Remote brain training to improve thinking and daily life in adults with PTSD
Psychosocial Determinants and Impact of a Synchronous Remote Cognitive Remediation Program on Individuals With Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.
This project will test whether a remote computer-based brain training program helps adults with PTSD improve memory, attention, and everyday functioning compared with regular computer games.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 64 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 45 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Université du Québec a Montréal Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Montreal, Quebec) |
| Trial ID | NCT07309302 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
Adults with PTSD are randomly assigned to a specialized online cognitive remediation program (HAPPYneuron Pro) or to regular computer games as an active control, with all intervention sessions delivered remotely. The study measures changes in PTSD symptoms, multiple cognitive domains (memory, attention, processing speed, executive function), quality of life, and daily functioning. Researchers will also measure self-efficacy and perceived social support to see whether these psychosocial factors influence who benefits most. Participants are French-speaking adults aged 18–45 living in Canada and are screened with the SCID-5, with exclusions for major neurological disorders, psychosis, substance dependence, recent severe TBI, or medications that strongly affect cognition.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are French-speaking adults aged 18–45 living in Canada with a current PTSD diagnosis confirmed by SCID-5 who have computer and private-space access and can complete the full remote protocol.
Not a fit: People with major neurological disorders, recent or severe traumatic brain injury, psychotic disorders, active substance dependence, recent hospitalization for major depression or suicide risk, or who regularly use cognition-altering benzodiazepines are unlikely to benefit or be eligible.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this remote cognitive training could offer an accessible way to improve thinking skills, reduce PTSD-related functional problems, and complement existing PTSD treatments.
How similar studies have performed: Previous computerized cognitive remediation studies in PTSD and other psychiatric conditions have shown mixed but promising cognitive and functional gains, though large definitive trials remain limited.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria * Age 18 to 45 years * Able to speak and read French fluently * Access to a computer with a camera and a secure Internet connection * Access to a private space for assessment and intervention sessions * Available for the complete treatment protocol * Confirmed current PTSD diagnosis using the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-5 (SCID-5) * Residing in Canada Exclusion Criteria * History of neurological disorders (stroke, intracranial surgery, aneurysm, epilepsy) * Moderate to severe traumatic brain injury OR hospitalization due to traumatic brain injury * Mild traumatic brain injury less than 6 months ago with persistent symptoms * Psychotic disorders * Alcohol abuse or substance dependence disorders * Video game addiction * Hospitalization for major depression or suicide risk within the past 3 months * Regular use of medications that impact neurocognition, including: benzodiazepines (diazepam, lorazepam, alprazolam, Ativan, Xanax, Rivotril) * Residence outside Canada
Where this trial is running
Montreal, Quebec
- Pavillon Adrien-Pinard (SU) — Montreal, Quebec, Canada (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Pascale Brillon Principal Investigator, Ph.D.
- Email: brillon.pascale@uqam.ca
- Phone: (514) 987-3000
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.