Patient Research Opportunities

Depression and Memory

6/18/2025

Description (purpose of the study):
The Memory & Aging Lab in the Department of Psychology at UT Austin is conducting a brain MRI study to understand mood and memory changes across the adult lifespan.

Study Procedure:
This study uses brain MRIs to measure the relationship between mood and memory in the brain. We will ask you to come into the lab three times over 2 weeks for no more than 3 hours each time. If you are 65 years of age or older, we will ask you to return for a 4th visit in 2 years for some additional memory assessments and mood and health questions.

Eligibility criteria:
Black, Mexican-American and Non-Hispanic White adults between the ages of 18 to 75 years old without neurological impairments. You do not need to have a diagnosis or symptoms of depression to participate.

What you will get:
We compensate $20 per hour, and we will also compensate $5 for your travel costs for each visit or provide a flat $25 for an Uber/Lyft/Taxi. If you complete all visits, we will compensate you with an additional $100. Free parking is provided if you are driving

Interested?
Contact us by calling512-232-6904 or emailing duartelab@utexas.edu or fill out a screening form.

Study Flyer

Childhood Trauma, Dance Exercise, and Neurocognitive Performance

7/31/2025

Description (purpose of the study):
This study is investigating the effects of acute exercise on cognition in young adults who are at risk for early cognitive decline due to a history of certain adverse childhood experiences (ACEs; here, abuse or neglect as a child). Participants are asked to dance and stretch, complete questionnaires, and undergo neuropsychological testing.

Eligibility criteria for Qualified participants:

• 18-39 years of age
• Have a history of childhood abuse and/or neglect
• Native or fluent English speakers
• Normal or corrected to normal vision and hearing
• Can attend two in-person visits (1.5 hours each) at the Dell Medical School - Health Discovery Building

Qualified participants receive:

• $50 for completion of both visits
• Reimbursement for parking

Contact:

• Complete the screening form to assess potential eligibility
• Email us at lilywang@utexas.edu
• 210-941-7295
• Study Flyer

Paid Research Study on Major Depressive Disorder (AMPA-VEGA Study)

5/20/2026

Description (purpose of the study):
Researchers are conducting a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study evaluating NBI-1065845 as an adjunctive treatment for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). The primary goal of the study is to evaluate whether NBI-1065845 may help delay the relapse of depressive symptoms in participants with MDD who previously showed a stable response during open-label treatment with the medication.

Study Procedure:
Participants will receive either NBI-1065845 or placebo in addition to their current antidepressant medication as part of a randomized and blinded study. The study includes study visits, assessments related to depressive symptoms and monitoring throughout participation.

Eligibility criteria:
You may not be eligible if any of the following apply:

Inclusion

• Ages 18+
• Primary diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
• Currently taking at least one antidepressant medication
• Inadequate response to up to five oral antidepressant medications during the current depressive episode

Additional eligibility criteria may apply.

What you will get:

• Compensation of $130 per completed study visit

Interested?
Contact the study team at gianotti@austin.utexas.edu or 512-495-5374.

Principal Investigator:
Julie Farrington
julie.farrington@austin.utexas.edu

Study Flyer

Paid Research Study on Depression Treatment Response (Sertraline/Zoloft Study)

5/15/2026

Description (purpose of the study):
The Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at The University of Texas at Austin is conducting a research study to identify brain biomarkers and characteristics that may predict individual responses to treatment for major depression with sertraline (Zoloft), a commonly prescribed SSRI antidepressant. The study includes MRI and EEG assessments to better understand treatment response in individuals with chronic or recurrent depression.

Study Procedure:
Participants will complete study visits that include clinical interviews, questionnaires, MRI scans, EEG procedures, and treatment with sertraline (Zoloft). Researchers will assess brain activity and other biomarkers related to depression treatment response.

