NCT06834217 · Yale University
Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation and Extinction in Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
What this study is about
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is associated with substantial impairments in quality of life and is among the most disabling psychiatric disorders. Exposure therapy is among the first-line of treatments for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) . Extinction learning is thought to be a core mechanism of therapeutic exposure.
View original scientific description
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is associated with substantial impairments in quality of life and is among the most disabling psychiatric disorders. Exposure therapy is among the first-line of treatments for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) . Extinction learning is thought to be a core mechanism of therapeutic exposure. Fear and safety signal learning are traditionally associated with activity and connectivity within the canonical corticolimbic "fear circuit", which includes the amygdala, medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), and hippocampus. Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a neuromodulation technology that can augment brain plasticity, learning, and memory. The proposed study will test if obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is associated with inhibitory safety learning deficits and if transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) normalizes functional connectivity and safety signal processing to recover extinction deficits in obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
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
- All Participant Inclusion Criteria would include:
- 18 years of age or older
- speak English fluently, and
- able to provide written and verbal informed consent.
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) Inclusion Criteria would include:
- meet criteria for OCD as determined by structured clinical interview
- exhibit significant current symptoms of OCD
- report duration of OCD symptoms of at least 1-year
- OCD symptoms are primary or co-primary relative to other psychiatric diagnoses
- stable psychiatric treatment (≥8-weeks) or no active treatment.
- exhibit significant current symptoms of OCD as determined by the Dimensional Obsessive-Compulsive Scale (DOCS) (≥18).
Exclusion criteria
- All Participant Exclusion Criteria would include:
- active severe substance use disorder(s)
- acute suicidality
- history of bipolar or psychotic disorder(s)
- significant developmental disabilities
- loss of consciousness \> 10 minutes
- history of traumatic brain injury
- major neurological disease
- a positive pregnancy test
- other brain stimulation or magnetic resonance imaging contraindications
- new psychological treatment within the past 8 weeks
- daily anxiolytic medication use (e.g., benzodiazepine).
- Non-Clinical Control Exclusion Criteria would include:
- meet current criteria for a psychiatric disorder as determined by structured clinical interview
- active-psychotropic medications.
Where
- New Haven, Connecticut
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 12, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations