Peer-led therapy for PTSD in formerly incarcerated individuals

Peer-led Trauma Therapy for Re-entry

Not applicable Interventional University of Wisconsin, Madison · NCT06019767

This study tests whether a peer-led group therapy program can help people who have been in prison and are dealing with PTSD feel better.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment72 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Wisconsin, Madison Academic / other
Locations1 site (Madison, Wisconsin)
Trial IDNCT06019767 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This research aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a peer-led group therapy program using Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) for individuals who have experienced incarceration and are suffering from PTSD. The program will be facilitated by Certified Peer Specialists who have lived experience with incarceration, alongside trained community therapists. Participants will undergo screening for PTSD and, if eligible, will engage in a 6-week group therapy treatment consisting of 12 sessions, with assessments conducted before, during, and after the treatment to measure outcomes and gather feedback.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 and older who have completed a prison or jail sentence and meet the criteria for PTSD treatment.

Not a fit: Patients currently experiencing active psychosis, self-harm, or substance use dependence may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly reduce PTSD symptoms in formerly incarcerated individuals, improving their mental health and reintegration into society.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using peer-led interventions for mental health treatment, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* 18 years of age or older
* completed a prison or jail sentence
* no current psychosis symptoms
* no active self-harm or active suicidal intent
* able and willing to participate in group therapy
* meet criteria for PTSD treatment need

Exclusion Criteria:

* current and active psychosis
* current and active self-harm and suicidality
* no PTSD diagnosis
* current substance use dependence (not including those used as prescribed for medical reasons) on alcohol, cocaine, amphetamines, inhalants, sedatives or sleeping pills, hallucinogens, or opioids

Where this trial is running

Madison, Wisconsin

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 PTSDPreviously incarceratedGroup therapyCognitive Processing Therapy
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.