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Symposium

Dissemination and Implementation Science

Adapting and Implementing Evidence-Based Psychological Treatments in Real-World Care: Lessons Across Disorders, Settings, and Populations

3 - (SYM 25) The Journey of Adaptation and Implementation of Cognitive-behavioral Conjoint Therapy for PTSD

Friday, June 26, 2026
9:48 AM - 10:09 AM PDT
Location: Yerba Buena Salon 14, B3 Level
Keywords: PTSD Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Couples / Close Relationships, Implementation
Abstract Body
Cognitive-Behavioral Conjoint Therapy for PTSD (CBCT for PTSD; Monson & Fredman, 2012) is an evidence-based treatment that has been shown to reduce posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms while simultaneously enhancing relationship functioning. Multiple clinical trials have demonstrated its efficacy, showing improvements not only in PTSD symptoms but also in partners’ mental health, relationship satisfaction, and overall functioning (see Liebman et al., 2020 and Tao et al., 2025 for systematic review and meta-analysis, respectively). It was originally designed and tested as a 15-session protocol delivered to individual intimate couples that includes one partner with PTSD. Since its development in the early 2000s, it has been adapted and tested in a number of ways and implemented in various settings with different populations. On this panel, Dr. Monson will provide an overview of the original treatment protocol that includes three phases of interventions that simultaneously target mechanisms that maintain PTSD and comorbid symptoms and relationship functioning. She will describe the various adaptations that she and her colleagues have made to the treatment, including its application to dual PTSD couples, non-intimate dyads, polyamorous relationships, and families. She will also review adaptations in its format and delivery, including its combination with MDMA, its combination with intranasal oxytocin, a version to treat comorbid PTSD and Substance Use Disorder, an abbreviated 8-session adaptation, an accelerated, multi-couple group version, and a self-directed internet-delivered application with coaching (i.e., Couple HOPES). In addition to these adaptations to increase the reach of the therapy, lessons learned and successes from the efforts to disseminate CBCT for PTSD across the US VA and community settings in different countries will be shared. Future directions for the
therapy, including testing in a stepped care approach, transdiagnostic application, and implementation-effectiveness trials will be shared.