Brain zaps may supercharge emotion control therapy

NCT ID NCT05712057

Recruiting now Knowledge-focused Sponsor: Duke University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests whether combining a one-time session of brain stimulation (rTMS or electrical scalp stimulation) with emotion regulation training helps people with mood, anxiety, or related disorders better control their emotions. 240 participants will learn either cognitive restructuring or emotional awareness skills while receiving targeted brain stimulation. Researchers will measure changes in brain activity and emotional responses immediately, at one week, and at one month after the session.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) and electrical scalp stimulation
What this could lead to: If successful, this could point toward a more effective, brain-based approach to help people with emotional dysregulation learn to manage their emotions better.
What could go wrong: This is an early-stage study with only one training session, so any benefits may be small or short-lived. The results may not apply to everyone with emotional difficulties.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

adjustment disorder anxiety disorder attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder borderline personality disorder Disruptive, Impulse Control, and Conduct Disorders eating disorder Emotional Regulation Feeding and Eating Disorders impulse control disorder mood disorder obsessive-compulsive disorder obsessive-compulsive personality disorder post-traumatic stress disorder Stress Disorders, Traumatic

As listed by the trial registrant

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

ANXIETY DISORDERS BORDERLINE PERSONALITY DISORDER EATING DISORDERS EMOTION DYSREGULATION EMOTION REGULATION EMOTIONAL DISTRESS EMOTIONAL DYSFUNCTION EMOTIONAL IMPULSIVITY EMOTIONAL INSTABILITY EMOTIONAL MALADJUSTMENT IMPULSE CONTROL DISORDER MOOD DISORDERS OBSESSIVE-COMPULSIVE DISORDER OCD STRESS DISORDER

Contacts and locations

Locations

Duke University Medical Center
RECRUITING

Durham, North Carolina, 27710, United States

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