Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) for Perinatal Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN · Jul 8, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying two different ways to deliver a type of therapy called Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) to pregnant women who are experiencing posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PTSD is a condition that can happen after going through a very traumatic or scary event, and it can cause ongoing distress. The study compares the usual weekly sessions of CPT over 12 weeks to a more intensive version called massed CPT (mCPT), where the same number of sessions happen over just five days. Both treatments are done through video calls. The researchers want to see which approach works better to reduce PTSD and depression symptoms, how the therapy affects the bond between mother and baby, and whether there are any differences in pregnancy and newborn health outcomes.

Women who might be eligible for this study are between 18 and 46 years old, pregnant less than 25 weeks, and have a confirmed diagnosis of PTSD related to a past traumatic event. Participants need to be able to read and write in English and have stable medication use if they are taking any psychiatric medications. Women who have certain other mental health conditions, substance use problems, or who are not currently pregnant would not be eligible. If selected, participants will be randomly assigned to one of the two therapy schedules and will take part in sessions via telemedicine, meaning they can join from home using a computer or phone. This study is important because it explores new ways to help pregnant women cope with PTSD, which can improve their health and their baby’s well-being.

Gender

FEMALE

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Female, ages 18-46, Pregnant (\< 25 weeks), able to read and write in English, History of at least 1 criterion A trauma, Primary diagnosis of PTSD (confirmed by SCID), Psychotropic medications must be stable with no changes ≥ 2 weeks (≥ 6 weeks for fluoxetine), and no medication changes can be made during the course of therapy
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Not currently pregnant, Diagnosis of bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, Suicidal ideation with plan or intent, Substance use disorder, Regular benzodiazepine use (\> 4x weekly)