Apply to Trial

Compensation: Varies

Number of Visits: 11

Duration: 9 weeks

20 Participants Needed

Interpersonal Psychotherapy for Alcoholism

Overseen ByJeremy D Kidd, MD

Age: 18+

Sex: Any

Trial Phase: Academic

Sponsor: New York State Psychiatric Institute

Disqualifiers: Psychosis, Suicidality, Severe withdrawal, others

No Placebo GroupAll trial participants will receive the active study treatment (no placebo)

Trial Summary

What is the purpose of this trial?

Gender minority (GM; transgender and gender non-conforming) individuals experience disproportionately high rates of hazardous drinking and alcohol use disorder (AUD) and are an NIH-designated disparity population (NOT-MD-19-001). Despite marked disparities and unique alcohol risk factors, there are no evidence-based alcohol interventions for this population. This study will conduct mixed-methods formative research with an established multi-site longitudinal GM cohort to develop and assess the feasibility of the first culturally-adapted psychosocial treatment intervention for GMs with AUD. The study will evaluate an adapted version of interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT), with adaptations intended to enhance the responsiveness of IPT to the unique life experiences of GM individuals that may influence alcohol consumption.

Will I have to stop taking my current medications?

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. However, if you have severe psychiatric symptoms or a history of severe alcohol withdrawal, you may not be eligible to participate.

What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment Culturally adapted interpersonal psychotherapy for alcoholism?

Interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT) has shown promise in treating alcohol dependence, especially when combined with other approaches like motivational enhancement and cognitive-behavioral therapy. Additionally, cultural competency, such as ethnic matching of therapist and patient, can improve treatment outcomes, as seen in studies with depressed adolescents.¹ ² ³ ⁴ ⁵

Is Interpersonal Psychotherapy safe for treating alcoholism?

Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT) has been used safely in various forms for different conditions, including depression and substance use disorders. While specific safety data for alcoholism is limited, IPT is generally considered safe for human use.² ³ ⁴ ⁶ ⁷

How is culturally adapted interpersonal psychotherapy different from other treatments for alcoholism?

Culturally adapted interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT) for alcoholism is unique because it focuses on improving interpersonal relationships and addressing social conflicts, which can be a significant factor in substance use. This approach is tailored to fit the cultural context of the patient, making it more relevant and potentially more effective for diverse populations compared to standard treatments that may not consider cultural differences.⁴ ⁶ ⁸ ⁹ ¹⁰

Research Team

Jeremy D Kidd, MD

Principal Investigator

New York State Psychiatric Institute/Research Foundation for Mental Hygiene, Inc

Eligibility Criteria

This trial is for gender minority individuals who speak English, want treatment for moderate-to-severe alcohol use disorder (AUD), and can follow the study's procedures. It's not open to those legally mandated to treatment, with severe psychiatric symptoms or a history of intense alcohol withdrawal.

Inclusion Criteria

Current DSM-5 Alcohol use disorder (AUD) (moderate-to-severe)

Able to give informed consent and comply with study procedures

GM self-identification

See 2 more

Exclusion Criteria

History of severe alcohol withdrawal (e.g., seizure, delirium tremens)

Legally mandated to treatment

Current DSM-5 SUD other than alcohol/nicotine/caffeine/cannabis

See 1 more

Timeline

Screening

Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial

2-4 weeks

1 visit (telephone)

Treatment

Participants receive culturally-adapted Brief Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT-B) for 9 weeks

9 weeks

9 weekly visits (in-person)

Follow-up

Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment

4 weeks

1 visit (in-person)

Treatment Details

Interventions

Culturally adapted interpersonal psychotherapy

Trial OverviewThe study is testing a new version of interpersonal psychotherapy that's been adapted specifically for gender minority people with AUD. The goal is to see if this therapy better addresses their unique experiences related to alcohol consumption.

Participant Groups

1Treatment groups

Experimental Treatment

Group I: Culturally adapted interpersonal psychotherapyExperimental Treatment1 Intervention

Individual psychotherapy intervention based on Brief Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT-B) with additional cultural adaptation for transgender and nonbinary individuals.