Stress-Reducing Interventions in HIV+ Patients: Pilot

Pilot Intervention for PTSD, Nonadherence, and HIV Risk

The primary aim of this project is to examine the efficacy of prolonged exposure (PE) therapy at reducing HIV-related PTSD symptoms, increasing adherence to antiretroviral medication regimens, and increasing health-related quality of life (QOL) in HIV+ patients.

HIV+ patients will be randomized to receive either PE therapy (up to 18 possible sessions) or weekly symptom monitoring (described below) and will complete measures of PTSD, adherence, and QOL pre- and post-intervention and at 3- and 6-month follow-up assessments. Secondary analyses will examine the impact of the intervention on disorders commonly comorbid with PTSD (i.e., anxiety, mood, and substance abuse/dependence disorders).

Inclusion Criteria:

• Must be HIV+
• Must meet PTSD diagnostic criteria
• Must be taking HIV medications
• Must be able to read and write in English

Exclusion Criteria:

• Current or previous diagnosis of schizophrenia, any current diagnosis with psychotic features, or current suicidal ideation
• Being in a current abusive relationship or ongoing intimate relationship with one's assailant
• Mental retardation