Eligibility criteria:
You may not be eligible if any of the following apply:

Inclusion

• English is your primary language and you are able to understand study instructions
• Current major depressive episode diagnosed through the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-V (SCID-5)Depression began before age 30 and either:
• Current depressive episode has lasted more than 2 years, or
• You have experienced 2 or more major depressive episodes in your lifetime QIDS depression score greater than 14 at baseline and prior to first sertraline administration
• Willing and able to complete MRI and EEG procedures

Exclusion

• Depression began after age 30 or does not meet chronic/recurrent criteria
• Previous unsuccessful antidepressant treatment during the current depressive episode
• Currently pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Current or prior history of psychosis
• Considered at high risk for Bipolar I, Bipolar II, or related bipolar disorders

What you will get:

• Up to $750 for completing all study protocols

Interested?
Contact the study team at fonzolab@austin.utexas.edu or 512-495-5856.

Principal Investigator:
Dr. Greg Fonzo
gfonzo@austin.utexas.edu

Study Flyer

Paid Research Study on Depression (Alto MDD)

12/18/2025

Description (purpose of the study):
The Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at The University of Texas at Austin is conducting a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled research study of ALTO-300 in adults with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). The study aims to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of ALTO-300 compared to a placebo, with an optional open-label extension.

Study Procedure:
The study includes a screening period of up to 6 weeks, followed by a double-blind randomized treatment period. After completing the double-blind phase, participants may choose to enter an open-label extension and receive ALTO-300 for an additional 8 weeks. The study includes biomarker assessments such as EEG, neurocognitive testing, and activity and sleep monitoring.

Eligibility criteria:
You may not be eligible if any of the following apply:

Inclusion

• Ages 18 to under 71
• Prior diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder
• At Visit 2, taking a stable dose of a single antidepressant (SSRI, SNRI, or bupropion) for more than 6 weeks prior to Visit 1
• Willing and eligible to complete all required biomarker assessments (EEG, neurocognitive testing, activity and sleep monitoring)

Exclusion

• Concurrent use of other psychiatric medications beyond a single stable antidepressant
• Diagnosis of bipolar disorder or significant current PTSD symptoms
• History of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), deep brain stimulation (DBS), vagus nerve stimulation (VNS), or more than two ketamine or esketamine treatments during the current depressive episode
• Use of any other central nervous system investigational medication or device within 12 months of the first study visit or more than one CNS interventional study within 24 months of the first study visit

What you will get:

• $100 per in-person study visit
• $75 per remote study visit

Interested?
Contact the study team at gianotti@austin.utexas.edu or 512-495-5374.

Principal Investigator:
Dr. Julie Farrington
julie.farrington@austin.utexas.edu

Depression and Memory

6/18/2025

Description (purpose of the study):
The Memory & Aging Lab in the Department of Psychology at UT Austin is conducting a brain MRI study to understand mood and memory changes across the adult lifespan.

Study Procedure:
This study uses brain MRIs to measure the relationship between mood and memory in the brain. We will ask you to come into the lab three times over 2 weeks for no more than 3 hours each time. If you are 65 years of age or older, we will ask you to return for a 4th visit in 2 years for some additional memory assessments and mood and health questions.

Eligibility criteria:
Black, Mexican-American and Non-Hispanic White adults between the ages of 18 to 75 years old without neurological impairments. We are interested in people with a history of and/or current symptoms of depression.

What you will get:
We compensate $20 per hour, and we will also compensate $5 for your travel costs for each visit or provide a flat $25 for an Uber/Lyft/Taxi. If you complete all visits, we will compensate you with an additional $100. Free parking is provided if you are driving.

Interested?
Contact us by calling512-232-6904 or emailing duartelab@utexas.edu or fill out a screening form.

Study Flyer

TMS Depression Study

6/23/2025

Description (purpose of the study):
This study is exploring the use of Truncated SAINT (Stanford Accelerated Intelligent Neuromodulation Therapy) as a first-line treatment for adolescent depression.

Eligibility criteria for Qualified participants:

• Be 13-20 years of age
• Experiencing their first episode of depression
• Recently started or not currently taking antidepressants.

Qualified participants receive:

• Up to $525 for participation.
• Five days of TMS treatment followed by four follow-up visits.
• Avoid antidepressant side effects
• Participants will benefit from an innovative, non-invasive treatment designed for high efficacy and safety.

For More Information

• Sean O’Sullivan, MD, 512-495-5995
• Email us at texassaintstudy@gmail.com
• View Study Flyer

Texas Youth Depression and Suicide Research Network (YDSRN)

6/23/2025

Description (purpose of the study):
The Texas YDSRN is a research initiative of the Texas Child Mental Health Care Consortium (TCMHCC), which was created by the 86th Texas Legislature. This is a study with a goal to advance care for depression and suicide for children and adolescents in Texas.

Eligibility criteria for Qualified participants:
Self-referrals are not allowed; you must be referred by a provider. If you don't have a medical or mental health provider, please contact University Health Services or the Counseling and Mental Health Center for assistance.

• Be 8-20 years of age
• Have a positive screening for depression; positive for suicidal ideation or behavior; or be in treatment for depression
• Be able to dedicate time to the study. All study visits are remote and conducted virtually.

Exclusion for the YDSRN study include:

• Have an acute medical or psychological condition(s) that would, in the judgment of the study medical clinician, make participants difficult or unsafe
• Have an acute medical or psychological condition(s) that would result in an inability to accurately complete study requirements (e.g., neurological condition(s) or significant neurodevelopmental concerns)
• Have active psychotic symptoms resulting in altered mental status and inability to provide assent or requiring immediate attention and/or higher level of intervention
• Have a parent/LAR who is deemed cognitively unable to provide consent (if youth participant, aged 8-17)

Qualified participants receive:

• Compensation of $475 (paid in part after each visit via electronic gift card)

For More Information

• Email us at ydsrn@ascension.org or lexi.hughes@austin.utexas.edu

The Activ8 study (behavioral activation skills training for depression) is a substudy under TX-YDSRN. This is an 8-10 week virtually delivered treatment for depression.

For More Information

• Call 737-239-9525
• Email us at tyler.wilson@austin.utexas.edu
• View Flyer

CO2 Reactivity as a Biomarker of Non-Response to Exposure-Based Therapy

6/18/2025

Description (purpose of the study):
This study is designed to evaluate the predictive power of a novel biomarker based on a CO2 challenge, thus addressing the central question "can this easy-to-administer assay aid clinicians in deciding whether or not to initiate exposure-based therapy?" The investigation addresses an important public health issue by testing an accessible clinical assessment strategy--informed by basic research--that may lead to a more effective treatment selection (personalized medicine) for patients with anxiety- and fear-related disorders and enhance our understanding of the mechanisms governing exposure-based therapy.

Eligibility criteria for Qualified participants:

• A primary diagnosis of panic disorder (with or without an agoraphobia diagnosis), social anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, or post-traumatic stress disorder
• 18 to 70 years old
• Willingness and ability to provide informed consent and comply with the requirements of the study protocol

Other criteria will need to be met to confirm your eligibility to participate in this study, which will last up to 12 weeks.

Qualified participants receive:

12 one-hour sessions of exposure based therapy, delivered over the course of 12 weeks. All therapy sessions will be delivered by trained and experienced license-eligible clinicians. You will also be compensated for all study components completed, which can be up to $300 for full participation.

For More Information

• 512-730-0521
• Email us at utexposurestudy@gmail.com
• Website
• Complete our prescreening survey to assess potential eligibility.

Paid Research Study on Anxiety Disorders (CGRI Anxiety Study)

5/18/2026

Description (purpose of the study):
Researchers at The University of Texas at Austin are conducting a randomized parallel-group clinical trial investigating capnometry-guided respiratory intervention (CGRI) for pathological anxiety. CGRI aims to raise end-tidal CO2 levels to reduce hyperventilation-induced respiratory alkalosis and related fear-eliciting physical reactions. Psycho-education about anxiety and its effects (PsyEd) will serve as a comparison intervention.

