What is this study trying to find out about childhood anxiety disorders?

This study is evaluating a stepped care approach that starts with parent-focused treatment to help children with anxiety disorders. Researchers want to find out if this method can offer effective, affordable care by involving parents early, improving access and outcomes for children. The research is led by Andrew Wiese to address gaps in youth mental health services.

Who may be eligible for this childhood anxiety disorder clinical trial?

Children aged 7 to 17 with a primary diagnosis of an anxiety disorder or OCD may be eligible to participate. Both boys and girls can join if they have significant anxiety symptoms and live in Texas during treatment. Other factors like stable medications and no recent suicidal thoughts are required. Please review eligibility criteria for more details.

Is there any cost to participate in this childhood anxiety disorder clinical trial?

Study-related care, including therapy sessions and assessments, is provided at no cost. However, personal travel and related expenses vary and may not be covered. Participants should plan accordingly for any costs not included in the study.

Actively Recruiting

Phase Not Applicable

Age: 7Years - 17Years

All Genders

ID07228143

Stepped Care Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Children and Adolescents With Anxiety

Led by Andrew Wiese · Updated on 2026-03-02

106

Participants Needed

Research Sites

34 weeks

Total Duration

AI-Summary

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying childhood anxiety disorders CAD, which are common and can affect school, friendships, and family life. This trial focuses on a stepped care model that starts with parent-focused treatment to help children with anxiety. The study aims to improve access to effective care by testing a low-intensity, affordable approach that involves parents, addressing barriers like limited providers and high costs. The study compares two treatments Relaxation and Mentorship Training RMT, which includes 14 sessions of relaxation techniques and writing activities, and Stepped Care Targeting Exposure and Parenting for Anxiety STEP-A. STEP-A involves two steps first, parents read a book and attend four therapy sessions while practicing tasks with their child, then responders receive 10 weeks of family-based cognitive behavioral therapy focused on exposures and increasing parental involvement. Participants aged 7 to 17 with diagnosed anxiety disorders will attend therapy sessions and be assessed at multiple time points using anxiety rating scales and clinical interviews. Researchers will track progress before, during, and after treatment, including follow-ups at one month and longer-term caregiver interviews. The study runs until 2028 and seeks to better understand how stepped care works and its benefits for children with anxiety.

CONDITIONS

Brief Title

Stepped Care Treatment for Anxiety Resilience

Who Can Participate

Age: 7Years - 17Years

All Genders

Eligibility Criteria

You may qualify if you...

A primary diagnosis of OCD or an anxiety disorder including separation anxiety disorder, social phobia, generalized anxiety disorder, specific phobia, agoraphobia, or panic disorder determined by a diagnostic interview.
A score of 14 or higher on the Pediatric Anxiety Rating Scale indicating clinically significant anxiety.
Child is between 7 and 17 years old.
Residence in Texas and plan to stay in Texas during treatment sessions.

You will not qualify if you...

Psychosis, cognitive disability, or any condition limiting caregiver's ability to follow instructions.
Parent substance use disorder within the past 3 months.
Child or parent is suicidal; delayed entry possible after stabilization for more than 6 months.
Recent changes or initiation of psychotropic medications within specified time frames before enrollment; medications must remain stable during treatment.

Research Team

Andrew D Wiese, PhD

Jazzmine Ward, BS

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