RecruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

Feasibility and Efficacy of GTEP for Birth Trauma

This research study is investigating an online group therapy called Group Traumatic Episode Protocol (GTEP) for individuals who have experienced a difficult or upsetting birth. The main goal is to see if this therapy can help reduce feelings of trauma and distress. Additionally, the study aims to find out if GTEP improves a parent's general sense of wellbeing and helps strengthen the bond between the parent and their baby. Participants, aged 18-65, must be currently receiving care from the Black Country Perinatal Mental Health Service and have experienced birth-related trauma within the last 18 months. The therapy will be delivered in online sessions, and participants will be asked to share their experiences and complete some questionnaires.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

University of Birmingham

Enrolment target

Start

19 Jun 2025

Estimated completion

30 Jun 2026

PTSD (Childbirth-Related)Psychological Wellbeing Bonding

What is this study about?

Birth, for many, is a joyous occasion, but for some, it can be a distressing or traumatic experience. It's estimated that a number of people develop trauma symptoms, and even Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), after childbirth. This can also lead to other challenges like feelings of sadness, worry, and difficulties in bonding with their new baby. We know that having a tough birth experience can really impact how a new parent feels and their relationship with their infant in the months that follow.

This study is exploring a type of group therapy called Group Traumatic Episode Protocol (GTEP). GTEP is a way of delivering EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) therapy in a group setting. EMDR has been found to be helpful for trauma in various situations. While GTEP has shown promise in helping different groups of people, like refugees and cancer patients, we don't yet know if it's effective for trauma specifically related to childbirth. That's why this research is so important.

The main aim of this study is to see how practical and effective GTEP is for reducing trauma symptoms in people who have had a traumatic birth. We also want to see if it helps improve their overall emotional wellbeing and the special connection they have with their baby. By taking part, you would be helping us understand if this online group therapy could be a good support option for others who've had similar experiences.

Key takeaways

Exploring an online group therapy (GTEP) for birth trauma.
Aims to reduce trauma symptoms, improve wellbeing, and parent-baby bonding.
Involves 8 sessions over about 8 weeks, mostly online.
For new parents (18-65) with birth trauma, under specific NHS care.
Your participation could help understand new ways to support parents.
You can withdraw at any point without impacting your care.

Who may be eligible?

To join this study, you need to be between 18 and 65 years old. You should currently be receiving support from the Black Country Perinatal Mental Health Service. Also, you must have experienced trauma symptoms related to a birth within the last year and a half – this includes the birth itself, any hospital stay afterwards, or if your baby needed special care.

You'll need to have access to a device like a laptop with an internet connection for the online sessions, and a private space at home where you won't be interrupted, with childcare if needed. It's important to have a good understanding of English to fully participate in the group discussions. The clinical team will also assess if group therapy is the right type of support for you at this time.

Unfortunately, you can't take part if your baby is no longer in your care. Also, if you have certain severe mental health conditions like bipolar disorder, psychosis, or schizophrenia, or if you have a significant hearing or visual impairment that would make it difficult to engage, this study might not be suitable for you.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you between 18 and 65 years old?
Are you currently receiving support from the Black Country Perinatal Mental Health Service?
Have you experienced trauma related to a birth within the last 18 months?
Do you have reliable internet and a private space for online sessions?
Do you have a good understanding of spoken English?
Is your baby currently in your care?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part, your journey will involve a total of eight sessions. The first session will be a home visit where a member of the research team will explain everything in detail, answer your questions, and make sure you’re fully eligible for the study. You’ll also complete some starting questionnaires during this visit.

Following this, you'll have six weekly online group therapy sessions, each lasting about 90 minutes, conducted via Zoom. These are the core GTEP sessions. Finally, there will be an eighth session, either in person or over the phone, to follow up on your experience in the group and discuss any further support you might need. Throughout the study, you'll be asked to complete questionnaires to track your progress and share your feedback on the group sessions.

Potential risks and benefits

Participating in this study could potentially help reduce your trauma symptoms and improve your overall wellbeing and bond with your baby. While group therapy can be very supportive, discussing past traumatic experiences might bring up uncomfortable feelings. The sessions are designed to be safe and supportive, with trained facilitators. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your usual medical care.

Locations (1)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

Black Country Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust
Verified postcode
Wolverhampton, United Kingdom· Recruiting

Common questions

What is GTEP?

GTEP stands for Group Traumatic Episode Protocol. It's a type of therapy delivered in a group setting, based on Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) techniques, designed to help people process traumatic experiences.

How long will the study last?

The study involves a total of 8 sessions: one initial home visit, six weekly online group sessions, and one final follow-up session. This typically spans over about eight weeks.

Will my information be kept private?

Yes, all your personal information and what you share in the group will be kept confidential and handled according to strict privacy rules.

Do I need to pay to participate?

No, there are no costs associated with participating in this research study. The therapy and all assessments are provided as part of the study.

What if I feel uncomfortable during the group sessions?

You are free to share as much or as little as you feel comfortable with. The group facilitators are trained to create a supportive environment, and you can withdraw from the study at any point if you wish.

How to find out more

Grace E Rodgers, Study Chief Investigator

gxr327@student.bham.ac.uk +44 7817937825 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.