Actively Recruiting
Pilot Trial of Digital Substance Use Disorder Interventions to Prevent Post-release Substance Use Disorder Relapse in Offenders in Correctional Service of Canada Custody
Led by St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton · Updated on 2026-03-13
20
Participants Needed
4
Research Sites
34 weeks
Total Duration
On this page
Sponsors
S
St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton
Lead Sponsor
C
Correctional Service of Canada
Collaborating Sponsor
AI-Summary
What this Trial Is About
Substance use problems are common among people who have been in prison. Since many substances remain illegal in Canada, these problems can increase the chance of returning to prison. This research is studying two digital treatments for substance use disorders in individuals recently released from prison to see how well they work and how engaged participants are over six months. The study also looks at rates of relapse and re-incarceration. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two digital programs. One group will complete a 7-module program based on cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) techniques. The other group will complete a 6-module program that combines CBT and mindfulness. Both programs are self-directed and designed to help users manage triggers and avoid substance use. During the study, participants will use their assigned digital treatment over six months. Researchers will assess how feasible and useful each program is, how engaged participants remain, and the effectiveness of the treatments in reducing substance use and re-incarceration. Follow-up evaluations will occur about three months after treatment completion to measure outcomes and gather feedback.
CONDITIONS
Brief Title
Correctional Service of Canada Pilot Trial of Digital Substance Use Disorder Interventions (PROCESS)
Who Can Participate
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify if you...
- Individuals who have previously served custodial services in the Correctional Services of Canada (CSC)
- Individuals who have a history of substance use problems as determined by parole restrictions
- Individuals who currently reside in a Community Correctional Centre or Community-Based Residential Facility
- Individuals between 18 and 55 years old
You will not qualify if you...
- Individuals who have never served a custodial sentence with the Correctional Services of Canada (CSC)
AI-Screening
AI-Powered Screening
Complete this quick 3-step screening to check your eligibility
Your Study Journey
Duration - 2 to 4 weeks
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial.
Duration - Up to 6 months during enrollment
Participants complete a self-directed digital treatment intervention for substance use, using cognitive behavioural therapy practices and mindfulness techniques delivered via online modules.
Participants complete 6 to 7 online treatment modules at their own pace
Duration - Approximately 3 months post-treatment completion
Participants are monitored for efficacy of digital treatment interventions for substance use and recidivism after treatment completion.
Follow-up assessments conducted after treatment completion
Trial Site Locations
Total: 4 locations
1
Salvation Army Booth Centre
Brantford, Ontario, Canada, N3T 2J6
Actively Recruiting
2
The Salvation Army - Ellen Osler Home
Dundas, Ontario, Canada, L9H 2E8
Actively Recruiting
3
The St. Leonard's Society Of Hamilton
Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, L8L 2P2
Actively Recruiting
4
St Leonard's Clinton House
Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, L8N 2V2
Actively Recruiting
Research Team
J
James MacKillop, PhD, CPsych, FCAHS
How is the study designed?
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Masking
NONE
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Model
PARALLEL
Primary Purpose
OTHER
Number of Arms
2
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