Participate in Research
Yale Child Study Center (YCSC) research teams collaborate to investigate the causes, consequences, and prevention of developmental and behavioral health needs in children, adolescents, and their families. YCSC is actively growing in many areas from basic research in the genetic and neurobiological basis of childhood psychiatric disorders to training clinicians around the world in evidence-based mental health service delivery.
Keep reading for a list of the ongoing research efforts at the Yale Child Study Center to find out how you can participate.
ADHD
| Study Name | Study Information | Age | Procedure | Compensation | Website | Contacts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Complex Neurodevelopmental Conditions | This study will help us better understand the causes and developmental course of repetitive behavior in children, especially repetitive motor movements involving the fingers, hands, head, or body. We are recruiting children 4 years of age and younger with repetitive behavior, either typically developing, or with autism or other neurodevelopmental conditions such as ADHD. Participation will include a visit to the lab with your child, including a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation, assessment of repetitive behavior, studies of attention, and collection of saliva samples to learn more about genetic factors involved in repetitive behavior. All study visits will occur at the SANA Program at 300 George St., Suite 900, New Haven, CT. We provide free and convenient parking. If you are interested in participating, please fill out our inquiry form. | 4 years and younger | Diagnostic evaluation, assessment of repetitive behavior, studies of attention, saliva samples | - | Chawarska Lab | 203-764-5933 |
Anxiety
| Study Name | Study Information | Age | Procedure | Compensation | Website | Contacts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
TABS Study | The purpose of this study is to identify the genetic factors that cause trichotillomania and other body focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs) using a family-based approach. This will greatly contribute to our understanding of these conditions and may help develop new therapies in the future. This study requires participation from an individual impacted by trichotillomania or other BFRB and both biological parents. The study can be done in-person or remotely. We are not able to offer a report of genetic results because our studies are performed as research. Our research lab does not offer any treatment. | All ages | Saliva samples (child & parents), questionnaire | - | TABS Study | tabsstudy@yale.edu |
Development of a Scale to Assess Suicide Thoughts and Behaviors Among Preteens | The goal of this study is to create a new survey to understand thoughts of self-harm in young children. It’s important to note, your child does not need to experience thoughts of self-harm to participate. | 9 to 12 years | Parent & child questionnaires | Up to $100 | Anxiety and Mood Disorders Program | anxiety.csc@yale.edu
203-737-4644
|
Parent-Based Treatment for Adolescent Anxiety
| This study aims to test the efficacy of a parent-only treatment for anxiety disorders in teens, SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions), by comparing it to another parent-based approach, Parent Education and Support (PES). Teens 14-17 years old with anxiety disorders and their parents may be eligible to participate. Parents and teens complete three assessments involving diagnostic interviews and/or questionnaires. Parents only are randomly assigned to receive 12 weeks of either SPACE or PES. | 14 to 17 | Teen & parent questionnaires/interviews, parent therapy | Up to $100 | Anxiety and Mood Disorders Program | anxiety.csc@yale.edu
203-737-4644
|
Autism
| Study Name | Study Information | Age | Procedure | Compensation | Website | Contacts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
SPARK at Yale | SPARK is a growing community of individuals, families, and researchers on a mission to speed up the understanding of autism. SPARK is sponsored by the Simons Foundation Autism Research Initiative (SFARI) and Yale is one of more than 30 participating hospitals and clinics across the country. Why join SPARK? Find possible genetic causes of autism in your own family and power future autism research for years to come. Join other autism research studies and get updates on the latest autism research. Connect with a community of 1400 SPARK participants in our region! | All ages | Saliva collection, questionnaires | Up to $50 Amazon gift card | SPARKforAutism.org/Yale | 203-785-7539 or
sparkforautism@yale.edu |
Complex Neurodevelopmental Conditions | This study will help us better understand the causes and developmental course of repetitive behavior in children, especially repetitive motor movements involving the fingers, hands, head, or body. We are recruiting children 4 years of age and younger with repetitive behavior, either typically developing, or with autism or other neurodevelopmental conditions such as ADHD. Participation will include a visit to the lab with your child, including a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation, assessment of repetitive behavior, studies of attention, and collection of saliva samples to learn more about genetic factors involved in repetitive behavior. All study visits will occur at the SANA Program at 300 George St., Suite 900, New Haven, CT. We provide free and convenient parking. If you are interested in participating, please fill out our inquiry form. | 4 years and younger | Diagnostic evaluation, assessment of repetitive behavior, studies of attention, saliva samples | - | Chawarska Lab | 203-764-5933 |
Social Attention in Autistic and Non-Autistic Children with Intellectual Disability | This project studies attention to social images in autistic children with intellectual disability (ID) and non-autistic children with ID. We are studying behavior and brain systems to better understand the different ways these children experience the social world. Participation involves one or two visits to our offices where children and families will talk to a clinician, complete questionnaires, and watch videos while their brain waves and movement are recorded. Children will receive a clinical evaluation and report as well as compensation. | 3 to 17 years | Questionnaires, EEG, eye-tracking, clinical evaluation | Up to $300 | McPartland Lab | 203-737-3439 or
autism@yale.edu |
Brain Imaging Study of Emotion Regulation in Children | If you have a child who is 5 to 15 years old and has disruptive behaviors or has no disruptive behaviors (such as anger, irritability, or aggression), they may be eligible to participate in a free and confidential study that examines your child’s social and emotional skills. This research will lead to new ways of understanding how children processes and regulate their emotions. The study will require two visits. At each visit you and your child will complete questionnaires, and your child will participate in an fMRI scan. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) is a technique for measuring and mapping brain activity that is noninvasive and safe. You will also receive a free psychoeducational assessment describing your child’s social and emotional development. | 5 to 15 years | Qquestionnaires and fMRI | Up to $100 | Ibrahim Lab | emotion@yale.edu |
Pivotal Response Treatment | PRT is a well-studied and effective behavioral treatment for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). PRT treatment sessions take place three times a week at the Yale Child Study Center over 16 weeks, and each visit lasts about 1.5 hours. These sessions are play-based, and the PRT team selects games, crafts, and other activities to match the child’s interests while working on social engagement and communication skills. The study requires a successful fMRI before beginning PRT. Before attempting the scan, a phone screener is required to determine the child’s eligibility and answer any questions parents might have. | 4 to 9 years | Play-based therapy, fMRI, questionnaires, clinical evaluation
| Up to $100 | Ventola Lab | emilio.gray@yale.edu |
Stem Cell Study in Autism | The purpose of this study is to identify factors that influence brain cell development and function in individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders. We are focusing on how young brain cells (known as “neuronal stem cells”) turn into mature cells (such as “neurons and glia”) and how they all function. | 6 years and up | - | Up to $150 | Program in Neurodevelopment & Regeneration | flora.vaccarino@yale.edu
livia.tomasini@yale.edu |
Comprehensive Therapy for Irritability and Aggression (CTIA) in Autistic Adolescents | The purpose of this study is to test a novel psychosocial intervention for irritability and aggression in autism (CTIA) in comparison to a supportive psychotherapy control condition. We want to see if CTIA helps reduce irritability and aggressive behavior in adolescents with ASD. Participation involves completing 15 weeks of therapy, which may be conducted in-person at Yale Child Study Center in New Haven, CT, or remotely by telehealth. Parents and adolescents also complete questionnaires and interviews about symptoms and behaviors before, during, and after treatment. The study provides a comprehensive assessment of autism, including IQ and adaptive function, and treatment for irritability at no cost to families. | 12 to 19 years | Therapy, interviews, questionnaires | Up to $250 | Sukhodolsky Lab | sydeny.anderson@yale.edu
or 203-737-7662 |
EEG Study in Adolescents with Autism | This project studies how teens interact with peers in a computer game and in everyday life. Participation includes one visit to our lab where families will talk to a clinician, complete questionnaires, and teens will do computer activities while their brain waves are recorded with an electroencephalogram (EEG). Participants will receive a clinical evaluation, assessment report, and compensation. | 13 to 17 years | Questionnaires, EEG, eye-tracking, clinical evaluation | 100 | McPartland Lab | 203-737-3439 or
autism@yale.edu |
Neurodevelopmental Biomarkers of Late Diagnosis in Autism | The purpose of the study is to advance the knowledge of the autistic experience. We are aiming to learn about why some people get an autism diagnosis when they are young, and other people get an autism diagnosis when they are teens or adults. Participation involves 1-2 visits, and participants will be compensated up to $225 for participating, and results of study assessments can be shared with participants free of charge. In addition to the 1-2 visits, participants may also be invited to complete optional activities at other visits such as: interviews (up to 1 hour) and brain scans using MRI (up to 2-3 hours). | 16 to 39 years | 1-2 visits, interviews (up to 1 hour), brain scans using MRI (up to 2-3 hours). | up to $225 | Sukhodolsky Lab | sukhodolsky.lab@yale.edu
