Clinical trial Recruiting at 7 sites Interventional Ages 16 and up

Group Schema Therapy for Complex Eating Disorders

Official title: Clinical and Cost-effectiveness of Group Schema Therapy for Complex Eating Disorders: the GST-EAT Study

Run by Maastricht University · NCT05812950 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is testing a new group therapy called Group Schema Therapy to see if it can help people with complex eating disorders like anorexia and bulimia feel better when other treatments haven't worked.

Quick facts

Study typeInterventional
Ages16 Years and up
SexAll
Enrollment230 (estimated)
SponsorMaastricht University
Academic / other
Locations7 sites (Breda and 6 other locations)
StatusRecruiting
StartedJuly 24, 2023
Main results expectedDecember 2026
Study endsDecember 2026
Registry record updatedNovember 30, 2023
Trial IDNCT05812950 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Ideal candidates for this study are individuals aged over 16 with a DSM-5 diagnosis of anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, or other specified eating disorders.

Probably not a fit

Patients who may not benefit from this study include those with acute psychotic states, autism spectrum disorders, or those who do not meet the language and cognitive requirements.

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the clinical and cost-effectiveness of Group Schema Therapy (GST) for individuals suffering from complex eating disorders, including anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa. It aims to address the limitations of traditional cognitive-behavioral therapy by focusing on underlying personality pathology and maladaptive schemas that contribute to the severity and chronicity of these disorders. Participants will receive GST in a group setting, which is designed to enhance treatment outcomes for those who have not responded adequately to existing therapies. The study will assess both the clinical efficacy and the economic implications of implementing GST compared to standard treatments.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could provide a more effective treatment option for patients with complex eating disorders, potentially leading to improved recovery rates.

How similar studies have gone: Preliminary results from other studies on Group Schema Therapy for treatment-resistant eating disorders have shown promise, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* 1\) age \> 16 years;
* 2\) a DSM-5 diagnosis of anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, or other specified ED (atypical anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa with a low frequency or limited duration).

Exclusion Criteria:

* 1\) not being able to speak and read the Dutch language;
* 2\) being in an acute psychotic mental health state at the start of the study;
* 3\) being diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder;
* 4\) having an IQ below 80, as determined with a validated instrument;
* 5\) showing an early response after phase 1 of CBT-E.

Where it's running

  • GGz Breburg
    Breda, Netherlands
    Recruiting
  • Accare
    Groningen, Netherlands
    Recruiting
  • GGZ Friesland
    Leeuwarden, Netherlands
    Recruiting
  • GGNet Amarum
    Nijmegen, Netherlands
    Recruiting
  • GGz Breburg
    Tilburg, Netherlands
    Recruiting
  • Co-eur
    Utrecht, Netherlands
    Recruiting
Show 1 more location
  • GGNet Amarum
    Warnsveld, Netherlands
    Recruiting

Study contacts

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.