This case study follows a 5-year-old biracial boy who presented with symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), separation anxiety, and oppositionality. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) has been used widely with children to treat a number of anxiety disorders, including PTSD, with success. In the current study, Preschool PTSD Treatment (PPT) was used to treat the symptoms of PTSD in this young boy. After PPT treatment was implemented, he demonstrated significant decreases in his post-traumatic stress symptoms and in his symptoms of separation anxiety and oppositional behavior. In addition, he demonstrated an understanding of and the ability to apply coping and problem-solving skills. Finally, this young boy showed qualitative improvements in academic performance, social interactions, and general emotional and behavioral functioning. This case study added to the growing literature highlighting the utility of using CBT to successfully treat symptoms of PTSD in young children.
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