Comparing internet-based and in-person cognitive behavioral therapy for gambling disorder
Internet-based Versus Synchronous Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Patients With Gambling Disorder: A Non-inferiority Randomized Controlled Trial
This study is testing whether online therapy for gambling problems works just as well as in-person therapy for adults struggling with Gambling Disorder.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 150 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Aarhus University Hospital Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Aarhus, Denmark) |
| Trial ID | NCT06989125 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness of internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) compared to synchronous CBT for treating adults with Gambling Disorder. A total of 150 participants will be randomly assigned to receive either 12 weeks of internet-based treatment called 'SpilleFri' or 18 weeks of individual synchronous CBT. The primary outcome will assess changes in gambling severity using self-reported measures at multiple time points, including a follow-up three months after treatment. The study seeks to determine if the internet-based approach is non-inferior to the traditional method in reducing gambling severity.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults diagnosed with Gambling Disorder who can read, write, and speak Danish and have access to the internet.
Not a fit: Patients with severe comorbid conditions, untreated psychiatric disorders, or those at risk of suicide may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide a more accessible and effective treatment option for individuals struggling with gambling disorder.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in using internet-based therapies for various mental health conditions, suggesting potential success for this approach in treating gambling disorder.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: To be included patients should: * fulfil diagnostic criteria for GD (DSM-5). * score 4 points or more on the National Opinion Research Centre Screen for Gambling Problems (NODS). * be able to read, write, and speak Danish. * have IT skills and access to the internet and a computer, smartphone, and/or tablet. Exclusion Criteria: Patients are excluded from participation if they: * present with severe comorbid somatic disease, cognitive deficits, severe trauma, and/or psychiatric disorder (e.g. depression, bipolar disorder, substance abuse, ADHD) that is insufficiently treated at the time of assessment and/or is evaluated to constitute a barrier for engaging in or benefitting from treatment. * are not willing to engage in internet-delivered treatment or face-to-face cognitive behavioural therapy. * do not provide informed consent. * are in risk of suicide (indicated by clear intent and/or plans). * have previously received treatment via or had access to the SpilleFri platform. * seek treatment as part of an imminent legal case. * only fulfil diagnostic criteria for Gambling Disorder in relation to behaviour such as stock trading or buying and selling cryptocurrency. * present with highly unstable social circumstances, which are considered to potentially pose a barrier to engaging in treatment (e.g., homelessness).
Where this trial is running
Aarhus, Denmark
- Aarhus University Hospital — Aarhus, Denmark, Denmark (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Anna W Stenbro, Master's degree in Psychology
- Email: anna.stenbro@rm.dk
- Phone: +4541622166
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.