ABSTRACT
As previous content emphasized the frequent aspect of trauma associated with animal companion loss, this chapter introduces two short-term models that are efficacious in the treatment of PTSD or other symptoms of trauma. They are Trauma-focused cognitive behavior therapy, (TF-CBT) and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). TF-CBT was initially primarily for trauma in children, while EMDR is primarily a trauma treatment for adults. While both include aspects of exposure, their more central focus is on changing the meaning of the event, which can result in restoration of self-efficacy and reduction of traumatic symptoms. In both models, the therapist acts as an advocate and also teaches and relies on the client acquisition of coping skills to manage the exposure. Each model has a specific process for initially exploring the trauma and any client conclusions, and then introducing specific protocols to guide the treatment. Two case studies are presented, utilizing each model and illustrating the supplemental benefit of including questions from the Animal Companion Bereavement Questionnaire to guide treatment planning.
