NCT07269119 · University of Massachusetts, Worcester
Piloting a Deaf Accessible Pre-Treatment for AUD
What this study is about
This pilot study will evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary effectiveness of an adaptation of Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET) titled "DeafMET", intended for Deaf adults with high-risk alcohol use. In this single intervention cycle, 10 Deaf participants will receive the DeafMET intervention delivered either in-person or via telehealth.
View original scientific description
This pilot study will evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of an adaptation of Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET) titled "DeafMET", intended for Deaf adults with high-risk alcohol use. In this single intervention cycle, 10 Deaf participants will receive the DeafMET intervention delivered either in-person or via telehealth. Primary outcomes include change in participants' stage of change regarding alcohol use and measures of recruitment, retention, satisfaction, and adherence. Findings will inform further refinement of the intervention and planning for future research.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
Deaf-MET
Deaf-MET is a culturally and linguistically accessible adaptation of Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET) for Deaf adults with high-risk alcohol use
Primary outcome measures
University of Rhode Island Change Assessment
Time frame: From enrollment to end of participation at 3 months
URICA measures a patient's readiness to change using a self-reported questionnaire that categorizes the patient into one of the 4 following stages: precontemplation, contemplation, action, or maintenance. Potential scores range from -2 to 14. Scores below 8 indicate precontemplation. Scores between 8-11 indicate contemplation. Scores above 11 indicate preparation or action stage.
Stages of Change Readiness and Treatment Eagerness Scale (SOCRATES 8A)
Time frame: From enrollment to end of treatment at 3 months
The Stages of Change Readiness and Treatment Eagerness Scale (SOCRATES) is an instrument designed to assess motivation for change in problem drinkers. There are three scales: Recognition (score range 7-35), Ambivalence (score range 4-20), and Taking Steps (score range 8-40). For all scales, a higher score is better in that they 1) recognize they have a drinking problem, 2) are thinking about their drinking's effect on people, and 3) are actively taking steps to change.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- self-identification as a Deaf ASL user
- ability to access Zoom for screening, intervention delivery, and repeated assessment procedures
- problematic alcohol consumption, drinking behaviors, and alcohol-related problems" as identified by the AUD Identification Test (AUDIT), past-month referent time period: score at least 8 for men or at least 6 for women
Exclusion criteria
- Incapacity to consent due to guardianship or conservatorship
Where
- Shrewsbury, Massachusetts
Collaborators
National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA)
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Feb 27, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations