Integration of cognitive and personality-based conceptualization and treatment of psychological trauma

In the wake of the numerous terrorist attacks and horrific natural disasters that have occurred beginning on September 11, 2001, there has been increased interest in the effects of trauma, including posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of a synergistic multicomponent approach to therapy that incorporates the integrated use of cognitive and personality-guided approaches to conceptualizing and treating psychological trauma. With Millon's personality classification system serving as a foundation, a case example is provided along with an explanation of the therapeutic stages beginning with establishing the therapeutic alliance to decreasing hyperarousal to restoring assumptive worldviews.