Active Research Studies

The COPE Study is recruiting veterans who have experienced trauma and drink alcohol. This study is investigating the impact of the medication Oxytocin paired with 12-weeks of COPE talk therapy in the treatment of PTSD and alcohol use. Compensation is provided for participation and this study can be completed via telehealth.

If you are interested, you can take our online screener.

For more information, please contact:

• Study Coordinator: Roisin Cahill
  • Phone: 843-792-2522
  • Email: cahillr@musc.edu
• Research Assistant: Amber Anderson
  • anderamb@musc.edu

The PATH Study is recruiting individuals who have experienced trauma and drink alcohol. This study involves 12 sessions of talk therapy for alcohol use and trauma. Compensation is provided for participation and this study can be completed via telehealth.

For more information, please contact:

• Study Coordinator: Kat Roberts
  Email: roberka1@musc.edu
• Research Assistant: Amanda De La Cruz
  Email: delacram@musc.edu

CIRCUITS is a study that was started to identify ways to develop better treatments for people who are experiencing posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and have concerns about their alcohol use. We do this by examining brain scans using an MRI machine. CIRCUITS study participants complete two visits. During the first visit, participants answer questions and fill out surveys. During the second visit, participants complete a scan of their brain as they look at various images in an MRI machine. The CIRCUITS study is recruiting individuals who: 1) have experienced psychological trauma or have PTSD; 2) have concerns about their alcohol use; 3) have experienced psychological trauma/PTSD and have concerns about their alcohol use; and 4) have not experienced psychological trauma/PTSD and do not have concerns about their alcohol use.

For more information, please contact:

• Study Principal Investigator: Amber Jarnecke, Ph.D.
  • Phone: 843-876-3115
  • Email: circuitsstudy@musc.edu.

This study will examine the association between race-related stress and alcohol use disorder on alcohol craving and stress markers. Participants who identify as African American will complete a total of three visits. Participants will be asked to complete questionnaires about their mood, anxiety, drug use, craving, and unique experiences. They will listen to personalized scripts about a stressful situation related to their race, a time when they drank alcohol, and a relaxing situation. Participants will also be asked to complete mobile assessments for 1 month following their lab visit. These mobile assessments will include links to surveys that will be sent via text. The final visit is a 1-month follow-up. Compensation is available.

For more information, please contact

• Study Principal Investigator: Delisa Brown, Ph.D.
  Phone: 843-792-2388
• Research Assistant: Amber Anderson
  Email:anderamb@musc.edu