Whole Health STEPS for Veteran Mental Health

Recruiting in Syracuse (>99 mi)

Overseen byEmily M. Johnson, PhD

Age: 18+

Sex: Any

Travel: May Be Covered

Time Reimbursement: Varies

Trial Phase: Academic

Waitlist Available

Sponsor: VA Office of Research and Development

No Placebo Group

Trial Summary

What is the purpose of this trial?

This clinical trial is evaluating Whole Health STEPS (Structured Tiered Engagement with Peer Support), a package of services designed to improve functional outcomes for primary care Veterans with mental health concerns who are not actively engaged in mental health services. Whole Health STEPS uses a Peer Support Specialist, or Peer, to provide support for Veterans to make progress on wellness goals using the Whole Health model. The level of support provided will be determined based on Veterans' progress and will be stepped-up until Veterans receive the level of support they need. Whole Health STEPS offers a non-mental health referral option for primary care Veterans with mental health concerns, provides a structured package of existing Whole Health services, and provides a structured service for peers in primary care settings.

Research Team

Emily M. Johnson, PhD

Principal Investigator

Syracuse VA Medical Center, Syracuse, NY

Eligibility Criteria

This trial is for Veterans enrolled in primary care with mild functional impairment and mental health concerns, who are not currently receiving intensive mental health services. They must be able to communicate in English and have no recent changes to psychotropic medications.

Inclusion Criteria

Enrolled in primary care at a participating site

Veteran status

I have some difficulty doing everyday tasks.

See 1 more

Exclusion Criteria

I cannot communicate in English by myself.

I prefer to be referred directly to a mental health care provider.

I have recently changed my mental health medications.

See 3 more

Treatment Details

Interventions

Whole Health STEPS (Behavioral Intervention)

Trial OverviewThe trial evaluates Whole Health STEPS, a support program led by peers aiming to help Veterans achieve wellness goals using the Whole Health model. The level of peer support varies based on the Veteran's progress.

Participant Groups

2Treatment groups

Experimental Treatment

Group I: Whole Health STEPSExperimental Treatment1 Intervention

Participants will immediately receive Whole Health STEPS.

Group II: WaitlistExperimental Treatment1 Intervention

Participants will receive Whole Health STEPS after a defined waiting period.