Church-Based therapy aims to lift depression in rural michigan

NCT ID NCT04502186

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: University of Michigan Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested a computer-assisted cognitive behavioral therapy program called Raising Our Spirits Together (ROST) for rural adults with depressive symptoms. The program was delivered in small groups by local pastors, either online or in person at churches. Researchers compared the effects on depressive symptoms against an enhanced control condition in 70 participants from rural Michigan.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: Raising Our Spirits Together (ROST) - a computer-assisted cognitive behavioral therapy program
What this could lead to: If it works, this could provide an accessible, community-based treatment option for depression in rural areas where mental health services are scarce.
What could go wrong: This is a small, completed trial with only 70 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The therapy is delivered by pastors, not licensed therapists, which could affect consistency and outcomes.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Depression depressive disorder major depressive disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

DEPRESSIVE SYMPTOMS

Contacts and locations

Locations

Jonesville First Presbyterian Church

Jonesville, Michigan, 49250, United States
Trinity Lutheran Church

Hillsdale, Michigan, 49242, United States

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