Evaluating a New Mental Health Group for Asians and Asian Americans

BEHAVIORAL

Psychoeducation and Process Group for Asian and Asian American Psychiatric Outpatients

Participants will be individuals enrolling in a 1.5 hour weekly therapy group lasting 12 weeks and will be invited to participate in research on group processes and outcomes. The psychoeducation and process group will be a 12-session weekly closed group with 10-15 participants per group (2-3 groups total) conducted via Zoom to enhance accessibility and reduce barriers to care. Groups will be co-led by licensed clinical psychologists with experience providing both group psychotherapy and culturally responsive services. Group sessions will include brief check-ins, collaborative agenda-setting, a mini-didactic, individual reflection, and group discussion. The didactics curriculum will include topics such as intergenerational trauma, cultural differences in emotional expression, the model minority myth, family dynamics, racism, and positive connections to culture.

Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9)

Time frame: Once at baseline, once at 6 weeks, once at 12 weeks

Depression symptoms assessed on 4-point Likert scale. Score range from 0 to 27, with higher scores representing more severe depression symptoms

Generalized Anxiety Disorder Screener-7 (GAD-7)

Time frame: Once at baseline, once at 6 weeks, once at 12 weeks

Anxiety symptoms assessed on 4-point Likert scale. Score range from 0 to 21, with higher scores representing more severe anxiety symptoms

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.