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Research Participants Sought


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The IOCDF is not associated with, and does not endorse, any of the research studies listed below.

California 

Compulsive Hair Pulling - Stanford, CA
Neuroimaging Study of OCD - Stanford, CA
Tourette Syndrome Study - San Diego, CA
Neurobiology of OC Spectrum Disorders - San Diego, CA
OCD, BDD, Hoarding Study - San Diego, CA
Medications for OCD - Los Angeles, CA 

Connecticut

Learning and OCD - New Haven, CT 
Medications for OCD - New Haven, CT
OCD and Hoarding - Hartford, CT

Florida

OCD in Children - St. Petersburg, FL 
Medications for OCD - St. Petersburg, FL
Repetitive Behaviors in Children - St. Petersburg, FL 
Videophone CBT for Children & Adolescents with OCD

Indiana

Paliperidone study for adults with OCD - Indianapolis, IN

Kansas

Telemedicine and OCD Assessment Research

Maryland

OCD in Siblings/Twins - Bethesda, MD

Massachusetts    

Pediatric Body Dysmorphic Disorder - Boston, MA 
Trichotillomania - Boston, MA
Hoarding - Boston, MA 
Medications for OCD - Boston, MA
Early Detection of Anxiety Disorders in Children - Boston, MA
Nutrition Intervention for Children with OCD - MA
Genetic Study for Tourette Syndrom, ADHD and OCD - Boston, MA
Family Study of Children At-Risk for OCD - Boston, MA
Appearance Concerns Treatment Research Study - Boston, MA

New York

Children with OCD - North Shore/Long Island, NY
Body Dysmorphic Disorder and OCD - Great Neck, NY 
Body Dysmorphic Disorder - Great Neck, NY 
Children with OCD - New York, NY
OCD in Children, Brain Imaging - New York, NY
Teenagers with OCD - New York, NY
Perception in BDD and OCD - Great Neck, NY 
Maximizing Treatment Outcomes in OCD - Connecticut, New York, and Pennsylvania
Investigating How OCD Works in the Brain - New York, NY
Understanding Obsessive Compulsive Personality Features - Manhattan, NY

Pennsylvania  

African Americans and OCD - Philadelphia, PA
Kids with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) - Philadelphia, PA

Rhode Island

Severe OCD - Providence, RI

Tennessee

 Hoarding in Children and Adolescents - Germantown, TN 

Canada

Anxiety Studies Participant Pool - Waterloo, Ontario

Online/Phone/Mail  

Association-Splitting: A web-based study on a novel technique targeting obsessions
Are you very concerned with someone else’s appearance? - Online Survey
Children with OCD - Online Survey
Hoarding in Children and Teens - Phone Survey
Personality and OCD - Online Survey
OCD Rituals - Online Survey
Sleep Habits in Children - Online Survey
Repetitive Behaviors in Children With OCD - Online Survey
The Impact of Sibling Relationships on OCD - Online Survey
Quality of Life in Adults with OCD - Online Survey

Multiple Sites  

Genetic Causes of OCD - Multiple Locations
Maximizing Treatment Outcomes in OCD - Connecticut, New York, and Pennsylvania
Body Dysmorphic Disorder Study - Massachusetts, New York, and Rhode Island

Association-Splitting: A web-based study on a novel technique targeting obsessions

Are you suffering from obsessions and would like to try out a new technique against obsessive thoughts? If so, you may have the opportunity to participate in an online study evaluating a new promising technique, which is called “association splitting”. Each participant will receive a pdf-file of the self-help manual free of charge. In order to evaluate the effectiveness of the technique, however, only have of the participants will receive the manual shortly after filling out a survey regarding their symptoms. The other half receives the manual after a period of four weeks right after filling out a second survey. Groups (manual right away or after 4 weeks) are allocated at random.

We would appreciate if you support our study. For further information and study participation, please use the following link: http://www.unipark.de/uc/hh_uni_psych_inst_LJ/3581/

In case of questions please do not hesitate to contact Dr. Lena Jelinek or Prof. Dr. Steffen Moritz via email: neuropsychology@gmx.de.

University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf; Dep. for Psychiatry and Psychotherapy; Hamburg (Germany)

Are you very concerned with someone else’s appearance?

Volunteers wanted to help explore excessive appearance concerns about others in a study being conducted by the Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH).

If you answered yes and are at least 18 years old, please take our questionnaire: http://www.surveymonkey.com/BDDBYPROXY

Videophone CBT for Children & Adolescents with OCD

Based on our promising findings, the University of South Florida OCD program is conducting a research study to examine what factors predict treatment outcome to cognitive-behavioral therapy that is delivered via videophone. We are recruiting a group of children and adolescents with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Our past research has found that as many as 80% of kids who received this type of CBT received some benefit. However, we want to know for whom this treatment is most appropriate because videophone-administered CBT may be a way to make treatment more convenient and affordable (less travel costs) and less time-consuming.

Your child must be between the ages of 7-17 and have problematic OCD symptoms to be able to participate in this study. You will have to travel to our facility for the initial evaluation (we cannot cover these costs); however, study treatment and evaluations will be provided at no charge. If he/she is eligible to participate in this study, he/she will either receive 14 90-minute sessions of videophone-CBT (twice a week for the first 4 sessions) and 3 psychiatric evaluations of varying lengths.

If you are interested or have questions, please call Dr. Eric Storch at (727) 767-8230 or email him at estorch@health.usf.edu.

Quality of Life in Adults with OCD

Have you been diagnosed with obsessive-compulsive disorder? Are you between the ages of 18 and 70? If so, we would like to invite you to participate in a survey looking at quality of life in adults with OCD, and the different reasons quality of life might be affected by having OCD. We would love to hear your thoughts about the way OCD has been getting in the way of the life you would like to lead.

The survey can be accessed here: http://hsccm2.hsc.usf.edu/checkbox/Survey.aspx?surveyid=4690

If you have questions, you can contact Jessica Morgan at the University of South Florida at jmorgan1@health.usf.edu or 727-767-8393.

How does the sibling relationship impact Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder?

The purpose of this study is to examine factors associated with the quality of the sibling relationship and how that relationship impacts a child with OCD. We are hoping to discover how the sibling relationship can benefit a child with OCD. We are examining this relationship – via parent-reports - in up to 150 youth with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. To participate, your child must be between 6 and 17 years of age and have OCD. In addition, you must be your child’s parent or legal guardian and the child must have interaction with at least one of their siblings.

