The goal of this clinical trial is to test an abbreviated, intensive, multi-couple group version of cognitive-behavioral conjoint therapy for PTSD (AIM-CBCT for PTSD) in an active military and veteran population. The main questions it aims to answer are:
* Does AIM-CBCT for PTSD improve PTSD symptoms? * Does AIM-CBCT for PTSD improve associated symptoms (e.g., depression), romantic partner distress, and couple relationship satisfaction?
Participants will participate in a two-day retreat in which they are taught and practice skills to decrease PTSD symptoms and enhance their relationships. Researchers will compare AIM-CBCT for PTSD to the Prevention and Relationship Education Program (PREP) to determine whether it is superior to an evidence-based relationship education curriculum that is also delivered in a two-day multi-couple group format.
Service member or veteran and a romantic partner willing to participate.
Couple is married or cohabiting for at least 3 months. Couple can be either different or same sex.
Service member/veteran diagnosis of PTSD as determined by the CAPS-5.
Each partner is at least 18 years old.
Either partner reports current suicidal ideation severe enough to warrant immediate attention
Current homicide risk meriting crisis intervention for either partner
Current and severe alcohol misuse in either partner warranting immediate intervention
Symptoms of moderate to severe other substance use warranting immediate intervention
Parallel
Abbreviated, Intensive, Multi-Couple Group Cognitive-Behavioral Conjoint Therapy for PTSD
BehavioralApproximately 12 hours of programming delivered over 2 consecutive days in a multi-couple group retreat format. Couples are provided with psychoeducation about PTSD and relationship functioning and are taught cognitive and behavioral skills to address the manifestation of PTSD in the couple relationship. Couples will also meet once individually with one of the group leaders 1-2 weeks before the retreat and once 1-2 weeks after the retreat.
Prevention and Relationship Education Program
BehavioralApproximately 12 hours of programming delivered over 2 consecutive days in a multi-couple group retreat format.The content of PREP and workshop experiences focuses on helping couples communicate effectively, manage conflict without harming their relationship, preserve and act on commitment, improve relationship decision-making, increase understanding of differences between partners, and protect positive connections between partners. Approximately 12 hours of PREP content will be delivered over 2 consecutive days in a multi-couple group retreat format. Couples will also meet once individually with one of the group leaders 1-2 weeks before the retreat and will check in with a member of the study staff 1-2 weeks after the retreat.
Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale for DSM-5
Interviewer ratings of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms identified in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition. Scores range from 0-80, with higher scores indicating more severe PTSD symptoms.
PTSD Checklist for DSM-5
Participant's self-report of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms identified in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition. Scores range from 0-80, with higher scores indicating more severe PTSD symptoms.
Patient Health Questionnaire-9
Self-reported depressive symptoms. Scores range from 0 to 27, with higher scores indicating greater depressive symptom severity.
Generalized Anxiety Disorder-Screener
Self-reported general anxiety symptoms. Scores range from 0 to 21, with higher scores indicating greater anxiety.
Dimensions of Anger Reactions-5
Self-reported anger symptoms. Scores range from 5 to 25, with higher scores indicating greater anger.
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Penn State University
Lead sponsor
The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio
Collaborator
University of Denver
Collaborator
