Goal Management Therapy for PTSD
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This study examines the efficacy of Goal Management Therapy (GMT) - a well-established cognitive remediation strategy aimed at improving goal-directed behaviors that are dependent on basic cognitive processes and on executive functioning - among public safety personnel with post-traumatic stress disorder.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
You may need to stop taking certain medications, such as anti-cholinergics, anti-psychotic medication, psychostimulants, and benzodiazepines, to participate in this trial.
How is Goal Management Therapy different from other PTSD treatments?
Goal Management Therapy (GMT) is unique because it focuses on improving executive functions, which are mental skills that help with managing tasks and goals, rather than just addressing traumatic memories or emotions. This approach is different from traditional PTSD treatments that often focus on exposure to trauma-related memories or cognitive restructuring.12345
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment Goal Management Therapy for PTSD?
The research suggests that trauma-focused psychotherapy, which includes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and other similar approaches, is effective for treating PTSD, showing medium to large improvements in symptoms. This indicates that therapies focusing on specific goals, like Goal Management Therapy, may also be beneficial for PTSD.46789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Margaret McKinnon, PhD
Principal Investigator
McMaster University, St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton, Homewood Research Institute
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for public safety personnel who have been diagnosed with PTSD using the CAPS scale and can give written consent. It's not specified who cannot participate, so additional exclusion criteria may apply.Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Phase 1 - Treatment
Inpatients attend 6 sessions of Goal Management Therapy and 6 sessions of psychosocial education, twice per week for 3 weeks.
Phase 2 - Treatment
Outpatients attend 9 sessions of Goal Management Therapy and 9 sessions of psychosocial education, once per week for 9 weeks.
Phase 3 - Treatment and fMRI
Outpatients attend 9 sessions of Goal Management Therapy and 9 sessions of psychosocial education, with fMRI scans to investigate neurobiological changes.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment.
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Goal Management Therapy
- Psychosocial Education
Goal Management Therapy is already approved in Canada, United States for the following indications:
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Homewood Research Institute
Lead Sponsor
Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR)
Collaborator
Homewood Health Centre
Collaborator
St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton
Collaborator
McMaster University
Collaborator