Effectiveness of a Digital Therapist-Guided Application for Adolescents With Mild to Moderate Anxiety Compared to Treatment as Usual

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the effectiveness of a new therapist-guided, rule-based digital intervention called Modi for adolescents aged 13 to 16 with mild to moderate anxiety. This randomized controlled trial compares the Modi mobile app, which is based on cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), to treatment as usual at the Child and Family Help Center in Bergen Municipality. The goal is to see if the intervention reduces anxiety symptoms and improves functional levels in young people. The Modi intervention lasts for 8 weeks and is delivered through a mobile app featuring a rule-based chatbot named "Anna" that guides users through educational content and exercises. The program includes six chapters with psychoeducation, cognitive therapy concepts, and exposure exercises, supported by animated videos, illustrations, and audio. Participants receive weekly personalized support from Modi therapists via messages and phone calls. The comparison group receives regular treatment from local Child and Family Services, which may include individual therapy, parental counseling, and assessments following national clinical guidelines. During the study, participants complete self- and parent-reported anxiety and depression scales (RCADS-25) at screening, before starting, during weeks 2, 4, 6, immediately after the intervention, and at 1- and 6-month follow-ups. Secondary measures include youth and parent versions of the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire at similar time points. Researchers will monitor changes in anxiety symptoms and functioning throughout the study, which runs until December 2026.

Effectiveness of a Digital Application for Adolescents With Mild to Moderate Anxiety