Testing interventions to reduce dissociation in trauma survivors
Official title: Mechanistic Interventions and Neuroscience of Dissociation
Run by Emory University · NCT04670640 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing different techniques, like vibration and breathing exercises, to see if they can help trauma survivors feel more connected to their emotions and improve their ability to focus.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 350 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Emory University Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (Atlanta, Georgia and 1 other locations) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | September 18, 2021 |
| Main results expected | March 2027 |
| Study ends | March 2027 |
| Registry record updated | April 20, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT04670640 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates for this study are individuals who have experienced significant trauma and exhibit high levels of dissociation as measured by specific psychological assessments.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with active psychosis, severe cognitive impairment, or substance dependence 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 aims to explore the neurophysiological mechanisms behind interventions designed to alleviate symptoms of dissociation in individuals who have experienced chronic trauma. Conducted at Emory University and the University of Pittsburgh, the research will assess the effectiveness of various body-focused and non-body-focused interventions, such as vibration and breath focus, in enhancing neural networks related to attentional control and interoceptive awareness. The goal is to improve emotion regulation skills and present-centeredness in highly dissociative patients, who often struggle with traditional trauma-focused treatments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide new therapeutic approaches for individuals suffering from dissociation due to trauma, improving their emotional regulation and overall quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown that mindfulness-based interventions can lead to improvements in cognition and emotion regulation in trauma-exposed individuals, suggesting a potential for success in this approach.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * experience of at least one Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) Criterion A trauma (assessed using the Life Events Checklist) * a score of 7 or higher on the Multiscale Dissociation Inventory (MDI) depersonalization subscale * willingness to participate in the study Exclusion Criteria: * actively psychotic and cognitively compromised individuals (assessed using the Moderate-severe cognitive impairment screening tool (MoCA) will be excluded * moderate or more severe substance dependence (assessed with the MINI) * persons with imminent risk of physical violence to self or others
Where it's running
-
Grady Hospital
Atlanta, Georgia, United States Recruiting -
Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States Completed
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Negar Fani, PhD — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Negar Fani, PhD
- Email: nfani@emory.edu
- Phone: 404-712-0354
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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.