New therapy aims to retrain the brain to stop fake seizures
NCT ID NCT06007053
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This study tests a new cognitive behavioral therapy called ReACT for teens aged 11-18 with psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES) – episodes that look like seizures but are not caused by epilepsy. The therapy focuses on helping teens regain a sense of control over their body and reduce catastrophic thoughts about symptoms. 160 participants will receive either ReACT or supportive therapy over 12 sessions, and researchers will measure changes in seizure frequency, pain tolerance, and stress responses up to 12 months 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
- cognitive behavioral therapy (ReACT)
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this could provide an effective non-drug treatment for pediatric psychogenic non-epileptic seizures, helping teens regain control and reduce seizure frequency.
- What could go wrong
- This is a relatively small, early-stage study (160 participants) comparing ReACT to supportive therapy. The treatment is behavioral, so results may vary, and long-term benefits are not yet proven.
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.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
-
University of Alabama at Birmingham
RECRUITINGBirmingham, Alabama, 35294, United States
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