An Integrated Treatment for Comorbid PTSD and Substance Abuse in Adolescents

An Integrated Treatment for Comorbid PTSD and Substance Abuse in Adolescents

This study plans to develop an integrated treatment for comorbid post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and substance abuse (SA) in adolescents. The investigators aim to develop a treatment approach that is community-friendly, well-tolerated, and deliverable by substance abuse counselors (SAC) in outpatient settings. The proposed Trauma-Focused Substance Abuse Treatment (TFSAT) aims to reduce PTSD symptoms and substance use and build coping skills. The investigators propose to adapt an evidence-based trauma program, Cognitive-Behavioral Intervention for Trauma in Schools (CBITS), for adolescent substance abusers (ASAbusers); to assess the acceptability and feasibility of the integrated approach; and to pilot test the new program against standard care.

The investigators hypothesize that the intervention group, compared to the control group, will reduce substance use and symptoms for traumatic stress.

Inclusion Criteria: Youth

• Between ages of 13 & 19;
• meeting DSM IV criteria for substance abuse/dependence and PTSD;
• previously enrolled at recruitment site for at least 2 weeks;
• parent/guardian provides permission for minors to participate.

Exclusion Criteria: Youth

• Not within the specified age range;
• presence of organic brain damage;
• inability to understand enrollment forms (e.g. Informed Assent/Consent Form)

Inclusion Criteria: Parents/Guardians

• Age 18 or above;
• parents/guardians of youth who meets inclusion criteria.

Exclusion Criteria: Parents/Guardians

• presence of organic brain damage.