An introduction to prolonged exposure therapy with guests Dr. David Paul and Justin Woodcock

Host Laryssa Lamrock and guest co-host Justin Woodcock look at prolonged exposure (PE) therapy for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) with special guest Dr. David Paul, a registered psychologist specializing in trauma treatment for military and public safety personnel.

They unpack the basics of PE, how it specifically helps those living with PTSD and the vital role Families play in supporting a loved one through this sometimes challenging but hopeful therapeutic journey. David addresses common misconceptions and shares practical insights to help Veterans and their loved ones make informed decisions and best prepare themselves for therapy.

David Paul, PhD, R. Psych, is a registered psychologist in private practice in Edmonton, AB. He has specialized in the treatment and assessment of trauma- and stressor-related disorders in military and public safety personnel for most of his career, including in previous positions at the Edmonton OSI Clinic and the Operational Trauma and Stress Support Centre (OTSSC) at Canadian Forces Base Edmonton. He holds a doctoral degree in clinical psychology from McGill University and is certified as a trainer in PE therapy by the Center for the Treatment and Study of Anxiety at the University of Pennsylvania.

Justin Woodcock is a proud First Nation Veteran and social worker from Opaskwayak Cree Nation. He served from 2009 to 2017 in both the Canadian Army and Royal Canadian Navy.

Motivated by the loss of fellow soldiers to PTSD, Justin pursued a career in social work. He now serves as the First Nations Veterans Program Coordinator for the Southern Chiefs’ Organization, leading a program created by and for First Nations Veterans.

Key topics

• What PE therapy is and how it differs from general exposure therapy
• The two main components of PE: imaginal and in vivo exposure
• Why PE is targeted to treat PTSD and typical session durations and structure
• Common misconceptions and fears about PE among Veterans and their Families
• The vital role Family members play and advice for Families with loved ones considering or starting PE therapy
• The differences and unique challenges between treating Canadian Armed Forces and Royal Canadian Mounted Police Veterans

Resources

• About prolonged exposure therapy — The Center for the Treatment and Study of Anxiety at the Perelman School of Medicine
• Find a certified PE therapist
• Recorded trainings on PE therapy for service providers
• The Centre for Posttraumatic Stress & Anxiety Treatment
• Email list for service providers — sign up to be notified about upcoming no-cost PE training opportunities offered by the Atlas Institute
• Other training opportunities for service providers who work with Veterans and Families
• Join the Atlas Institute’s Evidence-Based Therapy Community of Practice

Lire en français ici : https://atl-as.ca/mbtm-ep31-fr