EEG Study on Neurophysiological and Psychological Effects of Ericksonian Hypnotherapy in Generalized Anxiety Disorder

Launched by USKUDAR UNIVERSITY · Jan 31, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is looking at how Ericksonian hypnotherapy can help people with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD). Researchers want to see if this type of therapy can change brain activity and reduce anxiety symptoms. They will use a method called electroencephalography (EEG) to measure changes in brain function before and after the therapy. The study will involve 60 participants from psychiatric clinics in Istanbul, who will either receive 12 sessions of hypnotherapy over 12 weeks or no treatment at all.

To be part of this study, participants need to be between 18 and 65 years old and have a diagnosis of GAD. They should also be fluent in Turkish and not currently receiving any other treatments for anxiety. Throughout the study, participants will be assessed on their anxiety levels and emotional well-being using various questionnaires. The goal is to gather scientific evidence on how effective Ericksonian hypnotherapy can be as an additional treatment for anxiety and to understand its effects on both the mind and the brain.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Diagnosis of Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) based on DSM-5 criteria
• • Aged 18-65 years
• • Capable of providing written informed consent
• • Fluent in Turkish (for hypnosis and assessments)
• • Not currently receiving psychotherapy or pharmacological treatment for anxiety
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Presence of comorbid psychiatric disorders (e.g., schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, major depression requiring immediate intervention)
• • History of neurological conditions (e.g., epilepsy, traumatic brain injury, stroke)
• • Current use of medications affecting EEG activity (e.g., benzodiazepines, SSRIs, antipsychotics)
• • Previous experience with hypnotherapy (to avoid expectancy bias)
• • Substance abuse or dependence within the last six months
• • Pregnancy or breastfeeding
• • Severe medical conditions that may interfere with participation