Group therapy for patients with lasting trauma reactions

Adding a Group Based Stabilization and Skill Training Intervention for Patients With Long Lasting Posttraumatic Reactions Receiving Outpatient Treatment in Specialized Mental Health Care - A Randomized Controlled Trial

Not applicable Interventional St. Olavs Hospital · NCT03887559

This study tests if adding group therapy to regular treatment can help people with long-lasting trauma feel better and improve their overall well-being.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment160 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 75 Years
SexAll
SponsorSt. Olavs Hospital Academic / other
Locations1 site (Trondheim)
Trial IDNCT03887559 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the effectiveness of adding a group-based stabilization and skill-training intervention to the standard individual outpatient treatment for patients experiencing long-lasting post-traumatic reactions. Participants will be divided into two groups, with one receiving the combined treatment and the other receiving standard care. The study aims to assess changes in mental health, functional impairment, well-being, and inflammation markers before and after the intervention. By targeting patients with complex psychological symptoms, the research seeks to develop more effective treatment options for those in community mental health care.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals receiving outpatient treatment for post-traumatic stress reactions who have experienced traumatic events and have symptoms lasting at least six months.

Not a fit: Patients with active psychotic symptoms, substance abuse issues, or high suicidal risk may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly improve the mental health and quality of life for patients suffering from long-lasting post-traumatic reactions.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using group-based interventions for trauma, suggesting potential success for this novel approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Receiving treatment in ordinary out-patient clinics
* Having been exposed to or witnessing to traumatic event(s) defined as "one or several extremely threatening or horrific events or series of events or situations being of such a character which is likely to overwhelming distress in almost anyone in a similar situation", measured by Stressful Life Events Screening Questionnaire
* Presenting with posttraumatic reactions such as hyperarousal, avoidance, intrusions, emotional dysregulation or interpersonal difficulties.
* Symptom duration for a minimum of six months.
* Understand and speak Norwegian to an extent that is required to participate in a stabilization- and skill-training group.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Active psychotic symptoms.
* Substance or drug addiction or abuse.
* High suicidal risk considered by the individual therapist.
* Having participated in the course previously.

Where this trial is running

Trondheim

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.
Conditions Stress Disorders, Post-TraumaticMental DisordersTrauma and Stressor Related DisordersPsychotherapy
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.