Intensive treatment program for first-time PTSD patients

(Cost)-Effectiveness of Intensive Trauma-Focused Treatment Versus Spaced Trauma-Focused Treatment As First Line Treatment for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder in Adults with Multiple Trauma Exposure: Randomized Controlled Trial

NA · ARQ National Psychotrauma Centre · NCT06700590

This study tests whether a five-day intensive treatment program can help adults with first-time PTSD feel better compared to regular weekly sessions.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment186 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorARQ National Psychotrauma Centre (other)
Locations4 sites (Diemen, North Holland and 3 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06700590 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness of an intensive treatment program for adults experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) for the first time. Participants will receive five days of intensive treatment within two weeks, compared to standard weekly sessions. The study will assess the reduction of PTSD symptoms and analyze the societal costs associated with both treatment approaches through questionnaires and interviews conducted over nine months.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older with a PTSD diagnosis stemming from multiple traumatic events who are seeking treatment for the first time.

Not a fit: Patients with current psychotic disorders, severe substance use issues, or those who cannot communicate effectively in Dutch may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide a more effective and cost-efficient treatment option for individuals suffering from PTSD.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results with intensive treatment approaches for PTSD, suggesting potential for success in this trial.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* 18 years or older
* PTSD diagnosis according to DSM-5 (CAPS-5);
* PTSD diagnosis stemming from 2 or more potentially traumatic events (PTEs)
* seeking first-time treatment for PTSD (or less than 8 sessions);
* employed (working or on sick leave for less than two years)

Exclusion Criteria:

* Current psychotic disorder, severe alcohol or substance use disorder, high suicidal intent (MINI-S for DSM-5) and a concrete suicide plan, or severe aggressive behavior that poses danger for others
* insufficient command of the Dutch language to be able to complete the assessments. This will be determined through clinical judgment at intake.

Where this trial is running

Diemen, North Holland and 3 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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: PTSD - Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, intensive treatment, massed treatment, randomized controlled trial, RCT, first time treatment

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.