STAR Project: Supporting Recovery for People with Criminal Legal System Involvement
Official title: Support Towards Addiction Recovery for Individuals With Criminal Legal System Involvement: The STAR Project
Run by University of Kentucky · NCT07596251 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A new coaching program tests whether paired Recovery Coach and Loved One Coach sessions help people in recovery from substance use and their supporters see better recovery outcomes.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 99 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 8 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Kentucky Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Lexington, Kentucky) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | October 15, 2026 |
| Main results expected | March 1, 2031 |
| Study ends | March 1, 2031 |
| Registry record updated | October 22, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07596251 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are adults 18+ with recent criminal legal system involvement and a substance use disorder who want to work with a recovery coach and have a willing loved one to participate.
✕Probably not a fit
People without a willing support person or those not engaging with coaching may not experience the potential benefits.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This interventional study tests a paired coaching approach for adults recovering from substance use who have current or recent involvement with the criminal legal system, along with a designated loved one. In Year 1, a small pilot will assess feasibility. In Years 2–5, the study will evaluate whether the STAR intervention improves recovery capital for the recovering person, enhances well-being and knowledge for the loved one, and strengthens social support for both participants. Participants meet one-on-one with coaches during a six-week period and also join a four-person group session, followed by follow-up interviews.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, participants may experience stronger support, better coping resources, and improved recovery progress.
How similar studies have gone: Previous programs with recovery coaching show promise in improving engagement and outcomes, but this paired coach approach is relatively novel.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Recovering Persons: * At least 18 years old * Must have been involved with the criminal legal system (arrested, incarcerated, or on community supervision like parole or probation) within the past 12 months * Substance use disorder within the past 12 months * Interested in working with a recovery coach to support your recovery (defined as engaging in any changes to improve your health and wellness) * Can identify at least one person who is supportive of their recovery. * Loved Ones: * At least 18 years old * Interested in receiving additional supports and/or information about their loved one's substance use and criminal legal system involvement * Anticipate being available for weekly participation in intervention activities * Willing to support their loved one's recovery Exclusion Criteria: * Loved ones: * Already have a professional relationship with the recovering person (e.g., as a counselor, sponsor, or peer recovery support specialist) * Meet substance use disorder criteria for any past 30-day drug or alcohol use * Have a history of domestic violence or protective orders.
Where it's running
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University of Kentucky
Lexington, Kentucky, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Martha Tillson
- Email: martha.tillson@uky.edu
- Phone: (859) 323-5771
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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.