Video NET With CYP Who Witnessed Domestic Violence

Research suggests that children and young people (CYP) who witness domestic violence are susceptible to develop Post-traumatic stress (PTS). As their traumatic experiences are often repeated and prolonged, these CYP are likely to present with 'complex trauma' presentations, which also include other difficulties such as depressive symptoms and problems in functioning.

This study aims to investigate whether Narrative Exposure Therapy (NET) delivered via videoconferencing can be effective, feasible, and acceptable for CYP who witnessed domestic violence. NET is a brief, evidence-based intervention for complex trauma which has been adapted for CYP. The study will use a 'single case study series' design and look at whether NET can impact on PTS, psychological distress, and functioning. It will also look at the processes of change within NET and participants' experience of the therapy. Young people aged 12-17 who are experiencing PTS after exposure to domestic violence will be recruited from the waiting lists of Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services in Lincolnshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust and Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust.

Up to six participants will receive six to ten weekly video sessions and the changes in the outcomes will be explored before, during and after NET. Finally, participants will be interviewed about their experiences.

The study is part of a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology programme and funded by Health Education England. Potential benefits include investigating NET with a new group, contributing to the research on complex trauma interventions for CYP, and providing insights on the effectiveness and acceptability of therapies via video.

The purpose of the study is to investigate the potential effectiveness, feasibility, acceptability and putative mechanisms of change of video NET with children and young people who witnessed domestic violence.

The primary objective of the study is to evaluate whether video NET can reduce PTS in this group.

The secondary objectives of the study are:

* To determine whether video NET can also impact on general psychological distress and functioning;
* To examine the putative mechanisms of change within NET, i.e. habituation and integration of trauma memories;
* To explore the feasibility and acceptability of video NET.

Eligibility Criteria:
Inclusion Criteria - Participants must:

* Be aged 12- 17;
* Have witnessed domestic violence in the past;
* Be experiencing clinical levels of post-traumatic stress, as assessed by a member of the CAMHS team;
* Be on the waiting list to receive trauma-focused treatment;
* If 16 or over, be able to consent to take part, as assessed by a member of the CAMHS team;
* If under 16, have at least one person with parental authority who can consent for them. These young people will also be asked to provide their assent;
* Be able to communicate verbally and speak English;
* Have access to a device with a webcam and Internet broadband to enable participation in video sessions;
* Have access to a mobile device, e.g. a smartphone or a tablet. Can be the same as the device above.

Exclusion Criteria - Participants will be excluded from the study if:

* They have a known diagnosis of Intellectual Disability;
* They have a current high level of risk including of self-harm, suicide or current exposure to domestic violence, as assessed by a member of the CAMHS team;
* They are substance dependent.