Recruiting

Islamic-Oriented vs. Standard Ericksonian Hypnotherapy for Anxiety and Depression

ClinicalTrials.gov IDNCT06844058

PhaseNA

Enrollment90

SponsorIstanbul Nisantasi University

Age18 Years

SexALL

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Conditions studied

Anxiety Disorders, Depressive Disorder

About this study

This randomized controlled trial (RCT) aims to compare the effectiveness of Islamic-Oriented Ericksonian Hypnotherapy (IEH) and Standard Ericksonian Hypnotherapy (SEH) in reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression. The study will enroll 90 participants with mild to moderate anxiety and depression, who will be randomly assigned to one of three groups: (1) IEH intervention, (2) SEH intervention, or (3) control group (no intervention). Participants in the intervention groups will receive 12 weekly hypnotherapy sessions, each lasting 60 minutes. The primary outcomes include changes in Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) and Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) scores from baseline to post-intervention and at a 4-week follow-up. The study will also assess whether religious belief levels moderate the effects of the intervention using the OK-Religious Attitude Scale. Data collection will be performed at Istanbul Nişantaşı University, and ethical approval has been obtained.

Interventions

Behavioral: Islamic-Oriented Ericksonian Hypnotherapy (IEH) — This intervention involves 12 weekly sessions (60 minutes each) of Ericksonian hypnotherapy integrated with Islamic religious elements. Sessions incorporate: Quranic metaphors and Islamic imagery Spiritual affirmations to enhance relaxation and emotional regulation Faith-based guided hypnosis adapted to cultural and religious beliefs Techniques such as indirect suggestions, therapeutic storytelling, and guided imagery The intervention is designed for Muslim participants with mild to moderate anxiety and depression.
Behavioral: Standard Ericksonian Hypnotherapy (SEH) — Participants receive 12 weekly sessions (60 minutes each) of standard Ericksonian hypnotherapy, which includes: Metaphorical storytelling and guided imagery Indirect hypnotic suggestions to promote psychological flexibility Relaxation techniques to reduce anxiety and depressive symptoms Unlike the Islamic-Oriented Hypnotherapy (IEH), this intervention does not integrate religious or faith-based elements.

Primary outcomes

Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) (Baseline, Week 12 (post-intervention), Week 16 (follow-up))
Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) (Baseline, Week 12, Week 16)

Eligibility information

Inclusion Criteria: * Muslim individuals aged 18-65 years. * Mild to moderate anxiety and/or depression symptoms (assessed via Beck * Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) and Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI)). * No formal psychiatric diagnosis but experiencing psychological distress. * High religious belief levels, assessed via OK-Religious Attitude Scale. * Not currently receiving psychotherapy or psychotropic medication. * Ability to give informed consent and complete the study requirements. Exclusion Criteria: * Severe psychiatric disorders (schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, severe MDD). * Current use of psychotropic medication or undergoing psychotherapy. * History of substance abuse or dependence. * Diagnosed dissociative disorders (contraindications for hypnosis). * Cognitive impairment affecting comprehension of intervention. * Severe medical conditions that may interfere with participation.

Study locations

İstanbul Nişantaşı University, Istanbul, 34277 Turkey (Türkiye)

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.