Therapy for Veterans involved in the justice system
Official title: Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Justice-Involved Veterans: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Funded at James J Peters VA Medical Center · NIH-11009519 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how well Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) works for Veterans who have been in the criminal justice system, helping them tackle mental health challenges, substance use, and feelings of distress, while also aiming to reduce repeat offenses and improve their overall well-being.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | James J Peters VA Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bronx, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 5I01RX004566-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11009519 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are Veterans who have a history of criminal justice involvement and are experiencing mental health or substance use challenges.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not Veterans or those without any history of criminal justice involvement may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the effectiveness of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) specifically tailored for Veterans who have been involved in the criminal justice system. The approach focuses on addressing the unique challenges faced by these individuals, including mental health issues, substance use, and the risk of suicide. By utilizing a randomized clinical trial design, the study aims to assess the therapy's acceptability and feasibility, as well as its impact on reducing recidivism and improving overall well-being. Participants will receive structured therapy sessions aimed at enhancing resilience and coping strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce suicide rates and improve mental health outcomes for justice-involved Veterans.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that Dialectical Behavior Therapy can be effective for various mental health issues, suggesting potential success for this tailored approach with justice-involved Veterans.
Where this research is happening
-
James J Peters VA Medical Center
Bronx, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Edwards, Emily R — James J Peters VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Edwards, Emily R
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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.