Pilot Study of Blended Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with Compassion for Adolescents Aged 12-17 with PTSD in Northern Sweden

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating a blended form of Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with Compassion bTF-CBT-C for adolescents aged 12 to 17 years who have post-traumatic stress disorder PTSD. This trial aims to see if delivering this therapy using both digital tools and therapist sessions is feasible and acceptable in routine child and adolescent psychiatric care in northern Sweden. The study compares this blended therapy with standard TF-CBT to explore clinical outcomes like PTSD symptoms, emotion regulation, and self-compassion. Participants are randomly assigned to either the blended bTF-CBT-C or standard TF-CBT. The blended therapy includes an initial clinic session, app-based stabilization modules with exercises, therapist-led video sessions, and some in-person meetings when needed. The standard TF-CBT is delivered face-to-face and through videoconference, following established treatment components and caregiver involvement. Both treatments focus on trauma processing and involve caregivers throughout. The study is conducted in public psychiatric clinics, with randomization stratified by region. Participants complete assessments at baseline, after stabilization, post-treatment, and six months after finishing treatment. These include diagnostic interviews, questionnaires, brief weekly measures of engagement and mood, and qualitative interviews about their experience. Researchers monitor recruitment, retention, treatment adherence, adverse events, and satisfaction. Safety plans and risk monitoring are integrated, and study data are securely managed. The total treatment period lasts up to 25 weeks, with follow-up continuing to six months post-treatment.

Blended Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy With Compassion