You will be asked to complete a questionnaire about your children’s behaviors, your child's symptoms related to OCD, and the relationship between that child and the rest of the family, as well as his/her overall quality of life. If you are interested in participating, please follow the link below to begin: http://hsccm2.hsc.usf.edu/checkbox/Survey.aspx?surveyid=4656

Telemedicine and OCD Assessment Research

The University of Kansas Medical Center and the Kansas City Center for Anxiety Treatment are seeking research participants for a study comparing traditional “in person” and videoconferencing administrations of the Children’s Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale (CY-BOCS). Your child will receive a series of evaluations to assess anxiety and obsessive compulsive symptoms at no cost. You will be provided a valuable summary of their data, which you may choose to share with your child’s mental health providers to inform treatment.

Eligibility: You and your child are eligible for this study if your child experiences OCD symptoms and is between the ages of 10 and 17.

What Is Involved?
You and your child will undergo 3 assessments on 3 separate days.
  • Anxiety Disorders Interview Schedule for DSM-IV, Child Version: about 45-60 minutes
  • In person CY-BOCS: about 60-90 minutes
  • Videoconferencing CY-BOCS: about 60-90 minutes
Study Location:
Kansas City Center for Anxiety Treatment (KCCAT)
10540 Marty Street, Suite 200
Overland Park, Kansas 66212
It is important to note that the information gathered in the study is obtained solely for research purposes, and is not meant as a clinical evaluation or treatment for any disorder or symptom.
If you would like more information about this study, please contact Thao Bui, MA at (913) 588-2226 or by email at tbui@kcanxiety.com.

Understanding Obsessive Compulsive Personality Features

Principal Investigator: Anthony Pinto, Ph.D.
NYSPI IRB Protocol #: 5979

Is perfectionism causing problems for you?
Do others complain about your rigidity?
Do you worry too much about order and details?
Do you find it difficult to relax and enjoy free time?
Are you constantly trying to control things?
Do you plan out every minute of your day?

Researchers at Columbia University Medical Center/NYSPI in Manhattan are seeking participants (age 18-60) in the NY metro area with several of these features for a study designed to learn more about the obsessive compulsive personality style and ways of thinking, and how these features affect life functioning. Participants will receive a confidential evaluation at no cost and payment upon completion of an interview, questionnaires, and computer tasks.

For more information, contact Jordan at #212-543-5938.

Anxiety Studies Participant Pool

UW Anxiety Studies researchers are currently seeking volunteers for our Anxiety Studies Participant Pool. You may be eligible if you experience any of the following: Recurrent thoughts or images that are unwanted, distasteful, inappropriate, intrusive or distressing, such as:
  • The idea that you were dirty, contaminated or had germs
  • Doubting that you turned appliances off or locked doors properly
  • Fearing that you would act on some impulse
  • Obsessions with sexual thoughts, images, or impulses
  • The need to do something repeatedly without being able to resist doing it, like washing, cleaning, checking or counting
  • The need to do things in a certain way even if another way would be more efficient
  • The need to keep things you don’t need
Diagnosis of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Participants who are eligible for the Pool (as determined by a 15-minute confidential phone interview) will be asked to complete:
  • An in-person interview about symptoms of anxiety, depression, drug/alcohol use, unusual experiences and physical sensations (30-60 minutes)
  • Self-report questionnaires about symptoms, mood, social experiences, thoughts about self, concentration and habits (45-60 minutes)
Participants will receive $40.00 in appreciation of their time.

Confidential inquiries can be made through the Anxiety Studies Division:
http://anxietystudies.uwaterloo.ca
519-888-4567, x35920
anxiety@uwaterloo.ca

Appearance Concerns Treatment Research Study


  • Do you dislike the way any part(s) of your body (for example, your skin, hair, nose, eyes) look?
  • Do you think about your appearance for more than one hour per day?
  • Do you worry that your muscles are not big enough, or do you spend a lot of time lifting weights to enhance your muscles?
  • Do you engage in any behaviors intended to check on, hide, or fix your appearance (for example, mirror checking, comparing yourself to others, excessive grooming behaviors)?
  • Or do you avoid any places, people or activities because of your appearance concerns (for example, do you avoid bright lights, mirrors, dating, or parties)?
  • Do your appearance-related thoughts or behaviors cause you a lot of anxiety, sadness, or shame?
  • Do you have problems with your work, school, family, or friends because of your appearance concerns?

If you answered any of these questions with ‘yes’, you might be eligible to participate in a study at the Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH). If you qualify, you will receive the following:

  • Diagnostic Evaluation at no cost
  • Medication Treatment at no cost

You will also be asked to fill out some questionnaires assessing body image symptoms, anxiety and mood. The treatment will be at no cost for you.

If you are interested in participating or would like to get further information, please call the Body Dysmorphic Disorder Clinic at 1-877-4MGH-BDD at the Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), or email BDD@partners.org. Please visit our website at www.mghocd.org/bdd.

Kids with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) 

Does your little kid have to have things "just right"? Does he have to keep doing something over and over again? Does she have thoughts that constantly bother her? The Child and Adolescent OCD, Tic, Trich and Anxiety Group (COTTAGe) is looking for kids ages 5-8 with OCD to participate in a research study at the University of Pennsylvania. Those eligible receive a full assessment of symptoms and 12 weeks of behavioral therapy at no cost. Call Aubrey Edson at 215-746-3327 if interested or if you're not sure if your child has OCD.

Investigating How OCD Works in the Brain 

Would you be interested in helping us learn more about how OCD works in the brain?  The OCD Research Clinic at the Columbia University Medical Center is conducting studies using techniques such as functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), measurement of the startle response, and manual and computer-based tests to learn more about the neurobiology of OCD.  If you are over 18 and have OCD, you might be eligible for one or more of our current studies.  For each study you choose to participate in, you will be compensated for your time. To schedule a confidential screening, contact: Jose Hernandez #212-543-5367 or Rena Staub #212 543-5380, or visit our website at http://www.columbia-ocd.org .


Paliperidone Study for Adults with OCD

Have you been diagnosed with a problem called Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and not responded to past medication or counseling treatment? If so, you may be eligible for a study examining if adding a medication called Paliperidone helps reduce your OCD symptoms. The Department of Psychiatry at IU School of Medicine is conducting this study.


