Use of an Integrated Therapy With Prolonged Exposure to Treat PTSD and Comorbid Alcohol Dependence in an Iraq Veteran

PTSD and substance use disorder are often comorbid in combat veterans. Abstinence has been historically required before PTSD treatment, to maximize the effect of PTSD treatment and minimize the risk that psychologically challenging treatments, such as exposure to combat stimuli, will lead to increased substance use. Co-treatment might be more effective. A 12-session program demonstrated partially successful use of the combination in a returning Marine. The patient was taught to monitor the rise and fall of both urges and PTSD symptoms after a period of cue exposure. Reductions of both alcohol use and PTSD symptoms, both the patients' goals, were achieved.