Child-friendly RTM therapy to reduce PTSD symptoms
Developing Innovative PTSD Treatment for Children: Reconsolidation of Traumatic Memories Protocol™ for Children (RTM-C Protocol)
This project will test whether a child-friendly Reconsolidation of Traumatic Memories protocol (RTM-C) can safely reduce PTSD symptoms in children aged 6–14 who have experienced trauma.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 40 (estimated) |
| Ages | 6 Years to 14 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Global Institute for Mental Health Innovations, Networking and Development a.s.b.l. Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Kyiv) |
| Trial ID | NCT07185126 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
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.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Children aged 6–14 with clinically significant PTSD symptoms (CATS-2 parent total ≥15), endorsed functional impairment, available caregiver consent, and ability to attend the parent session, six treatment sessions, and follow-ups are ideal candidates.
Not a fit: Children with acute comorbid psychiatric disorders, those already in concurrent trauma-focused psychotherapy, or those unable to follow session instructions due to cognitive impairment are unlikely to benefit from this protocol.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, RTM-C could quickly reduce distressing memories, flashbacks, and nightmares and improve daily functioning for children with PTSD.
How similar studies have performed: The adult RTM Protocol™ has demonstrated strong clinical effectiveness in several trials, but the child-adapted RTM-C is novel and has limited prior testing.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
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 this trial is running
Kyiv
- 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
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.