Military sexual trauma (MST) is defined as uninvited/unwanted sexual attention (such as touching, cornering, pressure for sexual favors, or verbal remarks), threat of or attempted 
sexual contact, sexual assault, or any sort of sexual activity between at least two people in which one of the people is involved against their will. This research is being done because MST has been identified as a pervasive problem with profound psychological and physical consequences.

The purpose of this study is to compare two kinds of therapy for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) due to MST: prolonged exposure therapy (PE) and interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT). The results of this study will allow us to see if IPT and PE are equally effective in treating PTSD due to military sexual trauma, with the long-term goal of making PTSD treatment effective for as many people as possible. 

Participants will be randomized into one of two study groups and will receive either PE or IPT. Randomization means that you are put into a group by chance, similar to flipping a coin.

IPT focuses on addressing the effects PTSD has had on relationships with other people through talking about emotions in response to recent interactions with others.

PE focuses on teaching individuals to gradually approach their trauma-related memories, feelings, and situations to gain confidence in their ability to manage them.  The therapist will monitor distress levels during the sessions.

Participation consists of 10 weekly sessions for the PE group and 14 weekly sessions for the IPT group. All participants will also complete a post-treatment assessment and a six-month follow-up assessment after finishing the weekly therapy sessions therapy. Total participation in the study will be approximately 10 months.

The information discussed during both IPT, and PE sessions is completely confidential and will not be shared with anyone outside of this research study. All services provided are separate from the United States Department of Veteran Affairs (VA), the Department of Defense (DOD), the Veterans Health Administration (VHA), Military Behavioral Health, or any other military institution.

If you are interested in hearing more about the study, please call 212-821-0783 or visit the Program for Anxiety and Traumatic Stress Studies (PATSS) website.