Brief Treatment for Trauma Nightmares in Trauma-exposed Adults With Bipolar Disorder

This pilot study will examine the efficacy of Exposure, Relaxation, & Rescripting Therapy (ERRT) on chronic nightmares in trauma-exposed adults diagnosed with bipolar disorder (B-ERRT), as these individuals have been excluded from past clinical trials. Eligible participants will be assessed prior to starting treatment. B-ERRT will be conducted once a week for approximately five consecutive weeks for approximately two hours per session. Each treatment session focuses on one of the following topics/skills: psychoeducation regarding trauma, nightmares, and sleep disturbances on bipolar disorder, relaxation techniques, exposure to the trauma-nightmare, and relapse prevention. Participants will then be asked to complete two to three follow-up assessments, 1-week, 3-months, and potentially 1-year after the end of the treatment.

Inclusion criteria

• Nightmares at least once per week for the past month
• Formal diagnosis of Bipolar disorder (I or II)
• Exposure to traumatic event (1+ months ago)
• Stable on bipolar medication for at least 2 months

Exclusion criteria

• A traumatic event within the last month
• Intellectual disability
• Current or recent mania/hypomania within the last 3 months
• Suicide attempt or hospitalization within the last 3 months
• Current or untreated substance use disorder within the past 6 months