Identity-Based Transdiagnostic Therapy (IBTT) for young people with anxiety and depression: A study protocol for a multicenter randomized clinical trial
Year: 2026
Type: preprint
Study design: Study Protocol
Abstract: Background: Youth mental health is a pressing global concern, with depression and anxiety being prevalent disorders. The unique challenges of adolescents and youth are underrepresented in psychotherapy research, and existing transdiagnostic treatments target symptom mechanisms rather than identity processes. In response, we propose a novel treatment modality: Identity-Based Transdiagnostic Therapy (IBTT). This approach utilizes the repertory grid technique with Explore Your Meanings (EYME), a digital tool incorporating an automated interview to elicit the person’s construal about self and others, and a virtual reality (VR) scenario to explore their identity system. Methods: With a two-arm, parallel, assessor-blinded, multicenter, randomized clinical trial (RCT) with a three-month follow-up, we will examine the efficacy of IBTT compared to the Unified Protocol (a validated CBT treatment). To ensure enough statistical power, we target a sample of 128 participants aged 16-29 years to be randomly allocated (ratio 1:1) to receive a maximum of 16 sessions of either intervention. The primary outcome will be the between-group difference in symptom change from baseline to post-treatment and follow-up, as measured by the total score of the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scales (DASS-21). Discussion: Evidence supporting the efficacy of this innovative approach would likely have a substantial impact on clinical practice for young adults and enhance engagement throughout the psychotherapy process.
Source: PsyArXiv (OSF Preprints)
Language: English
Subfield: Experimental and Cognitive Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7212218952