To be eligible, you must be at least 18 years old and have problematic OCD symptoms despite having tried at least two OCD medications. If you participate in this study, you will be randomly assigned, that is by chance as in the "flip of a coin," to receive either the study medication (Paliperidone) or a sugar pill in addition to the medication you are currently taking. There will also be seven psychiatric evaluations that take place. Study medication and the evaluations will be provided at no charge. Financial compensation is available for qualified participants. Risks associated with the study will be disclosed prior to study participation.

For more information call (317) 948-0038
2
Posted: February 23, 2010

Does your child have Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder?

Researchers at the Feinstein Institute for Medical Research- North Shore/ Long Island Jewish Hospital are investigating the neurobiology and genetics of OCD to improve treatment methods and identify biomarkers for this disorder. This study does not provide treatment.

To participate, a child must be:

between the ages of 8-17

The study involves diagnostic interviews with both the child and one parent, some clinical measures, neuropsychological testing, an MRI exam, and an optional DNA component done through saliva collection. MRI is a safe, non-invasive neuroimaging technique (with no risk of ionizing radiation) that allows us to learn more about brain structure and function. There is no cost to you and your child will be compensated for his or her time. Participation can generally be completed in two testing sessions and scheduling is very flexible. Participants will receive up to $270 compensation.

If you are interested or have questions, please contact:

Patricia Gruner, Ph.D.

Psychiatry Research
The Zucker Hillside Hospital
75-59 263rd Street
Glen Oaks, NY 11004
Tel (718) 470-8609
Fax (718) 343-1659
pgruner@nshs.edu

Do you have a child diagnosed with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) or who displays OCD symptoms?

We are looking for parents to participate in a study examining treatment history of OCD. Your responses may help in improving treatment and access to qualified professionals who can provide effective treatments to children with OCD. This is a completely anonymous survey. Please click the link below to participate in the study.

Click Here to take survey

Posted: November 10, 2009

Concerned with your appearance?

Do you dislike the way any part(s) of your body look? Do you think about your appearance for more than 1 hour per day? Do you engage in behaviors to try to hide, fix, or check your appearance? Do your appearance concerns cause you anxiety, shame or sadness? Do these concerns cause problems for you with school, your family or your friends? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions and live in the Boston area, we may be able to help. Massachusetts General Hospital is conducting a no-cost clinical trial with children and adolescents (ages 10 to 17 years) who are worried about how they look. Those qualified will receive a diagnostic evaluation and psychological treatment (CBT) at no cost. If you are interested in the possibility of an evaluation and participation in the research study , please contact Martha Falkenstein at The Body Dysmorphic Disorder Clinic at Massachusetts General Hospital. Call (617) 643-6204 or email bdd@partners.org.

Posted: October 15, 2009

Children and Adolescents who are Pack Rats: An Exploratory Study to Examine Compulsive Hoarding in Children and Adolescents

The aim of this study is to develop a better understanding of the onset and the clinical features of compulsive hoarding in children and adolescents. According to the limited research available on compulsive hoarding, onset of compulsive hoarding begins in childhood, and hoarding behaviors become more severe with age. Treatment with adults has demonstrated that compulsive hoarding is more resistant to traditional interventions such as medication and exposure and response prevention therapy. Very little is currently known about children and adolescents who struggle with this condition. Therefore, we are currently conducting a cross-sectional research stu dy for information that will build our knowledge base to improve intervention strategies.

Your child must be between the ages of 8-18 and have some symptoms of obsessive compulsive behaviors with  hoarding. All participants will be administered a screening instrument to determine eligibility. Both the child/adolescent and one parent must be willing to participate in telephone interviews.

If eligible, participants will participate in data collection through telephone survey. The participating parent will be interviewed first by phone. Parents will complete a demographic questionnaire, an inventory, and a timeline about their child/adolescent’s behaviors. Children/adolescents will complete two inventories about their obsessive compulsive and hoarding behaviors. It is expected that the parent and child/adolescent interviews will take approximately 20-30 minutes each. Participant families will be compensated with a $20 gift card to WalMart.

To participate in this study or for further information, please contact David Dia, PhD, LCSW, CCBT at the University of Tennessee at (901) 448-4431, or email him at ddia@utk.edu. This study is approved by the University IRB.

Posted: October 14, 2009

Do You Pull Out Your Hair?

Dr. Nancy Keuthen at Massachusetts General Hospital is conducting a non-medication treatment study of trichotillomania. You may be eligible to participate if you are at least 18 years of age, have been pulling out your hair for the past year, and are not receiving any current treatment for this problem. You may receive up to $200 compensation upon completion of study participation. For further information, please call Martha Falkenstein at (617) 643-6204.

Posted: October 2, 2009

Has Anyone Ever Called You a Packrat?

  • Have people ever commented about the amount of clutter in your home?
  • Is your home so cluttered that you have trouble using your rooms or furniture?
  • Do you have difficulty throwing things away, even when you don’t need them?

The Boston University School of Social Work is conducting a study on the nature of compulsive hoarding. The study is open to adults aged 18 and over who meetstudy criteria. Participants must live within a 45 minute radius of Boston, Massachusetts.

For more information, please email Gabe Gruner at ggruner@bu.edu or call (617) 353-9125.

Posted: October 2, 2009

Have you been diagnosed with severe OCD?

If the answer is yes and you are between the ages of 18 and 65, you may be eligible to participate in a new NIMH-sponsored study. We are looking for both participants who may be interested in considering a neurosurgical treatment for OCD, as well as those who may be interested in participating in an adjunct study (without surgery) examining the relationship between the brain and behavior in OCD.

If you would like more information about neurosurgical treatment for OCD, please contact either Rich Marsland, RN at (401) 455-6211 or rmarsland@butler.org or Jennifer Bernier, BA at (401) 455-6366 or jabernier@butler.org. If you are interested in the non-surgical adjunct study, please contact Jennifer Bernier, BA at (401) 455-6366 or jabernier@butler.org or Nicole C. McLaughlin, Ph.D. at (401) 455-6608 or nmclaughlin@butler.org.

Posted: September 16, 2009

Examining Specific and Core Beliefs in Body Dysmorphic and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders

You are invited to participate in a study examining specific and core beliefs in adults (18 +) with Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD), Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and controls. By investigating the specific and core beliefs in BDD and OCD, this will assist in developing more tailored and effective cognitive-behavioral treatments for these sometimes debilitating disorders. By participating in this study, you will get a free diagnostic test and will help us gain insight into the cognitive nature of BDD and OCD. Any adult (18 years or older) is welcome to participate, particularly individuals with BDD or OCD diagnoses. If interested in participating or for further information please call (516) 487-7116 and ask for Agnes. You can also email her at selinger@biobehavioralinstitute.com. This study is being held at the Bio-Behavioral Institute in Great Neck, NY.

