Schema Therapy for Treatment-resistant Anxiety Disorders
The aim of this study is to assess the cost-effectiveness of schema therapy compared to treatment as usual (TAU) in patients with treatment-resistant anxiety disorders. In a multicenter randomized controlled trial, patients will be assigned to receive individual schema therapy (maximum of 40 sessions) or treatment as usual (control group) within one year. The primary outcome is the difference between ST and TAU conditions in anxiety symptoms as measured with the Beck Anxiety Inventroy (BAI) at post treatment. Secondary outcomes include quality of life, societal costs, general mental health, remission from the anxiety disorders and/or comorbid affective disorders, positive and negative effects of psychotherapy, schemas and schema modes, and satisfaction. Measurements take place at baseline and after 1, 3, 6, 12, 24 and 36 months (follow-up of two years).
- EligibilityCriteria: Inclusion Criteria:  Primary diagnosis of an anxiety disorder (panic disorder, agoraphobia, social anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, separation anxiety disorder and specific phobia) based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). Fulfilling the criteria of treatment-resistance based on a systematic literature search by Bokma and collegues: i) at least one unsuccessful CBT treatment of ≥ 8 weeks; and ii) at least one unsuccessful pharmacological treatment with a serotonergic antidepressant of ≥ 8 weeks, and iii) moderate to severe anxiety symptoms (BAI > 11). The adequacy of previous treatment will be checked.  Exclusion Criteria:  Substance use dependence Acute suicidality Has received schema therapy in the past Has insufficient language skills in Dutch and/or English - HealthyVolunteers: No - Gender: All - MinimumAge: 18 Years - MaximumAge: 65 Years - StdAgeList: Adult, Older Adult