Partner-assisted therapy for PTSD in veterans
Official title: A Hybrid 1 Effectiveness-Implementation Trial of Partner-Assisted Prolonged Exposure for PTSD
Run by United States Department of Defense · NCT06990191 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests if involving partners in therapy can help veterans with PTSD feel better and improve their treatment results.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 420 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | United States Department of Defense Federal |
| Locations | 4 sites (Phoenix, Arizona and 3 other locations) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | May 16, 2025 |
| Main results expected | August 31, 2028 |
| Study ends | August 31, 2028 |
| Registry record updated | September 11, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT06990191 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates for this study are post-9/11 veterans diagnosed with PTSD who have been in a committed relationship for at least six months.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients experiencing imminent suicidality, severe cognitive impairment, or those with a partner who has PTSD 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 investigates the effectiveness of Partnered Prolonged Exposure (PPE) therapy for veterans suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). It aims to enhance traditional trauma-focused therapies by involving significant others in the treatment process, which may improve patient engagement and outcomes. The study will include veterans who have been diagnosed with PTSD and are in committed relationships, assessing the impact of partner involvement on treatment efficacy. By addressing the challenges faced by veterans in conventional PTSD treatments, this approach seeks to provide a more supportive and effective therapeutic environment.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to improved treatment outcomes for veterans with PTSD by leveraging the support of their partners.
How similar studies have gone: While partner-involved interventions for PTSD show promise, there is currently no established couples approach that has demonstrated superior outcomes compared to individual treatment models.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Post-9/11 Veteran Enrolled in VHA * 1 \> mo stable medication * Committed relationship 6+ months * DSM-5-R PTSD Diagnosis Exclusion Criteria: * Imminent suicidality/homicidally * Mania, psychosis, or severe substance use disorder, past 3 mos * Severe cognitive impairment * Severe intimate partner violence in last 6 months * Fear of or intimidation by partner * Partner screens positive for PTSD
Where it's running
-
San Diego VA Healthcare System
San Diego, California, United States Recruiting -
Phoenix VA Healthcare System
Phoenix, Arizona, United States Not yet recruiting -
Minneapolis VA Healthcare System
Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States Not yet recruiting -
Charleston VA Healthcare System
Charleston, South Carolina, United States Not yet recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Laura Meis, PhD — University of Minnesota, National Center for PTSD, Minneapolis VA Healthcare System
- Study coordinator: Emily M Hudson, PhD
- Email: emily.hudson@va.gov
- Phone: 612-629-7262
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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.