Improving exposure therapy for social anxiety with positive mental rehearsal

Augmentation of Exposure Using Positive Mental Rehearsal in Individuals With Increased Social Anxiety

Not applicable Interventional Philipps University Marburg · NCT06564402

This study tests if adding positive mental rehearsal to exposure therapy can help people with social anxiety feel better compared to just using standard mental rehearsal.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment40 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorPhilipps University Marburg Academic / other
Locations1 site (Marburg)
Trial IDNCT06564402 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the efficacy of an enhanced exposure therapy approach for individuals with heightened social anxiety. Participants will undergo a standardized exposure training session, followed by either a positive mental rehearsal or standard mental rehearsal of their exposure experience. The goal is to assess whether focusing on positive aspects of the exposure can improve symptom relief compared to traditional methods. Efficacy will be measured through subjective symptom ratings one week after the intervention.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals with elevated social anxiety scores who are not currently undergoing psychotherapeutic treatment.

Not a fit: Patients currently receiving psychotherapeutic treatment or those with severe medical conditions may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly enhance the effectiveness of exposure therapy for individuals suffering from social anxiety.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in using mental rehearsal techniques to enhance exposure therapy, suggesting this approach may be effective.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Elevated score on Social Interactions Anxiety Scale (SIAS) \> 26

Exclusion Criteria:

* Current psychotherapeutic/psychiatric treatment
* Plans to start psychotherapeutic/psychiatric treatment in upcoming weeks
* Current suicidal intent
* Severe cardiovascular, respiratory or neurological diseases

Where this trial is running

Marburg

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Social AnxietySocial Phobia
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.