Remote Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Alcohol Use Disorder Research Study
Researchers at Texas A&M University and MUSC are developing and testing a new treatment program for alcohol use and posttraumatic stress by combining existing interventions to target each condition individually.
Fast Facts
Experiencing Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Noted Heavy Drinking in the Past Month
Compensation Provided
Conducted Remotely
Study Background
Researchers at Texas A&M University and MUSC are conducting a research study in an attempt to develop more effective treatments for individuals with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and alcohol-related problems.
Approximately 50% of people with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder also have alcohol use disorder, making it one of the most common conditions among individuals with AUD.
Currently, effective treatments for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and alcohol use disorder include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) in two forms: standard care (Relapse Prevention) and new treatment that combines Relapse Prevention with Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD. In this study, we will compare these two forms of CBT in an effort to learn more about which form of treatment is more effective and for whom.
In addition to this new treatment program, participants will also have access to:
- Treatment services and community resources as needed
- Regular contact with research staff
- Access to assessment information pertaining to mental health and alcohol use
12 sessions of talk therapy with a trained clinician
This study will last approximately 14 months for each participant, with compensation up to $560. We cannot guarantee any reduction in symptoms as a result of participating in this study. Telehealth and in-person options are available.
Study Background
Researchers at Texas A&M University and MUSC are conducting a research study in an attempt to develop more effective treatments for individuals with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and alcohol-related problems.
Approximately 50% of people with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder also have alcohol use disorder, making it one of the most common conditions among individuals with AUD.
Currently, effective treatments for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and alcohol use disorder include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) in two forms: standard care (Relapse Prevention) and new treatment that combines Relapse Prevention with Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD. In this study, we will compare these two forms of CBT in an effort to learn more about which form of treatment is more effective and for whom.
In addition to this new treatment program, participants will also have access to:
- Treatment services and community resources as needed
- Regular contact with research staff
- Access to assessment information pertaining to mental health and alcohol use
12 sessions of talk therapy with a trained clinician
This study will last approximately 14 months for each participant, with compensation up to $560. We cannot guarantee any reduction in symptoms as a result of participating in this study. Telehealth and in-person options are available.
Additional Information
In this research study, we want to develop more effective treatments for individuals with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and alcohol use disorder by comparing two forms of CBT to learn more about which form of treatment is more effective and for whom.
You may qualify for a study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Ages 18+
Noted heavy drinking in the past month
Experiencing Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
- Unwanted memories of the traumatic event
- Overwhelming guilt or shame
- Hypervigilance
- Flashbacks or nightmares
- Intrusive negative thoughts
No suicidal ideation or homicidal ideation
Not currently enrolled in evidence-based behavioral treatment for Alcohol Use Disorder or Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Participants can expect this study to last approximately 14 months. During this time, participants will complete an initial baseline assessment session and 12 video recorded therapy sessions over the course of 6 weeks, lasting approximately 105 minutes. Each therapy session will include:
- 15-minute check in
- 90 minutes of therapy
- Biological assessments (including blood alcohol concentration tests and/or breathalyzer tests)
Participants will also be asked to complete brief daily surveys on a smartphone app, and follow-up visits at 3, 6, and 12-months.
In order to participate in this study, you must agree for your therapy sessions to be recorded. If you do not wish for these sessions to be recorded, you should not participate in this study.
As a participant, you can receive up to $560.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.
You can contact the study team through any of the following methods:
TAMU PATH Study Phone #: 979-458-9153
TAMU PATH Study Email Address: path@tamu.edu
MUSC PATH Study Phone #: (843) 876-9123
MUSC PATH Study Email Address: pathstudy@musc.edu
