Can improv comedy help tame OCD?

NCT ID NCT06265233

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: Stanford University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Aug 12, 2026 · Last updated Aug 13, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This pilot study explores whether adding improv comedy to standard cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help adults with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Participants will take part in therapist-led group sessions that combine exposure and response prevention (ERP) with improv exercises. The goal is to see if this novel approach reduces OCD symptom severity and improves how people cope with uncertainty.

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) combined with improv comedy group sessions
What this could lead to: If this approach works, it could offer a new, engaging way to help adults with OCD reduce symptoms and better handle uncertainty.
What could go wrong: This is a very small pilot study, so results may not apply broadly. The therapy may not be effective for everyone, and participation requires commitment to group sessions.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

obsessive-compulsive disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

OBSESSIVE-COMPULSIVE DISORDER

Contacts and locations

Locations

401 Quarry

Stanford, California, 94304, United States

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