NIDA-CTN-0015

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is common among drug users, particularly among women. Those who suffer from both of these conditions also struggle more with both conditions and have a more difficult time meeting their treatment goals. Estimates also suggest that as many as 80% of women seeking treatment for drug abuse report lifetime histories of sexual and/or physical assault. These facts highlight the importance of finding effective treatments for this high-risk population. Early studies show Seeking Safety, a substance abuse treatment designed specifically for women with trauma, is an option with great potential for this population. This study compares the effectiveness of two manualized interventions for women when added to treatment as usual: Seeking Safety, and Women’s Health Education, a psychoeducational program focused on health topics of special relevance for women.