Digital intervention for youth mental health support
Testing a Digital Single-session Intervention for Youths on the Waitlist for Psychotherapy
This study is testing a quick online program to see if it can help young people aged 9-17 who are waiting for therapy to manage their anxiety, depression, and behavior issues.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 226 (estimated) |
| Ages | 9 Years to 17 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Harvard University Academic / other |
| Locations | 5 sites (Indianapolis, Indiana and 4 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT05449002 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a single-session digital intervention designed to teach adolescents the principle of practicing the opposite, targeting those on waitlists for psychotherapy. Given the significant unmet need for youth mental health care, especially during the pandemic, this intervention seeks to provide timely support to young individuals facing anxiety, depression, and conduct disorders. Participants aged 9-17 will engage in a 30-45 minute online session, while a control group will follow usual waitlist procedures. The goal is to bridge the gap between the need for mental health services and the accessibility of care.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are youths aged 9-17 who are on a waitlist for outpatient mental health treatment and have access to a digital device.
Not a fit: Patients who are non-English speaking or lack access to a digital device may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could provide immediate mental health support to youths awaiting therapy, potentially improving their well-being and reducing dropout rates.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown success with similar digital interventions, indicating promising potential for this approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Youth/family has contacted a participating outpatient clinic to seek mental health care, and is placed on the waitlist. * Youth is between the ages of 9-17 years (inclusive) at the time of study enrollment. * Youth and at least one guardian consent to the youth's participation in study. * Youth reads English well enough to effectively complete the digital programs (defined as taking classes in English, as opposed to ESL classes). * Youth has access to a digital device. Exclusion Criteria: * Youth is non-English speaking, as the program is only available in English. * Youth does not have access to a digital device.
Where this trial is running
Indianapolis, Indiana and 4 other locations
- Riley Child Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Clinic — Indianapolis, Indiana, United States (Recruiting)
- Boston Child Study Center — Boston, Massachusetts, United States (Recruiting)
- The Baker Center for Children and Families — Boston, Massachusetts, United States (Recruiting)
- The Concord Center — Concord, Massachusetts, United States (Recruiting)
- Riverside Community Care — Dedham, Massachusetts, United States (Active_not_recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Katherine Venturo-Conerly, A.B. — Harvard University
- Study coordinator: Katherine Venturo-Conerly, A.M.
- Email: kventuroconerly@g.harvard.edu
- Phone: 609-954-0542
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.