Get Involved in Research

Research is critical to increasing our knowledge of depression, bipolar and anxiety disorders, addiction/substance abuse and other brain conditions. The advancement of medicine could not be done without clinical research.

The Department of Psychiatry offers several research opportunities. Some studies may offer compensation and/or treatment.

Clinical research depends upon the involvement of patients and/or healthy people, and is at the heart of the Michigan approach to mental health and wellness. There are many different types of research studies:

  • Observational studies - to identify illness patterns or disease and health progression
  • Risk evaluation and prevention studies - to identify risk factors and utilize various approaches to prevent occurrence and improve outcomes
  • Clinical treatment trials - to test or compare methods that may involve devices, drugs, or behavioral approaches
  • Quality improvement - to measure and improve health services

We recognize that research could not move forward without the support of our volunteers. We are grateful to those who participate in research to help advance knowledge and speed the pace of innovation.

Many studies conducted by the Department of Psychiatry faculty are supported by the Michigan Institute for Clinical and Health Research (MICHR), which integrates education, career development, infrastructure, and support to catalyze translational research that spans the laboratory, the clinic, and the community. MICHR also maintains the UMHealthResearch.org website, linking potential volunteers to research studies.

Without scientific research, the advances made to date would not have happened and future advancements would not be possible.

Whether or not you actively participate in a research study, your care will be positively impacted by the questions we’re asking – and answering – behind the scenes.

Featured Research Studies

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Anxiety

Ann Arbor, MI

Anxiety can cause significant impairment and distress in children and teens. The purpose of this study is to look at a certain type of treatment, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), how it impacts the developing brain and helps to treat anxiety

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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

Ann Arbor, MI

We are conducting research using Exposure-Response Prevention (ERP): a form of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for those with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Eligible teens (13-17) and adults (25-45) will receive a diagnostic evaluation, 12 therapy sessions, and 2 fMRI scans, at no charge.

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Kid Power Camp

Ann Arbor, MI

We are studying how a new intervention may reduce anxiety symptoms in preschool age children. Children will learn interactive games and activities in a group setting. These games are meant to increase their ability to regulate their behaviors and emotions.

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Michigan SPARK, ASD Clinical Network

The purpose of this study is to form a group of 50,000 individuals with ASD and their family members, to identify the causes of autism and to accelerate future clinical research on ASD. The information from this study will help to identify genetic and non-genetic factors that contribute to ASD.

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