NCT07740395 · Rhode Island Hospital
Connecting Loved Ones to Support and Empowering Recovery
(Project Closer)
What this study is about
Substance use disorders are highly prevalent. However, recovery from them is possible. The recovery process can benefit greatly from support from loved ones. Loved ones may need guidance in the most helpful ways to support recovery.
View original scientific description
Substance use disorders are highly prevalent. However, recovery from them is possible. The recovery process can benefit greatly from support from loved ones. Loved ones may need guidance in the most helpful ways to support recovery. This study aims to refine and test a web-based intervention, known as KulaMind-Recovery, which offers online skill building and educational modules, one-on-one video sessions and "on-demand" text-based support from a coach, and access to a community forum to connect with others with shared experience.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
KulaMind-Recovery
KulaMind-Recovery (KM-R) is an AI-powered web-based support platform that provides psychoeducation and training in evidenced-based cognitive behavioral skills and family interventions for substance use disorder. Loved ones will be matched with a human coach who will create a custom program of skills, psychoeducation materials, and other interventions. The coach will deliver these assignments through the AI digital tools on the KM-R platform, so loved ones can learn or practice skills at their convenience. For emotional support, accountability, and trouble shooting, coaches provide group video sessions each week. Each loved one will have access to text-based support form their coach, which allows the coach to support skill-building and troubleshooting in real time. Loved ones will also have access to a community forum, hosted on the platform, where they can connect with other loved ones with shared experiences. The community forum is monitored by a trained, live moderator.
Primary outcome measures
Recovery Capital Score measured with the Assessment of Recovery Capital (ARC)
Time frame: Baseline & 3-Month Follow-up
Recovery capital represents the total collection of resources that an individual possesses which can facilitate addiction recovery. The Assessment of Recovery (ARC) is a psychometrically validated measure of recovery capital, which produces a recovery capital score ranging from 0 to 50. Higher scores represent greater recovery capital. This is the primary outcome of individuals in recovery.
Substance Use Disorder-Related Stigma measured by the Stigma of Drug Users Scale
Time frame: Baseline & 3-Month Follow-up
The Stigma of Drug Users Scale will be used to assess Substance Use Disorder-Related Stigma. The Stigma of Drug Users Scale has good internal reliability across different drug classes. Higher scores represent greater substance use disorder-related stigma. This is primary outcome for loved ones.
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
- for Individuals in Recovery:
- have met criteria for a substance use disorder (with or without concomitant alcohol use disorder) in the past 24 months
- have taken steps in the past 12 months to quit using drugs, cut down on drug use, or change the way in which they use drugs in order to improve the quality of their lives
- willing to nominate a loved one to receive KulaMind-Recovery
- have a loved one who is willing to participate in the study
- able to understand and speak English and provide written and verbal consent Inclusion Criteria for Loved Ones:
- have a sustained relationship with the individual in recovery and are perceived to be an important person in the individual in recovery's life
- do not provide professional substance use disorder-related services to the individual in recovery
- have regular access to a device to engaged with KulaMind-Recovery
- able to understand and speak English and provide written and verbal informed consent
- do not endorse current (past month) suicidality
Where
- Providence, Rhode Island
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 Aug 19, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations