Maximizing Treatment Outcome in OCD (IRB# 5188)

Principal Investigator: Dr. H. Blair Simpson

To schedule a confidential screening, contact:

Jose Hernandez #212-543-5367 or Jessica McCarthy #212-543-5380

Overview of Study:

This study compares the effectiveness of two proven treatment strategies for OCD patients who are currently on a serotonin reuptake inhibitor (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 is to compare these two augmentation strategies, 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 CBT 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

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 augmentation strategies.

Posted: May 8, 2008

Graduate Research Study: Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and the Role Support Groups Play

Reason for the Study

I have an uncle who was diagnosed with OCD about seven years ago. When he informed me he that had OCD and was receiving medical help, I had no idea what OCD was or what he was dealing with! It is because of the struggles I have seen him go through that I have decided to become a supportive family member and be there for him as he may need me. The purpose of this study is to learn as much as I can about OCD so I can help him find new ways and methods to help make his life easier. Through talking with many people who have OCD and through my research, I have discovered that OCD is a daily battle over which people have no control. Each day is a challenge and although some days may be easier than others, this is a battle many have to deal with for the rest of their lives. After attending the OC Foundation conference last summer, I learned that social support is a communication method many people with OCD turn to.

How You Can Help

I need to interview people who have OCD and fit in one of the following categories:

1. People who are participants of a face-to-face support group.
2. People who are participants of an online support group.
3. People who are not participants of any type of support group
.

All questions will be based on your experiences with OCD and your views on support groups in general. Interviews will be recorded in order for me to transcribe them for my study. Your name and identity will remain anonymous at all times. You only have to give information that you feel comfortable giving. There are no right or wrong answers to any of the questions; I just want to hear how you feel and learn from you and your experiences!

If you are interested, please contact:
Allison Davis
Graduate Student
The University of Texas at Arlington
Email: allisondavis11@gmail.com
Phone: 972-841-2433

Posted: May 8, 2008

OCD Study: Compulsivity vs. Impulsivity

Do you suffer from Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) or another anxiety disorder?

Do you live in the N.Y. area?

Researchers at Fordham University are conducting a study of OCD involving the underlying neurobiology of compulsivity and impulsivity. In order to participate:

• you must have an anxiety disorder
• you must be between 18 and 70 years of age

By increasing our knowledge of neuropsychological functioning and decision making processes in OCD, researchers may be able to improve future treatment of the disorder. By participating, you can make a difference. The study takes approximately two hours. Participants take part in an interview, fill out several brief self-report questionnaires, and complete several simple tasks.

Participants receive two free movie tickets as a thank you; and are entitled to a free feedback session.

For your convenience, sessions will take place at two New York locations. You can choose either:

Western Suffolk Psychological Services
775 New York Ave. Suite 200, Huntington, NY 11743
or
Institute for Cognitive Behavior Therapy & Research
333 Westchester Avenue, White Plains, NY 10605

If you have questions or would like to participate, please contact Patricia Gruner, M.A. at 631-745-7972 or write to pgruner2@aol.com.

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 research study 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

Monitoring Daily Experiences
Participant Recruitment Advertisement

• Do you have Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)?
• Are some days better than others?
• Do you want to help increase knowledge of factors that make symptoms worse and better?
• Do you want to contribute to science without leaving your own home?

If you answered YES to these questions, you may be eligible for a research study conducted by researchers at Binghamton University (State University of NY at Binghamton) in Binghamton, NY. The purpose of the study is to examine the daily occurrence of OCD symptoms and life events. Participants must be at least 18 years of age and fluent in spoken and written English.

Participation entails completion of self-report questionnaires for about 15 minutes on two occasions and a 1.5-2 hour telephone interview about anxiety, mood, and other psychological experiences. Eligible participants will be asked to complete a checklist of the life events they experience and answer a few questions about their OCD symptoms and their mood, twice a day for 4 weeks. These activities should take no more than 10 minutes a day. Participants will be paid $40 and will be entered in a drawing to win one of three gift certificates worth $250, $100, and $50.

