Comparing Psychoanalytic Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Generalized Anxiety 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 randomized controlled trial aims to compare the effectiveness of short-term psychoanalytic therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in treating Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD). A total of 60 adult participants diagnosed with GAD will be randomly assigned to one of three groups: psychoanalytic therapy, CBT, or a control group. Each treatment group will undergo 12 weekly sessions lasting 50 minutes, with therapists trained to apply standardized frameworks for both therapeutic approaches. The study will assess clinical outcomes to determine which therapy is more effective for GAD.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Age between 18 and 65 years.
* A confirmed diagnosis of Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) according to DSM-5 criteria, with the diagnosis made within the past 2 years.
* No participation in any form of psychotherapy during the past 6 months.
* Ability and willingness to attend 12 weekly therapy sessions (50 minutes each) over the 3-month intervention period.
* For participants receiving online sessions: access to a stable internet connection and the necessary technology.
* Ability to understand and provide written informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Presence of significant comorbid psychiatric disorders that could interfere with participation or assessment (e.g., bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, substance use disorders, eating disorders).
* Recent changes in psychotropic medication (i.e., medication changes within the past 3 months, unless on a stable dose).
* Severe medical or neurological conditions that may interfere with study participation or data interpretation.
* Current participation in another clinical trial or structured psychotherapy program.
* Any condition that, in the opinion of the investigators, would compromise the safety or compliance of the participant in the study.

Where it's running

• Beykoz University
  Istanbul, Turkey (Türkiye) Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Eda Yılmazer, Phd — Beykoz University
• Study coordinator: Eda Yılmazer, Phd
• Email: edayilmazer@beykoz.edu.tr
• Phone: +90532-257-58-80

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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.