Predictors of change in cognitive processing therapy for veterans in a residential PTSD treatment program

ObjectiveCognitive processing therapy is an evidence-based treatment for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD); however, questions remain regarding variability in treatment response. MethodA total of 123 veterans participated in group-based cognitive processing therapy (CPT) in residential PTSD treatment. Change over time in PTSD symptoms was modeled as a function of selected demographic and clinical variables. ResultsPTSD checklist (PCL) scores decreased by an average of 1 point per session (standard deviation [SD] =0.1). Initial PCL scores were predicted by the Beck Depression Inventory-II ((01) =0.25; standard error [SE] =0.08), Insomnia Severity Index ((02) =0.53; SE =0.15), and Infrequency (F) scale of the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory-2 ((03) =0.09; SE =0.04). Rate of change was predicted by the Somatic Complaints (RC1) scale ((11) =-0.03; SE =0.01) and the Antisocial Behavior (RC4) scale ((12) =0.02; SE =0.01). ConclusionsThese results provide insight into characteristics that may influence degree of benefit received from group-based CPT.