Motivational Interviewing + Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Homelessness

(MI-CBT Trial)

This trial aims to help veterans who have experienced homelessness become more active in their communities. It will test whether a combination of Motivational Interviewing and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (MI-CBT) can boost motivation and involvement in activities like work or school. Participants will either receive this therapy or learn about healthy lifestyles, including nutrition and stress management. Veterans fluent in English, with a history of homelessness, currently housed through VA programs, and willing to pursue work or educational goals might be a good fit. As an unphased trial, this study offers veterans the opportunity to explore new therapeutic approaches to enhance community involvement and personal growth.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.

Research has shown that combining Motivational Interviewing and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (MI-CBT) can be a helpful and safe treatment for people experiencing homelessness. These psychological methods can reduce problems like substance use and improve overall well-being.

For example, one study found that Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) effectively addresses substance use issues, while Motivational Interviewing helps engage people in their treatment. Participants generally tolerate these therapies well, experiencing few, if any, negative side effects. Another study supports the idea that similar combined approaches can work well for homeless individuals, indicating safety for this group.

Researchers are excited about the combination of Motivational Interviewing and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (MI-CBT) for addressing homelessness because it targets the psychological and motivational aspects that many traditional treatments overlook. While standard approaches might focus on immediate shelter or financial support, MI-CBT aims to empower individuals by addressing underlying mental health issues and enhancing motivation for change. This dual approach not only helps in managing stress and improving decision-making but also promotes long-term lifestyle changes, making it a potentially transformative option for those experiencing homelessness.

This trial will compare the combination of Motivational Interviewing (MI) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with a Healthy Lifestyles educational program. Research has shown that combining MI with CBT can assist people who have experienced homelessness. CBT changes negative thoughts and behaviors, reducing issues like substance use. MI increases motivation and commitment to positive changes. Studies indicate that these psychological approaches can improve various outcomes for people experiencing homelessness. This combination has proven useful in helping individuals engage more in community activities, such as work or school. Overall, MI-CBT shows promise in helping Veterans who have experienced homelessness become more active and engaged in their communities.¹²³⁴⁶