Online Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for Chronic Pain

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 interventional program delivers an internet-based ACT psychological intervention to adults with chronic pain using web modules and remote support. Participants must be 18 or older, have a verified chronic pain diagnosis of at least three months, be fluent in Italian, and have internet access and basic computer skills. The trial excludes people currently in psychological pain treatment or with severe psychiatric or cognitive disorders, and outcomes will focus on pain-related distress, daily functioning, and quality of life using standardized self-report measures. The intervention is delivered remotely through participating Italian centers in Bologna, Milan, and Verona, with collaboration from academic and clinical partners.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Adults aged 18 years or older;
2. A verifiable medical diagnosis of Chronic Pain (duration ≥ 3 months);
3. Internet access;
4. Sufficient computer and internet literacy;
5. Fluent knowledge of the Italian language.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Current participation in psychological or psychotherapeutic treatments for chronic pain management;
2. High risk of suicide;
3. Cognitive impairments;
4. Presence of certified psychiatric disorders, such as:

   1. Psychotic disorders (e.g., schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorders, etc.);
   2. Bipolar disorder (unstabilized manic or hypomanic episodes);
   3. Severe depressive disorders (e.g., major depression, suicidal intent, or recent suicide attempts);
   4. Severe personality disorders that impair the ability to carry out daily activities (e.g., work, self-care);
   5. Cognitive or neurodegenerative disorders.

Where it's running

• Alma Mater Studiorum of Bologna
  Bologna, Italy Recruiting
• Catholic University of Sacred Heart
  Milan, Italy Recruiting
• University of Verona
  Verona, Italy Recruiting
• University of Linkoping
  Linköping, Sweden Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Gianluca Castelnuovo, Ph.D. — Catholic University of Sacred Heart of Milan
• Study coordinator: Michelle Semonella
• Email: michelle.semonella@unicatt.it
• Phone: +972559876070

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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.