Emotion Regulation Therapy for Emotional Distress
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests a therapy called Emotion Regulation Therapy (ERT) to help individuals manage feelings such as worry, rumination (repeatedly thinking about the same thing), or self-criticism. The therapy consists of 12 online sessions conducted via video calls, along with additional online resources. Residents of New York State who frequently experience worry or self-criticism may be suitable candidates, particularly if they have a diagnosed psychological disorder. The researchers aim to observe changes in feelings before, during, and after the therapy. As an unphased trial, this study offers participants the chance to contribute to innovative research that could enhance emotional well-being.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial requires that if you are taking psychotropic medication, it must have been stable for at least 3 months. If your medication hasn't been stable for that long, you may need to adjust it before participating.
What prior data suggests that Emotion Regulation Therapy via telehealth is safe?
Research shows that Emotion Regulation Therapy (ERT) provided through telehealth has been studied for its impact on emotional well-being. One study found that participants experienced improvements in emotional reactions, irritability, and their ability to manage emotions and behaviors after receiving ERT. Another study examined the effectiveness of ERT delivered online alongside regular care, suggesting it may help reduce emotional distress.
Regarding safety, direct data is limited. A report on telehealth methods in mental health indicated that evidence for safety and effectiveness is limited or inconsistent. This means strong evidence is lacking, but no major safety issues have been reported.
The trial is labeled "Not Applicable" for its phase, suggesting that ERT via telehealth is likely well-tolerated and not in the early testing stages. Serious side effects are unlikely, but further research could help confirm its safety.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Most treatments for emotional distress, like cognitive-behavioral therapy or medication, require in-person visits or have potential side effects. Emotion Regulation Therapy delivered via telehealth is unique because it offers a flexible, remote option that combines live video sessions with an online platform for additional support between sessions. This approach not only makes therapy more accessible to people who can't easily attend in-person sessions, but also provides continuous learning opportunities that can enhance treatment effectiveness. Researchers are excited because this method could broaden access to mental health care while maintaining, or even improving, therapeutic outcomes.
What evidence suggests that Emotion Regulation Therapy via telehealth is effective for emotional distress?
Research has shown that Emotion Regulation Therapy (ERT) can reduce emotional distress. One study found that ERT improved emotional and behavioral management, reduced reactivity and irritability, and achieved a high participation rate of 93%. Another study found that ERT, similar to therapies like CBSM and EMDR, effectively reduced symptoms of depression, anxiety, stress, and repetitive negative thoughts. These findings suggest that ERT, which participants in this trial will receive via telehealth, can help individuals better manage emotions and reduce feelings of worry, overthinking, and self-criticism.678910
Who Is on the Research Team?
Douglas S Mennin
Principal Investigator
Professor of Clinical Psychology
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for New York State residents aged 18-65 who are fluent in English and have internet access. Participants must meet DSM-5 criteria for a psychological disorder and report high levels of worry, rumination, or self-criticism. It's not open to those on unstable psychotropic meds, current students at Teachers College, Columbia University, anyone already in therapy, with active suicidal thoughts or certain psychiatric conditions.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants attend 12 once-weekly telehealth ERT sessions
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Emotion Regulation Therapy via Telehealth
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Teachers College, Columbia University
Lead Sponsor