NCT07364773 · Shirley Ryan AbilityLab
Enhancing Rehabilitation Participation in Patients With SCI/D Using Motivational Interviewing
What this study is about
The purpose of this multi-site clinical trial is to see whether people with spinal cord injury or disorder (SCI/D) demonstrate higher level of participation in rehabilitation sessions and other outcomes when their therapists are trained in a counseling style called motivational interviewing. We want to answer the following questions: 1.
View original scientific description
The purpose of this multi-site clinical trial is to see whether people with spinal cord injury or disorder (SCI/D) demonstrate higher level of participation in rehabilitation sessions and other outcomes when their therapists are trained in a counseling style called motivational interviewing. We want to answer the following questions: 1. Do inpatients with SCI/D treated by physical therapists (PTs) and occupational therapists (OTs) who receive MI training and coaching demonstrate greater therapy participation compared to those treated by therapists who do not receive MI training and coaching? 2. Do inpatients with SCI/D treated by PTs and OTs who receive MI training and coaching demonstrate greater functional improvement at discharge from inpatient rehabilitation and greater community integration at 6 months after discharge compared to those treated by therapists who do not receive MI training and coaching? 3. What are the potential moderators and mediators of the effect of training and coaching on MI skills on therapy participation? Researchers will compare patient participation level and other outcomes of inpatients with SCI/D treated by PTs and OTs who receive MI training and coaching with those treated by therapists who do not receive MI training and coaching. Therapist participants will: 1. Audio record 2 therapy sessions per week with each enrolled SCI patient participant 2. Half of the therapists will attend a 16-hour training on MI skills and 2 practice therapy session Patient participants will: 1. Consent to audio recording of their therapy sessions 2.
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
- Inpatient therapist specializing in spinal cord injury patients for at least 3 months;
- Practicing at the designated SCI inpatient units at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, Baylor Scott \& White Institute for Rehabilitation and University of Washington-Harborview Medical Center;
- Willing to audio record conversations during regularly-scheduled rehabilitation therapy sessions with patients;
- Willing and able to participate in 16 hours of MI training; and
- Willing to receive feedback on MI skills. Therapist
Exclusion criteria
- Inability to speak and understand English
- Inpatient therapist specializing in spinal cord injury patients for less than 3 months; and
- Unwilling or unable to follow the study protocol Patient Inclusion Criteria:
- Adults (18+)
- Presence of a traumatic or non-traumatic spinal cord injury
- Inpatient in the spinal cord injury unit of the three study sites
- Has a physical or occupational therapist who is a participant in the study Patient Exclusion Criteria:
- Inability to speak and understand English
- Cognitive deficits
- Unwilling to allow for therapy sessions to be recorded
Where
- Chicago, Illinois
- Dallas, Texas
- Seattle, Washington
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 Jan 23, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations