significant reductions in PTSD symptom severity were observed [t(12) = 5.94, p < 0.001], with a large within-subject effect size (Hedges’ g = 1.55). No adverse events requiring discontinuation were recorded. Research limitations/implications Interpretation is limited by the small sample size, absence of a control group and short-term follow-up. Findings should be considered preliminary and require replication in controlled studies incorporating longitudinal outcomes. Practical implications The findings suggest that structured trauma screening and delivery of a brief imagery-based intervention can be feasibly integrated within residential addiction services when supported by supervision and containment structures. Social implications This study aims to highlight the issue of trauma in SUD populations, and examines the feasibility of implementing a structured assessment and treatment for PTSD with the aim of improving outcomes for those seeking SUD treatment. Originality/value This study provides preliminary practice-based evidence regarding the feasibility of implementing the Rewind technique within a residential addiction treatment setting, addressing a gap in the current literature.