User Guide

1. Overview

The Trauma Assessment and Treatment Planning Tool is a comprehensive, evidence-based screening application designed to:

• Assess trauma-related symptoms using validated instruments
• Compare diagnostic results across DSM-5-TR and ICD-11 systems
• Provide personalized, evidence-based treatment recommendations
• Screen for common comorbid conditions
• Generate comprehensive clinical reports

2. Assessment Instruments

PCL-5 (PTSD Checklist for DSM-5)

Purpose: Assesses PTSD symptoms according to DSM-5-TR criteria

Items: 20 questions

Timeframe: Past month

Scoring: 0-80 scale; scores ≥31-33 suggest probable PTSD

ITQ (International Trauma Questionnaire)

Purpose: Assesses PTSD and Complex PTSD according to ICD-11 criteria

Items: 18 questions (6 PTSD + 6 DSO + 6 functional impairment)

Timeframe: Past month

Scoring: Symptom cluster method; distinguishes between PTSD and Complex PTSD

Additional Screening Tools

• PHQ-9: Depression screening (9 items, 0-27 scale)
• GAD-7: Anxiety screening (7 items, 0-21 scale)
• AUDIT: Alcohol use screening (10 items, 0-40 scale)
• DAST-10: Drug use screening (10 items, 0-10 scale)
• ISI: Insomnia severity (7 items, 0-28 scale)

3. Diagnostic Systems

DSM-5-TR (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual)

The DSM-5-TR uses a comprehensive approach with 20 symptoms organized into 4 clusters. It requires multiple symptoms from most categories and is commonly used in the United States and research settings.

ICD-11 (International Classification of Diseases)

The ICD-11 uses a streamlined approach with 6 core PTSD symptoms organized into 3 clusters. It emphasizes re-experiencing trauma as if it's happening in the present. ICD-11 also includes Complex PTSD as a separate diagnosis.

Complex PTSD (ICD-11 only)

Complex PTSD includes all PTSD symptoms plus additional difficulties with emotional regulation, self-concept, and relationships. It typically develops from prolonged or repeated trauma such as childhood abuse.

4. Treatment Recommendations

Evidence-Based Psychotherapies

• Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT): Focuses on changing unhelpful beliefs about trauma
• Prolonged Exposure (PE): Gradually approaches trauma-related memories and situations
• EMDR: Processes traumatic memories using bilateral stimulation
• TF-CBT: Specifically designed for children and adolescents

Medication Options

SSRIs (sertraline, paroxetine) are first-line medications for PTSD. Prazosin may be helpful for nightmares. Medication works best when combined with trauma-focused psychotherapy.

5. Using the Tool

Step-by-Step Process

1. Client Profile: Enter demographic information and trauma history
2. Assessment Selection: Choose which assessments to complete
3. Complete Assessments: Answer all questions honestly
4. Review Results: Examine scores, diagnoses, and recommendations
5. Export Report: Save results as PDF or DOCX

Tips for Accurate Results

• Answer questions based on your actual experiences
• Pay attention to the specified timeframe (past month, past 2 weeks, etc.)
• Complete all assessments in one sitting if possible
• Be honest about symptom severity
• Don't minimize or exaggerate symptoms

6. Interpreting Results

Assessment Scores

Each assessment provides a total score and severity level. Higher scores indicate more severe symptoms. Specific cutoff scores suggest clinical significance.

Diagnostic Results

The tool compares your symptoms against both DSM-5-TR and ICD-11 criteria. You may meet criteria for one system but not the other, or both. This is normal and reflects differences in diagnostic approaches.

Treatment Recommendations

Recommendations are personalized based on your symptom profile, age, and comorbid conditions. They represent evidence-based best practices but should be discussed with your healthcare provider.

7. Privacy and Data

Data Storage

All data is stored locally in your browser. No information is sent to external servers. Your assessment data remains on your device only.

Data Management

• Data is automatically saved as you complete assessments
• You can export your results at any time
• Clear your browser data to remove all assessment information
• No personal identifying information is required