Actively Recruiting
Art Therapy and Emotional Well Being in Military Populations With Posttraumatic Stress Symptoms
Led by Walter Reed National Military Medical Center · Updated on 2026-01-08
40
Participants Needed
2
Research Sites
52 weeks
Total Duration
On this page
Sponsors
W
Walter Reed National Military Medical Center
Lead Sponsor
U
University of Pennsylvania
Collaborating Sponsor
AI-Summary
What this Trial Is About
Researchers are studying how art therapy affects emotional expression and regulation in military service members with posttraumatic stress symptoms. The study aims to understand the neurological systems involved by using brain scans and self-assessment questionnaires. This research is conducted within the Military Health System where art therapy is a common treatment but lacks thorough scientific evaluation. Participants will attend a total of eleven sessions over six to eight months. The first session includes an interview, self-assessment questionnaires, and a brain MRI scan while viewing neutral and negative images. Then, participants take part in eight one-hour individual art therapy sessions with a certified art therapist. The tenth session repeats the questionnaires and MRI scan, and the final session is a virtual interview conducted three months after the tenth visit. Throughout the study, participants will complete various questionnaires measuring symptoms and traits related to posttraumatic stress, anxiety, stress, and emotional regulation. Brain activity during tasks will be assessed through functional neuroimaging. The research also monitors potential emotional distress during sessions and collects qualitative feedback. Overall participation lasts up to eight months with follow-up to evaluate lasting effects.
CONDITIONS
Brief Title
Art Therapy and Emotional Well Being in Military Populations With Posttraumatic Stress Symptoms
Who Can Participate
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify if you...
- DEERS Eligible
- Active Duty or Veteran separated within the past 10 years
- Significant posttraumatic stress symptoms (score of /=31 on the PCL-5)
You will not qualify if you...
- History of moderate, severe, or penetrating brain injury
- History of psychotic disorder, bipolar disorder, or active suicidal or homicidal ideation
- History of multiple sclerosis, Huntington's disease, or Alzheimer's disease
- History of stroke or myocardial infarction
- History of brain tumor
- History of seizures
- Contraindications for MRI, including pregnancy, metal implants, suspected shrapnel, aneurysm/intracranial clips, cardiac pacemakers, or implanted programmable devices or pumps
- Unable to provide informed consent
- History of previous exposure to art therapy
- Active substance use disorder
Research Team
C
Chandler Rhodes, Ph.D.
J
Julie Sakla, M.A.
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