Study Procedure:
Participants will be randomly assigned to either the CGRI intervention group or a psycho-education comparison group. The study includes study appointments at the research laboratory and assessments related to anxiety symptoms and respiratory functioning.

Eligibility criteria:
You may not be eligible if any of the following apply:

Inclusion

• Ages 18+
• Clinically elevated anxiety, indicated by a score of 8 or higher on the Overall Anxiety Severity and Impairment Scale (OASIS)
• Meets DSM-5 criteria for one or more primary anxiety- or trauma-related disorders, including:
• Generalized Anxiety Disorder
• Panic Disorder
• Health Anxiety
• Agoraphobia
• Social Anxiety Disorder
• Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
• Acute Stress Disorder
• Adjustment Disorder with primary anxious mood
• Anxiety Disorder Not Otherwise Specified
• Not currently taking psychotropic medications or stable on current medications for at least 6 weeks
• Able to arrange transportation to the research laboratory for study appointments
• Fluent in English

Exclusion

• History of medical conditions that would contraindicate participation in fear-provocation or respiratory challenges, including cardiovascular or respiratory disorders, high blood pressure, epilepsy, strokes, seizures or fainting
• Pregnant or lactating
• Currently receiving other psychological treatment for anxiety
• History of a suicide attempt within the past 6 months
• History of psychosis within the past 6 months
• History of moderate to severe alcohol or substance use disorder (excluding nicotine) within the past 3 months
• Currently experiencing COVID-19 symptoms during screening

What you will get:

• $50 compensation

Interested?
Contact the study team at sss5457@my.utexas.edu or 737-203-1433.

Principal Investigator:
Dr. Michael Telch
telch@austin.utexas.edu

Additional Contact:
Shristi Saraff
utinterventionstudy@gmail.com

Study Flyer

CO2 Reactivity as a Biomarker of Non-Response to Exposure-Based Therapy

6/18/2025

Description (purpose of the study):
This study is designed to evaluate the predictive power of a novel biomarker based on a CO2 challenge, thus addressing the central question "can this easy-to-administer assay aid clinicians in deciding whether or not to initiate exposure-based therapy?" The investigation addresses an important public health issue by testing an accessible clinical assessment strategy--informed by basic research--that may lead to a more effective treatment selection (personalized medicine) for patients with anxiety- and fear-related disorders and enhance our understanding of the mechanisms governing exposure-based therapy.

Eligibility criteria for Qualified participants:

• A primary diagnosis of panic disorder (with or without an agoraphobia diagnosis), social anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, or post-traumatic stress disorder
• 18 to 70 years old
• Willingness and ability to provide informed consent and comply with the requirements of the study protocol

Other criteria will need to be met to confirm your eligibility to participate in this study, which will last up to 12 weeks.

Qualified participants receive:

12 one-hour sessions of exposure based therapy, delivered over the course of 12 weeks. All therapy sessions will be delivered by trained and experienced license-eligible clinicians. You will also be compensated for all study components completed, which can be up to $300 for full participation.

For More Information

• 512-730-0521
• Email us at utexposurestudy@gmail.com
• Website
• Complete our prescreening survey to assess potential eligibility.

Postpartum Depression Treatment Study

01/14/2026

Description (purpose of the study):
The University of Texas at Austin is conducting a research study to evaluate a new treatment approach for postpartum depression (PPD). This study uses an accelerated form of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), called SAINT, which targets specific brain regions involved in mood regulation. The goal is to determine whether the SAINT-TMS system is effective for individuals with PPD who have not experienced adequate relief from previous treatments.