If you are interested in helping us better understand experiences that lead to increases or decreases in OCD symptoms, or would like more information, please call Ashley Pietrefesa, M.A., at 607-777-5006.

Posted: April 8, 2008

OCD Study At Boston University and Hartford Hospital

The Institute of Living in Hartford, CT, and The Boston University School of Social Work are conducting research to understand the features of obsessive compulsive disorder and compulsive hoarding. The study compares people with hoarding problems to those who have obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). It is not necessary for those participants with OCD to have hoarding problems or clutter to participate. The researchers hope to learn more about why hoarding and obsessive compulsive symptoms develop, how these problems are related to other psychiatric disorders and how best to assess these problems. This information may be helpful for identifying effective treatments in the future.

Researchers are looking for people age 18 or older who have:

1. problems with excessive clutter or
2. obsessive compulsive disorder and,
3. live within forty minutes of the greater Hartford or Boston areas.

The study consists of an interview which can last about 4-6 hours and includes a diagnostic assessment about anxiety and mood symptoms and questions about clutter and acquiring. These interviews take place at the clinics and can be done on different days. Additionally, the study will include a 1-hour visit to the participant’s home where the interviewer will take pictures of each room and the participant will answer questions about their home. Participants will be paid $20/hr for their time and can make up to $160.

Participants will also have a chance to take part in two other studies: an experimental task about removing clutter from their home, and another task about acquiring new items.

If you are interested in participating and have any questions, please contact Jessica Rasmussen, B.A. at Boston University at (617) 358-4213 or (617) 353-9610, or Kolette Ring, B.A. at The Institute of Living in Hartford, CT at (860) 545-7917.

Posted: April 8, 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 $15 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

Treatment for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder:
Important Study Announcement

The Anxiety Disorders Center at Hartford Hospital/Institute of Living is conducting research on new ways to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder. Participants in the ongoing studies will receive free cognitive-behavioral therapy, one of the most effective treatments for obsessive-compulsive disorder.

For more information please call 860-545-7039 or visit us on the web: www.instituteofliving.org/ADC

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.

Skin Picking Study: University of Minnesota

Do you pick your skin? Is it causing problems? Does it feel out of control? Seeking volunteers for a drug study for skin picking. Must be at least 18 years old. This study is confidential and free. Please email or call if you would like more information.

Participation requires seven visits to our Minneapolis, Minnesota center. If you live outside of the area, participation would not be possible.

Please contact:

Posted: November 8, 2007.

Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) Research Studies
for 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.

OCD Study At Boston University

The Institute of Living in Hartford, CT, and The Boston University School of Social Work are conducting research to understand the features of obsessive compulsive disorder and compulsive hoarding. The study compares people with hoarding problems to those who have obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). It is not necessary for participants to have hoarding problems or clutter to participate. The researchers hope to learn more about why hoarding and obsessive compulsive symptoms develop, how these problems are related to other psychiatric disorders and how best to assess these problems. This information may be helpful for identifying effective treatments in the future.

Researchers are looking for people age 30 or older who have:

1. problems with excessive clutter or
2. obsessive compulsive disorder and,
3. live within forty minutes of the greater Hartford or Boston areas.

The study consists of a 4-hour diagnostic interview about anxiety and mood symptoms followed by a 4-hour interview about clutter and acquiring. These interviews take place at the clinics.

Additionally, the study will include a 1- hour visit to the participant’s home where the participant will take part in an experimental task about removing clutter and another task about acquiring new items. Participants will also have a chance to take part in a discarding and acquisition task. Participants will be paid $20/hr for their time and can make up to $180.

If you are interested in participating and have any questions, please contact Jessica Rasmussen, B.A. at Boston University at (617) 358-4213 or (617) 353-9610, or Kristin Fitch, B.A. at The Institute of Living in Hartford, CT at (860) 545-7574.

Posted: August 27, 2007.

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

We are 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.

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 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.

