Improving PTSD treatment outcomes using adaptive therapy approaches

Testing Adaptive Interventions to Improve Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Treatment Outcomes in Federally Qualified Health Centers

Not applicable Interventional University of Michigan · NCT05457985

This study tests if using a flexible approach to therapy for PTSD, starting with simpler treatments and adjusting based on how patients respond, can lead to better results.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment430 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Michigan Academic / other
Locations13 sites (Baldwin, Michigan and 12 other locations)
Trial IDNCT05457985 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This trial aims to develop a stepped-care model for treating patients with PTSD by comparing the effectiveness of different therapy types. It investigates whether starting with a low- or medium-intensity intervention and adjusting based on patient response leads to better outcomes. The study utilizes prolonged exposure therapy and a mobile app to support treatment. Participants will receive care at federally qualified health centers and will be monitored for symptom reduction over the course of the intervention.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals receiving care at participating federally qualified health centers who have a PTSD checklist score of 33 or higher and own a mobile device for app use.

Not a fit: Patients with severe cognitive impairment, high suicide risk, or active substance use disorders may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to more effective and personalized treatment options for patients with PTSD.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using adaptive interventions for PTSD, suggesting potential for success in this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Receive care at a participating federally qualified health center (FQHC)
* Have a Posttraumatic Stress Disorder checklist (PCL-5) score greater or equal (≥) to 33
* Own a mobile device that can be used for the PTSD Coach App
* Have had psychotropic medication stability for at least 4 weeks

Exclusion Criteria:

* Severe cognitive impairment that in the judgment of the investigators makes it unlikely that the participant can adhere to the study regimen (as evidenced by confusion, inability to track discussion or answer questions, or other clear and significant indicators of cognitive impairment)
* High risk of suicide (defined as meeting criteria for Action Step 3 on the Participant Suicide Risk Screening form
* Severe alcohol or substance use disorder (moderate-severe alcohol use disorder on Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) (scores ≥ 15) or high risk on National Institute on Drug Abuse Quick Screen (scores ≥ 27))
* Active psychosis or unmanaged bipolar disorder
* Unstable housing
* Current engagement in a trauma-focused behavioral treatment (such as Prolonged Exposure or Cognitive Processing Therapy).
* Patients who do not speak English will be excluded for logistical reasons.

Where this trial is running

Baldwin, Michigan and 12 other locations

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 PTSDProlonged Exposure for Primary CareMobile deviceClinician Supported PTSD Coach AppPTSD symptomsProlonged Exposure/PE
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.