Improving cognitive function in public safety personnel with PTSD using Goal Management Therapy
A Randomized Control Trial Examining the Treatment Efficacy of a Novel Approach to Cognitive Remediation in Public Safety Personnel With Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Co-morbid Conditions
NA · Homewood Research Institute · NCT04251624
This study is testing if Goal Management Therapy can help improve thinking skills in public safety workers with PTSD.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 88 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 70 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Homewood Research Institute (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Guelph, Ontario) |
| Trial ID | NCT04251624 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effectiveness of Goal Management Therapy (GMT), a cognitive remediation strategy, in enhancing cognitive functioning among public safety personnel diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The therapy focuses on improving goal-directed behaviors through structured sessions that include mindfulness practices, planning, and completion of tasks. Participants will engage in both GMT and a matched psychosocial education control group, which will cover topics related to brain function and lifestyle interventions. The study will be conducted in three phases, incorporating fMRI scans to assess changes in brain function related to the therapy.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are public safety personnel diagnosed with PTSD who can provide informed consent.
Not a fit: Patients currently receiving certain psychiatric medications or those with specific neurological or psychological disorders may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this therapy could significantly improve cognitive functioning and overall quality of life for public safety personnel suffering from PTSD.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in cognitive remediation approaches for PTSD, suggesting potential success for this intervention.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * have a diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder on the Clinician Administered PTSD Scale (CAPS) * are able to provide written informed consent Exclusion Criteria: * receiving treatment with anti-cholinergics, anti-psychotic medication, or psychostimulants * use of benzodiazepines within the last 24 hours * have had Electroconvulsive therapy within the past year * a diagnosis of substance dependence or abuse within the past 6 months * a recent history (within the past 12 months) of medical disorder known to adversely affect cognition * a history of head trauma with more than one minute of loss of consciousness or a history of traumatic brain injury * a history of neurological disorder * a diagnosis of psychotic disorder or bipolar disorder * a history of a neurodevelopmental disorder
Where this trial is running
Guelph, Ontario
- Homewood Research Institute — Guelph, Ontario, Canada (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Margaret McKinnon, PhD — McMaster University, St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton, Homewood Research Institute
- Study coordinator: Heather Millman, MA
- Email: HMillman@Homewoodhealth.com
- Phone: 519-824-1010
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.
Conditions: Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Cognitive Deficit, cognitive remediation, public safety personnel, psychosocial education, first responders, military