NCT04663724 · New York State Psychiatric Institute
Computer - Based Treatment for Social Anxiety Disorder
What this study is about
The present study is a controlled trial that seeks to examine the feasibility, acceptability, mechanism, and effectiveness of a recently developed computer-based therapy in individuals with social anxiety disorder (SAD)
View original scientific description
The present study is a controlled trial that seeks to examine the feasibility, acceptability, mechanism, and efficacy of a recently developed computer-based therapy in individuals with social anxiety disorder (SAD)
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
- Males and females between the ages of 18 to 60
- Current primary diagnosis of SAD
- Score of at least 50 on the Liebowitz Social Anxiety Scale (self-rated version)
- Fluent in English
- Willing and able to give informed written consent
- Ability to participate responsibly in the protocol
- Normal or corrected-to-normal vision
Exclusion criteria
- Present or past psychotic episode, psychotic disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, or bipolar disorder
- Current severe depression
- Suicidal ideation or behavior
- Current diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder, manic episode or tic disorder
- Current or past organic mental disorder, seizure disorder, epilepsy or brain injury
- Current unstable or untreated medical illness
- Severe alcohol use disorder, severe cannabis use disorder, and any severity of other substance use disorder (except nicotine use disorders)
- Use of psychiatric medication in the past month other than a stable dose of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) for at least 3 months
- Any concurrent cognitive behavioral therapy or other psychotherapy that was initiated in the past 3 months
- Pregnancy, or plans to become pregnant during the period of the study (will be assessed by urine)
- Contraindication to MRI scanning (Paramagnetic metallic implants or devices contraindicating magnetic resonance imaging or any other non-removable paramagnetic metal in the body)
- paramagnetic metallic prosthesis
- surgical clips
- necessity for constant medicinal patch
- some tattoos
- Inability to tolerate MRI scanning procedures (i.e., severe obesity, claustrophobia)
Where
- New York, New York
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 1, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations