Can texting a therapist beat weekly video sessions for depression?

NCT ID NCT04513080

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: Talkspace Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tested whether unlimited text-based therapy works as well as weekly video therapy for depression. Over 1,100 adults with depression were randomly assigned to one of the two approaches. Researchers also looked at what treatment options work best for people who don't improve with either method. The goal is to create a flexible, personalized therapy system that adjusts intensity based on patient needs.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: Message-based psychotherapy and video-chat psychotherapy
What this could lead to: If successful, this could show that text-based therapy is a convenient and effective alternative to weekly video sessions for treating depression.
What could go wrong: This is a completed study, but results may not apply to everyone with depression, and text therapy may not work for severe cases or those with suicidal thoughts.

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.

depressive disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

DEPRESSIVE DISORDER STUDY ADHERENCE

Contacts and locations

Locations

Talkspace

New York, New York, 10025, United States

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.