Posted: September 9, 2009

Does your child or teenager have Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder?

The Rothman Center of Pediatric Neuropsychiatry is recruiting subjects to participate in a study designed to monitor and assess the relationship of dosing strategies of sertraline to behavioral side effects such as increased activity level or worsening mood. If you participate, your child will receive either study medication or a pill placebo. All participants will receive 14 sessions of cognitive-behavioral therapy. To participate, your child must be 7-17 years of age and have obsessive-compulsive disorder. All research procedures will be provided free of charge.

If you are interested or have questions, please call Jeannette Reid at (727) 767-8230 or email at rothmanctr@health.usf.edu.

Posted: September 9, 2009

African-Americans with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

The University of Pennsylvania is conducting a study of African-Americans with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

Recent research shows that African-Americans with OCD are not getting the most effective treatments. If you have OCD, we want to learn more about what this has been like for you and if you have ever tried to get help for your symptoms.

Participants will receive a psychological evaluation, discussion of treatment options, and $100 in compensation. The evaluation will involve completing some questionnaires and an interview with a professional clinician. No physical exam is required (i.e., no shots, needles, x-rays, or pills). Call our office at 215-746-3327 for a confidential phone screening to determine if you are eligible, and ask for Samantha Farris. You can also visit our website at http://www.black.ocdproject.org. 

Not sure if you have OCD? Call our center for a phone pre-screening. You may have OCD and not even know it!

PI: Monnica Williams, Ph.D.
Center for the Treatment and Study of Anxiety
University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine
3535 Market Street, 6th Floor
Philadelphia, PA 19104
IRB Approval: #810175

Posted: August 12, 2009

Assessment of Perceptual Distortions in Individuals with Body Dysmorphic Disorder and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

Researchers:
Jose Yaryura-Tobias, M.D.
Fugen Neziroglu, Ph.D.
Bio-Behavioral Institute
935 Northern Blvd., Suite 102
Great Neck, NY 11021

Researchers have hypothesized that many psychiatric disorders may affect individuals’ perception. This notion has important implications for disorder etiology, maintenance, and treatment. Therefore, we are currently conducting a research study examining and comparing the visual perceptions of individuals with body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) to individuals without a psychiatric diagnosis.

Interested participants must be at least 18 years old to participate in this study. All participants will initially take part in a clinical interview to assess if they meet the study’s guidelines. Individuals diagnosed with a psychotic disorder or a substance use disorder will be excluded.

If eligible, participants will then have two photographs taken of themselves. Participants will then complete a computer program, which will be comparing a variety of images, including the above-mentioned photographs. Upon completing the computer program, participants will be asked to fill out a series of questionnaires. All identities and responses will be kept strictly confidential. It is expected that the study will take about 4 to 6 hours to complete. Participants will be  given a break and compensated with $10.00 for lunch.

To participate in the study or for further information, please contact Melanie Santos at the Bio-Behavioral Institute at (516) 487-7116.

Posted: July 2, 2009

Study of Procedural Learning in OCD

The performance of patients with OCD symptoms while on either no medications or a stable medication regimen over time will be compared with a control group and with a group with major depression or other mood/anxiety disorders. We believe this will allow us to assess both the deficit, if any, of OCD participants in striatum-dependent procedural memory and how this deficit is or is not ameliorated by symptom reduction under standard pharmacotherapy.

Upon entry into the study and prior to initiation of pharmacotherapy, a thorough history will be taken, and a medical evaluation will be performed. Subjects will be evaluated by a combination of standardized measures, semi-structured diagnostic interviews, and standard methods of intelligence testing. Subjects will complete two baseline computer-based stratum-dependent learning tasks and some explicit learning evaluations. The baseline evaluations and intake screening take about 5-6 hours. As the study progresses, these tasks and some measures will be repeated and take approximately one additional hour each time.

Most patients who participate in this study do so as outpatients and the study requires them to come to our clinic in New Haven. There is some financial compensation for participating.

Anyone interested in more information should contact our nurse manager, Suzanne Wasylink, at (203) 974-7523.

Posted: June 10, 2009

Anonymous Online Survey of Personality Features (IRB# 5942)

Chance to win $100 gift card to Target.com

Researchers at Columbia University/NYSPI are seeking adults (age 18 and older) to complete an online survey about thoughts and behaviors related to personality styles. Participation is anonymous and may take up to 60 minutes. The information gathered will contribute to a better understanding of the nature of personality-related problems, leading to improved assessment and treatment. Participation is limited to once per person. For more information, click on this link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/... 

Posted: May 20, 2009

Study of N-acetylcysteine augmentation in treatment-refractory OCD

While established medication strategies and therapy techniques can help many people with OCD, a substantial percentage still has severe symptoms despite good treatment. Drs. Christopher Pittenger and Vladimir Coric, at the Yale OCD Research Clinic in New Haven, CT, are studying new medications in an effort to better help these patients. The neurotransmitter glutamate is thought to be out of balance in patients with OCD, and we are focusing on medications that aim to modulate this imbalance.

N-acetylcysteine (also called NAC) is a nutritional supplement that can modulate levels of glutamate in the brain. We have seen a few patients' symptoms improve when NAC is added to their medication regimen. We are now examining whether NAC augmentation is useful in a larger, placebo-controlled medication trial. We are seeking people with a diagnosis of OCD, aged 18-65, who still have significant symptoms despite adequate treatment with a specific serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) or clomipramine (Anafranil).

Patients will have a thorough evaluation and receive free treatment for 14 weeks, during which they will receive either NAC or a placebo (a sugar pill). Patients who receive placebo during the trial will be given the chance to try NAC after the 12-week study, so that all subjects will have the opportunity to try this medication if they want to.

Most patients who participate in this study do so as outpatients; the study requires them to come to New Haven once a week for about an hour. We have a limited number of inpatient beds, which allow us to enroll patients from out of town; however, there is often a wait for one of these beds.

Anyone interested in more information should contact our nurse manager, Suzanne Wasylink, at 203-974-7523.

Posted: May 19, 2009

Interested in the latest treatments?

