NCT07190365 · VA Office of Research and Development
Goal-oriented Telehealth Rehabilitation of Executive Functioning for Veterans With Chronic TBI
(GOALS TH)
What this study is about
Provision of interventions that address cognitive and emotional problems faced by Veterans with history of TBI pursuing community reintegration is an important concern for VA.
View original scientific description
Provision of interventions that address cognitive and emotional problems faced by Veterans with history of TBI pursuing community reintegration is an important concern for VA. Using telerehabilitation, the current project will help determine whether goal-directed training of attentional control functions via personally relevant activities will improve community integration for Veterans with history of TBI and cognitive difficulties. Findings may guide rehabilitation training towards providing services to maximize success in attaining complex functional goals in which Veterans can engage in skill strengthening 'where they are' (any location).
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
GOALS TH
The Goal-Oriented Attentional Self-regulation training involves ten 2-hour sessions of group-based telehealth training, three individual 1-hour telehealth training sessions, and approximately 20 hours of home practice. It is conducted in a small group format.
BEHAVIORAL
EDU TH
The EDU TH training is an active control training matched with GOALS TH for therapist time, homework load, and participation in a group. It involves ten 2-hour telehealth sessions of group-based training, three individual 1-hour telehealth training sessions, and approximately 20 hours of home practice.
Primary outcome measures
Neurocognitive performance -Overall Attention and Executive Function (AEF) Z score
Time frame: Baseline, 10 week (post training), 6 month
Performance on neurocognitive composite measure of attention and executive function post intervention vs control training will be assessed with Overall Attention and Executive Function (AEF) domain composite Z Score (calculated as the average of z scores of following tests: Letter Number Sequencing, Auditory Consonant Trigrams, Digit Vigilance, Trails B, DKEFS Stroop Inhibition, DKEFS Stroop Inhibition-Switching, DKEFS Verbal Fluency Switching, DKEFS Visual Fluency Switching). AEF Z score range is -3 to +3; higher score = better outcome.
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
- History of mild to moderate TBI \> 6 months ago
- Cognitive difficulties affecting daily functioning
- At least 12th grade education or equivalent \
- Interested in improving community reintegration
Exclusion criteria
- Amnesic/Severe memory problems
- Active Substance Abuse/Dependence
- Medical condition that may affect mental status/disrupt study participation
- Active psychotropic medication changes
Where
- Palo Alto, California
Collaborators
VA Palo Alto Health Care System
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 Apr 3, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations