For a woman with PTSD who has been on paroxetine for two weeks, which next step is most appropriate?

In treating a woman with PTSD who has just started on paroxetine, trauma-focused cognitive-behavioral therapy (TF-CBT) is the most appropriate next step. This approach is specifically designed to address the symptoms and underlying issues associated with PTSD. TF-CBT combines cognitive behavioral techniques with a strong emphasis on processing trauma narratives, which can lead to a reduction in PTSD symptoms.

Given that paroxetine, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), takes several weeks to begin showing maximal effects, integrating therapy that directly tackles the trauma is crucial. This therapy not only helps to manage current symptoms but also promotes healthier coping strategies and cognitive patterns related to trauma.

Other therapies mentioned, while beneficial in different contexts, do not focus as specifically on the trauma aspect of PTSD. Interpersonal therapy, for example, is typically geared towards improving interpersonal relationships and may not address the trauma history directly. Mindfulness-based stress reduction can provide general stress relief and coping tools but lacks the specific focus on trauma processing inherent in TF-CBT. Psychodynamic psychotherapy, while it can help in exploring emotional challenges, tends to be more exploratory and less structured than TF-CBT, which may not be ideal in the early stages of trauma recovery. Thus, trauma-focused