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 type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 16 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 230 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Maastricht University Academic / other |
| Locations | 7 sites (Breda and 6 other locations) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | July 24, 2023 |
| Main results expected | December 2026 |
| Study ends | December 2026 |
| Registry record updated | November 30, 2023 |
| Trial ID | NCT05812950 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
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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
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GGNet Amarum
Warnsveld, Netherlands Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Jeffrey Roelofs — Maastricht University
- Study coordinator: Jeffrey Roelofs, Dr.
- Email: j . roelofs @ maastricht university . nl
- Phone: +31433881607
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
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This project will test whether different nutritional strategies (flexitarian, vegetarian, or vegan) change gastrointestinal symptoms during multi-week inpatient weight rehabilitation for people with anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa.
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This study is testing how brain activity changes in people with anorexia or bulimia over a year to see if these changes relate to their symptoms getting better.
How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.