Peer Social Support During In Vivo Exposure for PTSD: A Program to Address Dropout from Prolonged Exposure
Abstract
This study seeks to address the problem of dropout from evidence-based treatment for PTSD. We will evaluate whether the opportunity to receive social support during in vivo exposure therapy assignments from Veterans who themselves have successfully competed PE (i.e., the therapeutic equivalent of an exposure therapy workout buddy) is effective in reversing dropout and improving PTSD outcomes. To achieve this objective, we will use a between group, randomized controlled repeated measures design comparing PE + Exposure Workout Buddy vs. PE + Peer General Support (i.e., the standard VA Peer Support program methods involving a peer who does NOT engage in any support during in vivo homework) to evaluate the PE + Exposure Workout Buddy adjunctive therapy component in terms of its ability to increase likelihood that Veterans will (a) return to and complete treatment and (b) evince reduced PTSD symptomatology at post-treatment and 3- and 6-month follow-up. An exploratory objective is to determine whether the hypothesized differential advantage of the workout buddy program is more pronounced for Veterans who receive PE via telehealth vs. receiving PE in person, as data from previous studies indicate that this may be the case.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 2022
- Accession Number
- AD1176294
Entities
People
- Ronald Acierno
- Wendy Muzzy
Organizations
- Medical University of South Carolina