Comparing online cognitive behavioral therapy and a single session pain relief intervention for chronic pain

Comparative Effectiveness of Online Cognitive Behavioral Therapy vs. An Online Single-Session Pain Relief Skills Class for Chronic Pain - The PROGRESS Study

Not applicable Interventional Stanford University · NCT05612750

This study is testing whether an 8-session online therapy program or a one-time pain relief session works better for people with chronic pain, like those with lupus or pelvic pain.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment1650 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorStanford University Academic / other
Locations5 sites (Phoenix, Arizona and 4 other locations)
Trial IDNCT05612750 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to compare the effectiveness of two different interventions for chronic pain: an 8-session cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) program and a single-session pain relief skills intervention called Empowered Relief. The trial will assess which treatment is more effective for patients suffering from chronic pain conditions, including those related to lupus and pelvic pain. By utilizing online platforms, the study seeks to expand access to evidence-based behavioral treatments for chronic pain across the U.S. and provide valuable insights for patients and healthcare providers.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 and older who experience chronic pain on at least half of the days for three months or more.

Not a fit: Patients who are unable to provide informed consent, have cognitive impairments, or are experiencing active suicidality may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide patients with more effective and accessible treatment options for managing chronic pain.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using cognitive behavioral therapy for chronic pain, suggesting that this approach could be effective, though the specific comparison of these two interventions is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. At least 18 years of age or older of either sex (and all genders).
2. Chronic pain (pain that occurs on at least half of the days of 3 months or more).
3. Past-month average pain intensity score of at least 3/10.
4. Ability to adhere to and complete study protocols.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Inability to provide informed consent.
2. Cognitive impairment, non-English speaking, or psychological factors that would preclude comprehension of material and/or full participation in the study including group treatment.
3. Active suicidality documented in medical records.
4. Study staff may exclude individuals with a known history of disruptive behavior to minimize contamination of the learning environment for an entire treatment cohort.
5. Receipt of either study treatment in the past 3 months.

Where this trial is running

Phoenix, Arizona and 4 other locations

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.
Conditions Pain, ChronicLupusPelvic PainYoung adultBehavioral Health
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.