Family-Focused Treatment for Childhood Depression
Trial Summary
What is the purpose of this trial?
The goal of this interventional study is to compare the baseline neural mechanisms and parenting in depressed and non-depressed children and to examine baseline neural mechanisms and parenting as predictors of Family-Focused Treatment for Childhood-Depression (FFT-CD) outcomes. The main questions it aims to answer are: * What are differences between depressed and non-depressed participants on baseline neural and parenting indicators? * Do baseline neural and parenting indicators predict response to FFT-CD? * Does change in parenting and neural functioning mediate change in depression from baseline to follow-up? Participants will: * complete baseline clinical measures * complete neuroimaging tasks via Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMR) * undergo a 12-session course of FFT-CD * complete follow up evaluations and neuroimaging
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
If your child is currently taking an antidepressant, they will need to stop, as the trial does not allow children on antidepressant medication.
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment Family-Focused Treatment for Childhood Depression (FFT-CD)?
Research shows that Family-Focused Treatment for Childhood Depression (FFT-CD) can lead to positive changes in depressive symptoms and family interactions, with improvements maintained months after treatment. Similar family-focused therapies have been effective in treating bipolar disorder, suggesting that involving family in therapy can enhance recovery and reduce symptoms.12345
Is Family-Focused Treatment for Childhood Depression safe for children?
Family-Focused Treatment for Childhood Depression (FFT-CD) has been used safely in children, showing positive changes in depressive symptoms and family interactions without reported safety concerns. Similar family-focused therapies have been used safely for other conditions like bipolar disorder and anxiety, suggesting a general safety in humans.13567
How is Family-Focused Treatment for Childhood Depression (FFT-CD) different from other treatments for childhood depression?
Family-Focused Treatment for Childhood Depression (FFT-CD) is unique because it involves the whole family in the treatment process, focusing on improving family interactions and support to help manage childhood depression. It combines family support with cognitive-behavioral techniques like communication and problem-solving, which are not typically emphasized in individual therapies.13489
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for children with depression. Participants will undergo an MRI, attend a 12-session course of Family-Focused Treatment (FFT-CD), and complete follow-up evaluations. Specific eligibility criteria are not provided.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Baseline Assessment
Participants complete baseline clinical measures and neuroimaging tasks via fMRI
Treatment
Participants undergo a 12-session course of Family-Focused Treatment for Childhood-Depression (FFT-CD)
Post-Treatment Assessment
Baseline procedures are repeated to evaluate treatment outcomes
Follow-up
Participants complete follow-up evaluations and neuroimaging to assess long-term outcomes
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Family-Focused Treatment for Childhood-Depression (FFT-CD)
Family-Focused Treatment for Childhood-Depression (FFT-CD) is already approved in United States for the following indications:
- Childhood depression
- Youth depression
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Boston University Charles River Campus
Lead Sponsor
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Collaborator