Brain activity may reveal who responds best to CBT for depression and anxiety

NCT ID NCT03175068

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study looked at whether brain activity patterns can predict how well people with major depression or social anxiety respond to cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Over 200 participants were randomly assigned to 12 weeks of CBT or supportive therapy. Researchers measured brain activity during emotion regulation tasks before and after treatment. The goal was to understand how CBT works in the brain and for whom it is most effective.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)

What this could lead to

If successful, this could help doctors identify which patients are most likely to benefit from CBT, making treatment more personalized and effective.

What could go wrong

This is a completed study focused on understanding brain markers, not a new treatment. Results may not lead to immediate changes in care.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

major depressive disorder social phobia

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • University of Illinois at Chicago

    Chicago, Illinois, 60608, United States