Research at Gaudenzia
Enhancing Care through Innovative Research.
Gaudenzia is committed to advancing knowledge and creating a positive societal impact through research endeavors. Our dedicated team focuses on conducting and participating in high-quality research opportunities on topics related to substance use disorder and co-occurring conditions.
We believe in the transformative power of research to instigate positive changes and shape a better future. By collaborating with national medical research agencies, academic institutions, community groups, and industry allies, we aim to develop innovative solutions and provide valuable insights to the research community.
Whether you are a researcher, industry professional, student, policymaker, or someone interested in our work, we invite you to learn more about the research projects we are involved in.
Join us in our commitment to foster knowledge, encourage collaboration, and drive positive transformations through research with the goal of improving treatment for those with substance use disorder.
Research Initiatives
Active Research
HBCD Study
Healthy Brain and Child Development (HBCD) Study
Gaudenzia is proud to participate in the NIH-funded HBCD Study. The HEALthy Brain and Child Development Study is the largest, long-term study of early brain and child development in the United States. The goal is to better understand how child development is affected by exposure to social and environmental experiences and conditions. The study is currently recruiting pregnant people in their second trimester.
This research explores how early life experiences—including substance exposure—affect brain and behavioral development. Gaudenzia has seven sites in Pennsylvania participating in this project in collaboration with Hershey Penn Medicine. This longitudinal research opportunity will enable Gaudenzia to continue to pioneer our commitment and service delivery to the women and women with children who come to Gaudenzia for treatment.
The data gathered through this project will help us understand the unique needs of women and women with children who come to our treatment, thus helping us better our service delivery. Gaudenzia’s unique contributions and community impact are central to this important work.
From Field to Findings
Concluded Research Projects in Data Processing
Spark Biomedical, Inc.
Sparrow Ascent System – Transcutaneous Auricular Neurostimulation for Opioid Withdrawal Relief
This clinical trial, conducted at Gaudenzia’s Crownsville Program, explored the use of the FDA-approved Sparrow Ascent System (tAN®) to alleviate opioid withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings. With support from a $2.49 million NIH HEAL Initiative grant, the study has now concluded enrollment and is in the data processing phase.
Mindful MAT Adherence
Mindfulness-Based Relapse Prevention (MBRP) for Opioid Use Disorder (OUD)
Located at our West Chester House program, this randomized clinical trial investigated whether MBRP could improve adherence to Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) and reduce drug use. The study also examined differences in outcomes across all populations through an NIH Administrative Supplement Award. This project has concluded enrollment and is currently in the data processing phase.
For potential research partnerships and interests, please contact research@gaudenzia.org.