Chatbot therapy: can AI ease eating disorder anxiety?

NCT ID NCT07237607

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study is testing an AI-powered chatbot called Exp-ED that guides teens and young adults through exposure therapy exercises to reduce anxiety about weight gain. Twenty participants in a partial hospitalization program for eating disorders will use the app for six weeks. Researchers will measure how often they use it, how usable it feels, and whether their anxiety improves.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance
Exp-ED digital exposure-therapy chatbot app
What this could lead to
If it works, this could provide a low-cost, accessible tool to help teens and young adults manage anxiety about weight gain during eating disorder treatment.
What could go wrong
This is a very early, small study with only 20 participants, focused on feasibility and usability. The chatbot is a supplement, not a standalone treatment, and may not reduce anxiety for everyone.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Penn State College of Medicine

    RECRUITING

    Hershey, Pennsylvania, 17033, United States

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