Cognitive Processing Therapy for the Treatment of PTSD, Depression and Anxiety in Syrian Refugees in Egypt

The purpose of this study is to examine the efficacy of cognitive processing therapy (CPT) in treating posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression and anxiety among Syrian refugees who have experienced war trauma. Clinicians interviewed 94 patients and asked them to complete the Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale three times: pretreatment, posttreatment and at the 12-month follow-up. In addition, PTSD, depression and anxiety were assessed using the PTSD Checklist, Beck Depression Inventory and Beck Anxiety Inventory at pretreatment, weekly, posttreatment and 12-month follow-up. At posttreatment evaluation, CPT led to decreases in PTSD, depression and anxiety (Ps < 0.000). These decreases continued after a year of follow-up (Ps < 0.000). Among Syrian refugees, the symptoms of PTSD, depression and anxiety all showed significant improvement after receiving CPT.

Key implications for practice

• This study suggests that cognitive processing therapy (CPT) has a significant therapeutic effect in the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in war-traumatised Syrian refugees.
• CPT appears to help in the treatment of depression and anxiety in war-traumatised Syrian refugees.
• CPT is a successful treatment for PTSD in war-traumatised Syrian refugees who have suffered several and severe losses, deprivation, challenges and tragedies.