The Program for Anxiety and Traumatic Stress Studies is conducting a number of clinical research studies, including two funded by the National Institutes of Health. Our studies include:

• We are currently recruiting veterans of the Iraq War and Gulf War who served in Iraq for a virtual reality study. Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can develop after exposure to trauma. In this study, we are trying to learn about how the responses of people exposed to trauma contribute to the development of PTSD symptoms, such as flashbacks and intrusive, distressing memories that are difficult to suppress. In the study, veterans will be presented with a virtual reality Iraq combat scenario and we will measure their emotional, physiological, and cognitive responses. This involves seeing and hearing a "virtual environment" through a headset, and "moving" through the virtual environment by pressing keys. Participants will also complete tests of memory and concentration and symptom self-report forms. Veterans will be compensated up to $150 for their time. The virtual reality study also includes a full mental health diagnostic assessment. Veterans who require treatment may also be eligible to receive treatment at no cost through one of our ongoing treatment research studies, and we will also provide treatment referrals to community mental health providers as well.
  
  The study will be conducted throughout 2007. To refer someone, or if you have any questions about the study, please call the principal investigator, Loretta Malta, Ph.D. at 212-746-0559 or the study coordinator, Lauren Szkodny, at (212) 821-0717.
  
  
• The virtual reality clinical study focuses on the treatment of PTSD symptoms following 9/11 using a combination of traditional treatment combined with the Virtual Reality Therapy program.
  
  
• Our new drug study currently explores the effects of the use of D-Cycloserine (DCS) in conjunction with the virtual reality treatment. The DCS or placebo are taken weekly at a low dose prior to the virtual reality session.
  
  
• Another series of studies compare different types of psychotherapy for people suffering from PTSD symptoms.
  
  
• One of these studies explores the treatment of emergency services personnel following terrorism. Enrollment is open to firefighters, police, EMS personnel, and utility workers who served in rescues and recovery operations at the WTC.
  
  
• Another study is open to all trauma survivors following any type of trauma.
  
  

To schedule a free evaluation or to learn more about our studies, please call (212) 821-0783.