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Developing Innovative PTSD Treatment for Children
Sponsor: Viktoriia Gorbunova
Summary
This study is testing a new version of a treatment called the Reconsolidation of Traumatic Memories Protocol for Children (RTM-C Protocol). The RTM Protocol™ is already proven to help adults with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) by reducing distressing memories, flashbacks, and nightmares. The children's version is specially adapted to meet the needs of children aged 6-14, using child-friendly language, games, and animated tools. The purpose of this study is to find out whether the RTM-C Protocol can safely and effectively reduce post-traumatic stress symptoms in children who have experienced trauma. We also want to know whether children, parents, and therapists find the method acceptable and easy to use. Children and their parents will take part in a series of sessions with a trained specialist. Parents will join an initial session to provide information and give consent. Children will then have up to six therapy sessions, during which they learn to safely "replay" their difficult memories in imaginative ways that reduce their fear. Parents and children will complete questionnaires about symptoms before and after the sessions, as well as at 1 and 6 months after completion. Study Question: Can the RTM-C Protocol reduce post-traumatic stress symptoms in children and improve their daily functioning (such as relationships, learning, and happiness)? Study Hypothesis: RTM-C Protocol will lead to a significant reduction in PTSD symptoms in children, with improvements maintained at follow-up, and will be rated as acceptable and feasible by children, parents, and therapists.
Official title: Developing Innovative PTSD Treatment for Children: Reconsolidation of Traumatic Memories Protocol™ for Children (RTM-C Protocol)
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
6 Years - 14 Years
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
40
Start Date
2025-09-20
Completion Date
2026-08-20
Last Updated
2025-11-21
Healthy Volunteers
No
Conditions
Interventions
Reconsolidation of traumatic memories
The intervention begins with a parent session to review history, provide orientation, and obtain consent. Each child then attends six individual therapy sessions with a trained RTM specialist. Sessions use imagination exercises, "film-like" replay of traumatic memories in modified formats (e.g., black-and-white, fast-forward, backwards), and structured state-interruption techniques to reduce fear and distress. Animated instructions and cardboard "cinema" and "skreen" models may be used to support comprehension if needed.
Locations (1)
Charitable Foundation Voices of Children
Kyiv, Ukraine