Improving PTSD therapy outcomes for veterans
Official title: Reducing Dropout and Improving Outcomes From PTSD Therapy: When to Switch Therapies or Stay the Course
Run by United States Department of Defense · NCT06957067 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing whether two different ways of helping veterans with PTSD stick to their therapy can improve their treatment results.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 280 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | United States Department of Defense Federal |
| Locations | 4 sites (Phoenix, Arizona and 3 other locations) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | March 17, 2025 |
| Main results expected | May 31, 2028 |
| Study ends | August 31, 2028 |
| Registry record updated | September 11, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT06957067 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates for this study are veterans who meet DSM-5 criteria for PTSD and are interested in outpatient psychotherapy.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with severe cognitive impairment or uncontrolled psychiatric symptoms may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
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.
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 gone: Other studies have shown promise in improving PTSD treatment outcomes through tailored interventions, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.
Who can join: the full rules
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 it's running
-
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
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
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SEE FAR CBT for Adults With PTSD
This 12-week, one-on-one SEE FAR CBT program tests a trauma-focused therapy to see if PTSD symptoms improve in adults 18 and older.
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Brief SEE FAR CBT: a short, focused therapy for adults with PTSD
A 6-session Brief SEE FAR CBT treatment is tested against usual dynamic psychotherapy for adults with PTSD to see if it reduces symptoms.
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MDMA Therapy for PTSD in Veterans
This phase 2 study tests a fixed 120 mg dose of MDMA, followed by a 60 mg supplemental dose, plus therapy, to see if it helps adults who are veterans with PTSD.
How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.