Posttraumatic Growth: Theory and Clinical Application

Course overview

In this presentation, Dr. Tedeschi will discuss the theoretical and empirically based model of posttraumatic growth in contrast to the traditional model of PTSD. The possibilities for transformation of individuals and their relationships does not preclude working on typical symptoms of trauma, but recognizes that symptoms are better understood, tolerated, and reduced when traumatic suffering can have meaning and purpose. A description of Boulder Crest interventions for veterans and first responders based on this posttraumatic growth model and data on program participants that demonstrate substantial and lasting changes will be presented. A clinical case describing posttraumatic growth focused psychotherapy will be discussed, along with implications for suicidality and vicarious posttraumatic growth.