Can acting out help heal? drama therapy trial targets dual diagnosis

NCT ID NCT06187701

Terminated Symptom relief Sponsor: Boston Medical Center Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This pilot study tests a specific type of drama therapy for people who have both a mental health condition (like depression or bipolar disorder) and a substance use disorder. Ten participants will attend weekly group drama therapy sessions for 12 weeks, then put on a performance. Researchers will measure changes in substance use, psychiatric symptoms, and quality of life to see if this creative approach helps.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: drama therapy (Co-Active Therapeutic Theatre)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could offer a new, engaging way to help people with both mental health and substance use issues feel better and function better.
What could go wrong: This is a very small pilot study (10 people) that has been suspended, so results are uncertain. Drama therapy may not work for everyone, and the study cannot prove effectiveness on its own.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

psychiatric disorder substance-related disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

MENTAL HEALTH ISSUE SUBSTANCE USE DISORDERS

Contacts and locations

Locations

Boston Medical Center

Boston, Massachusetts, 02118, United States

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.