Zapping the brain to boost therapy: small study tests new approach

NCT ID NCT05555056

Completed Knowledge-focused Sponsor: University of Manitoba Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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

Summary

This small study tested whether a gentle brain stimulation technique called HD-tDCS could improve the effects of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for people with depression, anxiety, or PTSD. Twenty participants received either real or fake stimulation daily for five weeks while attending therapy. The main goal was to see changes in brain connectivity, not to measure symptom improvement.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: High Definition Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (HD-tDCS)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a way to make therapy more effective for people with depression, anxiety, or PTSD.
What could go wrong: This was a very small study with only 20 people, and it looked at brain activity, not symptoms. It may not lead to a practical treatment.

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.

anxiety anxiety disorder Depression depressive disorder post-traumatic stress disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

ANXIETY DEPRESSION STRESS DISORDERS, POST-TRAUMATIC

Contacts and locations

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Locations

University of Manitoba

Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3E 0J9, Canada

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