Testing interventions to reduce dissociation in trauma survivors
Mechanistic Interventions and Neuroscience of Dissociation
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
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 350 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Emory University Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (Atlanta, Georgia and 1 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT04670640 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
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.
Who should consider this trial
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.
Not a fit: Patients with active psychosis, severe cognitive impairment, or substance dependence may not benefit from this study.
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 performed: 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.
Eligibility criteria
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 this trial is running
Atlanta, Georgia and 1 other locations
- 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
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.