Center for Obsessive-Compulsive Treatment and Related Disorders

Current Studies

We are currently recruiting participants for a wide range of research studies! Our research work is funded in large part by the National Institutes of Health (NIMH) and by private foundations. If you are interested in participating in one of our research studies, please call (646) 774-8062 to speak with a research coordinator. We will offer you a confidential screening and evaluation to determine whether you are eligible for one of our studies. Any treatment you receive as part of your study participation is provided at no cost to you.

You can view and inquire about our current studies by visiting RecruitMe and searching "OCD".

  • A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial of Trigriluzole for OCD

    Principal Investigator

    Helen Blair Simpson, MD, PhD
    For this study, eligible participants will be asked questions about their symptoms and complete a medical evaluation. You will receive a medication, and be monitored by medical professionals. You will also be asked to complete questionnaires. The purpose of this study is to assess to evaluate a medication for the treatment of OCD.

  • Cannabinoids and OCD

    Principal Investigator

    Helen Blair Simpson, MD, PhD
    The purpose of this pilot research study is to test the effects of a medication called nabilone (Cesamet) in adults with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Participants will receive either nabilone on its own, or nabilone in combination with a form of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) called exposure and response prevention (EX/RP). Nabilone is a synthetic cannabinoid and acts on the brain's "endocannabinoid system," which has been hypothesized to play a role in OCD. Nabilone is approved by the FDA for the treatment of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting.

  • Coping with Stress in Individuals with Anxiety

    Principal Investigator

    Michael G. Wheaton, PhD
    The purpose of this study is to learn more about how individuals with anxiety respond to a stress reactivity task. This study may help us to better understand the brain basis of anxiety so that we can improve anxiety treatments. You will be asked to complete a stress reactivity task and questionnaires about your symptoms and health for compensation of up to $100.

  • Effects of Marijuana on Symptoms of OCD

    Principal Investigator

    Helen Blair Simpson, MD, PhD

    The purpose of this pilot research study is to test whether certain components of the marijuana plant, known as "cannabinoids", may help to reduce symptoms in patients with OCD. Specifically, patients enrolled in the study will smoke marijuana containing different concentrations of 2 different cannabinoids, THC and CBD. Both of these agents act on the brain's "endocannabinoid system," which has been hypothesized to play a role in OCD. Neither compound is currently FDA-approved for treating OCD.

  • Toward Precision Medicine for OCD

    Principal Investigator

    Helen Blair Simpson, MD, PhD

    The Center for OCD and Related Disorders and the Institute of Genomic Medicine is conducting a study to look for genetic causes of OCD. Our goal is to look at the genes of individuals with OCD to see if we can identify what may have put those individuals at risk for OCD. Participants will receive a clinical evaluation at no cost, a blood draw (up to 2 tablespoons) and compensation for their time. Significant findings from these genetic tests will be reported back to participants (if they chose to be notified of results).