NCT07098169 · University of California, San Diego
Randomized Clinical Trial of iTEST: A Blended Intervention Targeting Introspective Accuracy
(iTEST R33)
What this study is about
The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of a psychosocial intervention called iTEST for people with psychotic disorders that targets introspective accuracy, or the ability to accurately gauge ones abilities. iTEST combines daily cognitive training on a mobile device with coaching that addresses recovery goals.
View original scientific description
The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of a psychosocial intervention called iTEST for people with psychotic disorders that targets introspective accuracy, or the ability to accurately gauge ones abilities. iTEST combines daily cognitive training on a mobile device with coaching that addresses recovery goals. In this trial, we will randomize people to one of two interventions conditions, iTEST or a control condition that receives coaching and cognitive training that does not emphasize introspective accuracy. Both interventions will take place over 12 weeks and participants will be asked to complete assessments at baseline, 6 weeks, 12 weeks, and 24 weeks. The primary outcome of the study is community functioning. Participants will be from three metropolitan areas: San Diego, Dallas, or Miami.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
iTEST
iTEST is a computerized training intervention delivered on a mobile device that is coupled with individual contacts with a therapist/coach. The mobile components train in improving participant's ability to form accurate judgments about their performance and their rate of functional activities. The intervention involves coaching coupled with automated training that is delivered on a mobile device. The automated training involves daily cognitive tests in which the goal for treatment is to improve judgments of accuracy of self-assessment, and coaching is aimed at applying improving metacognitive awareness to every day activities. i
BEHAVIORAL
Active Control
Behavioral: Mobile cognitive tests will be administered to control subjects. Participants will receive feedback regarding their performance but not on the accuracy of their self-ratings. Coaching will also be coupled with mobile cognitive tests and will include goal-setting without specific mention of Introspective Accuracy (IA). in place of content related to IA, participants will receive psychoeducation about the benefits of sleep, physical activity, and social connection to overall cognitive health
Primary outcome measures
Informant-Rated Specific Level of Function (SLOF) Scale
Time frame: Change from baseline to 3 month follow up
Measure of participant's community functioning rated by an informant. Scale scores range from 43 to 215 with higher scores reflecting better functioning.
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
- Voluntary informed consent to participate and capacity to consent as measured by the UCSD Brief Assessment of Capacity to Consent (UBACC)
- Age 18 to 65;
- DSM-5 diagnosis of schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder based on a structured diagnostic interview and available medical record review;
- ≥ 6th grade reading level on the Wide Range Achievement Test-4 Reading subtest (needed to read instructions on device);
- Stable co-treatments (no hospitalizations or medication class changes in 2 months before enrollment). The investigators will determine symptom and medication stability by best-estimate history with information from medical records;
- Availability of a clinician (staff member, case manager, other mental health clinician) or close associate (family member, friend) with at least monthly contact who can be their informant
- Minimum level of functional impairment based on milestones, excluding participants who are full-time employed and financially responsible for their household.
Exclusion criteria
- Greater than moderate disorganization on the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (P2-Disorganization item \>5)
- DSM-5 alcohol or substance dependence in past 3 months based on interview
- Level of care required interferes with outpatient therapy (e.g., hospitalized; severe medical illness); 4) Unable to adequately see or manually manipulate a smartphone.
Where
- San Diego, California
- Miami, Florida
- Dallas, Texas
Collaborators
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), The University of Texas at Dallas, University of Miami
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 Jan 23, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations