Unified Protocol Group Treatment in a University Outpatient Clinic

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF BERGEN · Aug 11, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying a type of group therapy called the Unified Protocol (UP), designed to help people with emotional difficulties like anxiety and depression. The goal is to see how well this therapy works when delivered in a university outpatient clinic, and to understand what helps people improve during treatment. About 140 people will take part in the therapy groups, led by either experienced or newer therapists, and their progress will be compared to a smaller group of 45 people who are not receiving treatment. The study will look at changes in mood, well-being, and how participants manage their emotions, using questionnaires, heart rate measurements, and interviews to get a full picture of their experience.

People who might be eligible are adults between 18 and 40 years old who have been diagnosed with an anxiety disorder or depression and are interested in short-term group therapy. However, those with severe mental health issues like bipolar disorder, active suicidal thoughts, substance problems, or who are already in other psychological treatments may not be eligible. Participants can expect to attend group sessions where they learn skills to better handle their emotions, and they will be asked to complete some surveys and take part in interviews about their experience. This trial is currently recruiting, and anyone interested can find more information through flyers, social media, or local news.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Age 18-40
• • Fulfilling diagnostic criteria for an anxiety disorder and/or unipolar depression (ICD F.3x - 4x)
• • Motivated for short-term treatment in group format
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Suicidality
• • Self-harm
• • Severe psychiatric disorder (bipolar disorder, psychosis)
• • Substance use disorders
• • Use of anxiolytic medication (i.e., benzodiazepines)
• • Unstable antidepressant medication (i.e., stable dosage \<6 months)
• • Other ongoing psychological treatment