Web-Based Therapy for PTSD
(webSTAIR Trial)
Trial Summary
What is the purpose of this trial?
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a significant public health challenge with population prevalence rates in the US between 6.1 to 9.2%. There are large racial and socioeconomic inequities in access to PTSD treatment, as up to half (30-50%) of patients in safety net clinical settings meet criteria for PTSD, yet only 13% receive any behavioral health treatment. Workforce shortages are one major barrier to accessing care. Additional barriers to care can include heightened mental health stigma and mistrust of health services. Digital mental health interventions (DMHIs) may be suitable within the continuum of care for PTSD in hospital settings, given their potential for rapid-access, scalability, and the high acceptability of DMHI among individuals with high stigma and social needs. Among the available DMHIs for PTSD, the investigators have selected web-administered Skills Training in Affective and Interpersonal Regulation (webSTAIR), based on emerging scientific evidence and a close collaboration with Boston Medical Center (BMC) users (patients and providers) in a previous pilot study in primary care. The aim of this randomized study is to implement webSTAIR at BMC in the Recovery from Stress and Trauma through Outpatient Care, Research, and Education (RESTORE) Center's subspecialty clinic.
Do I need to stop my current medications for this trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment webSTAIR for PTSD?
Research shows that the STAIR program, which is part of webSTAIR, helps improve emotion management and interpersonal skills, leading to significant reductions in PTSD symptoms. Studies have found that participants in STAIR-based treatments report high satisfaction and improvements in social functioning, PTSD symptoms, depression, and emotion regulation.12345
Is web-based therapy for PTSD, like webSTAIR or STAIR, safe for humans?
How is the webSTAIR treatment for PTSD different from other treatments?
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for adults over 18 who've experienced trauma, likely have PTSD (with a PCL score of 33+), and are on the RESTORE Center waitlist at Boston Medical Center. They must be able to engage in therapy in English or Spanish and have reasonable access to technology like phones or computers.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Trial Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive web-administered Skills Training in Affective and Interpersonal Regulation (webSTAIR), either self-directed or with coaching from a Community Health Worker
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
Treatment Details
Interventions
- webSTAIR (Behavioural Intervention)
webSTAIR is already approved in United States for the following indications:
- Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Depression