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

NCT ID NCT03175068

Completed Knowledge-focused Sponsor: University of Illinois at Chicago Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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.

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

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for MAJOR DEPRESSIVE DISORDER are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

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.

MAJOR DEPRESSIVE DISORDER SOCIAL ANXIETY DISORDER

Contacts and locations

Locations

University of Illinois at Chicago

Chicago, Illinois, 60608, United States

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.