Exploring a new intervention for somatic flashbacks in PTSD

An Intervention for Somatic Flashbacks in Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: a Feasibility Study

NA · University College, London · NCT05996913

This study is trying out a new way to help adults with PTSD manage somatic flashbacks by using a technique called Imagery Rescripting to see if it makes them feel better.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment15 (estimated)
Ages16 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity College, London (other)
Locations2 sites (London and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT05996913 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This trial investigates the feasibility and acceptability of an intervention aimed at managing somatic flashbacks in adults with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). The intervention centers around Imagery Rescripting (ImRs), which is designed to help participants process and cope with their traumatic memories. The study will assess how well this intervention is received and whether it leads to improvements in the frequency and intensity of somatic flashbacks and overall PTSD symptoms. By focusing on the often-overlooked phenomenon of somatic flashbacks, this research aims to fill a gap in current PTSD treatment approaches.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 and above who have a DSM-5 diagnosis of PTSD or Complex PTSD and are currently experiencing somatic flashbacks.

Not a fit: Patients currently receiving another trauma-focused intervention or those with active suicidal intent may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could provide a novel therapeutic option for patients suffering from somatic flashbacks associated with PTSD.

How similar studies have performed: While there is limited empirical research on managing somatic flashbacks, the approach of using trauma-focused therapies has shown success in treating PTSD more broadly.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion criteria

* Aged 18 and above
* DSM-5 diagnosis of PTSD or Complex PTSD
* Participants who are currently experiencing somatic flashbacks
* Willing and able to provide written informed consent to treatment

Exclusion criteria:

* Currently receiving another trauma-focussed intervention
* Active suicidal intent or recent (past 8 weeks) suicide attempt
* Currently abusing substances
* Participants whose participation in the study is not considered in their best interest by the clinical team at Traumatic Stress Clinic and Woodfield Trauma Service
* Participants who do not consent to the intervention sessions being recorded
* Participants who do not consent to their assessment information being made available to the trainee clinical psychologist carrying out the intervention

Where this trial is running

London and 1 other locations

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: Post-traumatic Stress Disorder

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.