Cognitive Processing Therapy plus Relapse Prevention for people with alcohol problems and PTSD

Integration of Cognitive Processing Therapy and Relapse Prevention for Alcohol Use Disorder and Co-Occurring PTSD: A Randomized Clinical Trial

['FUNDING_R01'] · TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY · NIH-11378367

This trial offers a combined Cognitive Processing Therapy and relapse-prevention program for adults with alcohol use disorder and PTSD to reduce drinking and PTSD symptoms.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorTEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (COLLEGE STATION, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11378367 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

If you join, you would be randomly assigned to receive a manualized therapy that blends trauma-focused Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) with Relapse Prevention (RP) skills. Trained clinicians deliver the integrated sessions over a defined treatment period while researchers track your PTSD symptoms, alcohol use, safety, and satisfaction. The team already pilot-tested the manual and found it feasible with high retention and patient satisfaction. Study visits and follow-ups will collect measures to see how well the combined therapy works compared to usual approaches.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Adults who have both alcohol use disorder and co-occurring PTSD and who are seeking outpatient behavioral treatment would be ideal candidates.

Not a fit: People without both AUD and PTSD, or those with severe medical instability or acute suicidal intent, may not be appropriate for or benefit from this intervention.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this combined treatment could reduce PTSD symptoms and alcohol use while improving overall functioning and treatment retention.

How similar studies have performed: Both CPT and Relapse Prevention are well-established, and the investigators' pilot data of the combined CPT-RP manual showed feasibility, high retention, and strong patient satisfaction.

Where this research is happening

COLLEGE STATION, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.