Study Procedure:
Participants will receive SAINT-TMS treatment for five consecutive days. Treatment sessions may total up to 10 hours per day. The study also includes MRI scans and clinical assessments to evaluate treatment response.

Eligibility criteria:

• Ages 18–45
• Gave birth within the last 12 months
• Experiencing postpartum depression (e.g., persistent sadness, loss of interest, hopelessness)
• Able to commit to up to 10 hours per day for 5 consecutive days
• Able to undergo an MRI scan (e.g., no history of seizures, no metal in the head, no claustrophobia)
• No substance use disorders
• No untreated sleep apnea
• No history of serious neurological disease

What you will get:
Participants may receive up to $450 in compensation for completing the study.

Interested?
Contact Ambreen Rana at ambreen.rana@austin.utexas.edu or 512-766-6209.

Principal Investigator:
Dr. Jeff Newport
djn594@eid.utexas.edu

MAMA Study

11/19/2025

Description (purpose of the study):
The MAMA study aims to examine changes in the pancreas that occur during pregnancy, in both pregnant mothers and their babies, and determine how those changes are affected by diabetes.

Eligibility criteria for Qualified participants:

• Under 14 weeks pregnant with one baby
• Between 18 and 54 years old
• Delivering your baby in Austin, TX
• Additional criteria may apply to confirm eligibility

Qualified participants receive:

Participants may earn up to $500 for completing all study visits (4 visits total).

For More Information

• 512-471-0999
• ingrid.harris@austin.utexas.edu
• Jack Virostko
  virostkolab@gmail.com

Paid Research Study on Anxiety Disorders (CGRI Anxiety Study)

5/18/2026

Description (purpose of the study):
Researchers at The University of Texas at Austin are conducting a randomized parallel-group clinical trial investigating capnometry-guided respiratory intervention (CGRI) for pathological anxiety. CGRI aims to raise end-tidal CO2 levels to reduce hyperventilation-induced respiratory alkalosis and related fear-eliciting physical reactions. Psycho-education about anxiety and its effects (PsyEd) will serve as a comparison intervention.

Study Procedure:
Participants will be randomly assigned to either the CGRI intervention group or a psycho-education comparison group. The study includes study appointments at the research laboratory and assessments related to anxiety symptoms and respiratory functioning.

Eligibility criteria:
You may not be eligible if any of the following apply:

Inclusion

• Ages 18+
• Clinically elevated anxiety, indicated by a score of 8 or higher on the Overall Anxiety Severity and Impairment Scale (OASIS)
• Meets DSM-5 criteria for one or more primary anxiety- or trauma-related disorders, including:
• Generalized Anxiety Disorder
• Panic Disorder
• Health Anxiety
• Agoraphobia
• Social Anxiety Disorder
• Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
• Acute Stress Disorder
• Adjustment Disorder with primary anxious mood
• Anxiety Disorder Not Otherwise Specified
• Not currently taking psychotropic medications or stable on current medications for at least 6 weeks
• Able to arrange transportation to the research laboratory for study appointments
• Fluent in English

Exclusion

• History of medical conditions that would contraindicate participation in fear-provocation or respiratory challenges, including cardiovascular or respiratory disorders, high blood pressure, epilepsy, strokes, seizures or fainting
• Pregnant or lactating
• Currently receiving other psychological treatment for anxiety
• History of a suicide attempt within the past 6 months
• History of psychosis within the past 6 months
• History of moderate to severe alcohol or substance use disorder (excluding nicotine) within the past 3 months
• Currently experiencing COVID-19 symptoms during screening

What you will get:

• $50 compensation

Interested?
Contact the study team at sss5457@my.utexas.edu or 737-203-1433.

Principal Investigator:
Dr. Michael Telch
telch@austin.utexas.edu

Additional Contact:
Shristi Saraff
utinterventionstudy@gmail.com

Study Flyer

Paid Research Study on PTSD and Brain Function

5/16/2026

Description (purpose of the study):
The Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at The University of Texas at Austin is conducting a research study to examine how trauma-focused psychotherapy changes brain function in individuals with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Researchers aim to better understand how changes in brain circuitry may improve the ability to experience positive emotions following traumatic or extremely stressful life events.

