LAUSR

Abstract Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is often a clinically complex disorder, frequently presenting with comorbid clinical conditions. Individuals with PTSD may also present with high‐risk symptoms such as substance misuse and suicidal ideation. The clinical complexity of PTSD has precluded some clinicians from providing gold‐standard trauma‐focused treatment due to concern of iatrogenic effects. However, evidence to date suggests that trauma‐focused treatments are safe and effective for PTSD even when higher‐risk comorbidity presents. Occasionally, while some patients present with clinical concerns that may benefit from modifications to standard recommended treatment protocols, research suggests there are few absolute contraindications to trauma‐focused treatment. The present manuscript provides a review of evidence‐based assessment and treatment recommendations for PTSD. A clinical decision‐making guide for PTSD across areas of clinical complexity is provided. HighlightsThis manuscript reviews the research literature on the assessment and treatment of PTSDResearch indicates that most people with PTSD should receive trauma‐focused treatmentA treatment decision‐making guide is provided for cases with clinical complexity