Treating health concerns within the context of childhood sexual assault: A case study

A cognitive-behavioral treatment package used to treat physical health concerns and fears in a young adult woman with a history of child sexual assault is described. Treatment targeting health concerns was used as an adjunct to treatment for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Treatment included psychoeducation, systematic desensitization, and stress-innoculation training. The treatment helped reduce the patient's health concerns, including stomach cramps and fear of medical examinations. Theoretical issues underlying treatment of health concerns as related to PTSD avoidance behavior are discussed.