Therapist Training for PTSD

(SMART Trial)

This trial tests new methods to train therapists in delivering Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) more effectively for PTSD. It explores various training strategies to determine which best helps therapists adhere to the therapy protocol, ultimately aiming to improve treatment for Veterans with PTSD. The trial includes multiple training approaches, such as SMART Therapist Training, Web-Based Training, and Standard Training, combined with different feedback and consultation methods. Licensed mental health clinicians or trainees working at VA facilities who regularly provide therapy to Veterans are ideal candidates. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative training methods that could enhance PTSD treatment for Veterans.

The trial information does not specify whether participants need to stop taking their current medications.

Research has shown that SMART Therapist Training helps therapists adhere more closely to Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) for PTSD. This program is not a medication or medical treatment, so it does not involve traditional safety concerns like side effects. Instead, it uses online tools and consultations to train therapists, aiming to enhance their support for patients. This can lead to improved outcomes for veterans with PTSD. As a training program, it poses no side effects or risks, making therapy more effective without any danger to patients or therapists.¹²³⁴⁵

Researchers are excited about the SMART Therapist Training for PTSD because it introduces innovative methods to enhance therapist skills through technology. Unlike traditional approaches that rely heavily on in-person training, this program leverages Web-Based Training (WBT) and Work-Sample Reviews (WR) to provide flexible and scalable learning opportunities. Additionally, the incorporation of fidelity monitoring and the option to step up to session audio reviews allows for personalized feedback and continuous improvement, which could lead to more effective therapy outcomes. These features are expected to help therapists deliver higher-quality care, ultimately benefiting patients with PTSD.

Research has shown that Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) works well for treating PTSD in controlled studies. However, its effectiveness decreases in everyday clinical settings because therapists often don't follow the program closely. The SMART Therapist Training, provided to participants in this trial, aims to address this by helping therapists learn and use CPT more effectively, ensuring adherence to the program. Studies have found that SMART improves cognitive skills, which could help therapists maintain high treatment standards and improve patient outcomes. This training model could lead to better management of PTSD symptoms by focusing on therapists' adherence to proven treatment techniques.¹⁴⁵⁶⁷