Psychotherapy for PTSD
(PERPP Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to explore how cognitive processing therapy (CPT), a form of trauma-focused psychotherapy, can change brain function and improve the ability to feel positive emotions in people with PTSD (posttraumatic stress disorder). Participants will either start therapy immediately or after a short delay to compare outcomes. This trial suits individuals who have experienced a traumatic event and have had PTSD symptoms for at least three months. Participants should be comfortable with MRI scans and ready for several assessments.
As an unphased trial, this study offers participants the opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research in PTSD treatment.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
Yes, if you are currently taking regular psychiatric medications like antidepressants, you will need to stop, except for as-needed benzodiazepine or opiate medication no more than three times per week, or short-duration stimulant medication for ADHD that can be skipped within 24 hours of study visits.
What prior data suggests that cognitive processing therapy is safe for PTSD?
Research has shown that Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) is generally safe for treating PTSD. One study found that only 6.9% of participants stopped CPT, suggesting most find it manageable. Evaluations also indicate that military and veteran patients who received CPT experienced improvements in PTSD and depression symptoms. No major reports of harmful side effects exist, making CPT a well-tolerated option for managing PTSD symptoms.12345
Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) for PTSD because it offers a structured, cognitive-behavioral approach that helps individuals reframe and process traumatic memories, which is different from many traditional therapies that focus more on exposure. While standard PTSD treatments, like Prolonged Exposure Therapy and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, often emphasize confronting trauma directly, CPT emphasizes changing thought patterns to reduce the emotional impact of those memories. This approach can be particularly appealing for individuals who find direct exposure to trauma distressing. Additionally, CPT is typically delivered over a shorter, more intensive period, potentially providing quicker relief of symptoms.
What is the effectiveness track record for cognitive processing therapy in treating PTSD?
Research has shown that Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), which participants in this trial may receive, effectively treats PTSD. One study found that individuals who underwent CPT experienced a 14-point reduction in PTSD symptoms on a symptom scale. These improvements were significant and persisted for 17 to 34 weeks after treatment. Other studies confirm that CPT helps reduce symptoms such as depression and suicidal thoughts, which often accompany PTSD. A review of multiple studies also supports that CPT provides lasting benefits for people with PTSD.12367
Who Is on the Research Team?
Gregory A Fonzo, PhD
Principal Investigator
The University of Texas at Austin
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for English-speaking adults with chronic PTSD, who have experienced symptoms for at least 3 months. Participants must be able to undergo brain scans (fMRI) and not currently use regular psychiatric medications, except certain as-needed drugs. Those with a history of psychosis, bipolar disorder, substance dependence, recent suicide attempts or ideation, metal implants incompatible with fMRI, pregnancy or exposure therapy are excluded.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Baseline Assessment
Participants undergo clinical and neurobiological assessment with fMRI during reward processing paradigms
Treatment
Participants receive cognitive processing therapy (CPT) with an assigned study therapist
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in PTSD symptoms and brain function post-treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Cognitive Processing Therapy
Cognitive Processing Therapy is already approved in United States, European Union for the following indications:
- Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Texas at Austin
Lead Sponsor