Stepped Care Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Anxiety in Children and Adolescents Using Parent-Focused and Family-Based Treatments

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.

Stepped Care Treatment for Anxiety Resilience