There exist almost no data on the efficacy of treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in refugees coming to Western countries, even though many studies show a very high prevalence of posttraumatic problems among refugees. The present study focuses on the efficacy of a culture sensitive treatment for PTSD primarily designed for work in refugee camps in third world countries. Using a randomized controlled design, Narrative Exposure Therapy is compared to Treatment as Usual in a sample of refugees and asylum seekers in Norway.

Adult refugees or asylum seekers diagnosed with PTSD according to DSM IV were included in the study. Treatments comprised of 10 sessions and follow-up interviews were conducted 1 and 6 months after treatment using Clinician Administered PTSD Scale, Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview, and the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression. The study will continue until the end of 2008.

So far, 72 patients with PTSD have been included in the trial, and among them 40 have completed treatment and post-tests. Preliminary results at 1 month follow up show a significant PTSD and depression symptom reduction in patients who had received NET and, to a much smaller extent, in those treated with usual therapy protocols. However, data present so far indicate that only in the NET group, PTSD and Depression symptom reduction remains stable over time.

Preliminary findings indicate the importance of providing also refugees and asylum seekers with focused treatment of PTSD, where Narrative Exposure Therapy seems to be a promising treatment approach.