MI-CBTech: A Mobile Intervention for Community Integration in Homeless-Experienced Veterans With SMI

BEHAVIORAL

MI-CBTech

Three in-person MI sessions focused on identifying goals for community integration (in the areas of vocational, recreational, social, or independent living activities) and unhelpful thinking that tends to get in the way of those goals, building motivation for goals, introducing participants to the CBT model and its potential benefits, and downloading and orienting them to the mobile phone application. Six weeks of mobile phone application use to guide participants through CBT. Weekly content will be provided to learn and practice CBT skills to address unhelpful thinking and problem solving to address obstacles to goal attainment. There will be brief content pages worksheets to guide participants through practice. The worksheets will be tailored to each participant, framing the skills around their pre-identified goals and unhelpful thinking patterns. The application will also include access to crisis resources.

BEHAVIORAL

Mindfulness control

Three in-person supportive therapy sessions focused on empathic listening during client-led discussions of presenting concerns, introducing participants to mindfulness (defined as noticing and paying attention to the present moment without judgment), and downloading and orienting them to the mobile phone application. Participants will be informed of potential benefits of mindfulness, including stress reduction and increased self-awareness. Six weeks of mindfulness training mobile application use to help participants learn to practice mindfulness through a gradual, self-guided training program. The application offers a library of information about mindfulness, 12 different audio-guided mindfulness exercises, goal-setting and tracking, customizable reminders, and access to crisis resources.

Baseline assessment completion rate

Time frame: At baseline, prior to randomization

The investigators will assess feasibility of both MI-CBTech and mindfulness control treatment arms based on recruitment using a completion rate of at least 80% for the baseline in-person assessment.

End of treatment assessment completion rate

Time frame: End of 8-week treatment phase

The investigators will assess feasibility of both MI-CBTech and mindfulness control treatment arms based on retention. Specifically, at least 70% of randomized participants will complete the end of treatment assessment.

Remote treatment adherence rate

Time frame: End of 8-week treatment phase

The investigators will assess tolerability of MI-CBTech based on adherence. Specifically, over 80% of participants will complete at least 70% of application use for a minimum of one hour per week and homework assignments.

Satisfaction rating index

Time frame: At study completion, typically 16 weeks after randomization

The investigators will assess acceptability of MI-CBTech based on subjective satisfaction. Specifically, at least 75% will report average participant ratings (on a scale of 1 to 10) of a minimum of 7.5 on the composite satisfaction index obtained during exit interview.

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.