NCT06981598 · New York University
Prevention of Psychological Health Problems Via Integrated Operational Support
(IOS Toolkit)
What this study is about
Sub-clinical behavioral health services in the military are performed by BH technicians, who receive minimal training. Due to this, embedding more technicians in military units is unlikely to benefit service members. Giving technicians training in, and access to, evidence-based interventions (EBI) could make their work more effective.
View original scientific description
Sub-clinical behavioral health services in the military are performed by BH technicians, who receive minimal training. Due to this, embedding more technicians in military units is unlikely to benefit service members. Giving technicians training in, and access to, evidence-based interventions (EBI) could make their work more effective. The proposed study is a training trial examining the efficacy of the full integrated operational support (IOS) toolkit (evidence-based interventions for behavioral health), relative to routine care using standard resources, as a prevention resource for active-duty airmen.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
Cognitive Behavioral Coaching Training
Behavioral technicians will engage in a structured, deliberate-practice-based training program designed to enhance competence in evidence-based interventions (EBIs) over a 10-week period. The program begins with an initial seminar that provides an overview of the training framework, key research supporting deliberate practice, and specific intervention techniques. Each participant is assigned a coach-either a clinical psychologist or a licensed MSW with expertise in the EBI Toolkit-who will provide individualized guidance throughout the training. During the weekly coaching sessions, participants will review session notes, engage in structured practice exercises, and work toward mastering the skills and competencies necessary for effective intervention delivery. Weekly homework assignments will allow participants to practice each tool as though they were working with an SM client, followed by self-reflections that will be discussed in coaching sessions.
Primary outcome measures
Average Satisfaction of Service Members (SM) with Embedded Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) Services
Time frame: From the SM's first session with their embedded BHT to their last session (up to 10 weeks)
We will ask participating SMs questions about their session with their embedded BHT to gauge their satisfaction with the experience. The questions are prompts such as "How much do you think your meeting today will help you deal with your current difficulties?" and How much do you think working with a MHT/BHT/psych/4C will help you improve the things you would like to change?"
Change in Service Member PHQ-9 (Patient Health Questionnaire-9) Score
Time frame: From the SM's first session with their embedded BHT to one month after their last session with their embedded BHT (up to 14 months after the completion of the baseline survey after the first appointment with their embedded BHT)
The PHQ-9 (Patient Health Questionnaire-9) measures physical, emotional, and cognitive symptoms of Major Depression such as "feeling down, depressed, or hopeless," "trouble falling or staying asleep, or sleeping too much," or "trouble concentrating on things, such as reading the newspaper or watching television." Service members (SM) will fill out this measure.
Change in Service Member WHO-5 Well-being Index Score
Time frame: From the SM's first session with their embedded BHT to one month after their last session with their embedded BHT (up to 14 months after the completion of the baseline survey after the first appointment with their embedded BHT)
The WHO-5 Well-being Index measures general well-being with prompts such as "I have felt cheerful and in good spirits" and "I woke up feeling fresh and rested." Service members (SM) will fill out this measure.
Change in Service Member PSS-10 (Perceived Stress Scale - 10 item version) Score
Time frame: From the SM's first session with their embedded BHT to one month after their last session with their embedded BHT (up to 14 months after the completion of the baseline survey after the first appointment with their embedded BHT)
The PSS-10 (Perceived Stress Scale - 10 item version) measures the SM's stress with prompts such as: "In the last month, how often have you felt that you were unable to control the important things in your life?" and "In the last month, how often have you felt that you were on top of things?" Service members (SM) will fill out this measure.
Change in Service Member STAI (State-Trait Anxiety Inventory) Score
Time frame: From the SM's first session with their embedded BHT to one month after their last session with their embedded BHT (up to 14 months after the completion of the baseline survey after the first appointment with their embedded BHT)
The STAI (State-Trait Anxiety Inventory) measures anxiety by asking participants about their current emotions with prompts such as "I feel calm," "I feel frightened," and "I feel nervous." Service members (SM) will fill out this measure.
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
- Service members seeing a behavioral health (BH) technician.
- Currently embedded BH technicians.
Exclusion criteria
- Service members who are not currently seeing a BH technician.
- BH technicians who are not embedded or have taken a clinic role.
Where
- New York, New York
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 May 15, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations