Brain scans may predict which kids respond to family therapy for depression

NCT ID NCT06289010

First seen Jul 20, 2026 · Last updated Jul 21, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study compares brain activity and parenting styles in children aged 7-12 with and without depression. It then tests whether these factors can predict how well a child responds to a 12-session family-focused therapy designed to build positive interactions and coping skills. Participants undergo brain scans and complete questionnaires before and after treatment.

What this could mean

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

Active substance
Family-Focused Treatment for Childhood-Depression (FFT-CD) - a 12-session behavioral therapy involving families to build skills against depression.
What this could lead to
If successful, this could help identify which children with depression are most likely to benefit from family-focused therapy, leading to more personalized treatment.
What could go wrong
This is a small, early-stage open trial without a control group, so results may not be definitive or generalizable. The therapy may not work for all children.

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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

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • Athinoula A. Martinos Imaging Center at Massachusetts Institute of Technology

    RECRUITING

    Charlestown, Massachusetts, 02129, United States

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

    Contact

  • Boston University

    RECRUITING

    Boston, Massachusetts, 02215, United States

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

    Contact

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

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