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: August 14, 2007.

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: 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.

Participants Wanted: Understanding How The Brain Causes OCD

A collaborative research study between the Departments of Radiology and Psychiatry is currently underway at Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, to understand the molecular underpinnings of OCD. It is hoped that a greater understanding of the mechanisms of OCD will improve diagnosis and treatment of this disorder.

Participation is open to anyone between the ages of 18-50 with OCD, or with intrusive thoughts and/or compulsions, or without a psychiatric diagnosis. If eligibility criteria are met, participants will receive a visit with a clinical psychiatrist, a head MRI, and a PET scan of their brain at no charge. Monetary compensation will be provided for your time spent participating.

For more information, please call Renee Grice or Dr. Justin Frederick between 8am-5pm (EST) M-F at 336.716.7461 or email Dr. Frederick at jfrederi@wfubmc.edu

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 study will begin in June/July. 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.bio-behavioral.com/home.asp

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 Mariko Jameson at (617) 726-9281.

Posted: March 13, 2007

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

Do you have thoughts or fears that don't make sense but still make you feel bad?

Do you have to check or do things over and over again?

Do you wash excessively or avoid touching things for fear of contamination?

If so, you may have a psychiatric condition called Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). The UCLA OCD Research Program is looking for people with OCD to take part in a study that is providing free:

*Diagnostic Evaluation
*4 weeks Intensive Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy
*MRI/MRSI Brain Scans

Neurocognitive Testing Participation Requirements include:
Aged 18-65 and English speaking.

For more information, call and ask about the MRI/CBT study (310) 443 0031 ext.7 Study conducted by Joseph O'Neill, Ph.D., Eda Gorbis, Ph.D., Jamie Feusner, M.D., Jenny C. Yip, Psy.D., and Susanna Chang, Ph.D. UCLA OCD Research Program Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior at UCLA UCLA IRB #02-07-025-11

Post date: March 9, 2007

Expiration date: July 5, 2007

Appearance Concerns Medication Research Study

• Are you worried about 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 these thoughts upset you?
• Do you have problems with your school, family, or friends because of your worries?
• Do you wish you could do something about this problem?

If you are a child or teenager (age 16 and younger) and answered yes to any of these questions, you might be eligible to participate in a study at the Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH). If you qualify, you will receive a Diagnostic Evaluation and Study Medication

You will also be asked to fill out some questionnaires assessing body image symptoms, anxiety and mood.  Participation in the study will be at no cost to you. If you are interested in participating, or would like to get further information, please call the Body Dysmorphic Disorder Clinic at the Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) at (617) 643-3079 or email BDD@partners.org

Posted: March 9, 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

Treatment for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Anxiety Disorders Center
Institute of Living/Hartford Hospital
200 Retreat Avenue
Hartford, CT 06106

The Anxiety Disorders Center at Hartford Hospital/Institute of Living is conducting research on new ways to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder. The study is open to adults aged 18-65 who have obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Participants in the ongoing studies will receive free cognitive-behavioral therapy, one of the most effective treatments for obsessive-compulsive disorder.

People who are not currently taking medications for obsessive-compulsive disorder may be eligible for a study on cognitive-behavior therapy in combination with an experimental medication.

People who are currently on medications for obsessive-compulsive disorder may be eligible to participate in a study of cognitive-behavioral therapy using “stepped care” - a model of treatment which begins with less intensive therapy and moves to more intensive therapy for those who have not yet received maximum benefit.

For more information please call Sarah Carlson at 860-545-7707
or visit us on the web: www.instituteofliving.org/ADC/index.htm

Posted: October 16, 2006

Study Seeks Families with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Gerald Nestadt, M.D. M.P.H.
The Johns Hopkins University
School of Medicine
Department of Psychiatry
600 N. Wolfe Street, Meyer 4-181
Baltimore, MD 21287

Families with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder are invited to help scientists learn more about the causes of OCD. Recent advances in molecular biology and statistical genetics make it possible to identify and describe specific genes that may cause complex diseases such as OCD. We are seeking families with OCD to help us conduct these studies.

