Fast brain stimulation treatment for PTSD and traumatic brain injury

Plain-English translation of NCT06544408 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated May 2026 · Translation generated June 2026 · How we translate trials

Read our Post Traumatic Stress Disorder research guide →

This study doesn't follow the usual testing phases — it may be an observational study or a different type of research.

What is this trial?

This study is testing a non-invasive brain stimulation technique called accelerated TMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation) as a rapid treatment for PTSD. Researchers want to see whether stimulating specific areas of the brain during an intensive one-week treatment can help reduce PTSD symptoms quickly. You would receive daily treatments and then be followed for six months to see how well the treatment works.

Current PTSD treatments like therapy and medication can take weeks or months to help people feel better. This trial is exploring whether this new treatment can provide faster relief by directly stimulating brain regions involved in traumatic stress.

Do you qualify?

You likely qualify if…

you are between 18 and 65 years old
you have been diagnosed with PTSD according to clinical criteria
you have not changed your psychiatric medications or therapy in the last month and are willing to keep them stable during the trial
you are able to give informed consent and understand and follow the study procedures

You likely don't qualify if…

you have metal in your head, a history of seizures, brain tumor, stroke, or certain other brain conditions
you have an active substance use disorder or current substance use that would interfere with the study
you have a diagnosis of schizophrenia or another psychotic disorder
you are at significant risk for suicide
you are currently pregnant or planning to become pregnant

What participation looks like

You would start with an intense one-week treatment phase receiving daily brain stimulation sessions. Some participants will receive active treatment to different brain regions, while others receive a sham (fake) treatment so researchers can see what works best. After the first week, everyone gets the active treatment for a second week. Then you'll have follow-up visits at one, three, and six months to assess how you're doing and whether your PTSD symptoms have improved.

AI-generated summary from trial data · Jun 5, 2026 · Not medical advice

Trial locations(1 site)

United States

Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida