Research aim: The PEP project aims to enhance treatment outcomes for PTSD patients by increasing their engagement in treatment. The primary goal is to assess whether a preparatory motivation-enhancing module improves the effectiveness of standard PTSD treatment in two randomized controlled trials (RCTs) at two psychiatric outpatient clinics. The project also explores the effects of shared decision-making and individualized treatment on patient outcomes at CTP.

Design: Two RCTs will be conducted at CTP and Psykoterapeutisk Ambulatorium (PA). One trial involves two groups (intervention and control) at PA, while the other includes three groups (two intervention and one control) at CTP. The study will evaluate the impact of a four-session motivation-enhancing module in addition to standard PTSD treatment.

Population: A total of 256 traumatised patients at CTP and 171 traumatised patients at PA will be included, all referred to treatment.

Methods: Primary outcomes are measured using the International Trauma Questionnaire (ITQ), based on ICD-11 PTSD criteria, before and after treatment. Secondary outcomes include the Readiness for Psychotherapy Index (RPI), Hamilton Depression Rating Scale, WHODAS 2.0 (functionality), Hopkins Symptom Checklist-25 (depression and anxiety), WHO-5 (quality of life), and patient-defined measures (Psychlobs). Data on dropout rates and patient satisfaction will be collected.

Primary investigators: Anna Bolette Lund Nielsen, MD, PhD student, Laura Eybye Fonnesbæk, Msc Psychology, PhD student

Supervisors: Jessica Carlsson, MD, PhD, Charlotte Sonne, MD, PhD, Hinuga Sandahl, MD, PhD, Stig Poulsen, Msc Psychology, PhD