Clinical Approaches to Clients Reporting Recollections of Previously Inaccessible Traumatic Memories

The WHO World Mental Health Survey in 2016 reported that 70.4% of individuals experience trauma in their lifetime. While many recall their traumatic experiences continuously, others report experiencing recollections of previously inaccessible traumatic (PIT) memories. The validity and prevalence of PIT memories continues to be a subject of debate, which has contributed to a lack of clear guidance on how to treat this population. Although earlier literature has documented the use of suggestive therapeutic techniques among some clinicians who believe PIT memories are a valid phenomenon, less is known about how modern therapists describe their treatment approaches when working with these clients. This study aimed to explore what treatment approaches providers use when working with clients reporting PIT memories. Providers (N = 35) completed an online survey that included an open-ended question asking about their treatment strategies if clients were to report recollections of PIT memories. Open-ended responses were subjected to content analysis by a single coder. Overall, the majority of providers described using evidence-based, trauma-informed approaches when working with this population. Frequently cited modalities included trauma-informed CBT, EMDR, CPT, and similar evidence-based trauma treatments. Some providers described using psychoeducation about false memories, were unsure of what approach to use, or were unwilling to provide treatment to clients reporting PIT memories. Notably, no providers in this study reported using suggestive or memory-recovery techniques (e.g., hypnosis designed to uncover memories, directed “memory retrieval” exercises). These results suggest that providers are primarily engaging in ethical, evidence-based care that focuses on client safety and meaning making rather than memory recovery. Some providers, however, reported feeling unsure of the correct treatment method or were unwilling to provide treatment to this population. This may point to a need for guidance on how to best treat clients reporting PIT memories.