NCT02920788 · VA Office of Research and Development
Mild TBI Assessment & Rehabilitation
(MTAR)
What this study is about
One of the most pressing concerns within the VA currently is the provision of interventions that address the cognitive as well as emotional problems faced by Veterans with mild TBI and comorbid conditions.
View original scientific description
One of the most pressing concerns within the VA currently is the provision of interventions that address the cognitive as well as emotional problems faced by Veterans with mild TBI and comorbid conditions. When completed, these studies will inform us whether training core attentional self-regulatory control functions via personally-relevant activities will be effective in improving daily life for Veterans with mild TBI and comorbid conditions. The study design will provide a test not only of potential benefits for real life functioning, but also determine to what extent these benefits are related to actual changes in cognitive/behavioral performance and brain networks corresponding to these functions. This project will provide a foundation for future studies to investigate the neural mechanisms that support improvements of cognition and behavior in mTBI.
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
- For TBI-positive veteran participants, to be randomized to either GOALS or TAU:
- A history of mild TBI (as defined by DOD / VA; confirmed by medical records and in person Ohio State University TBI Instrument)
- Chronic, stable phase of recovery (\>6 months from last post-concussive event)
- Report of residual cognitive difficulties (1 moderate or severe cognitive symptom(s) on the Neurobehavioral Symptom Inventory (NSI)) that interfere(s) with daily function
- Able and willing to commit to participate in training and assessments
- If on psychoactive medications, must be stable on medications (\> 30 days) For the TBI-negative healthy veteran control group:
- No history of any (mild to severe) TBI (as defined by DOD / VA; confirmed by medical records and in person Ohio State University TBI Instrument)
- Able and willing to commit to participate in assessments
- If on psychoactive medications, must be stable on medications (\> 30 days)
Exclusion criteria
- For the TBI-positive veteran participants, to be randomized to either GOALS or TAU:
- A history of moderate or severe TBI
- Unstable medical, neurologic, or psychiatric condition, including severe cognitive dysfunction, or other reasons for being unable or unwilling to participate in study procedures (e.g., contraindications to MRI)
- Ongoing illicit drug or alcohol abuse (AUDIT\>8)
- Severe depression, anxiety or PTSD that precludes participation in research activities
- Poor English comprehension
- Eligible participants may have other co-morbid stable neuropsychiatric disorders, including depression and PTSD
- There will be no restriction in regard to gender, race and socioeconomic status For the TBI-negative healthy veteran control group:
- A history of any mild, moderate, or severe TBI
- Unstable medical, neurologic, or psychiatric condition, including severe cognitive dysfunction, or other reasons for being unable or unwilling to participate in study procedures (e.g. contraindications to MRI)
- Ongoing illicit drug or alcohol abuse (AUDIT\>8)
- Severe depression, anxiety or PTSD that precludes participation in research activities
- Poor English comprehension
- Eligible participants may have other co-morbid stable neuropsychiatric disorders, including depression and PTSD.
- There will be no restriction in regard to gender, race and socioeconomic status
Where
- San Francisco, California
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 May 6, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations