Plain-English translation of NCT06420557 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated · Translation generated · How we translate trials
This study doesn't follow the usual testing phases — it may be an observational study or a different type of research.
This trial is testing a new way to reduce fear of specific animals (like spiders or birds) using brain imaging and targeted brain stimulation. Instead of forcing you to face your fear repeatedly, the treatment works directly in your brain while you're unaware of it, which means you won't experience the distress that normally comes with traditional fear treatment.
Standard treatment for animal phobias requires people to repeatedly face what they're afraid of — but many people find this so distressing that they never start or finish treatment. This study explores whether working with the brain in a different way could help reduce fear without causing that emotional pain.
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You will be randomly assigned to receive either 1, 3, or 5 neuro-reinforcement sessions. During these sessions, you'll have brain imaging scans while the researchers use decoded brain information to gently reinforce less fearful brain responses to images of your feared animal — all without you consciously realizing it's happening. You'll be tested immediately after treatment and again four weeks later to see if your fear has decreased and whether you can approach or interact with your feared animal more easily.
AI-generated summary from trial data · Jul 17, 2026 · Not medical advice
United States