Trauma-Focused Equine-Assisted Therapy (TF-EAT) for Veterans With PTSD (NCT03068325) | Clinical Trial Compass
CompletedNot Applicable
Trauma-Focused Equine-Assisted Therapy (TF-EAT) for Veterans With PTSD
United States63 participantsStarted 2016-04
Plain-language summary
This study seeks to examine feasibility, acceptability, safety, and preliminary efficacy of Equine-Assisted Therapy for veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder (EAT-PTSD). While several well-studied, validated treatments for PTSD exist, some individuals find these treatments ill-suited, ineffective, or undesirable. EAT is an alternative therapy widely used by organizations, such as PATH International Equine Services, that endorse its effectiveness for treating a variety of mental health issues. These claims have drawn criticism because the published research contains glaring methodological flaws, making it difficult to assess how effective these therapies actually are (Anestis et al., 2014). Equine-assisted therapies present a unique treatment modality that might effectively treat PTSD, particularly for individuals who have difficulty with other treatment modalities. In EAT, a psychotherapist and equine specialist work together to help the patients negotiate interactions with a horse using structured interventions or activities.
Who can participate
Age range
18 Years – 70 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
* Between the ages of 18 and 70
* Current DSM-5 diagnosis of PTSD as determined by a) full criteria met on CAPS, and b) clinical assessment
* Able to give consent, fluent in English
Exclusion Criteria:
* History of psychiatric diagnosis of psychotic disorder, unstable bipolar disorder
* Elevated depression of clinical concern and/or score of \>25 on the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression
* At elevated risk for suicide based on history and current mental state
* History of substance/alcohol use disorder at severe level within the past six months, and current diagnosis of substance/alcohol use disorder at a moderate level within past two months
* Fear of horses or other large animals
* Orthopedic or other physical conditions and/or limitations that prevent people from walking unassisted and/or walking freely in the ring.
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
What they're measuring
1
Change From Baseline in Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale at 8 Weeks
Timeframe: 8 weeks
Trial details
NCT IDNCT03068325
SponsorResearch Foundation for Mental Hygiene, Inc.