Online cognitive behavioral therapy to reduce anxiety during MRI

A Randomized Controlled Trial of Internet-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for MRI-Related Anxiety

Not applicable Interventional Linkoeping University · NCT07296822

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

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment60 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorLinkoeping University Government
Locations1 site (Linköping)
Trial IDNCT07296822 on ClinicalTrials.gov

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.

Who should consider this trial

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.

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.

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 performed: 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.

Eligibility criteria

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 this trial is running

Linköping

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 AnxietyClaustrophobiaMagnetic Resonance Imaging
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.