Online therapy options for students with anxiety and depression
Internet-delivered Cognitive Behaviour Therapy for Post-Secondary Students: Preference Trial for Flexible, 5-Week, and 8-Week Options
This study is testing different online therapy programs for college students with anxiety and depression to see which ones they prefer and how well they help.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 200 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Regina Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Regina, Saskatchewan) |
| Trial ID | NCT05333627 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This trial investigates the effectiveness of internet-delivered cognitive behaviour therapy (ICBT) tailored for post-secondary students experiencing symptoms of depression and anxiety. It offers three different course durations—fast-track, 5-week, and 8-week—to assess students' preferences and their impact on enrollment, adherence, and treatment outcomes. Participants will have the option to receive therapist support, which is contingent on their communication with the therapist. The goal is to enhance treatment flexibility and improve completion rates among students.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are post-secondary students in Saskatchewan aged 18 and older who experience mild to moderate symptoms of depression or anxiety.
Not a fit: Patients with severe psychiatric conditions or those at high risk of suicide may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could provide more accessible and effective mental health support for students struggling with anxiety and depression.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results for internet-delivered cognitive behaviour therapy, indicating potential success for this approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * registered as a student at a post-secondary institution in Saskatchewan; over the age of 18; endorse symptoms of depression (score of 5 or greater on the PHQ-9) and/or anxiety (score of 5 or greater on the GAD-7); and be able to access computers and the Internet and be comfortable using them Exclusion Criteria: * high risk of suicide or hospitalization for mental health in previous 12 months; unmanaged alcohol or drug use problems; severe psychiatric illness that is not managed (e.g. psychosis or mania); or receiving other psychological services more than twice per month
Where this trial is running
Regina, Saskatchewan
- Online Therapy Unit, University of Regina — Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Vanessa Peynenburg, MA — University of Regina
- Study coordinator: Marcie Nugent, MSW
- Email: marcie.nugent@uregina.ca
- Phone: 3063372946
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.