A Study of Riluzole Augmentation in Treatment-Refractory OCD

While established medication strategies and therapy techniques can help many people with OCD, a substantial percentage still has severe symptoms despite good treatment. Drs. Christopher Pittenger and Vladimir Coric, at the Yale OCD Research Clini c in New Haven, CT, are studying new medications in an effort to better help these patients. The neurotransmitter glutamate is thought to be out of balance in patients with OCD, and we are focusing on medications that aim to modulate this imbalance.

We have for the past few years been treating refractory patients with the glutamate-modulating medication riluzole (Rilutek™, sold by Sanofi-Aventis). Our early results have been promising. We are now conducting a double-blind, placebo-controlled study of riluzole augmentation in OCD. We are seeking people with a diagnosis of OCD, aged 18-65, who still have significant symptoms despite adequate treatment with a specific serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) or clomipramine (Anafranil).

Patients will have a thorough evaluation and receive free treatment for 14 weeks, during which they will receive either riluzole or a placebo (a sugar pill). Patients who receive placebo during the trial will be given the chance to try riluzole after the 14-week study, so that all subjects will have the opportunity to try this medication if they want to.

Most patients who participate in this study do so as outpatients; the study requires them to come to New Haven once a week for about an hour. We have a limited number of inpatient beds, which allow us to enroll patients from out of town; however, there is often a wait for one of these beds.

Anyone interested in more information should contact our nurse manager, Suzanne Wasylink, at 203-974-7523.

Posted: May 19, 2009

Tell us about your rituals! A Web-Based Study from Washington University in St. Louis

We are asking you to describe in as much detail as possible the various rituals and routines that are part of your OCD symptoms. These may consist in mental routines (counting, adding), in special ways of washing oneself or cleaning objects, in hoarding objects, checking locks and car doors, etc. Although there are many clinical studies of OCD symptoms, the description of people's rituals is often very vague. It is important for researchers to understand exactly how these rituals are organized. All this information is treated as anonymous confidential.

If you are interested in helping with this, all you have to do is answer a short questionnaire on the web, at this address: http://artsci.wustl.edu/~pboyer/RitualQuestForm.html 

For further information, you can contact Dr. Pascal Boyer at pboyer@wustl.edu.

P Boyer, Dept of Psychology, Washington University in St. Louis

Posted: May 7, 2009

Neuroimaging Study of OCD at Stanford, California

We are seeking subjects with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder to participate in a research study of brain activity in OCD. The study is at Stanford University Medical Center and pays $50 for a single MRI of the brain.

Eligibility:
----Right handed men and women ages 18-65 years old
----Have OCD predominantly with contamination / washing concerns
----Free of psychiatric medications, except for anti-depressants
----No history of neurological disorders (i.e. seizure, head trauma)
----No implanted metal in your body or tattoos near your head

If you are interested in participating in this study, please call Dr. White at (650) 725-5598 or email mpwhite@stanford.edu. All calls are confidential. For general information regarding rights of research participants at Stanford , please call (650) 723-2641 or toll-free 1-866-680-2906. Thank you.

Posted: March 31, 2009

Do You or Does Your Child Have OCD?

Open-Label Exploratory Investigation of D-Cycloserine Augmentation to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with Exposure and Response Prevention for Adults and Adolescents Diagnosed with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder - A Feasibility Study
Principal Investigators: Moira Rynn, M.D.; Blair Simpson, M.D., Ph.D.
NYSPI IRB Protocol: #5828
Diagnostic Groups: Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Age Range: 12-65 (inclusive)
Gender: Male and Female
Language Requirements: English-speaking only
Inclusion Criteria:
  • Able to understand and follow study procedures
  • Adolescents and adults ages of 12-65 who are in good physical health
  • All sexually active participants of childbearing potential who are using a medically acceptable form of birth control
    • If receiving SRI medication, participants should already be on it for at least 12 weeks
    • If receiving other psychotropic medication, participants should already be on it for at least 4 weeks
Exclusion Criteria:
  • Medical conditions that would conflict with participation
  • Psychiatric disorders or symptoms that would conflict with participation
  • Receiving psychotherapy
  • Females who are pregnant or nursing, or who plan to become pregnant
Brief Summary of Study Procedures:
The purpose of this research study is to see if a medication called D-Cycloserine (DCS) is safe and helpful to enhance the outcome of cognitive behavioral therapy with exposure and response prevention (E/RP therapy) for adolescents and adults with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). The study will last up to 7 weeks, and will consist of a screening period of up to two weeks and a treatment period of up to 5 weeks that consists of twice weekly 60-minute E/RP sessions. Patients may receive up to 50 mg of DCS after some of the E/RP sessions.
Study Recruitment Ending Date: Ongoing
Contact Information: Telephone: (212) 543-0266

New York State Psychiatric Institute (NYSPI) at 1051 Riverside Drive, New York, NY 10032

Posted: February 25, 2009

Screening Tools for Early Detection of Anxiety Disorders

Are you the parent of a 6-8 year old who has been diagnosed with OCD? If so, your child may be eligible to participate in a research study at the Infant Cognition Lab at UMass Boston. We are investigating the visual and cognitive processes of children with and without OCD as well as children at risk for OCD.

If you decide to take part in this study, your child will watch short cartoons on a computer screen while we monitor what your child pays attention to. Afterwards, we ask that you fill out a few questionnaires. The entire study will only take about 45-60 minutes and we are offering $25 and a small gift for your child as a thank you for your time.

For more information about this research study , please contact Uchenna Eneh at the Infant Cognition Lab at (617) 287-6363.

Posted: January 27, 2009

Trial of Paliperidone Addition in SRI-Resistant OCD

Have you been diagnosed with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and not responded to past medication or counseling treatment? If so, you may be eligible for a study at the University of South Florida examining if adding a medication called Paliperidone helps reduce your OCD symptoms.

To be eligible, you must be at least 18 years old and have problematic OCD symptoms despite having tried at least two OCD medications. If you participate in this study, you will be randomly assigned, that is by chance as in the "flip of a coin," to receive either the study medication (Paliperidone) or a sugar pill in addition to the medication you are currently taking. There will also be eight psychiatric evaluations that take place. Study medication and the evaluations will be provided at no charge. Participants will al so receive financial compensation for their time.

If interested, please call Dr. Jane Mutch at (727) 767-8230 or email rothmanctr@health.usf.edu.

Posted: December 3, 2008

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Genetics Study

Six academic institutions across the U.S. have joined together to examine the relationship between genetics and OCD. Recent advances in molecular biology and statistical genetics make it possible to identify and describe specific genes involved in complex illnesses such as OCD.

