Mindfulness and brain feedback for treating depression in teens
Official title: Targeting Adolescent Depression Symptoms Using Network-based Real-time fMRI Neurofeedback and Mindfulness Meditation (NIMH); Mindfulness-Based Real-Time fMRI Neurofeedback for Depression (IRB)
Run by Columbia University · NCT05617495 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new way to help teens with depression by using mindfulness and brain feedback to see if it can reduce negative thinking and improve their mood.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 13 Years to 18 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 90 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Columbia University Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (Boston, Massachusetts and 1 other locations) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | April 10, 2024 |
| Main results expected | January 31, 2027 |
| Study ends | June 30, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | April 29, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT05617495 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are adolescents aged 13-18 who meet the diagnostic criteria for major depressive disorder and are fluent in English.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with a history of primary psychotic disorders, severe substance use, or other specified mental health conditions may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This research investigates the effectiveness of a mindfulness-based real-time fMRI neurofeedback intervention aimed at improving clinical outcomes for adolescents suffering from major depressive disorder (MDD). The study focuses on rumination, a key factor in depression, by targeting the neural mechanisms associated with it. Participants will engage in mindfulness practices while receiving neurofeedback to help alter brain activity linked to ruminative thinking. The goal is to enhance treatment efficacy for adolescents who struggle with traditional therapies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could provide a novel and effective treatment option for adolescents with depression, particularly those who do not respond to standard therapies.
How similar studies have gone: While mindfulness has shown promise in mental health treatment, this specific approach combining mindfulness with fMRI neurofeedback is novel and has not been extensively tested in prior studies.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Ages 13-18 years-old * Written informed assent/consent and parental/guardian permission for 13-17 year-olds or informed consent for 18 year-olds * Tanner puberty stage ≥3 * Meets current diagnostic criteria for MDD * English fluency Exclusion Criteria: * Lifetime history of primary psychotic disorders, bipolar disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, conduct disorder, developmental disorder (e.g., autism), post-traumatic stress disorder, or eating disorders * Substance use disorder, moderate or severe in past 6 months * Active suicidal ideation with a specific plan * History of seizure disorder * Medical or neurological illness (e.g., severe head injury) * MRI contraindications * Current psychotropic medication use other than antidepressant medication * Intelligence quotient (IQ) \<80.
Where it's running
-
Northeastern University
Boston, Massachusetts, United States Recruiting -
Columbia University Irving Medical Center
New York, New York, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Randy P Auerbach, PhD
- Email: rpa2009@cumc.columbia.edu
- Phone: 646-774-5745
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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.