NCT05240924 · VA Office of Research and Development
ERP to Improve Functioning in Veterans With OCD
What this study is about
Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) is a debilitating psychiatric illness impacting work, social, and family functioning. Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is the sole evidence-based psychotherapy for OCD; however, no randomly assigned controlled trials (RCTs) have examined the effectiveness of ERP among Veterans or individuals with both OCD and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
View original scientific description
Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) is a debilitating psychiatric illness impacting work, social, and family functioning. Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is the sole evidence-based psychotherapy for OCD; however, no randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have examined the effectiveness of ERP among Veterans or individuals with both OCD and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This 4-year Hybrid Type I trial will compare outcomes of ERP to those of a control condition among Veterans with OCD. Primary and secondary aims will examine whether Veterans' functioning, quality of life, and OCD symptoms differ between the ERP and control in the full sample of Veterans with OCD, and in the half of the sample with both OCD and PTSD. The tertiary aim is to conduct a mixed-methods formative evaluation of the implementation potential of ERP in VA mental health settings.
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
- Veterans having a primary diagnosis of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)(50% of sample) and comorbid OCD and Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) (50% of sample) who are receiving care from the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center (MEDVAMC) in Houston, TX; the Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center in Charleston, SC; the VISN 20 Clinical Resource Hub which provides telehealth services to Washington, Oregon, and Alaska: the VISN 2 Clinical Resource Hub which provides telehealth services to New Jersey, New York, and northern Pennsylvania, and the VISN 6 Clinical Resource Hub which provides telehealth services to North Carolina and Virginia.
- Willingness to participate in Exposure and Response Prevention(ERP)
Exclusion criteria
- Significant cognitive impairment or conditions that threaten safety (current psychosis, mania, imminent suicidality including plan or intent, and treatment-interfering moderate to severe substance use).
- Potential participants taking psychotropic medications must be on a stable dose of these medications for at least 6 weeks prior to study enrollment.
Where
- East Orange, New Jersey
- Buffalo, New York
- New York, New York
- Northport, New York
- The Bronx, New York
- Asheville, North Carolina
- Durham, North Carolina
- Fayetteville, North Carolina
- Salisbury, North Carolina
- Roseburg, Oregon
- White City, Oregon
- Charleston, South Carolina
And 6 more locations — see the full list below.
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 Jun 8, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations