QOL Pairing a High-end Racecar Simulator with Psychoeducational Training to Reduce PTSD symptoms in Veterans
William Edmonds, PhD, BCB, board certified in Biofeedback, is a full Professor at the Fischler College of Education and Criminal Justice.
Tell me briefly about your recent grant-funded project.
The working title of the current examination is The Effect of Stress Inoculation and Psychological Skills Training on Health and Performance-Based Outcomes in Veterans Diagnosed with Mild to Moderate PTSD.
This research was developed through a collaboration between the College of Psychology, College of Education and School of Criminal Justice, and the Veterans Trust in Fort Lauderdale. The primary objective is to determine whether the use of a high-end racecar simulator, paired with a psychoeducational training program, can enhance both psychological and physiological self-regulatory mechanisms to improve the quality of life and reduce PTSD symptoms in veterans. The innovative experimental approach was designed through the process of combining elements of known efficacious, valid, and reliable psychoeducational, performance-based and therapeutic models. These include Social Cognitive Theory, the Optimal Zone of Functioning, Psychophysiological models, Biofeedback treatments, Learning-Modification-Application model (i.e., Periodization), Cognitive Processing Therapy and Stress-Inoculation Training.
Who is working with you on this project?
We have a host of full-time faculty and students working with us on the current project.
Co-investigators:
Dana Mills, PhD. An associate dean in the College of Education and School of Criminal Justice. Dr. Mills provides administrative oversight on behalf of the College of Education and School of Criminal Justice.
Tom Kennedy, PhD. Dr. Kennedy is a licensed clinical psychologist and dean of academic affairs in the College of Psychology. Dr. Kennedy provides administrative oversight and clinical oversight on behalf of the College of Psychology.
University Collaborators:
Matthew Chenworth, MeD. Matt is the Senior Director of Military Affairs Resource Center at Nova Southeastern University. He will provide resource services, community outreach and recruitment opportunities.
Faculty Collaborators:
Ryan Bennett, PsyD, Amy E. Ellis, PhD, Jamie Tartar, PhD, Jennifer Davidtz, PhD.
Student Collaborators:
Katelyn Fitzpatrick, Gabriel Balardin, Kayley Slicer, Leah Lancolletto, Sulaim Syeda, and Michael Garcia.
Community Partner:
The Veterans Trust®(TVT). The VT is located in Ft. Lauderdale at 718 NW 8th Ave is a Tax Exempt 501(c)(3) Nonprofit organization #46-4677773.
What opportunities and/or benefits does this grant bring to the NSU community?
The potential impact for the current innovative examination is quite substantial. The Veterans Trust has partnered with NSU and has already generated substantial interest in the race-simulator approach to treating veterans with PTSD. Once the program is refined and validated through the process of research and evaluation, it can be replicated and offered to facilities that have the primary focus on health of veterans, active military and first responders—particularly those who suffer from PTSD.
Additionally, strengthening the relationship between the Veterans Trust and NSU will highlight the core values of the university that prides itself honoring the dedication and commitment of veterans, service members, and first responders.
How has NSU helped you pursue and/or achieve personal and professional goals you have set for yourself? NSU resources used?
The opportunity to receive internal grant funding has been important on multiple levels. The funding covers logistical expenses of running the experiment and enables the use of advanced psychophysiological recording equipment and software. Deans Durham and Grosby from the FCE&CJ and College of Psychology, have provided support at every stage of the process, including invaluable administrative assistance and access to space for conducting the research.
What advice do you have for other grant seekers at NSU?
The administrative aspect of managing an internal grant can be daunting, especially when it comes to executing the budget. However, we have outstanding support from OIIT, Ariba and budget administration who are always willing and happy to assist.
What is the next grant proposal or project on your agenda?
We hope that the findings from this research will pave the way larger-scale experiments and the inclusion of additional treatment and training modalities for this population, such as narrative therapy and ketamine treatments for individuals with more severe clinical needs.