Using magnetic stimulation to enhance therapy for veterans with PTSD

Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Augmented Written Exposure Therapy for Veterans with PTSD

NIH-funded research Olin Teague Veterans Center · NIH-11043434

This study is looking at whether combining a brain stimulation technique called rTMS with a writing therapy can help veterans with PTSD feel better faster and stick with their treatment.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionOlin Teague Veterans Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Temple, United States)
Project IDNIH-11043434 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the combination of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) and written exposure therapy (WET) to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in veterans. rTMS is a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate brain areas involved in emotional regulation, potentially improving cognitive control and emotional processing. The study aims to determine if integrating rTMS with a brief, effective therapy like WET can enhance treatment outcomes and reduce the time needed for therapy. By exploring this innovative approach, the research seeks to address the limitations of traditional PTSD treatments, particularly high dropout rates and persistent symptoms.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are veterans diagnosed with PTSD who have not responded adequately to standard therapies.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have a diagnosis of PTSD or those who are not veterans may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and efficient treatment options for veterans suffering from PTSD.

How similar studies have performed: While the combination of rTMS and WET is a novel approach, previous studies have shown success with rTMS in treating depression, suggesting potential for similar benefits in PTSD.

Where this research is happening

Temple, 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.