Can online therapy beat anxiety and depression? large study tests two approaches

NCT ID NCT05016843

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

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

Summary

This study tested two types of online therapy for anxiety and depression in 2477 adults. Participants received either a cognitive behavioral treatment or a psychodynamic treatment, delivered over 8 or 16 weeks, with or without a support forum. The goal was to see which combination works best to reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: Internet-delivered psychological treatments (Unified protocol and Affect phobia treatment)
What this could lead to: If successful, this could show that online, short-term therapy is an effective and accessible option for treating anxiety and depression.
What could go wrong: This is a completed study comparing different therapy formats, not a new drug. Results may not apply to everyone, and online therapy may not work as well as in-person care for some people.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

anxiety disorder Depression depressive disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

ANXIETY DISORDERS DEPRESSION

Contacts and locations

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Locations

Department of Psychology

Stockholm, Stockholm County, 10691, Sweden

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