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Feasibility of SUPPORT-TBI

From Isolation to Connection: A Dyadic Approach to Enhancing Health After TBI

Who can join

Ages 18 and older · All sexes

Inclusion Criteria:

* Age 18 or older
* Live in a community setting (not an institutional setting)
* Sustained a traumatic brain injury more than 6 months prior to enrollment
* Report mild-moderate TBI-related disability (score of 5 or greater) on the Glasgow Outcome Scale - Extended
* Report low social support (score of less than 50 on the MOS Social Support Survey)

Exclusion Criteria:

* Insufficient English language fluency
* Active substance use disorder (meets diagnostic criteria on the PRIME-MD MINI alcohol or non-alcoholic substances modules)
* Active, untreated psychotic disorder (meets diagnostic criteria on the PRIME-MD MINI psychotic disorders module)
* Severe memory impairment (score of less than 21 on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment)

About the study

Many people who have had a traumatic brain injury (TBI) struggle to stay connected with others. They often lose friendships, become isolated, and have strained family relationships. This lack of social support is linked to worse physical and mental health, lower quality of life, and even a shorter lifespan. The investigators developed a program where a person with TBI and one close supporter work together with a therapist over 12 weekly sessions. They learn skills in communication, setting shared goals, supporting each other emotionally, and problem-solving, with occasional guidance from a peer mentor who has been through a similar experience. This study will determine whether the program is practical to deliver. We are conducting a pilot study with 30 pairs of participants to test whether sessions run smoothly, whether people show up and stay engaged, and whether participants find the program worthwhile. Based on what they learn, the investigators will refine this program before testing it on a larger scale. If successful, this could lead to a practical, low-risk intervention that improves the lives of people with TBI and the family members and friends who support them.

What is being tested

• SUPPORT-TBI (behavioral)

Sponsor: Washington University School of Medicine · Participants: 60 · Started: Aug 17, 2026

Contact the study team

• Jessica Kersey, PhD, OTR/L · Phone: 3142737540
• Curtis Comer, Clinical Research Coordinator I · Phone: 3142733288

Official record on ClinicalTrials.gov — NCT07625098

Locations in the U.S.

Conditions

• Traumatic Brain Injury

From ClinicalTrials.gov, data retrieved Sep 30, 2026. Each study sets its own eligibility; the study team decides who can join.