Understanding how hormonal changes affect therapy outcomes for OCD

2/2 Harnessing Hormonal Variation to Probe Neural Mechanisms and Optimize CBT Outcomes for OCD

NIH-funded research University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10890639

This study is looking at how cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) works differently for women based on their hormone levels, especially estrogen, to help improve treatment outcomes and understand brain activity during therapy sessions.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pennsylvania NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-10890639 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) interacts with hormonal variations, particularly estrogen levels, to influence treatment outcomes. The study will examine the neural mechanisms involved in fear and anxiety responses during therapy sessions, focusing on differences between men and women. By analyzing brain activity and treatment responses in relation to menstrual cycle phases, the research aims to optimize therapy for women with OCD. Participants will undergo assessments before and after therapy to evaluate changes in symptoms and brain function.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women diagnosed with OCD who are between 21 and 40 years old.

Not a fit: Patients who are not women or those who do not have a diagnosis of OCD may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

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

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the impact of hormonal variations on mental health treatments, suggesting potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, 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.