Posttraumatic stress disorder and substance use disorder is an important comorbidity in terms of its prevalence, clinical impact, and treatment challenges. To date, interventions for this comorbidity have been solely professionally led.

In this pilot study, we sought to evaluate the impact of a peer-led model, using Seeking Safety (SS; Najavits, 2002), which is the most evidence-based intervention thus far for the comorbidity. We adapted it for peer-led use to help make it accessible and safe for this modality.

Eighteen women in residential substance abuse treatment participated. The 25 SS topics were conducted twice weekly. They were assessed at baseline and end of treatment, with some measures also collected at monthly interims.

Results showed decreases in trauma-related symptoms (Trauma Symptom Checklist-40 total scale and all subscales, i.e., dissociation, sexual problems, depression, sleep problems, anxiety, and sexual abuse); self-compassion (the Self-Compassion Scale subscales self-judgment, isolation, and overidentified); the Brief Symptom Inventory (total and all nine subscales); and a measure of use of SS coping skills (total score). Also, ratings of fidelity to SS was very high (on the SS Adherence Scale), as was satisfaction with SS.

Limitations of the study and areas for future research development are discussed.