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Amygdala Neurofeedback for Depression - Large Scale Clinical Trial

The goal of this study is to evaluate whether rtfMRI-nf training to increase the amygdala response to positive memories may serve as a stand-alone intervention for major depressive disorder

ClinicalTrials.gov IDNCT05703256
PhaseNA
Enrollment200
SponsorKymberly Young
Age18 Years
SexALL
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Conditions studied

Major Depressive Disorder

About this study

The goal of this study is to evaluate whether rtfMRI-nf training to increase the amygdala response to positive memories may serve as a stand-alone intervention for major depressive disorder

Interventions

Primary outcomes

Eligibility information

Inclusion Criteria: * ages 18 - 55 * primary diagnosis of MDD and are currently depressed * able to give written informed consent prior to participation * unmedicated OR are stable on an antidepressant regime (at least 4 weeks to ensure symptoms are stable). Effective medications will not be discontinued for the purposes of the study. Exclusion Criteria: * clinically significant or unstable cardiovascular, pulmonary, endocrine, neurological, gastrointestinal illness or unstable medical disorder * Current severe DSM-V alcohol or substance use disorder, with the exception of nicotine or caffeine. Clinician will access subjects' alcohol and substance use on a case-by-case to determine whether specific cases of mild or moderate alcohol or substance use would also interfere with the effects of the intervention. * history of traumatic brain injury * unable to complete MRI scan due to claustrophobia or general MRI exclusions (e.g., shrapnel inside body) * currently pregnant or breast feeding * unable to complete questionnaires written in English * current (within 3 weeks of testing) use of any antipsychotics, anticonvulsants, stimulants, benzodiazepines, beta-blockers, or other medications (except antidepressants) likely to influence cerebral blood flow. Effective medications will not be discontinued for the purposes of the study. * diagnosis of psychotic or organic mental disorder, bipolar I or II disorder. * eye problems or difficulties in corrected vision.

Study locations

Before you participate: Varda Clinical is an independent discovery tool, not the study sponsor or a medical provider. Eligibility can only be determined by the official study team. Discuss potential risks and benefits with a qualified healthcare professional.

Source: ClinicalTrials.gov. Record last refreshed by Varda Clinical: 2026-09-27.