Improving therapy for veterans with PTSD and anxiety

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This clinical trial aims to compare two intensive formats of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for veterans and service members suffering from PTSD and anxiety disorders. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either individual or group intensive CBT, or usual care, over a short period. The study will assess the effectiveness of these formats in improving anxiety symptoms and overall quality of life. Additionally, non-responders will receive extra individual therapy sessions to enhance treatment outcomes.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Veteran/Service Member at least 18 years old
* Current diagnosis of at least one anxiety-based disorder: Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Other Specified Trauma- and Stressor-Related Disorder, Other Specified Anxiety Disorder, and Unspecified Anxiety Disorder (based on ADIS-5)
* Moderate-to-poor life enjoyment and satisfaction as indicated by a score of 47 or lower on the QLES-Q-SF
* Stable on psychotropic medication for 4 weeks before study participation
* Willing to be randomized to treatment condition

Exclusion Criteria:

* Active symptoms of mania or psychosis at baseline (based on ADIS-5)
* Depression with active suicidal ideation and intent that would preclude treatment (based on ADIS-5 \& BDI-II)
* Moderate-to-severe cognitive impairment as indicated by the SLUMS (a score below 20)
* Veterans/Service Members with comorbid substance/alcohol use or dependence are study eligible but must agree to reduce and limit their use of substances during the active course of treatment, particularly during exposure exercises. If they do not agree to this, they will be excluded
* Undergoing concurrent transdiagnostic CBT specifically targeting any of the above-mentioned disorders

Where it's running

• Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center
  Houston, Texas, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Ellen Teng, PhD — Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center
• Study coordinator: Ellen Teng, PhD
• Email: eteng@bcm.edu
• Phone: (713) 791-1414

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.