Child-friendly RTM therapy to reduce PTSD symptoms

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

The RTM-C protocol adapts an adult memory reconsolidation therapy into child-friendly language, games, and animated tools to help children safely reprocess traumatic memories. Children and a caregiver attend an initial parent session, then the child receives up to six therapist-led sessions that use guided imagery and dissociative/regulatory steps. Outcomes include symptom change measured by parent-reported CATS-2, safety, and acceptability to children, parents, and therapists, with 1- and 6-month follow-ups. The intervention is brief, non-pharmacological, and delivered in-person at a single site.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Age 6-14 years at enrolment.
* PTSD symptoms present: CATS-2 (Parent) total ≥15 at screening.
* Functional impact: impairment endorsed in ≥1 CATS-2 domain (relationships, leisure, learning, happiness).
* Consent/assent: written parent/guardian consent and child assent obtained.
* Availability: child and caregiver can attend parent session + 6 treatment sessions and complete 1- and 6-month follow-ups.
* Language/comprehension: child can understand session instructions and participate in tasks (with supports as needed).
* Therapist check of readiness: during Session 1 practice, child demonstrates reliable break state (disengages from imagery, re-orients to present, maintains eye contact, relaxed affect).

Exclusion Criteria:

* Acute comorbid mental disorder.
* Concurrent trauma-focused psychotherapy planned or ongoing during the study period.
* Inability to understand/follow instructions due to cognitive impairment or other reasons that preclude participation.
* Medical/neurological condition or situational factors (e.g., inability to commit to visits) that, in the investigator's judgment, would make participation unsafe or compromise study integrity.

Where it's running

• Charitable Foundation Voices of Children
  Kyiv, Ukraine Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Viktoriia Gorbunova, ScD — Global Institute for Mental Health Innovations, Networking and Development
• Study coordinator: Viktoriia Gorbunova, ScD
• Email: viktoriyka.gorbunova@gmail.com
• Phone: +380931316322

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.