Creating a therapy toolkit for Deaf individuals with alcohol use and trauma issues
Evaluating Signs of Safety: A Deaf-Accessible Therapy Toolkit for AUD and Trauma
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIV OF MASSACHUSETTS MED SCH WORCESTER · NIH-10902003
This study is creating a special therapy toolkit called Signs of Safety to help Deaf people who struggle with alcohol use and trauma, making sure it uses American Sign Language and visual materials so they can get the support they need in a way that feels comfortable and understandable.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIV OF MASSACHUSETTS MED SCH WORCESTER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (WORCESTER, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10902003 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research aims to develop and evaluate a therapy toolkit specifically designed for the Deaf community, who face unique challenges in accessing mental health care. In collaboration with the National Deaf Therapy agency, the project focuses on addressing the high rates of alcohol use disorder and trauma within this population. The toolkit, called Signs of Safety, includes visual materials and resources in American Sign Language to ensure effective communication and understanding during therapy sessions. By utilizing community engagement and feedback, the research seeks to create a culturally and linguistically appropriate treatment option for Deaf individuals.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are Deaf individuals aged 21 and older who experience alcohol use disorder and/or trauma.
Not a fit: Patients who do not communicate using American Sign Language or who do not have issues related to alcohol use or trauma may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide Deaf individuals with tailored therapeutic resources that improve their mental health outcomes related to alcohol use and trauma.
How similar studies have performed: This research is pioneering as there are currently no evidence-based treatments specifically designed for Deaf clients with behavioral health conditions.
Where this research is happening
WORCESTER, UNITED STATES
- UNIV OF MASSACHUSETTS MED SCH WORCESTER — WORCESTER, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: ANDERSON, MELISSA LEE — UNIV OF MASSACHUSETTS MED SCH WORCESTER
- Study coordinator: ANDERSON, MELISSA LEE
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.