A new treatment approach for children with functional seizures

A multi-site feasibility clinical trial of Retraining and Control Therapy (ReACT), a mind and body treatment for pediatric functional seizures

NIH-funded research University of Alabama at Birmingham · NIH-10896980

This study is testing a new therapy called Retraining and Control Therapy (ReACT) for kids aged 11 to 18 who have functional seizures, helping them feel more in control and reduce their symptoms while also improving their well-being.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Birmingham, United States)
Project IDNIH-10896980 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates a novel therapy called Retraining and Control Therapy (ReACT) designed for children experiencing functional seizures, which are seizure-like symptoms without electrical activity in the brain. The therapy focuses on enhancing the child's sense of control through mindfulness and habit reversal techniques. By participating in this multi-site clinical trial, children aged 11 to 18 will receive tailored interventions aimed at reducing the frequency of their seizures and improving their overall well-being. The study will assess the effectiveness of ReACT compared to traditional supportive therapies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 11 to 18 who experience functional seizures.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have functional seizures or are outside the age range of 11 to 18 may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the frequency of functional seizures in children and improve their quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with similar therapeutic approaches, indicating potential for success in this novel application.

Where this research is happening

Birmingham, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.