This month, local news affiliate WCAX interviewed VCBH Project Leader and Assistant Professor Kelly Peck, PhD about his prolonged exposure therapy (PET) study that examines cognitive behavioral therapy treatment for PTSD in people currently receiving buprenorphine or methadone medication maintenance.

Past research conducted and published in journals such as Drug and Alcohol Dependence has shown that higher rates and severity of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are observed in individuals with OUD, and higher rates and severity of OUD are seen in individuals with PTSD.

Dr. Peck explained that he and his team “are applying that knowledge -- and proof -- that prolonged exposure therapy effectively treats those symptoms in people who’ve been prescribed methadone or buprenorphine. Since PTSD is prevalent in people with opioid use disorder, Peck is examining how the two treatments supplement one another for a better overall outcome.”

To learn more about the PET study or get involved, visit the study site.