PTSD CBT Duration — MRCPsych Paper B MCQ

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EasyAnxiety & Stress-Related DisordersPTSD CBT DurationMRCPsych Paper B

According to NICE NG116, over how many sessions should individual trauma-focused CBT for an adult with PTSD typically be provided?

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Correct answer: B — 8–12 sessions

The correct answer is B. NICE NG116 recommends that individual trauma-focused CBT for adults with PTSD should typically be delivered over 8–12 sessions. More sessions may be clinically indicated, particularly when the person has experienced multiple traumas or has complex needs. The intervention should use a validated manual and include processing of trauma memories and associated emotions, cognitive restructuring, work on avoidance, and restoration of adaptive functioning. Shorter courses such as 4–6 or 6–8 sessions do not represent the usual recommended course of face-to-face trauma-focused CBT; supported computerised trauma-focused CBT has a separate typical range of 8–10 sessions. Courses of 16–24 sessions may sometimes be appropriate after individual assessment but are not the standard starting recommendation.

Reference: National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. Post-traumatic stress disorder (NG116), recommendations 1.6.16–1.6.17. 2018; last reviewed 2025. https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng116/chapter/recommendations