Study Procedure:
Participants will complete clinical interviews, repeated assessments, and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) scans. Some participants may be placed in a delayed treatment group as part of the study design.

Eligibility criteria:
You may not be eligible if any of the following apply:

Inclusion

• English is your primary language and you are able to understand study instructions
• Current and chronic PTSD related to a qualifying traumatic event, with symptoms present for at least 3 months
• Able and willing to complete fMRI procedures
• Willing to participate in repeated assessments and possible delayed treatment participation

Exclusion

• Current or prior history of psychosis or bipolar disorder
• Active substance dependence within the past 6 months
• Current regular psychiatric medication use, with limited exceptions
• Recent suicide attempt or active suicidal intent
• Pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or unwilling to use effective contraception during the study
• History of certain neurological conditions, brain injury, seizures, or brain treatment procedures
• Current or recent psychotherapy involving exposure or cognitive restructuring techniques (e.g., EMDR, CBT, DBT)
• Recent ketamine or neuromodulation treatment
• Other ongoing treatments that may affect study outcomes

What you will get:

• Up to $900 for completing all study protocols

Interested?
Contact the study team at fonzolab@austin.utexas.edu or 512-495-5856.

Principal Investigator:
Dr. Greg Fonzo
gfonzo@austin.utexas.edu

Study Flyer

Texas Childhood Trauma Research Network (TX-CTRN)

6/23/2025

Description (purpose of the study):
The Texas CTRN is a research initiative of the Texas Child Mental Health Care Consortium (TCMHCC), which was created by the 86th Texas Legislature. This is a study with a goal to better understand trajectories and outcomes of trauma experienced in childhood.

Eligibility criteria for Qualified participants:

• Be 8-20 years of age
• Have experienced a traumatic event over the course of their lifetime (eg, accidents, natural disasters, victimization, abuse)
• Be able to dedicate time to the study. All study visits are remote and conducted virtually.

Qualified participants receive:

• Compensation of $400 (paid in part after each visit via electronic gift card)

For More Information

• Email us at ctrn@ascension.org or lexi.hughes@austin.utexas.edu
• The TF-CBT (evaluating trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy) is a substudy under TX-CTRN. This is 12-24 sessions virtually delivered treatment for trauma.
• View Flyers: Flyer 1, Flyer 2

Childhood Trauma, Dance Exercise, and Neurocognitive Performance

7/31/2025

Description (purpose of the study):
This study is investigating the effects of acute exercise on cognition in young adults who are at risk for early cognitive decline due to a history of certain adverse childhood experiences (ACEs; here, abuse or neglect as a child). Participants are asked to dance and stretch, complete questionnaires, and undergo neuropsychological testing.

Eligibility criteria for Qualified participants:

• 18-39 years of age
• Have a history of childhood abuse and/or neglect
• Native or fluent English speakers
• Normal or corrected to normal vision and hearing
• Can attend two in-person visits (1.5 hours each) at the Dell Medical School - Health Discovery Building

Qualified participants receive:

• $50 for completion of both visits
• Reimbursement for parking

Contact:

• Complete the screening form to assess potential eligibility
• Email us at lilywang@utexas.edu
• 210-941-7295
• Study Flyer

CO2 Reactivity as a Biomarker of Non-Response to Exposure-Based Therapy

6/18/2025

Description (purpose of the study):
This study is designed to evaluate the predictive power of a novel biomarker based on a CO2 challenge, thus addressing the central question "can this easy-to-administer assay aid clinicians in deciding whether or not to initiate exposure-based therapy?" The investigation addresses an important public health issue by testing an accessible clinical assessment strategy--informed by basic research--that may lead to a more effective treatment selection (personalized medicine) for patients with anxiety- and fear-related disorders and enhance our understanding of the mechanisms governing exposure-based therapy.

