Brain stimulation treatment for veterans and first responders with PTSD

Plain-English translation of NCT06892028 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated March 2025 · Translation generated June 2026 · How we translate trials

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 new approach called EEG-based personalized transcranial magnetic stimulation (eTMS) to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in veterans and first responders. The treatment uses magnetic pulses to stimulate the brain in a personalized way based on your brain's electrical activity. Researchers want to see if this approach can safely reduce PTSD symptoms better than a sham (fake) version of the same treatment.

PTSD can be difficult to treat, and many people don't respond well to existing therapies. This trial is exploring whether personalizing brain stimulation based on each person's unique brain activity patterns might be more effective at relieving symptoms.

Do you qualify?

You likely qualify if…

you are between 22 and 65 years of age
you have been diagnosed with PTSD that has lasted at least 6 months
you are a veteran or first responder (such as a firefighter, paramedic, or emergency worker)
you have a PTSD Checklist score of 31 or higher
you are willing to give informed consent and participate in the study

You likely don't qualify if…

you have metal objects, implants, or permanent piercings in your head or neck
you have a history of seizures or epilepsy, or a close family member who does
you have had a stroke, brain lesion, or increased pressure in your brain
you are pregnant or unable to use effective birth control during the trial
you have a high risk of suicide or violence toward others

What participation looks like

If you join this study, you will receive 15 days of treatment over about 4 weeks. Each treatment day involves two sessions of brain stimulation, with at least 30 minutes of rest between them. Each session lasts 15 minutes, during which magnetic pulses are delivered to your brain based on your personalized brain activity patterns. Half of participants will receive the active treatment and half will receive sham (fake) treatment. Throughout the study, your PTSD symptoms will be measured to see if the treatment helps.

AI-generated summary from trial data · Jun 26, 2026 · Not medical advice

Trial locations(2 sites)

United States

Wright State University, Dayton, Ohio

D2 Human Performance Center, Pickerington, Ohio