This study examines the effectiveness of a brief psychological intervention for chronic pain treatment, as well as the psychological and neurophysiological mechanisms associated with changes in pain intensity.
Participants with chronic pain will be randomly assigned to one of three groups: two types of brief psychological interventions and a treatment-as-usual control group. Throughout the study, participants will attend a series of therapeutic sessions, complete questionnaires, undergo brain measurements (EEG and MRI), and participate in physiological monitoring using a smartwatch.
The study aims to investigate which cognitive and physiological changes occur during the intervention, and whether early markers can be identified that may predict improvement in pain following this type of treatment. In addition, differences between cognitive and somatic components of the intervention will be examined to better understand which elements contribute to clinical change, and to determine whether knowledge alone is sufficient or whether participants must undergo a bodily experience in order to produce changes in pain levels.
The goal of the study is to improve understanding of the mechanisms underlying chronic pain and responses to psychological treatments, and to contribute to the development of more personalized, effective treatments with minimal side effects in the future.
Who can participate
Age range
20 Years – 70 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
* Age 20-70 years
* Chronic pain lasting over 3 months, including chronic pain conditions such as fibromyalgia and complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)
* Average pain intensity ≥4 on a 0-10 scale
* Stable medication regimen for at least 4 weeks prior to treatment initiation
* Hebrew language fluency
* Provision of informed consent, including consent for video recordings
Exclusion Criteria:
* Current participation in other pain-related psychotherapy
* Pregnancy
* Substance abuse, including deviations from prescribed medication use
* Change in medication or dosage in the 4 weeks preceding treatment
* Diagnosed active cancer
* Dementia
* Severe depression (BDI-II score \> 29)
* Moderate cognitive impairment based on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA)
* Current or past diagnosis of schizophrenia, psychosis, bipolar disorder, multiple personality disorder, or dissociative identity disorder
* Inability to undergo MRI as determined by MRI safety screening (e.g., claustrophobia, metal in body such as vascular clips, pacemakers, or certain cochlear implants)
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
What they're measuring
1
Average pain intensity in the first week post-treatment