Group cognitive rehabilitation for Veterans with depression-related thinking problems

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This pilot compares a manualized, group-based Motivationally Enhanced Compensatory Cognitive Training for MDD (ME-CCT-MDD) delivered 8 weeks at 2 hours per week to a robust Goal-focused Supportive Contact comparator in Veterans with persistent cognitive complaints after treatment for MDD. Eligible participants are Veterans treated for MDD at the Portland VA within the past year, have moderate depressive symptoms (PHQ-9 ≥10), and show objective cognitive deficits on at least two measures in one domain (≥1 SD below age norms), with exclusions for dementia, recent substance use disorder, and traumatic brain injury. ME-CCT-MDD combines compensatory cognitive strategies, mindfulness practices, and motivational interviewing to encourage adoption of lifestyle and cognitive strategies (e.g., exercise, nutrition, organization) alongside standard MDD care. The primary aims are to test feasibility and acceptability in this population, with cognitive and mood outcomes measured before and after the intervention.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Veterans 18 years of age or older
2. Self-reported concerns about cognitive functioning deficits or clinical concerns about cognitive functioning deficits documented in EHR
3. meets DSM-5 criteria for MDD and receiving treatment for this diagnosis at the Portland VA within the past year
4. moderate or greater depressive symptoms as assessed by a PHQ-9 score ≥ 10
5. current cognitive functioning deficits as determined by performance on at least two measures in one cognitive domain (i.e., memory, attention/processing speed, language, executive functioning) falling ≥1 SD below their age-appropriate norms in the absence of memory impairment.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. impaired capacity to understand study risks and benefits
2. history of TBI as defined by American College of Rehabilitation Medicine and VA/DoD criteria
3. meets DSM-5 criteria for a substance use disorder other than nicotine use disorder in the past 6 months
4. meets DSM-5 criteria for dementia, psychotic disorder, or "with psychotic features" specifier
5. active suicidal intent with significant clinical risk
6. auditory or visual impairments that would prevent ability to participate in cognitive rehabilitation group or assessments. Eligibility will be established by electronic medical record review conducted by study staff and will be confirmed by the Veteran during the initial phone call.

Where it's running

• Portland VA Medical Center
  Portland, Oregon, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Maya O'Neil, PhD — Portland VA Medical Center
• Study coordinator: Joren Adams
• Email: joren.adams@va.gov
• Phone: 503-220-8262

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.