Treatment for PTSD and Tinnitus

In this study, researchers are examining the best sequence of interventions for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and tinnitus. Participants will either receive psychotherapy for PTSD first (Cognitive Processing Therapy; CPT), followed by treatment for tinnitus (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Tinnitus; CBT-t); or vice-versa. We also aim to identify changes in brain functioning after receiving therapy.

Inclusion Criteria: * Adult male and female active duty military personnel and veterans seeking treatment for PTSD * Diagnosis of PTSD * Person has experienced at least one mild traumatic brain injury (concussion) * Ability to speak and read English * Stable on any psychotropic medications * Meets criteria for chronic subjective and bothersome tinnitus * Chronic tinnitus is at least possibly related to head injury Exclusion Criteria: * Currently receiving other talk therapies * Severe hearing loss that would prevent the participant from benefiting from therapy * Current severe suicidal ideation * Psychiatric hospitalization in the last 12 months * Moderate to severe substance use that would prevent the participant form benefiting from therapy * Current manic episode or psychotic symptoms requiring immediate stabilization or hospitalization * Significant cognitive impairment * Moderate to severe brain damage * Neurobiological disorders * Temporomandibular joint disorders and/or Meniere's disease that cause acute pain