A general model for the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder in war veterans

There are innumerable therapeutic interventions available for the treatment of war-related PTSD. In this article, a general conceptual model of PTSD recovery is presented. The RECOVER model articulates the recovery processes required for a successful therapeutic resolution of war-related PTSD. These processes involve: relationship building, the development of emotional and cognitive connections with the trauma, recognition of the divergence between pre- and post-trauma values, modifying one's sense of self, establishing ''meaning'' for the trauma and re-establishing appropriate self-management and social skills. The model is prefaced by a brief discussion of the importance of the therapist-veteran relationship in PTSD therapy as a precursor to engagement in the recovery process. A series of case vignettes are presented to illustrate the dynamics of our model.