Examining the effects of focusing on positive memories for post-trauma health
Examination and Refinement of a Novel Treatment for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: Processing of Positive Memories Technique (PPMT)
This study is testing a new way to help people with PTSD by focusing on positive memories to see if it can improve their symptoms better than regular counseling.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 70 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of North Texas, Denton, TX Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Denton, Texas) |
| Trial ID | NCT05523453 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates a novel technique called the Processing of Positive Memories Technique (PPMT) aimed at improving symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It will involve 70 participants who will be randomly assigned to either PPMT or Supportive Counseling (SC) to assess the impact on PTSD symptom severity and stress system dysregulation. The study seeks to address the limitations of current PTSD interventions that primarily focus on trauma memories by emphasizing the importance of positive memory processing.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18-65 who have been diagnosed with PTSD within the past month and can provide informed consent.
Not a fit: Patients with active suicidal intent, psychosis, or those currently receiving mental health therapy may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to improved treatment outcomes for individuals suffering from PTSD by enhancing their ability to recall and process positive memories.
How similar studies have performed: While there is growing evidence supporting the importance of positive memory processing in PTSD, this specific approach is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in prior studies.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * 18-65 years old * Willing/able to provide informed consent * Past month DSM-5 posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) diagnosis * Working knowledge of English Exclusion Criteria: * Active suicidal intent or attempts * Active psychosis * Currently receiving mental health therapy (past 3 months) * Dosage changes in psychiatric medications (past 3 months) * Currently pregnant
Where this trial is running
Denton, Texas
- University of North Texas — Denton, Texas, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Ateka Contractor, PHD — University of North Texas Health Science Center
- Study coordinator: Holly Wang
- Email: hui.wang@unt.edu
- Phone: 940-369-8634
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.