ABSTRACT
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been associated with a multitude of physical, psychological, and psychosocial issues including posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). While the presence of posttraumatic symptoms has been reported in the general population, little is known about the prevalence of PTSD in patients who experienced a traumatic COVID-19 infection or sequelae. There are currently no documented reports on the treatment of PTSD in patients with COVID-19-related index traumas. The present case study details the use of cognitive processing therapy for PTSD in a patient with multiple COVID-19 infections and post-COVID-19 syndrome. The patient successfully completed treatment and reported a clinically significant change in PTSD symptoms, providing preliminary support for this evidence-based treatment protocol among patients with COVID-19-related index traumas. This case study highlights the need for PTSD symptom screening among patients with COVID-19 and referral to evidence-based psychological interventions. Recommendations for providers who regularly interface with patients diagnosed with COVID-19 and provide trauma-focused treatments are provided. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2022 APA, all rights reserved).
ABSTRACT
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has consistently been described as an "unprecedented" global health crisis. While the focus has been primarily on the medical and economic impact of the pandemic, psychological sequelae are anticipated. Primary care is the main point of access for mental health care in the United States, making it the ideal locale to provide psychological services for a larger proportion of the population than traditional mental health care settings. The aim of this paper is to describe how our multi-state, multi-site integrated primary care program adapted and applied cognitive behavioral therapy in the context of COVID-19. Access to mental health care was disrupted despite burgeoning mental health concerns, necessitating novel approaches to providing care. A stepped-care approach was implemented within our primary care practice, which consisted of a combination of low-intensity, high-yield stress management and resiliency building resources and cognitive behavioral therapy that were delivered flexibly based on patient preference, technological capabilities, state ordinances, insurance coverage, and institutional policies. The lessons learned from this experience can inform other integrated primary care clinics in responding to the current and future pandemics.