Support Program Using Hybrid Dialectical Behavior Therapy to Reduce PTSD and Emotion Regulation Symptoms in Veterans and Prevent Relapse

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to support veterans who experience post-traumatic stress disorder PTSD along with difficulties in managing emotions, aggression, and related challenges. The study focuses on veterans for whom previous treatments have not been effective, offering a specialized aftercare program to help maintain and apply new coping skills over time. The program builds on an earlier 12-week inpatient therapy designed specifically for veterans with complex psychiatric symptoms after active duty missions. Participants will receive hybrid dialectical behavior therapy DBT, which includes face-to-face group skill sessions, individual online sessions, and online homework assignments. All participants follow the same therapy program, but the timing between the initial baseline assessment and the start of the therapy varies randomly. This approach aims to consolidate and reinforce therapy skills learned during prior inpatient treatment. Throughout the study, participants will be monitored from baseline through a follow-up period lasting between 12 to 17 months. Researchers will assess PTSD symptoms and difficulties in emotion regulation using standardized checklists and scales. The study includes ongoing monitoring of participant progress and safety, with the goal of reducing symptom recurrence and improving long-term outcomes for veterans.

Hybrid Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Veterans to Further Reduce Emotion Regulation Problems and Trauma Symptoms