If you have been diagnosed with OCD, and have two living parents who may be available to participate in the study, you may be eligible. Participation includes a confidential interview for you, and a blood sample from you and your parents. The interview and blood draw will be scheduled at a time and location convenient for you. Compensation is available.

Your Help Counts!!

Contact information for all sites is provided below; if you are unsure of the closest participating site, please contact Johns Hopkins University.

Posted: November 6, 2008

Study on Sensory Symptoms in Tourette Syndrome

Dr. Neal Swerdlow is trying to understand the neurological basis for Tourette symptoms. Participants will take part in a research study that examines blink responses to sound. Participants will come in one time to the lab for approximately 3 hours. A psychiatric evaluation is performed; personality questionnaires are asked. Participants need to answer a few questions to set up an appointment. Parents of participants under the age of 18 need to call and answer a few questions about their child to set up an appointment.

We are looking for males and females between the ages of 10 and 65 with a primary diagnosis of Tourette Syndrome. Participants can receive up to $40 for their time.

For more information contact:

Ashley Sutherland Owens
UCSD Medical Center, Hillcrest
San Diego, CA
Phone: (619) 543-7840
Email: ansutherland@ucsd.edu

Posted: October 23, 2008

Study Exploring Nutritionally-Based Interventions for Non-Medicated Children with OCD

We are conducting a research study exploring the use of omega-3 fatty acids and/or B vitamins in children who have obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). This is exciting research that may lead to a better understanding of nutritionally-based interventions for children who are affected by OCD. Your participation is greatly appreciated!

Participation criteria includes the following:
  • Children between the ages of 6 and 17 years old
  • Primary diagnosis of OCD
  • Not currently, or within the past three months, on an SSRI or other medication for OCD
  • Not currently, or within the past three months, taking complementary or alternative substances for OCD, such as inositol, omega-3 fatty acids, fish oil, 5-HTP, Valerian root, B vitamins, etc.
  • Willingness to remain medication-free for the duration of the study (1-2 months)
  • Willingness to not start, change, or discontinue current form of therapy
  • Ability to swallow large 1" capsules
Exclusions:
  • Known allergies to fish or shellfish
  • Individuals on blood thinning medication

If your child meets the eligibility criteria and is interested in participating in this research, please notify Lisa M. Bordeleau, Principal Investigator, at n3ocdresearch@aol.com. Also, feel free to contact Ms. Bordeleau if you have any questions about the study.

Posted: October 2, 2008

Does Your Child Need to Do Things Over and Over Again?

Does he or she have recurrent and bothersome thoughts or images? Does your child repeatedly check or arrange things, have to wash his/her hands repeatedly, or maintain a particular order? Do unpleasant thoughts repeatedly enter your child's mind such as concerns with germs or dirt or needing to arrange things just so?

If this sounds familiar, your child may have a treatable problem called Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Past research has found that a form of cognitive therapy, called Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy, is helpful in as many as 85% of children with OCD. We are interested in determining if adding a medication called D-Cycloserine improves the effectiveness of Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy in children with OCD.

You must be between the ages of 8 and 17 years old to be eligible for this study. If you are eligible, you will be randomly assigned, that is by chance as in the "flip of a coin," to receive either the study medication (D-Cycloserine) or a sugar pill in addition to being seen in therapy. The therapy will be held weekly (90 minutes each session) for 8 weeks. There will also be 3 psychiatric evaluations that take place. Study medication, treatment, laboratory tests, and the evaluations will be provided at nocharge. Participants will also receive financial compensation for their time. If interested, please call Dr. Eric Storch of the University of South Florida at (727) 767-8230.

Posted: September 25, 2008

Online Survey on the Sleep Habits of Children

Surprisingly little is known about the typical sleep habits of children, although it has been shown that disturbed sleep behavior may exacerbate already existing problems in children. Dr. Richard Frye at the Health Science Center at Houston is inviting parents and caregivers of children to complete an online survey about their child's sleep habits. Parents are welcome to complete the survey for each child, whether or not the child has a diagnosis, and all diagnoses are welcome. This survey will help us better understand typical sleep behavior in children, and the information gathered will be invaluable in helping diagnose sleep disorders in children, and guide parents in regards to normal childhood sleep behavior.

The survey can be found here: http://www.surveymethods.com/EndUser.aspx?B195F9E1B2F3EDE3

 If you have any questions, please contact Laura deSouza at Laura.deSouza@uth.tmc.edu or (713) 500-3236.

Posted: August 8, 2008

Maximizing Treatment Outcome in OCD

Principal Investigator: Dr. H. Blair Simpson (Columbia University-New York State Psychiatric Institute)/ Dr. Edna Foa (University of Pennsylvania)

To schedule a confidential screening, contact:

New York Metropolitan area: Dr. James Bender Jr. (212) 543-5462 or Rena Staub (212) 543-5380.

Philadelphia: Center for the Treatment and Study of Anxiety (215) 746-3327

Overview of Study:

This study compares the effectiveness of two proven treatment strategies for OCD patients who are currently on a serotonin reuptake inhibitor medication (SRI, i.e., clomipramine, fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, paroxetine, sertraline, citalopram, or escitalopram) but still have residual symptoms. Participants remain on their current medication and receive either cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) consisting of exposure and ritual prevention or an additional medication (risperidone).

The goal of the study is to compare risperidone against cognitive-behavioral therapy as add-on treatments, each of which has been found effective in prior studies. All treatment is at no charge. Note: Patients who do not improve after 8.5 weeks of treatment will be offered at no-cost the treatment they did not initially receive (either the therapy or the add-on medication).

Key Eligibility Criteria:
  • 18-70 years; both genders
Key Inclusion Criteria:
  • OCD is the primary problem
  • On a stable dose of a serotonin reuptake inhibitor medication
Key Exclusion Criteria:
  • Medical or psychiatric conditions that would make study participation hazardous
  • Patients who have already had an adequate trial of these augmentation strategies while on a serotonin reuptake inhibitor
Who is this study for?

OCD patients on medications who still have bothersome symptoms and who have not previously received an adequate trial of these proven add-on strategies.

