Web-Based Provider Training for Concurrent Treatment of PTSD and Substance Use Disorders Using Prolonged Exposure (COPEWeb)

What this Trial Is About

PTSD and substance use disorders (SUD) are common and challenging mental health conditions affecting many military Veterans, often occurring together and leading to poorer treatment outcomes. Researchers developed Concurrent Treatment of PTSD and Substance Use Disorders Using Prolonged Exposure (COPE), a trauma-focused therapy recognized by the VA as a gold standard treatment. This trial aims to develop and evaluate a new web-based training program called COPEWeb for mental health providers to improve access to this evidence-based therapy, especially where provider training is limited. The study compares two training methods for providers: the new online COPEWeb training and traditional in-person COPE training. COPEWeb includes innovative tools to assist clinicians during therapy sessions, aiming to enhance treatment delivery and reduce provider burden. The project involves phases of content development, alpha and beta testing of COPEWeb, followed by a randomized comparison of the two training approaches, assessing knowledge, satisfaction, and fidelity to the therapy protocol. Providers participating in the study will complete training through either COPEWeb or in-person sessions and engage in assessments including knowledge tests and satisfaction questionnaires over approximately eight weeks. Researchers will monitor provider behavior in delivering COPE therapy and evaluate the cost-effectiveness of web-based versus in-person training. The goal is to increase the availability of high-quality PTSD/SUD treatment for Veterans by expanding provider training options through accessible technology.

COPEWeb Training for Providers