Comparing AI decision-making to a care team for treating depression

Comparing Clinical Decision-making of AI Technology to a Multi-professional Care Team in an Electronic Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Program for Depression

NA · Queen's University · NCT05648175

This study is testing whether using artificial intelligence to guide treatment for depression works as well as getting help from a team of healthcare professionals.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment186 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorQueen's University (other)
Locations1 site (Kingston, Ontario)
Trial IDNCT05648175 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the effectiveness of artificial intelligence (AI) technology in making clinical decisions for electronic cognitive behavioral therapy (e-CBT) compared to a multi-professional care team. It aims to determine a cost-effective approach to reduce depressive symptoms and improve treatment adherence among patients diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive treatment based on either the AI algorithm or the healthcare team's recommendations. The study will involve 186 participants recruited from outpatient psychiatry clinics in Kingston, Ontario, and will utilize secure video appointments for initial assessments.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder who can provide informed consent and have reliable internet access.

Not a fit: Patients with active psychosis, acute mania, severe substance use disorders, or those currently receiving psychotherapy may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide a more accessible and cost-effective treatment option for patients with depression.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using AI for clinical decision-making, but this specific approach comparing AI to a multi-professional team is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Diagnosed with MDD by a trained research assistant according to the criteria outlined in the DSM-5
* Ability to provide informed consent
* Ability to speak and read English
* Having consistent and reliable access to the internet

Exclusion Criteria:

* Active psychosis
* Acute mania
* Severe alcohol, or substance use disorder
* Active suicidal or homicidal ideation
* Currently receiving psychotherapy

Where this trial is running

Kingston, Ontario

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Depression

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.