PTSD Explained: Diagnosis-Conditioning-and Evidence-Based Treatments
Episode 2.10 – Understanding PTSD: From Diagnosis to Evidence-Based Care

In this vital episode of Psychiatry Boot Camp, we are joined by Dr. Laura Watkins, Clinical Psychologist and Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at Emory University School of Medicine, to explore one of the most impactful and widely misunderstood psychiatric conditions: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

PTSD affects millions globally, yet its presentation, causes, and treatments are often oversimplified or overlooked. This episode offers a clear, structured, and compassionate guide for clinicians, students, and mental health professionals eager to deepen their understanding of trauma-related disorders.

🧠 Key Learning Highlights in This Episode:

✔️ DSM-5 Diagnostic Criteria for PTSD
We begin by outlining the core symptom clusters of PTSD:

Intrusive symptoms (e.g., flashbacks, nightmares)

Avoidance behaviors

Negative changes in cognition and mood

Hyperarousal and reactivity

✔️ How PTSD Impacts Daily Functioning
Dr. Watkins illustrates how PTSD symptoms affect relationships, job performance, emotional regulation, and even physical health. This isn’t just a diagnosis—it’s a condition that deeply affects quality of life.

✔️ Understanding Trauma Through Learning Theory
We explore how PTSD can be conceptualized using:

Classical conditioning: How neutral stimuli become trauma triggers

Operant conditioning: How avoidance behaviors are reinforced

This behavioral lens is essential for clinicians providing therapy and helps normalize reactions to trauma.

✔️ Evidence-Based Psychotherapies for PTSD
Dr. Watkins walks us through the gold standards of trauma treatment:

Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE)

Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

Narrative Exposure Therapy (NET)
We explore their goals, mechanisms, and when each is most appropriate.

✔️ Psychopharmacology for PTSD
Medications can be life-changing for many patients. Learn:

First-line medications (e.g., SSRIs like sertraline and paroxetine)

Medications to avoid (e.g., long-term benzodiazepines)

Emerging options and off-label considerations

How to combine meds with psychotherapy for maximum benefit

📚 Essential References from This Episode:

1️⃣ Osser Psychopharmacology Algorithm for PTSD – A trusted tool for evidence-based medication decisions
2️⃣ VA/DoD PTSD Clinical Practice Guidelines – Authoritative guidelines for diagnosis and treatment
3️⃣ This American Life: "Ten Sessions" – A compelling narrative on PE therapy in action

🔍 Who Should Watch This Episode?

• Psychiatry residents and medical students
• Psychologists and clinical social workers
• Primary care physicians and NP/PAs
• Veterans’ mental health providers
• Therapists interested in trauma-focused care
• Anyone seeking to better understand PTSD from a clinical perspective

📌 Timestamps for Quick Navigation:

00:00 – Introduction to Dr. Laura Watkins
02:45 – Defining PTSD and diagnostic overview
07:30 – Real-life implications of trauma symptoms
12:40 – PTSD through classical/operant conditioning
18:00 – Intro to Prolonged Exposure Therapy
22:10 – Cognitive Processing Therapy and cognitive restructuring
26:00 – EMDR and newer psychotherapeutic options
30:00 – First-line medications and pharmacologic approach
36:20 – Treating comorbidities and preventing retraumatization
42:00 – Final pearls and recommended resources

🎓 Featured Expert: Dr. Laura Watkins
• Clinical Psychologist
• Assistant Professor of Psychiatry, Emory University
• Specializes in trauma-informed care and psychotherapy for PTSD

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