How trauma-focused therapy affects brain function related to rewards
The effects of trauma-focused psychotherapy on reward circuitry function and information encoding
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN · NIH-11017756
This study is looking at how a type of therapy called cognitive processing therapy (CPT) affects the way the brain responds to rewards in people with PTSD, using brain scans to see what changes happen before and after the therapy.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (AUSTIN, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11017756 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of cognitive processing therapy (CPT) on the brain's reward circuitry in individuals with PTSD. By using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), the study aims to understand how CPT alters brain function and information processing during reward learning. The research focuses on the ventromedial prefrontal cortex and ventral striatum, areas associated with reward processing, to assess changes before and after therapy. This approach seeks to uncover the neurobiological mechanisms behind diminished positive emotions often experienced by those with PTSD.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with PTSD who are experiencing difficulties with positive emotions and reward processing.
Not a fit: Patients without a PTSD diagnosis or those not experiencing issues with positive affect may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved therapeutic strategies for enhancing positive emotions and overall quality of life in PTSD patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the neurobiological effects of psychotherapy on brain function, indicating that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
AUSTIN, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN — AUSTIN, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: FONZO, GREGORY — UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN
- Study coordinator: FONZO, GREGORY
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.