Can texting a therapist beat weekly video sessions for depression?
NCT ID NCT04513080
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.
Disclaimer
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the original study
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Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
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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
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Locations
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Talkspace
New York, New York, 10025, United States