NCT06446765 · Yale University
Mindfulness-based Neurofeedback to Augment Psychotherapy for Adults With Borderline Personality Disorder
(MIND-BPD)
What this study is about
The purpose of this study is to test the ability of mindfulness-based real time functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) neurofeedback (mbNF) to increase the benefits of evidence-based psychotherapy for adults with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD).
View original scientific description
The purpose of this study is to test the ability of mindfulness-based real time functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) neurofeedback (mbNF) to increase the benefits of evidence-based psychotherapy for adults with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD).
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
mindfulness-based Neurofeedback
Participants will complete one session of mindfulness-based fMRI neurofeedback prior to 20 weeks of remote online weekly DBT skills group.
OTHER
control Neurofeedback
Participants will complete one session of control fMRI neurofeedback prior to 20 weeks of remote online weekly DBT skills group.
Primary outcome measures
Change in within-Default Mode Network (DMN) resting state functional connectivity after one session of neurofeedback (NF)
Time frame: From baseline (immediately before neurofeedback) to immediately after neurofeedback on the same day
Defined as within-DMN connectivity as the resting state seed-based connectivity between core nodes of medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and posterior cingulate cortex (PCC). Change = post-NF within-DMN connectivity - pre-NF within-DMN connectivity.
Change in DMN-Frontoparietal Control Network (FPCN) anticorrelation in resting state functional connectivity data after one session of neurofeedback
Time frame: From baseline (immediately before neurofeedback) to immediately after neurofeedback on the same day
Defined as DMN-FPCN anticorrelation as the fMRI seed-based connectivity from mPFC to dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC)). Change = post-NF mPFC-dlPFC anticorrelation - pre-NF mPFC-dlPFC anticorrelation
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- be able to provide written informed consent,
- meet criteria for BPD on semi-structured clinical interview,
- able to plan to keep any prescribed medications and psychotherapy constant during the study
- fluent in English.
Exclusion criteria
- current DBT psychotherapy outside the study
- lifetime primary psychotic disorder
- manic episode in the last one year
- developmental disorder (e.g. autism)
- history of learning disorder
- severe substance use disorder in the last 3 months
- active suicidal ideation with intent or plan in the past 3 months
- history of major medical or neurologic disorder
- MRI contraindications, including pregnancy
- poor performance on reading task (WRAT \> 11 errors)
- newly prescribed medications in the past 8 weeks
- daytime sedating medications (e.g. benzodiazepines, opiates, sedating neuroleptics)
- any scheduled daily benzodiazepines
- change in psychotherapy type or frequency in the past 12 weeks.
- At the discretion of the study PI Eligibility will be determined by study personnel.
Where
- New Haven, Connecticut
Collaborators
Connecticut Mental Health Center, National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jun 9, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations