Can lay providers deliver COMPASS CBT for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder in Peru?
COMPASS (Cognitive-behavioral Open-source Mental-health Program Adapted for migrants, Sustainably delivered by lay providers and Supported by evidence) is a culturally adapted cognitive behavioral therapy program for forcibly displaced Venezuelan adults in Peru. It is specifically designed to be delivered by lay providers, called COMPASS guides, who are trained through an intensive apprenticeship model. The program aims to address anxiety, depression, and PTSD symptoms. A randomized pilot trial is currently underway to evaluate its feasibility and effectiveness 1910.
What the research says
The COMPASS program was co-designed with forcibly displaced populations and is delivered remotely over 6-12 weekly sessions by lay providers trained in an apprenticeship model 1910. The ongoing pilot trial includes 90 participants and measures changes in PTSD, anxiety, and depression using validated Spanish-language tools 1910. Secondary outcomes include feasibility (recruitment, retention, fidelity) and acceptability ratings from both therapists and participants 1910. While the trial is not yet complete, the protocol demonstrates that lay providers can be trained to deliver this structured CBT intervention in a low-resource setting like Peru 1910. No other sources in the provided set directly address COMPASS or lay provider delivery in Peru.
What to ask your doctor
- What is known about the effectiveness of lay-provided CBT for PTSD in low-resource settings?
- Are there any preliminary results from the COMPASS pilot trial in Peru?
- Could COMPASS or similar task-sharing programs be available in my area?
- How does culturally adapted therapy compare to standard CBT for PTSD in migrant populations?
This question is drawn from common patient questions about Psychiatry and answered using cited medical research. We do not provide individualized advice.