NCT07410481 · Columbia University
Trial of Acceptance and Mindfulness-based Exposure Therapy (AMBET) and Present Centered Therapy (PCT)
What this study is about
The goal of this clinical trial is to learn if a new therapy called Acceptance- and Mindfulness-Based Exposure Therapy (AMBET) helps treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in people who survived a cardiac arrest. This study will compare AMBET to another psychotherapy treatment called Present Centered Therapy (PCT) to see which therapy is more effective in treating PTSD.
View original scientific description
The goal of this clinical trial is to learn if a new therapy called Acceptance- and Mindfulness-Based Exposure Therapy (AMBET) helps treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in people who survived a cardiac arrest. This study will compare AMBET to another psychotherapy treatment called Present Centered Therapy (PCT) to see which therapy is more effective in treating PTSD.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
Acceptance and Mindfulness Based Exposure Therapy
Eight sessions of exposure therapy combined with mindfulness delivered via videoconferencing platform. AMBET will consist of 90-minute weekly sessions for 4 weeks, then every other week for 4 more sessions.
BEHAVIORAL
Present-Centered Therapy
Twelve 60-minute weekly sessions of psychotherapy delivered via videoconferencing platform.
Primary outcome measures
Change in PTSD symptoms over time
Time frame: Baseline, At 6 weeks, Post-treatment: Approximately 3 months and 6 months from intake
Change in symptoms as measured by the Clinician Administered PTSD Scale (CAPS-5) from pre- to post-treatment. The full score range is 0 - 80, where lower scores indicate lower symptom levels of PTSD.
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
- Between 18 and 81 years old at the time of consent
- Fluency in English
- Medical history of cardiac arrest \>3 months ago
- Clinically elevated PTSD symptoms (Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale for DSM-5 (CAPS-5) score ≥25)
- U.S. Resident
Exclusion criteria
- Lifetime history of primary psychotic or bipolar disorders
- Current substance use disorder (moderate or severe in the past 6 months)
- Active suicidal ideation with some intent to act in past 12 months, and/or suicide attempt in past 24 months
- Substantial cognitive impairment (Mini Mental Status Exam (MMSE) score \<25)
- Initiation of new psychotropic medication \<3 months ago
- Non-cardiac etiology of CA (drowning, bleeding, trauma, drug overdose, etc)
- Terminal illness with life expectancy \<1 year
- Concurrent psychotherapy for PTSD
Where
- New York, New York
Collaborators
National Institute on Aging (NIA)
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 9, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations