Online cognitive behavioral therapy to reduce anxiety during MRI
Official title: A Randomized Controlled Trial of Internet-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for MRI-Related Anxiety
Run by Linkoeping University · NCT07296822 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study will test whether a four-week online CBT program can help people who feel anxious or claustrophobic when getting an MRI.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Linkoeping University Government |
| Locations | 1 site (Linköping) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | May 1, 2025 |
| Main results expected | December 31, 2025 |
| Study ends | December 31, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | December 22, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT07296822 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
People who self-report problems undergoing MRI due to anxiety or claustrophobia, who can understand written materials and do not have severe mental health problems, are ideal candidates.
✕Probably not a fit
Individuals with severe mental health disorders or those who cannot read written text or access the internet are unlikely to benefit from this online program.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
Participants who report difficulty with MRI will be randomized to receive a four-week internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy program either before or after a simulated MRI in a mock scanner. The online program includes information about MRI, anxiety-management strategies, relaxation techniques, and retention exercises. After the intervention period participants will undergo a mock MRI and report their anxiety levels to compare groups. Up to 60 participants plus pilot patients will be enrolled at Linköping University.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the program could lower MRI-related anxiety and make scans easier to complete without sedation or repeated appointments.
How similar studies have gone: Face-to-face CBT has reduced claustrophobia and MRI anxiety in prior work and internet-based CBT is effective for other anxiety disorders, though iCBT specifically for MRI anxiety is less extensively studied.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * self-perceived problems with doing MRI examinations Exclusion Criteria: * difficulty understanding written text * severe mental health problems
Where it's running
-
Linköping University
Linköping, Sweden Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Johan Kihlberg, PhD
- Email: johan.kihlberg@liu.se
- Phone: +461038902
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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.