Understanding brain changes during trauma therapy for adolescents with PTSD
Neural connectivity before and after each of the three treatment phases of trauma-focused therapy for adolescent posttraumatic stress
This study is looking at how trauma-focused therapy helps the brains of teenagers with PTSD, so we can learn more about how therapy works and find better ways to help them heal.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Science Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Antonio, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11031298 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how trauma-focused therapy affects the brain of adolescents suffering from posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). By using neuroimaging techniques, the study aims to identify specific brain changes that occur during different phases of therapy, which include skill acquisition, narrative processing, and consolidation. The goal is to enhance treatment effectiveness by understanding the neurobiological mechanisms behind successful therapy outcomes. This approach could lead to more personalized and effective treatment strategies for youth with PTSD.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents aged 12-20 who are experiencing PTSD, particularly those who have not responded well to existing treatments.
Not a fit: Patients outside the age range of 12-20 or those without a diagnosis of PTSD may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved therapeutic approaches that better address the needs of adolescents with PTSD.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding brain changes during therapy, but this study's specific focus on phase-based neuroimaging is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
San Antonio, United States
- University of Texas Hlth Science Center — San Antonio, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Garrett, Amy S — University of Texas Hlth Science Center
- Study coordinator: Garrett, Amy S
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.