Combined Therapy for Alcohol Use Disorder and PTSD
(CPT+RP Trial)
Trial Summary
If you are taking psychotropic medications, you need to be on a stable dose for at least 4 weeks before starting the study. If your medications were started in the past 4 weeks, you may not be eligible to participate.
Research shows that Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) is effective for PTSD, and when enhanced to address alcohol use, it can significantly improve both PTSD symptoms and alcohol-related problems. Integrated treatments combining cognitive-behavioral therapy for PTSD and substance use disorders have shown promise in reducing symptoms of both conditions.
12345The research suggests that integrated treatments like Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and Relapse Prevention (RP) are generally safe for individuals with PTSD and Alcohol Use Disorder, as they have been used effectively without major safety concerns reported.
12467This treatment is unique because it combines Cognitive Processing Therapy, which is effective for PTSD, with Relapse Prevention, which is used for Alcohol Use Disorder, into an integrated approach that addresses both conditions simultaneously, potentially improving outcomes for individuals with both PTSD and AUD.
12378Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for adults aged 18-70 with both PTSD and moderate to severe alcohol use disorder, who can consent and understand English. It's not for those with bipolar disorder or other specific conditions. Participants should have a recent history of heavy drinking as defined in the study.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Trial Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive 12, 90-minute individual sessions of CPT+RP or RP alone, delivered twice-weekly
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in alcohol use and PTSD symptoms
Participant Groups
Cognitive Processing Therapy + Relapse Prevention is already approved in United States for the following indications:
- Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD)