Cognitive Processing Therapy vs. Relaxation Training for PTSD
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
The overall goal of this randomized controlled trial with partial crossover is to compare the effectiveness of 1-week virtual massed Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) to 5-day virtual relaxation training (RT) with regard to their ability to reduce posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms. Specifically, this study is designed to 1) examine changes in PTSD symptoms during and following the respective intervention, and 2) explore possible psychological treatment mechanisms, including cognitive control, inhibition, self-efficacy, and memory, and 3) examine possible moderators of treatment success (e.g. neuropsychological factors).
Do I have to stop taking my current medications for the trial?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications, but you must have been on a stable dose of any psychotropic medication for at least one month before starting the trial.
Is Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) safe for humans?
How is Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) different from other treatments for PTSD?
Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) is unique because it combines education, exposure, and cognitive components to help individuals process and challenge their beliefs about traumatic events, which is different from other therapies that may focus solely on exposure or medication. It is often delivered in a group format, making it efficient for treating multiple individuals simultaneously, and has been shown to be effective for various populations, including military personnel and sexual assault survivors.23567
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) for PTSD?
Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) is an evidence-based treatment that has been shown to effectively reduce PTSD symptoms in various settings, including among military personnel and veterans. Studies indicate that CPT can lead to significant improvements in PTSD symptoms, with many patients experiencing a reduction in symptoms after completing the therapy.12589
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for English-speaking adults with PTSD who are interested in intensive therapy. Participants must have experienced a traumatic event, be stable on any psychotropic meds for at least a month, and commit to daily sessions over one week. Exclusions include recent trauma, unstable medical conditions, current legal actions related to the trauma, unmanaged psychosis or mania, recent substance abuse treatment needs, and sensory impairments.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants undergo 1-week virtual massed Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) or 5-day virtual relaxation training (RT) to reduce PTSD symptoms
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Cognitive Processing Therapy
- Relaxation Training
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?
Rush University Medical Center
Lead Sponsor