Online cognitive behavioral therapy for gambling disorder and related conditions

Internet-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Gambling Disorder and and Comorbidities - a Pilot Study

Not applicable Interventional Karolinska Institutet · NCT06107621

This study is testing if online therapy can help people with gambling problems and related mental health issues feel better.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment30 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorKarolinska Institutet Academic / other
Locations1 site (Stockholm)
Trial IDNCT06107621 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This pilot study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy (iCBT) for individuals with gambling disorder (GD) and associated psychiatric comorbidities. Participants will be recruited through online advertisements and will undergo a screening process that includes diagnostic interviews and assessments. Those who meet the eligibility criteria will receive access to the iCBT platform after providing informed consent. The study will assess participants at baseline, during treatment, and at a three-month follow-up to evaluate outcomes.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 and older who screen positive for gambling disorder and at least one common mental health diagnosis.

Not a fit: Patients currently undergoing other psychological treatments for gambling disorder or those with severe depression or suicidality may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could provide an accessible and effective treatment option for individuals struggling with gambling disorder and related mental health issues.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results for internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy in treating various mental health conditions, suggesting potential success for this approach in gambling disorder.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Screen positive for GD, as measured with the Gambling Disorder Identification Test (total score ≥20 GDIT).
* Fulfilling GD, assessed according to the Structured Clinical Interview for Gambling Disorder (SCI-GD).
* Utilization of "Spelpaus" (3 months from treatment start).
* ≥18 years of age.
* Able to provide digital informed consent.
* Classified within pathways 2 or 3, as measured with the Gambling pathways Questionnaire (GPQ).
* Screen positive for at least one common mental diagnosis in addition to GD, assessed according to the Web Screening Questionnaire (WSQ).

Exclusion Criteria:

* Other ongoing psychological treatment for GD.
* Severe depression, screened according to the Montgomery Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (total score \>34 MADRS-S).
* Suicidality, screening of ≥4 points on item 9 of the MADRS-S

Where this trial is running

Stockholm

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 Gambling DisorderComorbidities and Coexisting Conditions
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.