RecruitingNot ApplicableNCT06278922

Evaluating Signs of Safety: A Deaf-Accessible Therapy Toolkit for AUD and Trauma

Sponsor

University of Massachusetts, Worcester

Enrollment

144 participants

Start Date

Dec 23, 2024

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Conditions

PTSD Alcohol; Use, Problem

Summary

The U.S. Deaf community - a group of more than one million Americans who communicate using American Sign Language (ASL) - experiences nearly triple the rate of lifetime problem drinking and twice the rate of trauma exposure compared to the general population. Although there are several treatments for alcohol use disorder (AUD) and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in hearing populations, none have been developed for or tested with Deaf clients. To address these barriers, the study team developed Signs of Safety, a Deaf-accessible therapy toolkit for treating AUD and PTSD. Their aims are to conduct a nationwide, virtual clinical trial to compare (1) Signs of Safety with (2) treatment as usual and (3) a no treatment control, to collect data on clinical outcomes, and to explore potential mediators and moderators of outcome.

Eligibility

Min Age: 18 Years

Plain Language Summary

Simplified for easier understanding

This study is developing and testing a culturally accessible therapy program for Deaf adults who have both alcohol use disorder (AUD) and trauma/PTSD symptoms. The program is designed specifically in American Sign Language (ASL) to ensure full accessibility. **You may be eligible if...** - You identify as Deaf or hard-of-hearing - You are fluent in American Sign Language (ASL) - You are 18 years or older - You have a smartphone, tablet, or computer for video sessions and online surveys - You have problematic drinking patterns or alcohol-related problems (based on a standard screening score) - You have trauma-related symptoms at subthreshold or full PTSD level **You may NOT be eligible if...** - You are currently participating in formal psychotherapy elsewhere - You do not meet the minimum screening thresholds for alcohol use or trauma symptoms Talk to your doctor to see if this trial is right for you.

This summary was AI-generated to explain the trial in plain language. It is not medical advice. Always discuss eligibility with your doctor before enrolling in a clinical trial.

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Interventions

BEHAVIORALSeeking Safety + Signs of Safety toolkit

Signs of Safety is a Deaf-accessible toolkit to be used with the Seeking Safety treatment protocol. Seeking Safety is a manualized, non-exposure-based, cognitive behavioral therapy for trauma and addiction.

BEHAVIORALTreatment as usual

NDT therapists come from a wide variety of training backgrounds, but each works with their clients to build on their existing strengths and provide support as clients develop new strategies and behaviors for overcoming adversity.