Actively Recruiting
Exercise-priming of CBT for Depression: the CBT+ Trial
Led by University of Wisconsin, Madison · Updated on 2026-03-04
100
Participants Needed
1
Research Sites
203 weeks
Total Duration
On this page
Sponsors
U
University of Wisconsin, Madison
Lead Sponsor
N
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
Collaborating Sponsor
AI-Summary
What this Trial Is About
This study investigates the effects of intentionally sequencing aerobic exercise immediately prior to cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to determine its effects on mechanisms of CBT (i.e., working alliance, behavioral activation). To assess the utility of this treatment augmentation, investigators will conduct a randomized controlled trial involving 100 adults with Major Depressive Disorder who will watch a nature documentary while either resting quietly ( 'CalmCBT') or exercising at a moderate intensity ('ActiveCBT') immediately prior to 8 weekly sessions of CBT.
CONDITIONS
Official Title
Exercise-priming of CBT for Depression: the CBT+ Trial
Who Can Participate
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify if you...
- Adults aged 18 to 65 years
- Diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder confirmed by Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-5
- Current depressive symptoms with GRID-HAMD score of 8 or higher
- Either not currently using mental health medications or treatments, or on a stable regimen for at least 8 weeks
- Willing and safe to perform exercise based on Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire
- Never undergone structured cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT-naïve)
You will not qualify if you...
- Currently pregnant, nursing, or planning pregnancy during the study
- Diagnosed with current Substance Use Disorder
- Diagnosed with lifetime or current Psychosis, Mania, or Bipolar Disorder
- Class III or higher obesity (BMI ≥ 40)
- Active suicidal ideation with specific plan and intent (score of 5 on Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale)
- Behavioral disturbances or interpersonal issues interfering with study participation as assessed by research staff
AI-Screening
AI-Powered Screening
Complete this quick 3-step screening to check your eligibility
Trial Site Locations
Total: 1 location
1
University of Wisconsin
Madison, Wisconsin, United States, 53792
Actively Recruiting
Research Team
M
Madeleine Connolly, PhD
CONTACT
J
Jeni Lansing, PhD
CONTACT
How is the study designed?
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Masking
TRIPLE
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Model
PARALLEL
Primary Purpose
TREATMENT
Number of Arms
2
Not the Right Trial for You?
Explore thousands of other clinical trials that might be a better match.
Sign up to get personalized trial recommendations delivered to your inbox.
Already have an account? Log in here