Family-Based Behavioral Therapy for Childhood Anxiety and OCD
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests two types of family-based treatments delivered online for children with anxiety or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). It compares these treatments to a relaxation and mentorship program that includes breathing exercises with a therapist. The goal is to determine which method is most effective and how they benefit children. Families with children aged 7 to 13 who exhibit noticeable anxiety or OCD symptoms may be suitable participants, especially if the child can engage in therapy and a parent can attend the sessions. As an unphased trial, this study provides families with an opportunity to explore innovative treatment options that could significantly enhance their child's well-being.
Do I need to stop my current medications to join the trial?
You don't need to stop your current medications, but they must be stable for a certain period before joining the trial. If you're on an antidepressant, it should be stable for 12 weeks, and for other medications like antipsychotics or ADHD meds, it should be stable for 6 weeks. Any changes to your medication should have been made at least 4 weeks before joining.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Research has shown that family-based, online cognitive behavioral therapy (iCBT) for anxiety and OCD in young people can significantly reduce anxiety symptoms. Past participants found this type of therapy easy to handle.
For the Relaxation and Mentorship Training (RMT), family-based therapy that includes relaxation exercises is generally safe for children with anxiety. However, it may not reduce symptoms as effectively as more intensive CBT methods.
Overall, both treatment approaches are considered safe for children. They use therapy and relaxation techniques, which are common and generally accepted for treating childhood anxiety and OCD.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about these treatment approaches for childhood anxiety and OCD because they offer family-centered, accessible solutions that differ from traditional therapies like individual CBT or medication. The Parent Training Bibliotherapy (SPACE) method empowers parents with structured guidance and literature, encouraging them to independently manage their child's anxiety with professional support. The Family-Based Internet-Based CBT (iCBT) introduces a novel, digital approach where parents lead their children through exposure tasks, an essential CBT component, with therapist support via video and email. Lastly, the Relaxation and Mentorship arm emphasizes stress-reduction techniques, like deep breathing and muscle relaxation, in a family-inclusive setting, which can foster a supportive environment for the child. These approaches aim to involve the family more deeply in the therapeutic process, potentially enhancing efficacy and accessibility.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for childhood anxiety and OCD?
Research has shown that family-based cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), one of the treatments in this trial, effectively reduces anxiety and OCD symptoms in children. Studies indicate that online family-based CBT, particularly with therapist support, lowers anxiety disorders in children. Additionally, family-centered approaches tailored to a child's needs have improved OCD symptoms.
In this trial, another group of participants will receive relaxation and mentorship training (RMT). Studies suggest that RMT is less effective than exposure-focused CBT, a therapy that gradually introduces children to their fears. While RMT can help reduce stress through activities like breathing exercises, it generally does not reduce anxiety as much as other CBT methods.23567Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for children aged 7-13 in Texas with significant anxiety or OCD, as indicated by specific test scores. They must have the ability to engage in CBT and live with a participating parent at least half the time. Children on stable medication may qualify, but those starting new treatments recently or changing dosages are excluded.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive one of three interventions: Relaxation and Mentorship Training, SPACE, or iCBT over 12-14 weeks
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Family Based
- Relaxation and Mentorship
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Baylor College of Medicine
Lead Sponsor