Brief writing therapy could ease PTSD in people recovering from substance use

NCT ID NCT07108608

First seen Jun 29, 2026 · Last updated Jun 30, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This pilot study tests whether a short, evidence-based therapy called Written Exposure Therapy (WET) can help reduce PTSD symptoms in adults who are in residential treatment for substance use disorders. Participants complete five guided writing sessions about their trauma. The study focuses on whether this approach is practical and helpful in a residential setting where people stay for about 28 days.

What this could mean

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

Active substance
Written Exposure Therapy (WET)
What this could lead to
If successful, this brief therapy could offer an effective way to treat PTSD within short-term residential substance use programs, potentially improving outcomes for people with both conditions.
What could go wrong
This is a small, early pilot study without a control group, so results may not be generalizable. The therapy may not be feasible or acceptable in this setting, and benefits may not be confirmed in larger trials.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Maryland Treatment Centers

    Baltimore, Maryland, 21229, United States

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