Exposure, relaxation, and rescripting therapy (ERRT) is a promising psychological intervention developed to target trauma-related nightmares and sleep disturbances. Though further evidence is needed, ERRT has shown strong support in reducing the number and intensity of nightmares, as well as improving overall sleep quality in both civilian and veteran samples. This study will assess the efficacy in individuals diagnosed with bipolar disorder.
This pilot study will examine the efficacy of Exposure, Relaxation, \& Rescripting Therapy (ERRT) on chronic nightmares in trauma-exposed adults diagnosed with bipolar disorder (B-ERRT), as these individuals have been excluded from past clinical trials. Eligible participants will be assessed prior to starting treatment. B-ERRT will be conducted once a week for approximately five consecutive weeks for approximately two hours per session. Each treatment session focuses on one of the following topics/skills: psychoeducation regarding trauma, nightmares, and sleep disturbances on bipolar disorder, relaxation techniques, exposure to the trauma-nightmare, and relapse prevention. Participants will then be asked to complete two to three follow-up assessments, 1-week, 3-months, and potentially 1-year after the end of the treatment.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
NA
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
20
The nightmare treatment, called Exposure, Relaxation, and Rescripting Therapy for Bipolar disorder, is a weekly 5-session treatment aimed at reducing chronic trauma nightmares and sleep disturbances in adults diagnosed with bipolar disorder.
University of Tulsa
Tulsa, Oklahoma, United States
RECRUITINGChange in Past Week Nightmare Frequency
This fill-in-the-blank variable assesses the number of nightmares experienced in the past week (range = 0 - X nightmares) at each assessment (baseline, one week following treatment, and three months following treatment). Higher values indicate more nightmares (worse outcome).
Time frame: Pre, One week, Three Months
Change in Clinician Administered PTSD Scale Symptoms
This semi-structured clinical interview assesses severity of each of 30 items
Time frame: Pre, One week, Three Months
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