Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial focuses on testing acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), a form of psychotherapy, to evaluate its effectiveness in helping individuals with a type of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) involving religious thoughts and behaviors. The goal is to determine if ACT can effectively reduce these obsessive and compulsive symptoms. The trial includes 12 weeks of therapy sessions. Individuals who have struggled with religious OCD for some time and meet certain criteria may be suitable candidates for this trial.
As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to explore a promising therapy for religious OCD.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.
What prior data suggests that this therapy is safe for treating OCD?
Research shows that Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is generally manageable for people with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Studies have found that ACT can help reduce OCD symptoms and has a lower dropout rate compared to some other therapies.
For instance, one study found that ACT greatly improved OCD symptoms. Another study showed that ACT had a moderate effect on reducing OCD symptoms during treatment. Although less research exists on ACT compared to other therapies, available evidence suggests it is safe for most people.
There are no specific reports of serious side effects from ACT, as it is a type of talk therapy, not medication. This makes it a low-risk option for those considering participation in a clinical trial.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is unique because it focuses on helping individuals with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) accept their thoughts and feelings rather than trying to control or eliminate them. Unlike traditional treatments like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or medications such as SSRIs, which aim to reduce or manage symptoms directly, ACT encourages individuals to live in alignment with their values, despite the presence of obsessive thoughts. Researchers are excited about ACT because it offers a fresh approach that emphasizes psychological flexibility, potentially leading to more sustainable long-term improvements in managing OCD.
What evidence suggests that acceptance and commitment therapy is effective for obsessive-compulsive disorder?
Research has shown that Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) can help treat obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). One study found that participants who underwent eight sessions of ACT experienced significant improvements in their OCD symptoms. A review of 17 studies supported this, demonstrating that ACT consistently helped reduce OCD symptoms. Another study discovered that after an 8-week ACT program, participants experienced significant reductions in all areas of OCD symptoms. Overall, the evidence suggests ACT can be a promising way to manage and reduce OCD symptoms. Participants in this trial will receive twelve consecutive weeks of ACT to further evaluate its effectiveness.13678
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for individuals who experience religiously oriented obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), specifically those with high levels of scrupulosity, which means they have excessive concerns about religious or moral issues.Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive twelve consecutive weeks of acceptance and commitment therapy
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Lead Sponsor