UNL Trauma Program Cuts PTSD Symptoms Sharply

The CARE program at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln reported large symptom reductions among 64 survivors treated from 2022 to 2026.

Updated on Nov. 6, 2026 in Sex Crimes

Bold flat-color editorial illustration of a low brick campus building with tall windows and one tree under a pale sky, in navy, cream, and brick red. — The University of Nebraska-Lincoln's CARE program reported sharp PTSD symptom drops among 64 survivors of sexual assault and interpersonal trauma treated from 2022 to 2026. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

A trauma therapy program at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln reported that 64 survivors of sexual assault and other interpersonal trauma saw significant drops in PTSD and depression symptoms between 2022 and 2026. Clients averaged 13 sessions, with average PTSD scores falling from 47 to 23.

Why it matters

The reported reduction is more than twice the 10-point change generally considered statistically meaningful for PTSD scores, offering a measured view of outcomes for campus trauma care in Lincoln. The program's no-cost, open-ended model addresses access barriers that often keep survivors from seeking treatment.

Outcome data covers 64 survivors treated at CARE from 2022 to 2026, averaging 13 sessions each. The source does not indicate whether a control group was used to isolate the program's effect from other factors.

The players

University of Nebraska-Lincoln

A public research university in Lincoln, Nebraska, whose CARE program and clinical psychology training program provide the trauma therapy described.

Dr. Peter Meidlinger

A clinical psychologist who provides weekly supervision to doctoral students delivering CARE trauma therapy at UNL.

The details

CARE uses prolonged exposure therapy and cognitive processing therapy, approaches that confront trauma rather than avoid it. Students typically begin with a CARE advocate, who refers them to a trauma therapist for evaluation, and clinicians usually meet clients weekly to build trust.

2022 to 2026: Period over which CARE collected outcome data on 64 survivors.

Legal Context

Prolonged exposure and cognitive processing therapy are endorsed by the American Psychological Association and the Department of Defense as gold-standard PTSD treatments. CARE's campus application extends those clinical standards to university survivors of sexual assault.

Students at UNL can access CARE trauma therapy at no cost for as long as they need it, and UNL Counseling and Psychological Services offers eight free sessions per semester. Survivors in Lincoln can begin by contacting a CARE advocate for a referral to a trauma therapist.

The takeaway

Structured, evidence-based trauma treatment delivered at no cost can produce measurable symptom relief for survivors who might otherwise go without care. Students seeking help can start with a campus advocate or counseling center.