Comparing psychotherapy treatments for suicide risk in Veterans
Suicide Risk Interventions: A Comparison of Treatment Dose and Neural Markers of Treatment Outcome
This study is testing two different therapy options for Veterans who have been hospitalized for suicide risk to see which one helps them cope better and reduces their suicidal thoughts.
Quick facts
| Phase | Phase 2 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 136 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | VA Office of Research and Development Federal |
| Locations | 1 site (Boston, Massachusetts) |
| Trial ID | NCT05931289 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of two different psychotherapy treatments for Veterans who have been hospitalized due to suicide risk. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either Enhanced Crisis Response Planning (ECRP) or Brief Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Suicide Prevention (BCBT) after their hospital discharge. The study will assess whether a longer duration of therapy leads to better coping skills and reduced suicidal thoughts, particularly focusing on Veterans with a history of multiple suicide attempts. Additionally, neuroimaging scans will be conducted to explore the neurobiological mechanisms associated with suicide risk.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are Veterans who have recently been hospitalized for a suicidal crisis and are willing to participate in outpatient therapy sessions.
Not a fit: Patients with significant cognitive impairment or current psychotic or manic features may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to more effective psychotherapy interventions that significantly reduce suicide risk among Veterans.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that both ECRP and BCBT can reduce suicide attempts, but this direct comparison of their effectiveness is novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * hospitalization for a recent suicidal crisis consisting of SI with intent to die within the past week and/or a suicide attempt within the past month * Veteran status * ability to speak English * ability to complete the informed consent process * willingness/ability to attend 12 outpatient treatment sessions and 3 fMRI sessions following hospital discharge Exclusion Criteria: * significant cognitive impairment * current psychotic or manic features
Where this trial is running
Boston, Massachusetts
- VA Boston Healthcare System Jamaica Plain Campus, Jamaica Plain, MA — Boston, Massachusetts, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Michael S Esterman, PhD — VA Boston Healthcare System Jamaica Plain Campus, Jamaica Plain, MA
- Study coordinator: Michael S Esterman, PhD
- Email: Michael.Esterman@va.gov
- Phone: (857) 364-4362
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.