For more information about this study, please visit www.ocdproject.org

Posted: May 8, 2008

MRI Study of Repetitive Behaviors At The Pediatric Brain Imaging Lab at the New York State Psychiatric

Has your child been diagnosed with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder? If so, and your child is between the ages of 4 and 13, you and your child may be eligible to participate in a 5-year researchstudy that uses MRI to learn more about repetitive behaviors in childhood. Participation in our study will include annual visits over a 5-year period. Each study visit will require 6-7 hours of your time and include interviews, games and puzzles, and an MRI to take pictures of your child’s brain.

This is not a treatment study. Children will receive compensation for their time. For more information please call 212-543-6072 or email MRISTUDY@childpsych.columbia.edu. All calls will be kept confidential.

Posted: April 28, 2008

OCD and Hoarding Neuroimaging and Neuropsychology Studies

The Anxiety Disorders Center at the Institute of Living/Hartford Hospital is conducting studies of people with either obsessive compulsive disorder or compulsive hoarding including a neuroimaging (brain scan) study and a study examining problem solving abilities. Participants will receive $20 per hour. The studies are open to adults aged 18 to 65 who meet study criteria.

For more information please call (860) 545-7039 or email the Anxiety Disorders Center at adcresearch@harthosp.org

Posted: April 8, 2008

Neurobiology Of Obsessive Compulsive Spectrum Disorders

Dr. Sanjaya Saxena, Director of the UCSD Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders Program, is conducting a research study to identify abnormalities of brain structure and brain function in individuals with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and related disorders, including Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) and Compulsive Hoarding, and to determine how brain function changes with effective treatment of these disorders. This study is sponsored by the National Institute of Mental Health. Study participants will receive:

  • Brain imaging, which is a way of taking pictures of brain structure and function through techniques called positron emission tomography (PET) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI).
  • 12 weeks of free treatment with an FDAapproved medication (no placebos).
  • Neuropsychological testing, which includes testing of your attention, memory, thinking, and decision-making, before and after treatment.

To participate, you must either live in or near San Diego, or be able to travel easily to our center for all procedures and treatment appointments. Participants must meet the inclusion criteria for this study.

Individuals will be excluded from participation if they:

  • Are currently taking medications that affect brain function, such as antidepressants, anti-anxiety drugs, antipsychotics, etc.
  • Have bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), panic disorder, autism, mental retardation, or an eating disorder.
  • Have a neurological disorder, such as epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, stroke, traumatic brain injury, or dementia.
  • Have a history of chronic alcohol or substance use.
  • Weigh over 280 pounds.

There is NO monetary compensation for this study. If interested, please contact Dr. Jennifer Sumner at 858-534-8056.

Posted: January 17, 2008

Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) Research Studiesfor Adults, Adolescents, and Children

  • Are you an adult, adolescent, or child who dislikes the way any part(s) of your body (for example, your skin, hair, nose, eyes) look?
  • Do you think about your appearance for more than one hour per day?
  • Do you engage in any behaviors intended to check on, hide, or fix your appearance (for example, mirror checking, comparing yourself to others, excessive grooming, skin picking, or clothes changing)?
  • Do you avoid any places, people or activities because of your appearance concerns (for example, do you avoid bright lights, mirrors, dating, or parties)?
  • Do your appearance-related thoughts or behaviors cause you a lot of anxiety, sadness, or shame?
  • Do you have problems with your work, school, family, or relationships because of your appearance concerns?

If you answered any of these questions with 'yes', you might be eligible to participate in medication studies for qualifying children, adolescents, and adults. These studies are being done at: Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School in Boston, Massachusetts, and at Butler Hospital/Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island.

Our study for children and adolescents is also being done at Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York City.

These studies are being directed by Drs. Katharine Phillips, Sabine Wilhelm, and Eric Hollander, who are leading experts on the treatment of BDD.

If you qualify, you will receive the following:
Diagnostic Evaluation at no cost
Study Medication at no cost

You will also be asked to fill out some questionnaires assessing body image symptoms, anxiety, mood and other symptoms. The study medication will be provided at no cost to you.

If you are interested in participating in these studies and live within driving distance of these sites or would like further information, please call The BDD and Body Image Program at Butler Hospital/Brown University, located in Providence, RI at (401) 455-6466 or email bdd@butler.org.

Or please contact the Body Dysmorphic Disorder Clinic at Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School, located in Boston at (617) 643-4779, or email BDD@partners.org.

If you live in the New York City area and are interested in the study for children and adolescents please contact the Mount Sinai School of Medicine at (212) 241-3116, or email holly.hamilton@mssm.edu.

Posted: November 6, 2007

Does Your Teenager Have An Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)?

Signs of obsessive compulsive disorder include:

  • Having unwanted ideas, impulses or images that run through their mind over and over again that could make them feel nervous and afraid.
  • Doing certain behaviours over and over again to get rid of the fear or thoughts that are making him or her uncomfortable.

We all have habits and routines in our daily lives. However, people with OCD have patterns or routines that significantly get in the way of their daily lives.

If your child's day to day life is affected by these symbtoms, OCD may be the cause. New York State Psychiatric Institute/Columbia University is looking for research volunteers (age of 12 to 17) to help find possible treatments for adolescents suffering from OCD. Your child may be eligible for a research study, which may include a clinical evaluation, medical tests, physical exam and research medication. These services are provided at no cost to you.

For more information, please call Moira Rynn, M.D. at (212) 543-4506.

Posted: September 18, 2007

OCD Sibling/Twin Study

 Research Study at the National Institute of Mental Health looking for sibling pairs up to age 65 where one sibling has been diagnosed with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) prior to age 18 and looking for identical twin pairs up to age 65 where either one or both twins have been diagnosed with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) prior to age 18.

This is a brain-imaging study using Magnetic Resonance Imaging (no radiation) in Bethesda, MD. Child Psychiatry Branch, National Institute of Mental Health National Institutes of Heath Department of Health and Human Services.

Travel expenses and accommodations paid in full.

Please Contact: Wendy Sharp, MSW, at (301) 496-0851 or (888) 254-3823, or write to sharpw@mail.nih.gov.

Posted: August 27, 2007

Family Genetic Study of Tourette Syndrome (TS), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

Weare conducting a research study that focuses on families affected by Tourette Syndrome (TS), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and/or Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). We are looking for common behavioral traits,  such as attentional difficulties and impulsivity, which may be shared by these conditions. If found, we want to determine whether these traits are heritable, that is, can be passed down from parents to children. We hope that the information we learn will eventually help researchers to develop better treatments for these conditions.