You Can Help!
If at least two members of your family are diagnosed with OCD or exhibit symptoms, your family might be eligible for this nationwide study. Participation includes a confidential interview and a blood sample. The interview will be scheduled at a time and place convenient for the participant. Participants will be compensated.

Your Help Counts!
Each participant’s help is vital and DOES make a difference. Families may be referred by a clinician or may contact us. Krista Vermillion (410) 426-4822 or Dr. Jack Samuels at jacks@jhmi.edu

Read Information Sheet

Posted: October 6, 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.

Posted: September 13, 2006

Namenda (Memantine HCl) for the Treatment of OCD and GAD

UCLA Neuropsychiatric Institute and Hospital
Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences
300 Medical Plaza, Room 2200
Los Angeles, CA 90024

The goal of the study is to evaluate how a new drug with an innovative mechanism of action (decreasing glutamate in the brain) affects anxiety. We offer to participants a free research evaluation of anxiety. This study is 12 weeks and includes 5 visits. The first 4 visits occur every other week and the final visit occurs one month thereafter. Namenda is dispensed at Visit 1 and titrated to a maximum daily dose of 20mg by Visit 3. Compensation is $15/visit and UCLA parking vouchers will be provided. Namenda is an FDA approved medication, but not for the treatment of GAD. If you are interested in participating in the study, or finding out more about it, please call: (310) 794-1038.

Posted: September 13, 2006

New Hoarding Therapy Group

Are you not able to part with anything, including the most useless junk, telling yourself, "I might need it someday?"

Does your home resemble a warehouse?

Have you pretty much given up hope in obtaining help for your problem?

Are you really motivated to do something about your hoarding?

A Hoarding Therapy Group provides both support and treatment. Individualized treatment plans are tailored to the needs and capabilities of each participant; de-hoarding assignments are manageable. Feelings relevant to the hoarding experience are explored. Guest speakers will be periodically scheduled.

For further information, contact Stacie Lewis, LCSW, at (212) 568-9570 (Manhattan, NYC location).

Posted: August 26, 2006

Deciding Between Right And Wrong:
A Study on Moral Intuitions/Moral Reasoning

What is your moral sense? Researchers at Harvard University are interested in how people decide between right and wrong. Your participation is very important to this project. If you wish to participage or wish to learn more, please log on to:

moral.wjh.harvard.edu/index.html

Posted: August 26, 2006

OCD Research at the U.S.-Mexico Border

The College of Health Sciences at the University of Texas at El Paso is conducting research about OCD in relation to culture and ethnicity.

Are you?

• Suffering OCD (diagnosed or not).
• Of Mexican or Mexican-American background.
• Over age 18.
• Living in the El Paso, TX - Ciudad Juarez, Chih. (Mexico) border area.

We have a one-time confidential interview that lasts about 40-60 minutes. We will ask you about quality of life, symptoms, availability of treatment, culture, etc. We provide a $25 gift certificate in compensation for your time.

Contact Oriana Perez (915)747-8317 operez@utep.edu or
Dr. Tom Olson (915) 747-7246 tolson@utep.edu to schedule an interview.

Posted: August 26, 2006

Free Cognitive Behavioral Treatment for Children and Adolescents with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder in the San Francisco Bay Area!

• We are seeking children and adolescents aged 7 to 17 with OCD who have not had cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for OCD before.
• Our study will test a new way to learn and do CBT using technology.
• There is no pay and no charge for the therapy or being in the study.
• If you are interested, please contact
  Margo Thienemann MD: mthiene@stanford.edu or (650) 723-5383
  Sarah Forsberg : sarah523@stanford.edu

For further information regarding questions, concerns, or complaints about research, research related injury, and questions about the rights of research participants, please call (650) 723-5244 or call toll free 1-866-680-2906 or write the Administrative Panel on Human Subjects in Medical Research, Administrative Panels Office, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305-5401.

Posted: August 10, 2006