STAIR Narrative Therapy: A Skills Focused Approach to Trauma-Related Distress

Abstract

Interest in psychotherapeutic interventions for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) populations that address variants of commonly co-occurring trauma sequelae is emerging. Specifically, treatment approaches that enhance an individual’s capacity to experience and successfully modulate emotion, function interpersonally, and access social support are of particular value. The present paper briefly describes emotional and social difficulties commonly experienced by trauma survivors and outlines potential targets for intervention within the context of trauma-focused treatment. Skills Training in Affective and Interpersonal Regulation (STAIR) Narrative Therapy is a skills-focused approach designed to foster the development and strengthening of emotion regulation and interpersonal skills and promote resilience. Empirical evidence supporting the efficacy of STAIR Narrative Therapy as an effective treatment for PTSD as well as emotion regulation and social difficulties is reviewed. Implications for treatment and directions for future research are presented. Keywords: Emotion regulation, interpersonal functioning, PTSD treatment, trauma.