The national recommendations for treating Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) are typically based on evidence-based guidelines developed by mental health organizations and government agencies. While there are multiple avenues of treatment available for short- and long-term trauma, psychotherapy is the first line of treatment.

Consistent with national recommendations, the American Psychological Association (APA) Clinical Practice Guidelines identifies four interventions that are strongly recommended for treating Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) — Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Cognitive Therapy, and Prolonged Exposure (PE). Other treatments are conditionally recommended, which means research indicates they can lead to good treatment outcomes but the evidence may not be as strong, the balance of treatment benefits to possible harms may be less favorable, or the intervention may be less applicable across treatment settings or subgroups.

National treatment guidelines for trauma typically don't prescribe a strict three-phase approach, as trauma therapy is often individualized to the specific needs and experiences of the person receiving treatment. However, there is a well-recognized trauma therapy framework called the "Three-Phase Model of Trauma Treatment," which guides mental health professionals in their work with trauma survivors. This model consists of the following phases:

1. Safety and Stabilization Phase: The initial phase focuses on ensuring the safety and emotional stability of the individual. Goals include reducing symptoms of hyperarousal (e.g., anxiety, panic), creating a sense of safety, and building trust between the individual and the therapist. Interventions may include psychoeducation, establishing safety, expanding the window of tolerance, and skill development (e.g., emotion regulation techniques and grounding exercises).

2. Processing and Integration Phase: This phase, focuses on the review and reappraisal of traumatic memories. Individuals work on processing traumatic memories and emotions through evidence-based, trauma-focused therapies such as Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and Prolonged Exposure (PE). The goal is to help individuals make sense of their experiences, reduce avoidance behaviors, and integrate the trauma into their life narrative.

3. Reconnection and Integration Phase: The final phase emphasizes values-based action, as individuals work to build and strengthening relationships, and reconnect with life. This phase also focuses on tasks of adult development, overcoming fears of change, increasing tolerance for positive emotions, and actively taking steps towards actions congruent with authentic self and values. Goals include improving overall well-being, self-esteem, and functioning, while therapy assists with ongoing challenges related to the trauma and fostering post-traumatic growth.

Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) is an evidence-based psychotherapy designed to address the effects of traumatic experiences, particularly PTSD.

CPT focuses on identifying and challenging unhelpful thought patterns and beliefs related to the trauma. Over a structured series of about 12 sessions, individuals work with a trained therapist to process and reframe distressing thoughts, ultimately reducing the emotional distress and functional impairment associated with the trauma. By gaining control over their cognitive responses to the trauma, individuals often experience a significant reduction in PTSD symptoms, improved quality of life, and a renewed sense of empowerment. CPT is recognized as one of the leading therapies for trauma and is supported by extensive research and clinical evidence. Benefits include reduced symptoms, improved relationships, increased self-compassion, and improved overall well-being.

Prolonged Exposure (PE) is an evidence-based therapy primarily used to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and related conditions. In PE therapy, individuals work with a trained therapist to confront and process traumatic memories and situations that trigger distress. Over a structured series of sessions, individuals repeatedly recount their traumatic experiences and engage in exposure exercises to reduce avoidance behaviors, desensitize emotional responses, and develop coping skills. By confronting and processing these distressing memories, individuals often experience a reduction in PTSD symptoms, an improved quality of life, and the ability to regain control over their emotions and daily functioning. PE therapy is considered one of the most effective treatments for trauma and is supported by a substantial body of research and clinical evidence.