I'm hoping I met get some help regarding how classical conditioning functions with respect to the acquisition of PTSD-like response to particular smells, specifically the smell of Bourbon and the cologne "Polo"...More importantly, I am interested in how sytematic counter-conditioning may proceed to intervene. While I do not subscribe to any form of strict behaviorism, I'd be irresponsible not to recognize its relevance in this situation. The client reports panic and profound nausea in response to the scent of Bourbon. This has generalized to an adverse reaction to the smell of alcohol. Her most severe reactions are those situations where she is in the presence of someone wearing the cologne "Polo"...but this occurs much more rarely than occations in which alcohol is present. At present, the client has come to avoid any and all situations where she anticipates these scents. (In addition, she reports being "consumed with dread" when she smells "moldy-mustiness"..."like a damp basement.") All these scents/stimuli were present during a brutal sexual assualt in which she was victimized by a perpetrator who was wearing a cologne (Polo?), was drunk and "reeking of Bourbon." The assault occurred on the cement floor in the basement of her apartment complex (moldy-mustiness). Any suggestions?
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