OCD & Anxiety Treatment Study
Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine are conducting a treatment study with children ages 7–17 and their parents or guardians to better understand OCD and anxiety and test ways to improve symptoms through therapy.
Fast Facts
7-17
years old
Experiencing OCD and/or anxiety symptoms
The child and their parent/
guardian must speak English
Compensation
provided up to $60
Participants must reside in Texas
Study Background
Baylor College of Medicine is inviting children ages 7–17 and their parents or guardians to participate in a treatment study focused on OCD and anxiety.
OCD and anxiety in children can affect daily life, including motivation, energy, and enjoyment of activities. These difficulties are related to disruptions in emotional regulation and brain systems that process rewards and stress. Our study aims to learn more about effective therapy options for children and families, including interventions that support both the child and the parent.
By understanding OCD and anxiety early in life, we hope to identify ways to help children build healthy coping skills and reduce long-term challenges. Ultimately, the findings from this study could improve treatment approaches and enhance the quality of life for children and their families.
Study Background
Baylor College of Medicine is inviting children ages 7–17 and their parents or guardians to participate in a treatment study focused on OCD and anxiety.
OCD and anxiety in children can affect daily life, including motivation, energy, and enjoyment of activities. These difficulties are related to disruptions in emotional regulation and brain systems that process rewards and stress. Our study aims to learn more about effective therapy options for children and families, including interventions that support both the child and the parent.
By understanding OCD and anxiety early in life, we hope to identify ways to help children build healthy coping skills and reduce long-term challenges. Ultimately, the findings from this study could improve treatment approaches and enhance the quality of life for children and their families.
Additional Information
In this research study, we are trying to better understand how OCD and anxiety develop in children and adolescents. We aim to learn how these conditions affect the brain, emotions, and daily functioning. Difficulties with motivation, enjoyment, and managing stress—similar to what is seen in anxiety and OCD—may be linked to how the brain processes rewards and responds to stress.
We will measure these brain and emotional processes and explore how targeted therapies for children and families can improve symptoms. Using evidence-based interventions, including cognitive behavioral therapy and relaxation-based approaches, we hope to identify strategies that support both children and parents, helping children build healthy coping skills and reduce long-term challenges.
You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria:
Inclusion Criteria:
- Children ages 7–17
- Experiencing OCD and/or anxiety symptoms
- Must reside in Texas
- Both parent/guardian and child speak English
- Parent or guardian is able and willing to participate in assessments and treatment
Exclusion Criteria:
- Lifetime diagnosis of a psychotic disorder or conduct disorder
- Child is currently receiving psychotherapy focused primarily on anxiety or OCD (unless willing to pause)
- Parent has a substance use disorder within the past 3 months
- Child or parent unable to speak or read English fluently
- Child has severe suicidality, homicidality, or self-injury requiring medical intervention
The study lasts approximately 24 weeks. Once enrolled, participants and their parents/guardians can expect:
Virtual therapy sessions:
- Weekly therapy sessions conducted online at no cost, using evidence‑based interventions for OCD and anxiety.
- Interventions may include parent-focused CBT, family-based CBT, or relaxation/mentorship training
- Therapy sessions are designed to support both the child and parent in managing symptoms
Assessments:
- Assessments at the beginning (baseline), midpoint, post-treatment, and follow-up
- Each assessment may include questionnaires, interviews, and interactive tasks to measure OCD and anxiety symptoms and progress.
As a participant, you may receive up to $60 in compensation.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.