Comparing internet-based and in-person cognitive behavioral therapy for gambling disorder

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

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.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

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 it's running

• 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

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.