Comparing Video and In-Person Cognitive Therapy for Social Anxiety in Youth Aged 14 to 18 Years

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating screen delivery as an alternative to traditional office delivery for cognitive therapy in youth aged 14 to 18 years with social anxiety disorder SAD. This study aims to compare the effectiveness, acceptability, and sustainability of these two delivery methods and identify factors that influence therapy outcomes. The study is a randomized controlled trial involving 200 youth and addresses important questions about therapy access, economic and climate benefits, and therapeutic alliance. Participants will receive cognitive therapy based on the CT-SAD-A manual, delivered either by video screen or in an office setting. Therapy consists of 14 weekly 90-minute sessions plus a booster session six months after treatment. Therapists involved have specialized training and participate in supervision, with sessions recorded and stored securely. The study also includes a feasibility phase with feedback from therapists, youth, and parents. During the trial, participants complete questionnaires weekly and attend interviews at multiple time points before treatment, after therapy, and at 6 months, 2 years, and 4 years post-treatment. Parents also provide information through interviews. Researchers monitor therapy adherence, therapeutic competence, and safety, including suicidality and mood symptoms. Overall participation spans several years, with data collected to assess therapy effectiveness and long-term outcomes.

The Covideo Study - a Trial of Cognitive Therapy for Social Anxiety Disorder in Youth, Comparing Screen to Office Delivery