Abstract: The conflict Afghanistan and Iraq have now taken their places amongst the longest
running wars in American history. As many Americans return from military service, the
prevalence of combat related post traumatic stress syndrome is estimated to be as high as 30% or
returning veterans. This debilitating condition impacts the individual, their family, and their
community in significant ways. A variety of treatments including Cognitive Behavioral
Therapy, Prolonged Exposure Therapy, and Virtual Reality Therapy have all been cited as
effective interventions for this population. As our nation continues military conflict in the
middle east, clinicians need to be prepared to screen and treat individuals suffering from combat
related PTSD.