Eligibility criteria for Qualified participants:

• A primary diagnosis of panic disorder (with or without an agoraphobia diagnosis), social anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, or post-traumatic stress disorder
• 18 to 70 years old
• Willingness and ability to provide informed consent and comply with the requirements of the study protocol

Other criteria will need to be met to confirm your eligibility to participate in this study, which will last up to 12 weeks.

Qualified participants receive:

12 one-hour sessions of exposure based therapy, delivered over the course of 12 weeks. All therapy sessions will be delivered by trained and experienced license-eligible clinicians. You will also be compensated for all study components completed, which can be up to $300 for full participation.

For More Information

• 512-730-0521
• Email us at utexposurestudy@gmail.com
• Website
• Complete our prescreening survey to assess potential eligibility.

Neurocognitive Function in Trauma Exposed Adolescents (NFTEA)

7/9/2025

Description (purpose of the study):
The Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at UT Austin is conducting a research study on how trauma affects brain function. The study may involve interviews, questionnaires, memory and thinking tests, brain scans and saliva collection.

Qualified participants:

• Must be between 16 and 21 years old.
• May or may not have a history of traumatic event exposure.

Participants may be asked to:

• Undergo interviews; questionnaires; tests of memory, attention, thinking speed, and problem-solving; a brain scan; and saliva collection.

Compensation:

• Up to $200, for 2-6 hours of time over three days.

Participants may receive:

• A brain scan at no cost.

Contact:

• Call 254-717-3672
• Email us at tnlab@austin.utexas.edu
• Flyer and more info
• Principal Investigator: Erin Logue, PhD

Paid Research Study on Self-Injury Story Sharing and Support Seeking

5/22/2026

Description (purpose of the study):
Researchers at The University of Texas at Austin are developing a questionnaire about how young adults share their stories about self-injury and seek support from others. The study involves one-on-one Zoom interviews to help ensure the questionnaire questions are clear and easy to understand.

Eligibility

Qualified participants must:

• Be 18 to 25 years old
• Have engaged in self-injury without suicidal intent in the past 12 months
• Have shared their experience of self-injury with others
• Be able to read and speak English

Qualified participants receive:

• A $15 gift card for completing the interview and background survey

Study participation includes:

• A one-on-one Zoom interview lasting approximately 1 to 1.5 hours
• Reviewing questionnaire items and sharing feedback on wording and meaning

Contact:

If you would like to participate or have questions, contact Nani Kim at nanikim@utexas.edu or 512-766-6164.

See the study flyer (PDF) for more information.

Paid Research Study: Mobile App to Support Youth with Self-Injurious Thoughts or Behaviors

10/16/2025

Description (purpose of the study):
The Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Dell Medical School, The University of Texas at Austin, is conducting a research study led by Yoon Jae Cho, MD, MPH. The study explores a mobile phone app designed to support young people who experience self-injurious thoughts or behaviors.

Using the app, participants can voice-record diary entries during moments of distress. The app’s AI then suggests Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills to help manage emotions. This research aims to develop innovative and accessible tools that support youth emotional well-being.

This study is overseen by Dr. Young Shin Kim, Chair of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at Dell Medical School.

Eligibility

Participants must be:

• 12–19 years old
• Have a history of receiving DBT
• Have self-injurious thoughts or behaviors (identified by a brief screener)
• Currently engaged in mental healthcare
• Have access to a mobile phone for at least 2 hours per day

Exclusions:

• Non-English-speaking youth or parents
• Suicide attempt within the past year
• Active suicidal ideation with high-risk intent (as determined by the brief screener)

Study Details

• Complete a brief screening survey
• Eligible participants will be contacted by the research team for consent and next steps
• Use the mobile app for 4 weeks
• Complete short pre- and post-study assessments (under 30 minutes each)
• May receive gift card compensation based on app usage

Contact:

If you believe a patient may qualify or would like more information, please contact the research team:

wave-project@austin.utexas.edu
512-922-3642

See the study flyer (PDF) for more information.

