Online group therapy program for anxiety, depression, and related problems

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 is a pragmatic, multi-site, cluster factorial randomized trial run through NHS Talking Therapies services in England to test a digitally enabled group intervention called UPLift. The intervention uses the Unified Protocol delivered across eight modules via video-call groups plus a website with videos and materials. The trial randomizes aspects of module order and personalization to see whether changing sequence or matching modules to patient features affects outcomes and dropout. The protocol and full statistical analysis plan were pre-registered and the study will measure symptom change, retention, and other clinically relevant outcomes.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* 17 years old and over
* Literate and fluent in the English language, which would enable group interactions and learning via online materials
* With access to an internet-connected device (e.g., computer, phone) and confidential space
* Referred to NHS-TT services
* Assessed by a qualified psychological professional and deemed to be eligible for high intensity CBT (this includes low risk of harm to self or others)
* Currently on waiting list for high intensity CBT and not accessing any other psychological interventions. This includes patients accessing pharmacotherapy but who are additionally seeking psychological treatment
* Presenting symptoms of one or more internalizing disorders (major depressive disorder, generalised anxiety disorder, panic disorder, agoraphobia, specific phobias, somatoform disorder, obsessive-compulsive and related disorders, body dysmorphic disorder, post-traumatic stress and related disorders)

Exclusion Criteria:

* 16 years old and under
* Not able to speak or read English fluently, which would require more individualised support with interpreters
* No access to internet-connected device or confidential space to engage with digital intervention
* Not involved with NHS-TT services
* Assessed by a qualified psychological professional and not deemed to be eligible for high intensity CBT on the basis of mental health condition and/or risk assessment (e.g., acute risk of suicide at the time of assessment)
* Already accessing a high intensity psychotherapy or other forms of psychological treatment (e.g., private therapy, counselling)
* Presenting with symptoms of eating disorders, substance use disorders, psychotic disorders, personality disorders, bipolar disorders identified at the time of initial assessment.

Where it's running

• Devon Partnership NHS Trust
  Exeter, United Kingdom Recruiting
• Rotherham Doncaster and South Humber NHS Foundation Trust
  Doncaster, South Yorkshire, United Kingdom Not yet recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Jaime Delgadillo, PhD — University of Sheffield
• Study coordinator: Melanie Simmonds-Buckley, PhD
• Email: melanie.simmonds-buckley@nhs.net
• Phone: +443000 212 456

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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.