Adapting a PTSD treatment for people using multiple substances

Adaption of the STAIR-NT Trauma Intervention for Polysubstance Populations

NIH-funded research New York University School of Medicine · NIH-10590166

This study is testing a new version of a therapy program designed to help people with PTSD who are also using methadone and other substances, making it easier for them to access and benefit from the treatment.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNew York University School of Medicine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-10590166 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to modify an existing PTSD intervention specifically for individuals in a methadone maintenance treatment program who are also dealing with polysubstance use, particularly involving opioids and stimulants. The project will adapt the Skills Training in Affective and Interpersonal Regulation with Narrative Therapy (STAIR-NT) to better suit the needs of this population, which often has complex histories of trauma and mental health issues. The approach includes a condensed treatment schedule to improve accessibility and effectiveness for patients. The research will assess the feasibility and acceptability of this adapted intervention through pilot testing and a small-scale randomized control trial.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals receiving treatment for opioid use disorder who also engage in polysubstance use, particularly those with a history of trauma.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of polysubstance use or those not receiving treatment for opioid use disorder may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a tailored treatment option that improves mental health outcomes for individuals struggling with both PTSD and polysubstance use.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in adapting PTSD interventions for various populations, but this specific adaptation for polysubstance users is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

New York, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Mental disordersMental health disordersPsychiatric DiseasePsychiatric Disorderpsychological disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.