The purpose of this research study is to help predict how different people respond to cognitive behavioral therapy for anxiety-related disorders.

You may qualify for this study if you meet the following criteria.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Ages 18+
• Diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, or OCD
• No lifetime history of bipolar or psychotic disorders, substance abuse or dependence (other than nicotine), or eating disorder in the past 6 months
• No suicidal behaviors within the past 6 months
• No medical conditions contraindicating CO2 inhalation or voluntary hyperventilation (e.g., cardiac arrhythmia, cardiac failure, asthma, lung fibrosis, high blood pressure, epilepsy, or stroke
• Not pregnant or breastfeeding
• No ongoing therapy
• No history of organic brain syndrome, mental retardation or other potentially interfering cognitive dysfunction
• No new medications started in the past 8 weeks

• Once enrolled, this study involves:

  • Answering questionnaires related to CO2 reactivity
  • Completing a biomarker assessment (2 hours)
    • Breathing challenge: taking in repeated breaths and rating anxiety and physical reactions
  • Attending 12 weekly one-hour sessions of cognitive behavior therapy, as well as weekly 5-10-minute Independent Evaluation calls
  • Completing a battery of clinical measures after the 12-week treatment to determine your improvement
  • Attending a 3-month follow-up visit
    • Repeating clinical measures to determine the durability of your therapy improvement

Compensation is provided up to $300 for your participation.

• $50 for the biomarker assessment visit

• $30 for baseline assessment

• $10 for each weekly assessment ($120 total)

• $50 each for post-treatment and follow-up

While there is no cost to participate, participants are not reimbursed for any travel expenses incurred while attending study visits