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OpenTrials
Completed

NCT Number: NCT07090590

Evaluating Feasibility, Acceptability, Usability, and an Initial Estimate of Effect of a Novel Training Platform on Peer Recovery Supporter Skill, Adherence, and Knowledge Gain-Phase I

This pilot study evaluates the feasibility, usability, and acceptability of the Thrive Digital Peer Platform (TDPP), an online training system for Peer Recovery Support Specialists (PRSS). Twelve participants were enrolled to complete the full TDPP asynchronous curriculum, including self-paced modules, peer-led storytelling, and applied practice activities. The study aimed to assess participant engagement, satisfaction, and perceived relevance of the training to their work as peer supporters. This work represents the Phase I portion of a Fast Track SBIR funded by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA).

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Key information

Conditions

Substance-related Disorders Alcohol and Other Drug Use Disorders Alcohol and Other Substance Use Prevention Alcohol-Related Disorders Alcoholism Chemically-Induced Disorders Mental Disorders

Age range

18 year and older

Sex eligibility

All sexes

Study type

Interventional

Phase

Not applicable

Primary location

Thrive Digital Health

Solon, Ohio, 44139, United States

About this study

The Thrive Digital Peer Platform (TDPP) was developed to support the professionalization and skill development of Peer Recovery Support Specialists (PRSS) by providing an accessible, modular, and evidence-informed training experience. In this Phase I pilot, twelve PRSS participants were recruited to complete a series of interactive online learning modules aligned with the "Connect, Grow, Apply" (CGA) educational framework. Each module contained peer-led narratives, knowledge checks, and behavioral exercises grounded in real-world coaching scenarios.

Primary outcomes included system usability, satisfaction, and self-reported training relevance. Participants completed a post-training assessment and a brief exit interview to capture usability and acceptability ratings. The findings were used to refine content, improve onboarding, and establish readiness for a larger randomized controlled trial in Phase II.

This study did not include a control group. All participants received access to the full training experience and completed their participation within a defined study period. No follow-up or long-term monitoring was conducted.

This trial was conducted as the Phase I component of a Fast Track SBIR (R44AA030953) funded by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA).

Who can participate

Healthy volunteers accepted: Yes

Only the study team can determine whether someone qualifies for participation.

Inclusion criteria

  • Age 18 or older
  • Self-identified person in recovery from a substance use disorder
  • At least one year of continuous sobriety from alcohol and other substances
  • Currently working or preparing to work as a Peer Recovery Support Specialist (PRSS)
  • Willing and able to participate in digital training sessions
  • Has access to a computer, tablet, or smartphone with internet connection
  • Able to read and understand English
  • Provides informed consent

Exclusion criteria

  • Active suicidal ideation (as indicated by PHQ-9 item 9)
  • An inability to read or speak English
  • Severe anxiety (GAD-7 score >15)
  • Inability to complete online training due to technical or cognitive limitations

Treatment and study plan

Thrive Digital Peer Platform (TDPP)

Behavioral

The Thrive Digital Peer Platform (TDPP) is a fully asynchronous, web-based training program designed to support the professional development of Peer Recovery Support Specialists (PRSS). The platform includes 11 interactive modules structured around the Connect, Grow, Apply (CGA) learning model. Content includes peer-led stories, behavioral simulations, scenario-based learning, and formative assessments. The intervention is intended to build competencies in professionalism, communication, and application of recovery-oriented peer support principles.

Other names: TDPP

Primary outcomes

  1. Skill and Adherence (YACS II)

    Time frame: From baseline to within 1 week after training completion

    Scored performance on videotaped role-play using a modified version of the Yale Adherence and Competence Scale II (YACS II).

Secondary outcomes

  1. System Usability Scale (SUS) Score

    Time frame: Immediately post-training

    Self-reported usability score using the System Usability Scale (SUS), a validated 10-item instrument that assesses the ease of use, satisfaction, and user experience of the TDPP platform.

  2. Knowledge Gain (Pre/Post Assessment)

    Time frame: From baseline to immediately post-training

    Improvement in participant scores on a knowledge test derived from the PRSS curriculum, administered pre- and post-training.

  3. Intention to Use (UTAUT-2 scale)

    Time frame: Immediately post-training

    Assessed using the UTAUT-2 "Intention to Use" construct, scored on a 5-point Likert scale. Measures perceived likelihood of future platform use in practice.

Other outcomes

  1. Self-Reported Satisfaction

    Time frame: Immediately post-training

    Participant-reported satisfaction with the training experience, assessed via a Likert-scale item ("How satisfied were you with the training experience overall?"). Scores range from 1 (not satisfied) to 5 (very satisfied).

  2. Qualitative Feedback (Open-Ended Exit Interview)

    Time frame: Immediately post-training

    Participant reflections on their training experience, collected through a structured exit interview or open-text response field. Thematic content analysis will be used to identify emergent themes related to learning impact, perceived professionalism, and platform usability.

Sponsors and collaborators

Lead sponsor

Thrive Digital Health, LLC

Industry

Collaborators

  • National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA)

Registry information

Official study title

Evaluating Feasibility, Acceptability, Usability, and an Initial Estimate of Effect of a Novel Training Platform on Peer Recovery Supporter Skill, Adherence, and Knowledge Gain

Important dates

Study start
2024
Primary completion
2024
Study completion
2024
First posted
Jul 29, 2025
Registry last updated
Jul 29, 2025

OpenTrials presents study information sourced from ClinicalTrials.gov. The official registry record should be consulted for the latest information.

View the official ClinicalTrials.gov record (opens in a new tab)

This listing is for discovery and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice, does not guarantee that a study is recruiting, and does not determine eligibility. Contact the study team and a qualified healthcare professional when considering participation.

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