Enfield

Researchers are evaluating a new stepped care model called PCT+2HOPE compared to usual treatment for women with opioid use disorder (OUD) who have experienced intimate partner violence (IPV). The study focuses on improving retention in community-based medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD) treatment. It also looks at how the treatments affect trauma-related symptoms like PTSD and depression, substance use severity, extra-medical opioid use, recovery, and empowerment. The study will also explore how access to basic needs influences treatment effectiveness and will include a process evaluation of how the treatments are implemented. The PCT+2HOPE intervention combines Present-Centered Therapy with a stepped care approach based on PTSD-related impairment levels. It begins with group therapy where participants identify issues related to PTSD or substance use, brainstorm and select plans to address them, and share outcomes. The HOPE part is an individual, trauma-focused treatment with flexible modules tailored to client priorities, including safety and empowerment, cognitive behavioral therapy skills, and improving relationships and boundaries. Participants receive either this new model or treatment as usual. Women joining the study must be at least 18 years old and currently receiving MOUD treatment, having stabilized on it for more than 14 days and started within the past year. They will undergo assessments of retention in MOUD treatment at 26 weeks, trauma symptoms, substance use, and empowerment. Participants' availability and understanding of English are required, and safety and psychiatric stability are monitored. The study includes written consent and ongoing contact over the treatment period to evaluate outcomes and process implementation.