Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD and Borderline Personality Disorder

A Pilot Effectiveness Trial of Cognitive Processing Therapy Augmented With Suicide Risk Management for Individuals With Comorbid PTSD and BPD

NA · Palo Alto University · NCT04230668

This study is testing a new therapy for people with both PTSD and Borderline Personality Disorder to see if it helps them feel better and manage their suicide risk more effectively than standard treatment.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment33 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 65 Years
SexAll
SponsorPalo Alto University (other)
Locations1 site (Palo Alto, California)
Trial IDNCT04230668 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the effectiveness of Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) combined with Suicide Risk Management for individuals diagnosed with both Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). The aim is to address the unique challenges faced by this population, which often experiences higher functional impairment and healthcare costs. The study will involve participants receiving either the adapted CPT or Treatment as Usual, both with a focus on managing suicide risk. The goal is to innovate treatment options that are more efficient and effective for this comorbidity.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18-65 who reside in the Bay Area, CA, and have a current diagnosis of both PTSD and BPD.

Not a fit: Patients with acute mania, acute psychosis, or severe intellectual disabilities, as well as those requiring immediate medical attention for life-threatening conditions, may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide a more effective treatment option for individuals suffering from both PTSD and BPD, potentially reducing their symptoms and improving their quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: While there are limited treatment options for PTSD-BPD, this approach is innovative and aims to fill a significant gap in existing therapies, suggesting potential for success based on the need for effective interventions.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Aged 18-65 years
* Must reside in the Bay Area, CA
* Current DSM-5 diagnosis of PTSD and BPD
* Must be willing to be audio- or videorecorded for assessment and treatment sessions

Exclusion Criteria:

* Acute mania, acute psychosis, or intellectual disability
* Conditions requiring medical attention to a potentially life-threatening illness (e.g., severe anorexia nervosa)
* Severe impairments in written and aural comprehension
* EU individuals

Where this trial is running

Palo Alto, California

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Suicide Risk Management, Suicide, Self-harm

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.