Two Welsh psychology experts recently adapted a therapy developed in response to the September 11, 2001 attacks to address the psychological trauma from Russia's war in Ukraine.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a serious psychiatric condition that arises after experiencing or witnessing traumatic events. Those affected often endure deep emotional distress and physical symptoms that can disrupt their personal, social, and professional lives long-term. Treatments range from established therapies to innovative approaches, including virtual reality and even the game Tetris.
As reported by the BBC on April 19, 2022, Welsh psychologists Lisa de Rijk and Rhian Price, specialists in a treatment pioneered in the U.S. after 9/11, turned their expertise to Ukraine. They trained local therapists to combat PTSD symptoms amid the ongoing conflict. "We wanted to show that empowering people in a war-torn country is possible, effective, and can be done with no money, with dedicated volunteers," said Lisa de Rijk.
The pair assembled a team of 11 specialists from the UK, Poland, and the U.S., all trained in Reconsolidation of Traumatic Memories (RTM)—a proven method since 2019. RTM works by disrupting the link between traumatic memories and intense emotions, reconstructing events in a less distressing form to reduce nightmares and flashbacks. Over three intensive days, they trained 28 Ukrainian therapists.
The training first focused on helping these therapists process their own emotional shock from the war, restoring their professional identity and motivation to support others. Many have already started treating patients, especially in eastern Ukraine where trauma is most acute. Trainers expressed profound satisfaction in sharing their knowledge during active conflict.
