Comparing culturally adapted CBT with standard CBT for anxiety and depression

Feasibility and Acceptability Trial of a Culturally Adapted Manual Versus Standard CBT Manual: A Randomized Control Trial

Not applicable Interventional Pakistan Association of Cognitive Therapists · NCT06646900

This study tests if a culturally adapted version of cognitive behavioral therapy can help people with anxiety and depression feel better compared to the standard version.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment200 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 65 Years
SexAll
SponsorPakistan Association of Cognitive Therapists Academic / other
Locations1 site (Lahore, Punjab Province)
Trial IDNCT06646900 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This randomized controlled trial will evaluate the effectiveness, feasibility, and acceptability of a culturally adapted cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) manual compared to a standard CBT manual. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of the two groups, with the culturally adapted manual incorporating cultural values and norms to enhance therapy relevance. The study aims to determine if these adaptations improve outcomes for individuals experiencing anxiety and depression. The trial will focus on assessing how well each approach works within the target cultural context.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals aged 18 to 65 years who are experiencing symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Not a fit: Patients with substance use disorders, significant cognitive impairments, or active psychosis may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to more effective mental health interventions tailored to cultural needs, improving outcomes for patients with anxiety and depression.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown that culturally adapted interventions can improve mental health outcomes, suggesting this approach may be effective.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. Individuals aged 18 to 65 years
2. 5 years of education
3. Symptoms of depression and anxiety

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Substance use disorder according to DSM-5 criteria as determined by primary care clinician
2. Significant cognitive impairment (for example, profound learning disability or dementia) as determined by primary care clinician
3. Active psychosis as determined by their primary care clinician

Where this trial is running

Lahore, Punjab Province

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.
Conditions AnxietyDepression
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.