Internet-based Versus Synchronous Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Patients With Gambling Disorder

Launched by AARHUS UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL · May 16, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is exploring whether an internet-based treatment called "SpilleFri" is as effective as traditional face-to-face cognitive behavioral therapy (sCBT) for adults with Gambling Disorder. The main goal is to see if the online therapy can help reduce gambling problems just as well as in-person sessions. The study will involve 150 participants who will be randomly assigned to either the internet-based program for 12 weeks or the in-person therapy for 18 weeks. Researchers will measure how much each treatment helps by asking participants about their gambling severity and other related issues.

To be part of this trial, participants need to be adults who have a diagnosed gambling disorder and can read and write in Danish. They must also have internet access and basic computer skills. Throughout the study, participants will complete a series of structured modules either online or in-person and answer questionnaires about their gambling and emotional health at various points. Additionally, they can receive extra support sessions with a psychologist if needed. It’s important to note that individuals with severe mental or physical health issues, those at risk of suicide, or those with unstable living situations may not be eligible to participate.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• To be included patients should:
• • fulfil diagnostic criteria for GD (DSM-5).
• • score 4 points or more on the National Opinion Research Centre Screen for Gambling Problems (NODS).
• • be able to read, write, and speak Danish.
• • have IT skills and access to the internet and a computer, smartphone, and/or tablet.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• Patients are excluded from participation if they:
• • present with severe comorbid somatic disease, cognitive deficits, severe trauma, and/or psychiatric disorder (e.g. depression, bipolar disorder, substance abuse, ADHD) that is insufficiently treated at the time of assessment and/or is evaluated to constitute a barrier for engaging in or benefitting from treatment.
• • are not willing to engage in internet-delivered treatment or face-to-face cognitive behavioural therapy.
• • do not provide informed consent.
• • are in risk of suicide (indicated by clear intent and/or plans).
• • have previously received treatment via or had access to the SpilleFri platform.
• • seek treatment as part of an imminent legal case.
• • only fulfil diagnostic criteria for Gambling Disorder in relation to behaviour such as stock trading or buying and selling cryptocurrency.
• • present with highly unstable social circumstances, which are considered to potentially pose a barrier to engaging in treatment (e.g., homelessness).