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AI-Assisted 4-Week Psychodynamic Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Via Smartphone for Social Anxiety: A Randomized Pilot Study (STePS-Ai)
Sponsor: Stockholm University
Summary
This pilot study compares two 4-week, smartphone-based treatments for social anxiety: one uses a psychodynamic therapy approach and the other uses a cognitive behavioral therapy approach. Both treatments are guided by an AI assistant rather than a human therapist. The AI assistant is programmed to support participants in reflecting on core therapeutic principles, much like a well-informed coach would. Participants are randomly assigned to one of three groups: psychodynamic therapy with AI support, cognitive behavioral therapy with AI support, or a waitlist control. Those in the waitlist group can receive an active treatment after the 4-week waiting period. All participants complete weekly online questionnaires to monitor anxiety and any changes in mood or well-being.
Official title: Smartphone-Based Treatments for Social Anxiety With Artificial Intelligence Support: A Three-Arm Randomized Controlled Pilot Study Comparing Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Waitlist (STePS-Ai)
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
18 Years - Any
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
90
Start Date
2025-04-21
Completion Date
2026-07-01
Last Updated
2026-04-16
Healthy Volunteers
No
Conditions
Interventions
Ai chatbot
This intervention uses an AI-enabled chatbot within a smartphone app to deliver psychotherapy modules. The chatbot guides participants through the modules by providing reflective prompts, motivational support and automated reminders to enhance engagement. All communication is encrypted to protect privacy.
Locations (1)
Stockholm university
Stockholm, Stockholm County, Sweden