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

Online Research Study

Does OCD interfere with your life? Are your primary obsessions and compulsions NOT focused on religion, spirituality, or morality?

If so, and you are 18 years of age or older, have been diagnosed with OCD, and have access to the internet, you are eligible to participate in an anonymous research study.

The study will require you to spend about 20 minutes interacting with an investigational website, and answering questions about your OCD. We are interested in how non-scrupulous OCD (i.e., OCD not related to religion, spirituality, or morality) may relate to or impact your experience of spirituality or religion. No information will be recorded that would permit you to be identified.

To participate in this study, use your computer's browser to go to: http://www.btassessment.com

Lee Baer, Ph.D.
William E. Minichiello, Ed.D.
Jedidiah Siev, M.A.

Posted: June 22, 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 $150 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/s.aspx?sm=QmtdosuOkLMM81_2b7K7xDcw_3d_3d

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

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: 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

Need Help for OCD?

Does this sound like you?
----Thoughts that won’t leave you alone?
----Repeating things over and over again?
----Washing your hands too much?
----Always checking the stove?

If you are currently on a psychiatric medication without full symptom relief and this sounds like you, you may qualify for a medication treatment study for no cost. Participants will receive either an FDA approved medication, a placebo (sugar) pill, or cognitive behavioral therapy. This study is open to men and women ages 18-70. Participation will last for 8-32 weeks.

Call for a free screening: (860) 545-7039 or email: ADCresearch@harthosp.org.

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

Does your child or teenager have Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder?

We are conducting a research study to examine how cognitive-behavioral therapy delivered via videophone works in reducing Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) symptoms in children and adolescents. Past research has found that CBT is helpful for as many as 85% of children with OCD. However, many people do not have access to CBT – therefore, 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. If he/she is eligible to participate in this study, he/she will either receive videophone-CBT right away, or after a 4-week waiting period. This study will involve 14 90-minute sessions of videophone-CBT (twice a week for the first 4 sessions) and 5 psychiatric evaluations of varying lengths.

Study treatment and evaluations will be provided at no charge.

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

Posted: March 19, 2009

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

Sibling Relationships and OCD Study

Anxiety is a Family Affair!

Anxiety disorders are among the most common troubles of children and as many as 8-12% of children are affected. As those with an anxious child know well, childhood anxiety affects everyone in the family. How about siblings? Sibling relationships are the longest in a person's lifetime, and siblings share very special bonds. There is some evidence that sibling relationships are both challenged and supported by the presence of anxiety and that there are many psychological benefits of having a sibling. But in general, siblings have largely been overlooked by research, which focuses instead mostly on parent-child relationships.

Can you help?

Researchers at Williams College Department of Psychology are seeking participants for an interesting survey on sibling relationships and well-being in families in which one child or teen has obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). Your participation will help advance our understanding of how and why siblings are important.
The surveys are for a parent and two siblings: A 30-minute parent survey and a 20-30 minute survey for each of the siblings. Each person would do the survey individually and all surveys are anonymous and confidential.
In appreciation, we will send each family a $10 Target gift card, OR we will make a $10 donation to the OCF (Obsessive Compulsive Foundation). Once the study is complete, it would also be our pleasure to send you a summary of the results.

Am I eligible to participate?

Yes, if your child with the OCD diagnosis is between the ages of 10-18 and has at least one sibling who is also between the ages of 10 and 18. The sibling can be a whole-, half-, or step-sibling with whom the child with OCD has lived for at least one year.

I would like to participate. How do I start?

Families can do the surveys either online at our secure website OR by mail at your earliest convenience.
Online option: The parent should simply go to the following link to learn more about the study and to get started: https://www.psychdata.com/s.asp?SID=127911.
Mail in option: Just email us at Ryan.J.Jacoby@williams.edu with your address, and we will send you the surveys with a self-addressed stamped envelope to send them back to us.

For more information, contact:

Dr. Laurie Heatherington, Department of Psychology, Williams College at (413) 597-2442, Laurie.heatherington@williams.edu or Ryan Jacoby at (617) 775-5146, Ryan.J.Jacoby@williams.edu.

Posted: February 9, 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 also 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.

• Johns Hopkins University (Baltimore, MD): Krista Vermillion, at (410) 923-2918, or kvermil1@jhmi.edu.
• Brown Medical School (Providence, RI): Nicole C. McLaughlin, PhD, at (401) 455-6608, or nmclaughlin@butler.org.
• Columbia University (New York, NY): Katie Buchholz, at (212) 543-5364, or cuocgas@gmail.com.
• UCLA (Los Angeles, CA): Don Nathanson, at (310) 206-1350 or DONathanson@mednet.ucla.edu.
• Massachusetts General Hospital (Boston, MA): Elizabeth Mancuso, at eamancuso@partners.org.

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 no charge. 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

Imaging the Serotonin System in OCD

Principal Investigator: Dr. H. Blair Simpson

To schedule a confidential screening in the New York Metropolitan area, contact:
Dr. James Bender Jr. (212) 543-5462 or Rena Staub (212) 543-5380.

Overview of Study:

The study examines whether the brain serotonin system is different in patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) than in those without OCD. One of the brain serotonin receptors will be measured using a standard imaging procedure called positron emission tomography (PET). An anatomical picture of the brain using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is also done. Subjects are compensated $500 for their participation and offered three months of OCD treatment at no cost to them.

Eligibility:

18-55 years, both genders

Key Inclusion Criteria:

• OCD is the primary problem.
• Not currently on psychiatric medications.

Key Exclusion Criteria:

Current medical or neurological problem that would make participation hazardous

Who is this study for?

For people with OCD who are not on psychiatric medications and who would like to help us answer the scientific question of whether their brain differs in this way from people without OCD.

Posted: July 1, 2008

Would You Like To Help Understand The Causes Of OCD?

We are looking for people to participate in a study sponsored by the National Institute Of Mental Health.

The study will create a DNA collection from over 2,000 people to permit scientists to search for OCD-related genes. Indentifying genes that contribute to OCD may lead to the development of better treatments for OCD.

You Are Eligible For Participation If:

• You are between the ages of 18 and 60.
• You have been told by a doctor or other health professional that you have obsessions and compulsions.
• Both of your biological parents are alive and might be interested in also helping with the study.

If You Volunteer And Are Eligible:

• You will be interviewed about your personal and family mental health history. Interviews can be completed in your home or at our medical center.
• You and your parents will be asked to give a blood sample for DNA. This can be done in your home or at our medical center.
• Confidentiality is protected for you and your parents.
• Compensation is $75 for a 2-3 hour interview and a blood draw

For More Information:

Please contact us at (212) 543-5364 or CUOCGAS@gmail.com. If emailing, please include a phone number where we can reach you.

Posted: July 1, 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 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

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 Sarah Carlson at The Institute of Living in Hartford, CT at (860) 545-7707.

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.

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.

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.

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 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 Johanna Thompson-Hollands at (617) 726-9281.

Posted: March 13, 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 1-888-HEAL-BDD 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

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