Dog training therapy program for youth with emotional and behavioral challenges
Evaluating the Impact of a Canine-assisted Therapy Program in Youth Enrolled in Outpatient Treatment for Social, Emotional, and Behavioral Problems.
This study is testing a dog training therapy program to see if it helps young people with emotional and behavioral challenges feel better while they receive outpatient psychiatric care.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 48 (estimated) |
| Ages | 8 Years to 17 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Chicago Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Chicago, Illinois) |
| Trial ID | NCT05788783 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This pilot project aims to evaluate the feasibility and initial efficacy of a canine-assisted therapy program for youth receiving outpatient psychiatric services. Participants will engage in a structured 6-week intervention that includes dog training activities designed to enhance emotional self-regulation, impulse control, and self-efficacy. The study will compare outcomes between those participating in the canine-assisted therapy and those in an active control condition focused on canine education and bonding. The program is delivered by trained professionals and aims to provide preliminary evidence for the effectiveness of this innovative therapeutic approach.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are youth currently receiving outpatient mental health services who are interested in participating in a structured dog training program.
Not a fit: Patients with severe cognitive, psychiatric, or physical limitations, or those with severe animal allergies or phobias, may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this program could significantly improve emotional regulation and self-esteem in youth with mental health challenges.
How similar studies have performed: While canine-assisted therapies are gaining attention, this specific approach is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in similar outpatient settings.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Currently receiving outpatient mental health services at the University of Chicago or have received outpatient mental health services from the community in the last 12 months. * Available for scheduling during the entire 6-week intervention program * Interest in participating in the program Exclusion Criteria: * Severe cognitive, psychiatric, or physical condition or limitation that would prevent participation. * Severe animal allergy * Animal phobia * History of mistreatment of animals. * Above-average scores on both measures of behavioral regulation and emotional regulation * WASI t-score of intellectual ability \< 60.
Where this trial is running
Chicago, Illinois
- University of Chicago — Chicago, Illinois, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Kristen Jacobson, PhD
- Email: kjacobso@bsd.uchicago.edu
- Phone: 773-834-0265
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.