Understanding how exposure therapy works for OCD

Leveraging Machine Learning Approaches to Understand Mechanisms of Exposure Therapy in Real-World Settings

NIH-funded research Mclean Hospital · NIH-11059844

This study is looking at how exposure therapy works for people with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) by gathering information from 400 adults to find out what parts of the therapy help different individuals the most, so we can make the treatment better for everyone.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMclean Hospital NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Belmont, United States)
Project IDNIH-11059844 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms behind exposure therapy, which is the most effective treatment for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). By analyzing data from 400 adult participants undergoing exposure therapy at two locations, the study aims to identify which specific mechanisms are most effective for different individuals. Participants will provide baseline clinical information and weekly symptom reports, while their responses will be measured through self-reports, observer ratings, and physiological data during therapy sessions. The goal is to enhance treatment outcomes by tailoring exposure therapy to individual needs.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are receiving exposure therapy for obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have obsessive-compulsive disorder or are not undergoing exposure therapy may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and personalized treatment strategies for individuals with OCD.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown mixed results regarding the mechanisms of exposure therapy, indicating that this approach could provide new insights into treatment effectiveness.

Where this research is happening

Belmont, 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 2026-06-09 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.