We are enrolling families in which there is at least one child between 6 to 21 years old who has TS, ADHD and/or OCD, or any combination of these conditions. We would like the whole family (both parents, brothers and sisters) to participate. Subjects will complete interviews, questionnaires and assessments examining areas such as attention, impulsivity, problem-solving, visual-spatial skills and sensory sensitivity. We will also collect a blood or saliva sample for DNA testing. Study participation is strictly voluntary and may require 3-6 hours per person for the completion of all study tasks. Study visits can be at MGH or in your own home. Families coming to MGH will have parking and meal expenses paid for them. Upon completion of all study tasks, families will be paid $100 for their participation.

If your family meets these criteria and you are interested in learning more about this study, please call the Genetic Family Study at 1-800-471-2730, option 2 or email cillmann@partners.org.  Please visit our website at www.ts-adhd-ocd.org. 

Posted: August 14, 2007

Research Survey About Repetitive Behaviors in Children With OCD

Help us understand more about the repetitive behaviors exhibited by children and adolescents with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)!

The University of Alabama Psychology Department is beginning a new study of repetitive behaviors in children and adolescents with OCD as part of a graduate student dissertation. We are interested in families with children between the ages of 7 and 17 years of age. This study examines repetitive behaviors, social interactions, and fears or worries in children with OCD and will provide valuable information for future research and clinical interventions with families of children with OCD. For example, the results from this project may be applied to developing individual and group interventions for children and adolescents with OCD.

Participation involves completing a 30-minute telephone interview and then filling out an internet-based survey regarding your child’s behavior, which will take approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to complete. You will receive an ID number and password for the internet-based survey and may complete it at your convenience. Once you have completed the survey, you will receive a $5 gift certificate to a major bookstore in your area as a thank you for your time.

If you are interested in participating in this study, please contact Michelle DeRamus, a graduate student supervised by Dr. Laura Klinger, at (205) 348-9312 or by email at repetitivebehaviors@gmail.com for more information.

Posted: August 14, 2007

OCD, BDD, Hoarding Study

The UCSD Obsessive Compulsive Disorders Program is looking for people with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD), and Compulsive Hoarding to take part in a study that is providing:

  1. 12 weeks free medication treatment
  2. Brain imaging scans (PET & MRI)
  3. Diagnostic Evaluation
  4. Neuropsychological Evaluation

For more information call Dr. Jennifer Sumner at (858) 534-8056

Posted: August 14, 2007

Study of Perception in BDD and OCD

Dr. Fugen Neziroglu and Dr. Yaryura-Tobias at the Bio-Behavioral Institute in Great Neck, NY are studying differences in perception between people with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Body Dysmorphic Disorder, and healthy controls, especially with regard to appearance related perception. Greater understanding of perception in these populations could aid in designing therapies that better target the factors that contribute to the disorders. Participation is open to anyone with OCD or BDD, or without any psychiatric diagnosis. Participants need to allow us to photograph them. Participants receive feedback as well as compensation .

Information:  The Bio-Behavioral Institute is located in Great Neck on Long Island, NY.

For more information or to sign up, call and speak with Natalie or Jonathan at (516) 487-7116. Information is also available on our website: http://www.biobehavioralinstitute.com.

Posted: May 25, 2007

Do you suffer from Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder?

Participants Wanted! Research Study on the Effectiveness of Duloxetine (Cymbalta™) In Treating Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Dr. Darin Dougherty of the Massachusetts General Hospital OCD Clinic and Research Unit is conducting a research study on the use of duloxetine (Cymbalta™) to reduce the symptoms associated with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). If you have OCD, you may be eligible to participate in this study. To be eligible you must:

  • be between 18-65 years old.
  • live within 1 hour of Boston.
  • be able to participate for 17 weeks.
  • not be pregnant or breastfeeding.

If you are interested in this study and believe you are eligible, please contact Johanna Thompson-Hollands at (617) 726-9281.

Posted: March 13, 2007

Long-term Follow-Up Family Study of Children at Risk for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

Do you or one of your family members suffer from unwanted thoughts, worries and behaviors that they can't stop? Or, is there someone in your family who has been diagnosed with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)? Is there a child under 9 years old in your family who does not have OCD?

If you answered yes to these questions, we would like to ask you to become a part of a family research study at the Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH).  The purpose of this study is to find the causes of OCD.  Families who take part in this study will receive a psychological evaluation at no cost.  Families will be given feedback about some of the tests given to the children.  We will also want to collect a DNA sample and take a picture (MRI) of your brain.

This study will require 6 hours of your time per year.  Compensation will be provided for you and your family.

If you are interested, please call (617) 643-3074 to get more information.

*This research is financed by the McIngvales' grant to Massachusetts General Hospital.

Posted: December 13, 2006

Aripiprazole Augmentation of Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors
for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

Alexander Bystritsky, M.D., Ph.D., Principal Investigator,
and Jamie Feusner, M.D., Co-investigator
UCLA Neuropsychiatric Institute and Hospital
Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences
300 Medical Plaza, Room 2200
Los Angeles, CA 90024

Serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SRIs) are the first-line medication treatment for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Approximately 43-60% of those treated with SRIs alone will have a response. With such a modest response rate and relatively low average reduction of symptoms (23-43%), additional medications are often needed in the treatment of OCD as most will fall into the categories of either "non-responder" or "partial-responder."

Several studies have shown benefit from adding medications called atypical neuroleptics to SRIs in people with OCD who have not responded to SRIs alone. (Atypical neuroleptics are medications which block the brain chemicals dopamine and serotonin, and include aripiprazole (Abilify™), olanzapine (Zyprexa™), risperidone (Risperdal™), quetiapine (Seroquel™), and ziprasidone (Geodon™)).

In this study we are investigating augmentation of an SRI with the atypical antipsychotic aripiprazole (Abilify™) in a group of OCD patients, whether or not they are "non-responders." This will allow us to determine both the effects of aripiprazole and whether the combination of an atypical antipsychotic and an SRI produces a more robust improvement, in a broader OCD population, than an SRI alone. Such information may significantly impact the standard of clinical care for OCD patients.

Subjects in this study will randomly be assigned to receive either aripiprazole (Abilify™) or placebo in addition to their existing SRI medication for 18 weeks. Subjects will be evaluated every 2 weeks, and doses will be increased as tolerated and as needed. After the 18 weeks subjects will be assisted in finding referrals for continuing their treatment if effective, or finding other forms of treatment. The study medication will be provided free-of-charge, and subjects will be paid for their participation. If you are interested in participating in the study, or finding out more about it, please call: (310) 794-1038.