CBT and the Neural Circuits of Anxiety

Summary

This study will aim to test whether specific neural circuitry changes, proposed on the basis of a neurocognitive model of anxiety, are a mechanism of action for Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) interventions. This study aims to provide a theoretical model of the neurobiological mechanisms of CBT's therapeutic effect, where there currently is none, and potentially allow for more targeted/specific approaches to anxiety disorders following the identification of key CBT mechanisms. The ultimate aim is to improve the efficacy of CBT, and more generally, psychological interventions for anxiety disorders.

Eligibility

Inclusion Criteria:

* Enrolled in IAPT Step 3 (high intensity service)
* Score of or above 8 on the GAD-7 (indicating moderate anxiety on a standard scale of anxiety; Spitzer et al., 2006)
* Willing and able to provide written consent

Exclusion Criteria:

* Score above 22 on the GAD-7
* Past/present psychotic disorder, bipolar disorder/mania or alcohol/substance use disorder (outside a comorbid psychiatric episode)
* History of medical illness that may impair cognitive function (e.g. serious head injury, endocrine disorder)
* Current psychotropic pharmacological intervention (e.g. SSRIs) or use within 3 months
* MRI contraindications such as pacemaker, aneurysm clip, cochlear implant, neurostimulator, IUD, shrapnel, metal fragments in eye, weight of above 250lbs or claustrophobia
* Females who are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding

Conditions11

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