Prepared and Still Surprised

Farnsworth and Sewell (2010) and Currier (2010) have provided commentaries on our case study of paramedic Mr. G, who was suffering from Acute Distress Disorder and whom we treated employing our “Back to the Future” therapy (BFT) model. These authors identify and discuss a number of important issues raised by our case study. In this response to their commentaries, we focus on three of their important points: how the therapist balances directive versus collaborative roles in working within the BFT model; whether in therapy to address or not to address the “traumatic nucleus” of an ASD victim’s initial memories of a traumatic experience; and the types of clients for whom the BFT model is particularly applicable. Our responses to these issues are designed to generally illuminate the BFT model, to make it more applicable for much-needed further research study, and to provide additional guidance for clinicians considering whether and how to employ it with their clients.