Improving psychological treatments for obsessive-compulsive disorder

Enhancing the Acceptability of Psychological Treatments for Obsessive-compulsive Disorder

Not applicable Interventional Concordia University, Montreal · NCT03661905

This study is testing whether a new type of therapy for obsessive-compulsive disorder is just as effective as the traditional method while being easier for patients to stick with.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment100 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorConcordia University, Montreal Academic / other
Drugs / interventionschemotherapy
Locations1 site (Montréal, Quebec)
Trial IDNCT03661905 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study compares two psychological treatments for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD): the traditional Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) and a newer cognitive therapy (CT) approach. The aim is to determine if the cognitive therapy is as effective as ERP while being more acceptable to patients, potentially reducing dropout rates. Participants diagnosed with OCD will be randomly assigned to either treatment group, and their symptoms and distress levels will be monitored throughout the study. The research seeks to enhance the acceptability of psychological interventions for OCD, which has historically faced high refusal and dropout rates.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals diagnosed with obsessive-compulsive disorder who can communicate in English.

Not a fit: Patients with psychosis, bipolar disorder, current suicidal ideation, or substance abuse issues may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to more patients engaging with effective treatments for OCD, improving their overall mental health outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that enhancing treatment acceptability can lead to better patient engagement, suggesting potential success for this novel approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Diagnosis of OCD
* Ability to read, write, and communicate in English

Exclusion Criteria:

* Psychosis
* Diagnosis of bipolar disorder (I or II)
* Current suicidal ideation/intent
* Current substance abuse
* If participants are on medication they must be on a stable dose (i.e. have maintained a consistent dose for at least three months) and agree not to change their medication regimen for the duration of the study

Where this trial is running

Montréal, Quebec

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 Obsessive-Compulsive DisorderTreatment acceptabilityCognitive therapyAnxiety disorders
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.