Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Psychological Trauma
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) in schools to determine its effectiveness for students who have experienced traumatic events, such as exposure to violence, and exhibit stress symptoms. The study also explores methods to facilitate the implementation and sustainability of this therapy in schools. Participants include students aged 8 to 19 with significant post-traumatic stress symptoms and trauma exposure. As an unphased trial, it provides students with access to potentially beneficial therapy while contributing to research that could enhance mental health support in schools.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether participants need to stop taking their current medications.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Research has shown that Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) is a well-accepted treatment for children and teens who have experienced trauma. Studies have found that TF-CBT significantly reduces trauma-related symptoms, such as post-traumatic stress, depression, and anxiety. In one study, children who received TF-CBT experienced an 81.9% decrease in their trauma symptoms, a much greater improvement compared to other treatments.
Overall, TF-CBT is considered a safe and effective option for young people dealing with trauma. These studies report no major negative effects, suggesting it is a safe choice for those considering joining a trial.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) for addressing psychological trauma because it offers a structured approach that specifically targets trauma-related symptoms. Unlike standard treatments like medication or general talk therapy, TF-CBT combines trauma-sensitive techniques with cognitive-behavioral strategies to help patients process and reframe traumatic memories. This method not only helps in reducing trauma symptoms but also equips individuals, especially young people, with skills to manage stress and emotions more effectively. Additionally, the BASIS with TF-CBT arm explores how beliefs and attitudes can aid successful implementation in schools, potentially broadening access and impact. Overall, researchers are hopeful that these approaches could provide more effective and accessible care for those dealing with trauma.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for psychological trauma?
Research has shown that Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), which participants in this trial may receive, effectively helps young people with psychological trauma. Studies have found that TF-CBT significantly reduces trauma symptoms. One study reported an 81.9% drop in trauma scores among participants, a much greater improvement than in groups not receiving TF-CBT. The therapy is manageable for participants and can be successfully delivered in various settings, such as schools. Additionally, many participants continue to experience benefits long after the therapy ends, making TF-CBT a strong choice for addressing trauma-related issues.14678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Aaron Lyon, PhD
Principal Investigator
University of Washington
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for school-based clinicians without prior TF-CBT training and students in grades 3-12 who have experienced trauma, like exposure to violence, and show significant stress symptoms. Clinicians already supporting another trauma-focused intervention or students outside the specified grade range cannot participate.Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) in schools to test its effectiveness and impact
Implementation Strategy
Implementation of the Beliefs and Attitudes for Successful Implementation in Schools (BASIS) strategy to increase adoption and sustainment of TF-CBT
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Attention Control
- Beliefs and Attitudes for Successful Implementation in Schools (BASIS)
- Trauma-Focused Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy
- Treatment as Usual
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Washington
Lead Sponsor
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
Collaborator
University of Minnesota
Collaborator