RecruitingNot ApplicableInterventional

Evaluating the efficacy of an AI-delivered, neurosymbolic, human-supervised digital intervention for depression and anxiety versus standard cognitive-behavioural therapy in young persons and adults

This study is looking into a new digital program called Nook, which uses artificial intelligence (AI) to help people manage depression and anxiety. Many people wait a long time for traditional therapy like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). Nook offers similar support through a friendly chat interface. The study wants to find out if Nook is as effective as standard online CBT in reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety for young people and adults (aged 16-64). Participants will either use Nook or receive standard online CBT for 6-10 weeks and complete questionnaires about how they are feeling throughout the study.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Phase

Not Applicable

Sponsor

PsyScale Ltd

Enrolment target

400

Start

02 Jun 2026

Estimated completion

01 Sep 2026

Depression and anxiety (Generalised Anxiety Disorder and/or Major Depressive Disorder)

What is this study about?

Depression and anxiety are very common mental health conditions that can make daily life really tough for many people. While talking therapies like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) are known to help, it can often take a long time to get access to them, sometimes involving long waiting lists.

This study is about a new digital program called Nook. Think of Nook as an AI-powered conversational tool that helps you learn and practice the skills taught in therapies like CBT and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). It's designed to offer structured support directly through your computer or phone. The main goal of this research is to see if Nook can help people with depression and anxiety just as much as the standard online CBT that many already receive.

If Nook proves to be as good as traditional therapy, it could be a fantastic way for more people to get the help they need much faster. This research is important because it could open up new, more accessible options for mental health support in the future.

Key takeaways

Compares new AI app (Nook) to standard online therapy (CBT).
Aims to improve access to mental health support.
For 16-64 year olds with moderate depression or anxiety.
Participation is online, involves 6-10 weeks of intervention.
No invasive tests, just questionnaires.
Helps advance understanding of digital mental health tools.

Who may be eligible?

The study is looking for young people and adults aged between 16 and 64 years old. You might be suitable if you have moderate depression or anxiety symptoms, or a mix of both. You'll need to be able to understand English well and have access to a device like a computer or smartphone with internet connection to take part.

However, this study might not be right for everyone. If you have very severe depression, or if you've been diagnosed with certain other mental health conditions like bipolar disorder, psychosis, or an eating disorder, you wouldn't be able to join. Also, if you're taking medication for depression or anxiety, you'd need to have been on a steady dose for at least six weeks before starting the study.

Quick self-check

Are you between 16 and 64 years old?
Do you have feelings of depression and/or anxiety that are moderate, but not very severe?
Can you understand and communicate well in English?
Do you have a reliable internet-connected device (like a smartphone or computer) that you can use regularly?
If you're taking medication for your mood, has your dose been stable for the last 6 weeks?

This is a guide only — the research team will confirm whether you can take part.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part, you'll first be assessed to see if the study is a good fit for you. If you qualify, you'll be randomly put into one of two groups. One group will use the Nook program, and the other will receive standard online CBT. Both programs will last for about 6 to 10 weeks.

Throughout this time, you won't need to visit any clinics in person. You will be asked to fill out questionnaires on your computer or phone at different points to track how you're feeling and how your symptoms are changing. There will be no blood tests, scans, or other medical procedures involved. The total time you'll be involved with the study will be focused on these 6-10 weeks of intervention and completing a few follow-up questionnaires.

Potential risks and benefits

By taking part in this study, you'll be contributing to important research that could improve mental health support for many people in the future. If Nook is found to be effective, it could help reduce waiting times for support. Like with any therapy, some people might find that discussing their feelings or engaging with the therapy makes them feel a bit worse before they feel better, or they might feel frustrated at times. You might also find filling out questionnaires a bit tiring or distracting. Although Nook is supervised by experts, there's a small chance it might not respond as expected, but clinicians are always monitoring the system. Remember, you can also leave the study at any time without giving a reason, and your medical care will not be affected.

Locations (1)

Lindus Health
London, England

Common questions

What is Nook?

Nook is a digital program using artificial intelligence (AI) to offer structured psychological support for depression and anxiety, similar to online talking therapy.

Who can join this study?

Young people and adults aged 16-64 with moderate depression or anxiety, good English skills, and access to an internet device. Those with very severe symptoms or certain other conditions cannot join.

What will I have to do if I join?

You'll either use the Nook app or receive standard online CBT for 6-10 weeks. You'll also complete online questionnaires about your feelings at different times.

Are there any risks to participating?

Some might feel temporary discomfort or frustration during therapy. There's a minor risk of questionnaire fatigue, and a small chance of Nook having an unexpected response, though it's clinically monitored.

Who is running and paying for this study?

The study is run by PsyScale Ltd. (UK), who is also providing the funding.

How to find out more

Stephanie Argue

stephanie.argue@lindushealth.com +44 808 258 7706 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.