Paid Research Study on Anxiety Disorders (CGRI Anxiety Study)

5/18/2026

Description (purpose of the study):
Researchers at The University of Texas at Austin are conducting a randomized parallel-group clinical trial investigating capnometry-guided respiratory intervention (CGRI) for pathological anxiety. CGRI aims to raise end-tidal CO2 levels to reduce hyperventilation-induced respiratory alkalosis and related fear-eliciting physical reactions. Psycho-education about anxiety and its effects (PsyEd) will serve as a comparison intervention.

Study Procedure:
Participants will be randomly assigned to either the CGRI intervention group or a psycho-education comparison group. The study includes study appointments at the research laboratory and assessments related to anxiety symptoms and respiratory functioning.

Eligibility criteria:
You may not be eligible if any of the following apply:

Inclusion

• Ages 18+
• Clinically elevated anxiety, indicated by a score of 8 or higher on the Overall Anxiety Severity and Impairment Scale (OASIS)
• Meets DSM-5 criteria for one or more primary anxiety- or trauma-related disorders, including:
• Generalized Anxiety Disorder
• Panic Disorder
• Health Anxiety
• Agoraphobia
• Social Anxiety Disorder
• Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
• Acute Stress Disorder
• Adjustment Disorder with primary anxious mood
• Anxiety Disorder Not Otherwise Specified
• Not currently taking psychotropic medications or stable on current medications for at least 6 weeks
• Able to arrange transportation to the research laboratory for study appointments
• Fluent in English

Exclusion

• History of medical conditions that would contraindicate participation in fear-provocation or respiratory challenges, including cardiovascular or respiratory disorders, high blood pressure, epilepsy, strokes, seizures or fainting
• Pregnant or lactating
• Currently receiving other psychological treatment for anxiety
• History of a suicide attempt within the past 6 months
• History of psychosis within the past 6 months
• History of moderate to severe alcohol or substance use disorder (excluding nicotine) within the past 3 months
• Currently experiencing COVID-19 symptoms during screening

What you will get:

• $50 compensation

Interested?
Contact the study team at sss5457@my.utexas.edu or 737-203-1433.

Principal Investigator:
Dr. Michael Telch
telch@austin.utexas.edu

Additional Contact:
Shristi Saraff
utinterventionstudy@gmail.com

Study Flyer

CO2 Reactivity as a Biomarker of Non-Response to Exposure-Based Therapy

6/18/2025

Description (purpose of the study):
This study is designed to evaluate the predictive power of a novel biomarker based on a CO2 challenge, thus addressing the central question "can this easy-to-administer assay aid clinicians in deciding whether or not to initiate exposure-based therapy?" The investigation addresses an important public health issue by testing an accessible clinical assessment strategy--informed by basic research--that may lead to a more effective treatment selection (personalized medicine) for patients with anxiety- and fear-related disorders and enhance our understanding of the mechanisms governing exposure-based therapy.

Eligibility criteria for Qualified participants:

• A primary diagnosis of panic disorder (with or without an agoraphobia diagnosis), social anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, or post-traumatic stress disorder
• 18 to 70 years old
• Willingness and ability to provide informed consent and comply with the requirements of the study protocol

Other criteria will need to be met to confirm your eligibility to participate in this study, which will last up to 12 weeks.

Qualified participants receive:

12 one-hour sessions of exposure based therapy, delivered over the course of 12 weeks. All therapy sessions will be delivered by trained and experienced license-eligible clinicians. You will also be compensated for all study components completed, which can be up to $300 for full participation.

For More Information

• 512-730-0521
• Email us at utexposurestudy@gmail.com
• Website
• Complete our prescreening survey to assess potential eligibility.