Open Trial of Trauma-focused Psychodynamic Psychotherapy for People Living With HIV and PTSD

Launched by MONTEFIORE MEDICAL CENTER · Jun 30, 2023

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying a type of therapy called trauma-focused psychodynamic psychotherapy for people living with HIV who also have post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PTSD is a condition that can occur after experiencing trauma and is more common in people with HIV. The researchers want to see if this therapy, which helps individuals reflect on their feelings and relationships related to their trauma, is helpful and acceptable for those with both HIV and PTSD. They are also interested in understanding how certain health factors related to HIV might change during the treatment.

To participate in this trial, individuals must be between the ages of 18 and 65 and have a diagnosis of PTSD along with an HIV diagnosis. Participants should also be on stable psychiatric medication for at least two months. However, people with certain conditions, like severe mental health issues or unstable medical problems, will not be eligible. If someone joins the trial, they can expect to engage in therapy sessions aimed at exploring their emotions and experiences related to trauma, while researchers gather information on how this treatment impacts their mental and physical health.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Diagnosis of DSM-5 defined PTSD, per the Clinician Administered PTSD Scale \& CAPS-5 total severity score greater than or equal to 25
• • HIV diagnosis (by medical records or HIV testing)
• • Stable psychiatric/psychotropic medication for \>=2 months and ongoing during treatment
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Psychosis
• • Bipolar I
• • Acute suicidality
• • Current substance use disorder
• • Organic mental syndrome or intellectual disability
• • Unstable non-HIV medical conditions