Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the purpose of the Couple HOPES research study?

  The goal of this study is to test an online, guided, self-help program for individuals with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms and their intimate partners: Couple HOPES (Helping Overcome PTSD and Enhance Satisfaction). Additional goals of this guided self-help program are to increase access to interventions that may improve PTSD symptoms, enhance relationships, and improve individual mental health and well-being.

• Will my employer or other institutions have access to the information I provide while taking part in the Couple HOPES research study?

  No, information collected for the purpose of this research study will be kept confidential, as required by law. To safeguard your confidentiality, numerous measures have been taken.

• How much does it cost to take part in the Couple HOPES, research study?

  Currently we are offering the program for FREE for any couples who screen eligible to take part in the program. We are not offering a paid version of the Couple HOPES program at this time. Additionally, participants will be compensated up to $52.50 CAD or $43.40 USD in Tim Hortons or Starbucks gift cards. The participant may choose which card they receive.

• How long does a couple have to complete the Couple HOPES program?

  Each couple is granted 8 weeks to complete the Couple HOPES program. The average time couples take to complete the Couple HOPES program is anywhere from 6 to 8 weeks. However, we have had a select few couples who have completed the Couple HOPES program sooner. We encourage couples to move through the Couple HOPES program at a pace that works for them, our coaches are trained to identify that pace with each couple.

• Who are the Couple HOPES coaches?

  The Couple HOPES coaches are trained members of the research team, each member has an educational background in psychology and has been trained to utilize the Couple HOPES platform. It is important to stress that your coach is not a clinical psychologist, therapist, or a clinician, and will not be providing therapy. They are trained to help you use the self-help program to get the most out of it.

• What is the maximum number of couples you plan to enroll into the Couple HOPES research study? Will you enroll more participants after you reach that goal?

  Our team is working to enroll 140 couples into the Couple HOPES research study. After our team reaches this goal we plan to build additional working capacity to open the program to more couples.