Randomized trial of the efficacy of trial-based cognitive therapy for obsessive-compulsive disorder: preliminary findings

Trends Psychiatry Psychother. 2023:45:e20210247. doi: 10.47626/2237-6089-2021-0247. Epub 2022 May 25.

Abstract

Introduction: Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is the fourth most prevalent mental disorder and is a disabling condition. OCD is associated with anatomical and functional changes in the brain, in addition to dysfunctional cognitions. The treatments of choice are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and exposure and response prevention (ERP). Trial-based cognitive therapy (TBCT) is a recent and empirically validated psychotherapy with a focus on restructuring dysfunctional negative core beliefs (CBs). The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of TBCT relative to ERP for treatment of OCD.

Method: A randomized, single-blind clinical trial was conducted, randomizing 26 patients for individual treatment with TBCT (n = 12) or ERP (n = 14). The groups were evaluated at baseline, at the end of 3 months (12 sessions), and at 3, 6, and 12-month follow-ups.

Results: Both approaches reduced the severity of symptoms with large effect sizes. These results were maintained at the 12-month follow-up assessment.

Conclusion: TBCT may be a valid and promising treatment for this disorder.

Keywords: Obsessive-compulsive disorder; cognitive-behavioral therapy; exposure and response prevention; randomized clinical trial; trial-based cognitive therapy.

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial

MeSH terms

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy* / methods
  • Combined Modality Therapy
  • Humans
  • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder* / psychology
  • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder* / therapy
  • Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors / therapeutic use
  • Single-Blind Method
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors