Olff Group - Psychotrauma

Our research focus is on trauma and trauma related disorders, in particular post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Psychobiological research includes neuroimaging studies (MRI, SPECT, MEG), neuroendocrine research, and psychophysiological aspects of stress related disorders. In epidemiological studies we have examined the prevalence of stress, trauma and PTSD and other disorders in the Netherlands, but also in Afghanistan. Two large EU funded projects on psychosocial care after trauma are ongoing. We have performed randomized controlled trials on the effects of debriefing, early interventions, brief eclectic psychotherapy and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy (EMDR) and are currently performing RCTs on the effects of administration of cortisol, on the effects of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) versus medication and on the addition of biofeedback to exposure as well as on the effects of an internet intervention. We are currently also studying the role of oxytocin in trauma and PTSD.