Evaluating a new therapy for individuals with PTSD and borderline personality disorder.

A PILOT EFFECTIVENESS TRIAL OF COGNITIVE PROCESSING THERAPY AUGMENTED WITH SUICIDE RISK MANAGEMENT FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH COMORBID PTSD AND BPD

NIH-funded research Palo Alto University · NIH-10775720

This study is testing a new therapy that combines talking therapy for PTSD with special support for managing suicide risk, designed for people who have both PTSD and borderline personality disorder, to see if it helps them feel better in everyday life.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionPalo Alto University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Palo Alto, United States)
Project IDNIH-10775720 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates a new treatment approach that combines Cognitive Processing Therapy with a suicide risk management protocol for individuals suffering from both posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and borderline personality disorder (BPD). The study aims to address the significant challenges faced by patients with these comorbid conditions, including heightened suicide risk and functional impairment. By utilizing a pilot effectiveness trial, the research will assess the feasibility and effectiveness of this integrated therapy in a real-world outpatient setting. Participants will receive care from community clinicians trained in this innovative approach.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who have been diagnosed with both PTSD and BPD.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have a diagnosis of PTSD or BPD, or those who are under 21 years old, may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a more effective treatment option for individuals struggling with the dual challenges of PTSD and BPD, potentially reducing suicide risk and improving overall quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: While there is limited research specifically on this combined approach, existing studies have shown promise in treating PTSD and BPD separately, suggesting potential for success in this integrated method.

Where this research is happening

Palo Alto, 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 Borderline Personality Disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.