NCT05988489 · State University of New York - Upstate Medical University
Dynamic Deconstructive Psychotherapy Versus Brief Intervention and Contact for Suicidal Adolescents and Young Adults
What this study is about
The purpose of this clinical trial is to assess whether 6 months of treatment with Dynamic Deconstructive Psychotherapy (DDP) is more effective for reducing thoughts of suicide in suicidal adolescents and young adults than usual care in the community supplemented with Brief Intervention and Contact (BIC).
View original scientific description
The purpose of this clinical trial is to assess whether 6 months of treatment with Dynamic Deconstructive Psychotherapy (DDP) is more effective for reducing thoughts of suicide in suicidal adolescents and young adults than usual care in the community supplemented with Brief Intervention and Contact (BIC). DDP and BIC are two evidence-based practices shown to be more effective than usual care at reducing suicidality. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive DDP treatment with safety planning and optional medication management or BIC treatment with safety planning and optional medication management. Participants in both groups will receive the assigned treatment at SUNY Upstate Medical University's Psychiatry High Risk Program (PHRP). Each participant is anticipated to take part in this trial for up to one year.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
Dynamic Deconstructive Psychotherapy (DDP)
DDP treatment with an assigned therapist for up to 12 months
BEHAVIORAL
Brief Intervention and Contact (BIC)
BIC treatment with an assigned therapist for up to 12 months
Primary outcome measures
Change from Baseline in Suicide Ideation on the Combined Suicide Ideation (CSI) Score at 6 Months of Treatment
Time frame: Baseline and 6 Months
The CSI score assesses the frequency and severity of suicide ideation. This score is calculated by adding the scores of two established measures, item 9 of the PHQ-9 (assessing frequency of suicide ideation) and the 5-item C-SSRS suicide ideation measure (assessing severity of suicide ideation). Possible scores range from 0-8, with higher scores indicating higher frequency and severity of suicide ideation.
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
- CSSRS suicide ideation of ≥ 2 and PHQ-9 item 9 of ≥ 1
- Ages 14 through 40 years old of both genders
- Fluency in English
- Willingness to enter outpatient treatment as evidenced by psychiatric consultation at the PHRP and attending a first session with their intake therapist
- Willingness to be video-recorded
- Completion of baseline outcomes measures
Exclusion criteria
- Previous or current clinical diagnosis of schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder or autism spectrum disorder as ascertained by self-report on the PHRP intake packet, or on their electronic medical records, or by psychiatric evaluation at the PHRP
- BMI \< 18 for adults ≥ 18 years old, and BMI \< 17 for adolescents
- Concurrent use of weekly ECT, ketamine, or esketamine
- IQ \< 80 on the Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test
- Current or previous treatment with Dynamic Deconstructive Psychotherapy
Where
- Syracuse, New York
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 24, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations