Neurofeedback treatment for schizophrenia patients with auditory hallucinations

Is this trial a fit for you?

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

What this trial studies

This intervention focuses on using real-time fMRI neurofeedback to help patients with schizophrenia who experience treatment-resistant auditory hallucinations. The study aims to regulate brain activity in the superior temporal gyrus (STG) and improve connectivity within the default mode network (DMN). Participants will be randomly assigned to either the neurofeedback group, which receives feedback from the STG, or a sham group, which receives feedback from the motor cortex. The study will involve five sessions of neurofeedback or sham treatment, with the goal of reducing auditory hallucinations and correlating brain changes with clinical improvements.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* patients diagnosed with SZ or schizoaffective disorder using DSM-5 criteria
* auditory hallucinations not responsive to pharmacology as determined by chart review and a clinical interview of SCID.

Exclusion Criteria:

* neurologic illness
* major head trauma
* electroconvulsive therapy
* alcohol or drug dependence
* alcohol or drug abuse within the past five years
* verbal IQ below 70

Where it's running

• Boston VA Healthcare System, Brockton
  Brockton, Massachusetts, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: margaret niznikiewicz — Boston VA Research Institute, Inc.
• Study coordinator: margaret niznikiewicz, PhD
• Email: margaret_niznikiewicz@hms.harvard.edu
• Phone: 6176534627

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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.