Improving Cognitive Recovery in Multiple Sclerosis

Launched by KING'S COLLEGE LONDON · Mar 10, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying a modified cognitive rehabilitation program called CIRCuiTS, which aims to help people with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) improve their everyday thinking skills. The program has been adapted based on feedback from individuals living with MS to better meet their needs. The trial will involve 24 participants who will either begin the program right away or wait 13 weeks before starting. Over 12 weeks, participants will engage in up to 36 hours of guided sessions to work on strategies for managing tasks they find challenging, all while checking if the program is practical and beneficial for improving their cognitive skills, emotional well-being, and daily living.

To be eligible for this study, participants must be at least 18 years old, have a confirmed diagnosis of MS, and experience cognitive challenges related to their condition. They should be able to communicate in English and have access to a computer for the sessions. Participants who are currently receiving similar therapy, have severe depression, or certain other mental health conditions may not be able to join. The trial's goal is to gather information that could lead to a larger study on the effectiveness of the CIRCuiTS program, ultimately improving the quality of life for those facing cognitive difficulties due to MS.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Participants must have a confirmed diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis (MS), as verified by a healthcare provider.
• • Participants should be in a relatively stable phase of their condition, not experiencing a severe relapse or acute health crisis at the time of the study.
• • Participants must have sufficient cognitive abilities to engage in therapy sessions, meaning they can follow instructions and perform the cognitive tasks required during the remediation program.
• • Participants must be able to effectively communicate in English, both verbally and in writing, to interact with therapists and complete assessments.
• • Participants must be adults aged 18 years or older.
• • Participants should have personal experience with cognitive challenges related to MS, such as problems with memory, attention, or problem-solving.
• • Participants must be willing and able to commit to attending all therapy sessions over the 12-week period, as well as attending assessments and completing any required homework or independent sessions.
• • Participants must provide informed consent, demonstrating that they understand the purpose of the therapy trial and are willing to engage in the course of cognitive remediation.
• • Participants must have access to a computer (laptop or desktop) for at least one hour per week during the treatment period (12 weeks).
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Individuals who are currently receiving cognitive remediation or a similar intervention.
• • Individuals with high levels of depression, indicated by a score greater than 9 on the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9).
• • Individuals with active suicidal ideation, indicated by a score greater than 0 on question 9 of the PHQ-9.
• • Individuals with a diagnosis of a psychotic disorder or bipolar disorder.
• • Physical disabilities that severely limit the individual's ability to attend therapy sessions or engage with the cognitive tasks (whether in-person or online) may lead to exclusion if suitable adaptations cannot be made.