Improving mental health care for LGBTQ+ Veterans through a new therapy approach

Equity-Focused Implementation of LGBTQ-Affirmative Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: A Hybrid Implementation-Effectiveness Trial

NIH-funded research Durham VA Medical Center · NIH-10862091

This study is looking at how well LGBTQ-friendly therapy can help improve the mental health of LGBTQ+ Veterans, making sure they get the care they deserve in a supportive way.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDurham VA Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Durham, United States)
Project IDNIH-10862091 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on implementing LGBTQ-Affirmative Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to address the mental health needs of LGBTQ+ Veterans who face significant disparities in care. The study aims to evaluate how effectively this therapy can be integrated into the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) system, particularly in overcoming barriers to access and systemic discrimination. By collaborating with community partners and utilizing participatory methods, the research seeks to ensure that the implementation process is equitable and responsive to the needs of LGBTQ+ individuals. The approach includes rigorous evaluation of the therapy's effectiveness in improving mental health outcomes among participants.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are LGBTQ+ Veterans who are experiencing mental health challenges and are seeking affirmative care.

Not a fit: Patients who do not identify as LGBTQ+ or who are not Veterans may not receive benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly enhance mental health support for LGBTQ+ Veterans, potentially reducing rates of suicide and improving overall well-being.

How similar studies have performed: This research is innovative as it is the first known study to test the implementation of LGBTQ-affirmative mental health treatment within the VA system, building on existing evidence of CBT's effectiveness.

Where this research is happening

Durham, 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.
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.