Psychological Treatment for Intrusive Thoughts
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial examines how psychological treatments can assist individuals with repetitive negative thinking (RNT), such as intrusive thoughts, worries, and ruminations. It seeks to determine if specific therapies, namely Emotion Regulation Therapy - Attention Regulation (AR-ERT) and Supportive Psychotherapy (SPT), can help individuals manage these thoughts and enhance their focus. The trial is recruiting individuals in Massachusetts who primarily struggle with these thoughts and seek help to manage them. Participants must have internet access and be comfortable using a computer for tasks. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to explore innovative therapies that could significantly enhance mental well-being.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial requires that participants have a stable dose of psychotropic medications, so if your medication dose is unstable or you recently stopped taking them, you may need to adjust before joining.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Research has shown that Emotion Regulation Therapy - Attention Regulation (AR-ERT) has been tested for safety in people with anxiety disorders, and results suggest it is generally well-tolerated. One study on a shorter version of this therapy, involving a diverse group of young adults, found no major safety concerns. Participants handled the therapy well, indicating it might be safe for those with repetitive negative thoughts.
Supportive Psychotherapy (SPT) is another treatment often used for mental health issues like anxiety and depression. It focuses on providing emotional support and has been widely used without significant safety issues. Studies have shown it helps people manage unwanted, intrusive thoughts without causing harm.
Both AR-ERT and SPT are considered safe options based on existing research. However, discussing any personal concerns with the trial staff before joining the study is important.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial's treatments?
Researchers are excited about these treatments for repetitive negative thinking because they offer unique approaches compared to traditional cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and medication options like SSRIs. Emotion Regulation Therapy - Attention Regulation (AR-ERT) focuses on improving how individuals manage their attention and emotional responses, potentially leading to more effective control over intrusive thoughts. Meanwhile, Supportive Psychotherapy (SPT) provides a comforting space that emphasizes emotional support, which may benefit those who haven't found success with other therapies. These treatments aim to provide alternative pathways for managing negative thought patterns, offering hope for individuals seeking new solutions.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for repetitive negative thinking?
Research shows that Emotion Regulation Therapy - Attention Regulation (AR-ERT), one of the treatments in this trial, can help manage repetitive negative thoughts. Studies indicate that improving emotional regulation often leads to better outcomes in treating conditions like depression and anxiety. Those who manage their emotions well typically experience more positive feelings and fewer negative ones.
Supportive Psychotherapy (SPT), another treatment option in this trial, has also been found to help with unwanted and repetitive negative thoughts. Older studies and clinical guidelines suggest that SPT effectively creates a supportive environment for managing these thoughts. Both treatments in this trial show promise in helping individuals shift their focus away from negative thinking patterns.678910Who Is on the Research Team?
Ryan J Jacoby, Ph.D.
Principal Investigator
Massachusetts General Hospital
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults aged 18-60 in Massachusetts with repetitive negative thinking due to OCD, GAD, or MDD. Participants must be fluent in English, right-handed, have internet access and a device with a camera and microphone. They should not be currently receiving psychotherapy or have unstable psychotropic medication use.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive either Emotion Regulation Therapy-Attention Regulation (AR-ERT) or Supportive Psychotherapy (SPT) over 8 weeks
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Emotion Regulation Therapy - Attention Regulation (AR-ERT)
- Supportive Psychotherapy (SPT)
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Massachusetts General Hospital
Lead Sponsor
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
Collaborator