The provision of psychotherapy to WTC rescue, recovery and clean-up workers who still suffer from clinically significant WTC-related posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms is often limited by geographical distance, reduced availability of expertly trained therapists, and stigma associated with seeking mental health treatment. We are currently conducting a randomized controlled trial to assess the efficacy of Internet-based, therapist-assisted cognitive behavioral therapy compared to Internet-based, therapist-assisted supportive therapy for WTC rescue, recovery and clean-up workers with persistent clinically significant PTSD symptoms. Participation involves writing for 45 minutes two times a week for six weeks, guided by a clinician, at a time chosen by the participant. Participants and clinicians interact remotely in writing, via a secure web platform housed at a Mount Sinai Medical Center virtual server. We will also evaluate genetic and epigenetic biomarker predictors and correlates of treatment response. More information about the study, including for anyone potentially interested in participating, is located at http://labs.icahn.mssm.edu/wtc-onlinestudy/
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