PTSD Research Study
Researchers at NYU Grossman School of Medicine are conducting a study on a novel EEG neurofeedback system for the treatment of PTSD using machine learning-based amygdala biomarkers.
Fast Facts
Experienced Trauma ≥1 Year Ago With Current PTSD Symptoms
No Plan On Changing Medication Or Psychotherapy In The Near Future
Compensation
Provided
Conducted in
New York City, NY
Study Background
This study is exploring whether a new neurofeedback system can help treat PTSD.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can develop after experiencing a highly stressful or traumatic event. Symptoms may include unwanted memories of the event, avoiding reminders, negative changes in beliefs and emotions, and feeling constantly on high alert. Current treatments do not work for everyone, and researchers are exploring innovative approaches to improve outcomes.
The PRISM study uses a neurofeedback system designed to help participants learn to control their brain activity. This large-scale, randomized study will test the system in U.S. Veterans and civilian populations diagnosed with PTSD. The findings aim to validate this approach as an adjunctive treatment, optimize the therapy using machine learning algorithms, and lay the groundwork for predicting treatment responses in individuals at risk of severe stress.
Study Background
This study is exploring whether a new neurofeedback system can help treat PTSD.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can develop after experiencing a highly stressful or traumatic event. Symptoms may include unwanted memories of the event, avoiding reminders, negative changes in beliefs and emotions, and feeling constantly on high alert. Current treatments do not work for everyone, and researchers are exploring innovative approaches to improve outcomes.
The PRISM study uses a neurofeedback system designed to help participants learn to control their brain activity. This large-scale, randomized study will test the system in U.S. Veterans and civilian populations diagnosed with PTSD. The findings aim to validate this approach as an adjunctive treatment, optimize the therapy using machine learning algorithms, and lay the groundwork for predicting treatment responses in individuals at risk of severe stress.
Additional Information
The study aims to see if neurofeedback can be an effective treatment for PTSD and to improve personalized approaches to therapy using brain-based biomarkers.
You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Experienced trauma ≥1 year ago with current PTSD symptoms (e.g., intrusive memories, nightmares, avoidance, negative mood)
- Have not completed a full course of trauma-focused behavioral therapy in past year
- Any psychotropic medication must have been at a stable dose for 4+ weeks
- Ages 18-65
Exclusion Criteria:
- Plan on changing medication or psychotherapy in the near future
- Suicidal ideation
- Psychiatric hospitalization in the last 6 months
- Diagnosis of other major mental health disorders (e.g., schizophrenia, bipolar, delusional disorder)
- Prescribed benzodiazepine that cannot be stopped during the study
- Substance use disorders
Complete 1 screening visit and 1 baseline visit.
Attend 2 neurofeedback sessions per week for 8 weeks. Each session lasts about 45 minutes.
Attend 2 booster neurofeedback sessions, 1 after-training session with questionnaires and an interview, and 1 follow-up visit after 3 months.
Most visits will take place in Manhattan.
Participants can earn up to $490 for completing all study visits. Travel will also be reimbursed according to IRS standard mileage rates and NYC metro usage.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.