Improving PTSD therapy outcomes for veterans
Reducing Dropout and Improving Outcomes From PTSD Therapy: When to Switch Therapies or Stay the Course
NA · United States Department of Defense · NCT06957067
This study is testing whether two different ways of helping veterans with PTSD stick to their therapy can improve their treatment results.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 280 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | United States Department of Defense (fed) |
| Locations | 4 sites (Phoenix, Arizona and 3 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT06957067 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to enhance the effectiveness of Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) for veterans with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) by comparing two methods of identifying individuals who may struggle with the therapy. Investigators will assess whether using CPT skills or considering a switch to Present Centered Therapy (PCT) leads to better treatment retention and outcomes. The study will also explore barriers to implementing these intervention strategies and examine the stability of treatment differences over time. By utilizing behavioral and attitudinal measures, the research seeks to identify those in need of additional support during their therapy.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are veterans who meet DSM-5 criteria for PTSD and are interested in outpatient psychotherapy.
Not a fit: Patients with severe cognitive impairment or uncontrolled psychiatric symptoms may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved treatment outcomes and retention rates for veterans undergoing therapy for PTSD.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in improving PTSD treatment outcomes through tailored interventions, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Veterans interested in outpatient VA psychotherapy for PTSD * Meets DSM-5 criteria for PTSD * Be able to provide informed consent * Be willing to be randomized * Agree to not receive non-study psychotherapy for PTSD during study treatment (case management, supportive therapy/group, and concurrent substance use treatment are allowable) Exclusion Criteria: * Severe cognitive impairment * Current suicidal or homicidal intent with a specific plan * Uncontrolled psychotic or manic symptoms * A psychiatric medication change in the past month * A severe SUD as diagnosed by the DSM-5
Where this trial is running
Phoenix, Arizona and 3 other locations
- VA Phoenix Health Care System — Phoenix, Arizona, United States (RECRUITING)
- New Orleans VA Medical Center — New Orleans, Louisiana, United States (RECRUITING)
- Ralph H. Johnson VA Health Care System (Charleston VA) — Charleston, South Carolina, United States (RECRUITING)
- VA Houston Healthcare System — Houston, Texas, United States (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Laura Meis, PhD — Women's Health Sciences Division of the National Center for PTSD; University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Emily M Hudson, PhD
- Email: emily.hudson@va.gov
- Phone: 612-629-7262
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 Processing Therapy, Trauma-focused treatments, Veterans