Cognitive Processing Therapy for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Co-occurring Lived Experience Stress

This study will occur in two phases.

Phase 1 will involve refining Cognitive Processing Therapy Lived Experience Adapted Protocol (CPT-LEAP) and includes beta testing of CPT-LEAP (n=6).

Phase 2 will involve a pilot RCT in which participants (n=52) will be randomized (1:1) to standard CPT or CPT-LEAP. The investigators anticipate 26 participants will be enrolled in each treatment arm.

Inclusion criteria

• Current diagnosis of PTSD
• Self-identification as a sexual or gender minority (SGM) individual
• Endorsement of SGM stress experiences with moderate distress
• For patients who take psychiatric medication, stable dose one month prior to enrollment
• Reside in Massachusetts.

Exclusion criteria

• Current active suicidal or homicidal ideation with intent or plan
• Unstable bipolar disorder/current mania
• Unstable psychotic disorder/current psychosis
• Current severe substance use that warrants immediate medical attention
• Cognitive impairment or organic disorder (e.g., advanced dementia, severe traumatic brain injury) that impairs ability to complete CPT procedures
• Past completion of CPT or current trauma-focused treatment
• Unwillingness to consent to audio or video recording of assessment and treatment sessions