Use of Internet Resources to Support Prolonged Exposure for Combat-Related PTSD

In vivo exposure as part of Prolonged Exposure (PE) requires the patient and therapist to generate a list of cues that are reminiscent of the trauma and generative of distress. In contrast to civilian trauma, it can be more challenging to build a robust in vivo hierarchy for a combat-related index trauma. Internet resources such as databases that list casualties from different wars, memorial pages of those who died in theater, and lists of unit association memberships and reunions are useful sources for in vivo hierarchies. These materials can provide opportunities for exposure to additional cues reminiscent of the traumatic event, provide information about the traumatic event that the veteran had been unable to recall, and create opportunities for veterans to reestablish relationships with veteran peers. Case illustrations are provided and reasons for caution are discussed.