Oxytocin Augmentation of a Group Class within the Milestones Resilience Care Trauma Healing Model

Investigators: Brooks Robinson, Lyda Hill Institute for Human Resilience at UCCS (Principal Investigator)

Project Description: The goal of this project is to conduct an open pilot trial with Veterans to examine the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of intranasal oxytocin augmentation of a psychoeducation and strengths-building group class within the Milestones Resilience Care (MRC) trauma healing model. MRC is a 42 session, client-centered trauma healing model utilizing both evidence-based psychotherapy components as well as alternative treatment modalities (e.g. massage, acupuncture, yoga, art therapy, animal-assisted therapy, and outdoor/nature therapy). The composition of healing modalities is chosen by each individual in collaboration with their healing team. In this way, MRC aims to build functional resilience and well-being in addition to reducing the negative symptoms of traumatic stress (PTSD, depression, anxiety). Central to the MRC model is boosting individuals’ sense of self-efficacy—their belief in the ability to cope with trauma and heal. To help build self-efficacy, the MRC includes a psychoeducation class called Self-Efficacy Enhancement and Development of Strengths or SEEDS. Participants in this study will be asked to complete the 42 session MRC model, which will include the 8-session SEEDS class. Prior to each SEEDS class, participants will self-administer oxytocin through nasal spray application. Oxytocin, a naturally occurring hormone in the human body, has been shown to increase empathy and connection to others in group settings and may improve outcomes from the SEEDS class. This study will examine the feasibility of oxytocin augmentation of SEEDs (SEEDS+OT) within the MRC model, the acceptability to participants of oxytocin self-administration prior to SEEDS, and whether oxytocin augmentation results in higher scores on measures of self-efficacy and a reduction in traumatic stress.

Contact: For more information contact Brooks Robinson at brobins3@uccs.edu

Enrolment: Enrollment will begin in Spring/Summer 2026.