NCT07818889 · Ohio State University
Study to Refine the Effectiveness of New Generation Therapies for Suicide
(STRENGTHENS)
What this study is about
The purpose of this research study is to improve the effectiveness of a well-established therapy for suicidal thoughts and behaviors called Brief Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (BCBT) for Suicide Prevention.
View original scientific description
The purpose of this research study is to improve the effectiveness of a well-established therapy for suicidal thoughts and behaviors called Brief Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (BCBT) for Suicide Prevention.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
Brief Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
In this study, BCBT skills will be introduced in various randomly determined sequence. During the first stage, around half of participants will complete reasons for living in session 2, physiological regulation in session 3, and sleep in session 4. The other half of participants will complete these components in the reverse order: sleep in session 2, physiological regulation in session 3, and reasons for living in session 4. Treatment non-responders will continue attending BCBT sessions during Stage 2 following their 4 completed sessions in Stage 1, up to a maximum of 6 additional sessions (i.e., 10 therapy sessions total across both stages). The specific sequence of the BCBT skills used in Stage 2 will be randomly assigned.
Primary outcome measures
Suicide attempts during follow-up
Time frame: From enrollment to the end of study completion at one year.
The primary outcome is suicide attempts during follow-up, assessed with the Self-Injurious Thoughts and Behaviors Interview-Revised (SITBI-R). SITBI-R responses will be used to determine the rate of participants making a follow-up suicide attempt (binary) and the rate of follow-up suicide attempts per participant-year across treatment arms.
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
- 18 years of age or older; suicidal ideation (assessed with the SSI) and/or suicidal behavior within the past month (assessed with the SITBI-R), psychiatric hospitalization for elevated suicide risk within the past month, and/or SCS-R total score \>21; eligibility to understand and speak the English language; ability to complete the informed consent process
Exclusion criteria
- impaired mental status that precludes the ability to provide informed consent (e.g., intoxication, psychosis, mania) and/or a medical or psychiatric condition that precludes the ability to engage in outpatient therapy
Where
- Columbus, Ohio
Collaborators
The Jordan Elizabeth Harris Foundation
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 Sep 14, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations