Comparing two therapies for depression and anxiety in married couples
A Comparison of the Effectiveness of Emotion-Focused Couples Therapy and Behavioral Couples Therapy in Reducing Depression and Anxiety Symptoms in Married Couples
This study is testing which therapy, Emotion-Focused Couples Therapy or Behavioral Couples Therapy, helps married couples with depression and anxiety feel better.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 150 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Beykoz University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Istanbul, Istanbul) |
| Trial ID | NCT06892613 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study evaluates the effectiveness of Emotion-Focused Couples Therapy (EFCT) versus Behavioral Couples Therapy (BCT) in alleviating symptoms of depression and anxiety among married couples. A total of 150 couples aged 18-65 will be screened, and 60 couples with significant symptoms will be randomly assigned to one of three groups: EFCT, BCT, or a control group. The therapy sessions will occur weekly for 12 weeks, with assessments conducted before therapy, after the 6th and 12th sessions, and at a 3-month follow-up to measure mental health outcomes. The goal is to identify which therapy yields better results in improving the mental well-being of couples.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are married couples aged 18-65 who have been married for at least one year and are experiencing high levels of depression and anxiety.
Not a fit: Patients with current or past psychiatric diagnoses, severe mental health disorders, or those undergoing psychological therapy may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide effective therapeutic options for couples struggling with depression and anxiety, enhancing their mental health and relationship quality.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results with similar therapeutic approaches, indicating potential for success in this trial.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Married couples aged between 18 and 65 years * Married for at least one year * No current psychiatric diagnosis or history of psychiatric treatment * Not receiving any form of psychological therapy at the time of recruitment * Ability to provide informed consent * Willingness to participate in all therapy sessions and assessments Exclusion Criteria: * Current or past psychiatric diagnosis (excluding mild transient conditions) * Ongoing psychological therapy or psychiatric treatment * Severe mental health disorders (e.g., schizophrenia, bipolar disorder), Substance abuse or dependency * Severe medical conditions that may interfere with participation * Refusal to participate in follow-up assessments
Where this trial is running
Istanbul, Istanbul
- Beykoz University — Istanbul, Istanbul, Turkey (Türkiye) (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Eda Yılmazer, Phd — Beykoz University
- Study coordinator: Eda Yılmazer, Phd
- Email: edayilmazer@beykoz.edu.tr
- Phone: +905322575880
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.