Attachment-based therapy for elder suffering PTSD symptoms: A narrative of modeling efficacy for improved outcomes.

PURPOSE

This paper will acquaint the psychiatric nurse with attachment theory-based therapy through a narrative of post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) treatment of a Vietnam veteran with a history of compound trauma in childhood.

DESIGN AND METHODS

Application of attachment-based therapy is discussed within the context of its guiding principles and tenets.

FINDINGS

Attachment-based therapy is effective in reducing PTSD symptoms in a Vietnam veteran through forming secure base scripts from which the patient better evaluated and managed stressors, resulting in improved life functioning.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

Attachment theory provides valuable tools with which to treat PTSD sufferers by utilizing nurses' expert skills in establishing rapport and relationship building to form the basis of effectual therapy.