Adapting Cognitive Processing Therapy for Veterans with PTSD

Using the Multiphase Optimization Strategy to Adapt Cognitive Processing Therapy

This study is testing a shorter version of Cognitive Processing Therapy to see if it can help Veterans with PTSD feel better and stick with their treatment.

Quick facts

• Phase: NA
• Study type: Interventional
• Enrollment: 270 (estimated)
• Ages: 18 Years and up
• Sex: All
• Sponsor: VA Office of Research and Development (fed)
• Locations: 3 sites (Ann Arbor, Michigan and 2 other locations)
• Trial ID: NCT05220137 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to modify Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) to create a shorter, more effective treatment for Veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). By identifying the most effective components of CPT, the researchers hope to deliver these components in a briefer format, thereby improving treatment adherence and outcomes. The study will involve Veterans who are currently receiving care for PTSD and will focus on reducing dropout rates associated with traditional CPT. The ultimate goal is to enhance the quality of life for Veterans by providing timely and effective therapeutic interventions.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are Veterans over the age of 18 who have a PTSD diagnosis and a score of 33 or above on the PCL-5.

Not a fit: Patients with active suicidality, severe cognitive impairment, or those preferring medication-based treatments may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve treatment adherence and outcomes for Veterans with PTSD.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in adapting therapeutic approaches for PTSD, suggesting that this method could be effective, though this specific adaptation is novel.

Eligibility criteria

Inclusion Criteria:

The investigators designed the sample to be representative of Veterans with PTSD who are treated in PTSD Clinical Teams (PCTs), with minimal exclusion criteria. PCT clinicians will provide care for those with exclusionary comorbidities or preference for a medication-based approach, as per standard policies and procedures. Inclusion criteria are:

* score of 33 or above on the PCL-5
* at least 4 weeks on a stable dose for individuals who are taking psychotropic medication
* over the age of 18

Exclusion Criteria:

* active suicidality (assessed by the Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale with scores indicating elevated acute risk for suicide warranting hospitalization or intensive treatment)
* need for detoxification
* severe cognitive impairment that, in the judgment of the investigator, makes it unlikely that the patient can provide informed consent or adhere to the study regimen (as evidenced by confusion, inability to track discussion or answer questions, or other clear and significant indicators of cognitive impairment)
* psychosis or unmanaged bipolar disorder
* previous receipt of CPT in the past year
* current engagement in trauma-focused psychotherapy (Prolonged Exposure or Cognitive Processing Therapy)

Where this trial is running

Ann Arbor, Michigan and 2 other locations

• VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, MI — Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States (RECRUITING)
• Cincinnati VA Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH — Cincinnati, Ohio, United States (RECRUITING)
• VA Salt Lake City Health Care System, Salt Lake City, UT — Salt Lake City, Utah, United States (RECRUITING)

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Rebecca Kaufman Sripada, PhD MS — VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, MI
• Study coordinator: Rebecca K Sripada, PhD MS

Conditions: Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic, Veterans, Psychotherapy