The synergy of group and individual treatment modalities in the aftermath of disaster and unfolding trauma.

Abstract Recognizing disasters as traumatizing events that unfold with devastating physical and psychological sequalae, the author considers the interplay of individual and group treatment modalities in facilitating progression throughout stages of recovery. The stages-safety, remembering and mourning, and reconnection-are recognized as interrelated recovery processes that occur concurrently as well as sequentially throughout the treatment process. Drawing upon her 9/11 work with civilian and uniformed populations, the author describes the way in which group and individual therapies-whether conducted consecutively or concurrently, as single session, short-term, or long-term programs-work synergistically to foster recovery.