or 203-737-7664 |
Auditory Study in Autism | This study investigates how the brain processes sounds, and why sometimes the same sounds can feel too loud or too quiet. Participation includes a one-time visit to the lab where brain activity is measured using an electroencephalogram (EEG) in response to various sounds. In addition, participants will talk to a clinician, complete questionnaires, and answer online daily questions at home throughout the following two weeks. The option to participate in only the online portion is available for those without autism and those with a clinical diagnosis of autism. | 18 to 40 years | Questionnaires, EEG, eye-tracking, clinical evaluation, online survey | Up to $175 | McPartland Lab | 203-737-3439 or
autism@yale.edu |
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for Depression in Autism | This study will evaluate the effects of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), a type of noninvasive brain stimulation for potentially treating depression in autistic individuals. TMS is a therapy that has been approved for conditions like depression, anxious depression, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Depression is common in autism so there is a need to better understand why autistic individuals have higher rates of depression than neurotypical individuals. In addition, many autistic individuals with depression may not respond to standard antidepressant medications. In our study, we conduct clinical assessments, then EEG and eye tracking experiments before and after TMS. | 18 to 40 years | Clinical assessments, TMS, EEG, eye tracking experiments | Up to $250 | McPartland Lab | 203-737-3439 or
autism@yale.edu |
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) Study | This study investigates how the brain processes sounds, and why sometimes the same sounds can feel too loud or too quiet. Participation includes a one-time visit to the lab where brain activity is measured using an electroencephalogram (EEG) in response to various sounds. In addition, participants will talk to a clinician, complete questionnaires, and answer online daily questions at home throughout the following two weeks. The option to participate in only the online portion is available for those without autism and those with a clinical diagnosis of autism. | 18 to 40 years | Questionnaires, EEG, eye-tracking, clinical evaluation, online survey | Up to $250 | McPartland Lab | 203-737-3439 or
autism@yale.edu |
The IRIS Study | The IRIS clinical trial is evaluating an oral investigational medication, ML-004, to see if it may help alleviate some of the symptoms that interfere with communication in those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Participants may be able to take part in the clinical trial if they are between the ages of 18 and 45 years old, have a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), have a clinical trial/care partner willing to assist during the trial. The clinical trial/care partner is someone who lives with or has frequent contact with the clinical trial participant (parent, spouse, friend, etc.) and is willing and able to provide information about the participant and attend some trial visits. | 18 to 45 years | Medication, office visits | - | Maplight | marcia.questel@yale.edu or
morgan.patterson@yale.edu |
Childhood Disintegrative Disorder
| Study Name | Study Information | Age | Procedure | Compensation | Website | Contacts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Yale CDD Study | The aim of this study is to identify additional families affected by childhood disintegrative disorder (CDD), so that we can continue neurogenetic analyses to help determine the casuse of CDD. | - | Forms, questionnaires, saliva samples | - | CDD Study | yale.cdd@yale.edu or
203-868-0653 |
Depression
| Study Name | Study Information | Age | Procedure | Compensation | Website | Contacts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Reducing Adolescent Suicide Risk in Treatment-Resistant Depression | This study is being conducted to examine the safety, efficacy, response predictors, and post treatment trajectory of adolescents (13–17 years old) with treatment-resistant depression and high suicide risk following a conservative repeat dosing Ketamine infusion paradigm compared to an active control, Midazolam. Those who are randomized to Midazolam and remain ill have the option to cross-over to Ketamine in the open phase. All participants will be followed closely for 4 months post-treatment and treated with standard of care depression treatment (medication management and cognitive behavioral therapy). Brain-based predictors of anti-suicidal responses will be assessed via connectome predictive modeling and examining functional brain circuits via fMRI before and after treatment. | 13 to 17 years | Ketamine infusion, treatment | Up to $320 | Bloch Lab | 203-785-7880 or
PediDepression@yale.edu |
Teen Brain Imaging Study | This study examines how the brain supports cognition and motivation in teenagers, ages 13-17 years old. We would like to understand how these brain changes contribute to depression and schizophrenia or psychosis in teenagers. Typically developing teenagers, teenagers who have depression or teenagers who have schizophrenia/psychosis may be eligible to participate. The study is confidential, and teenagers are compensated for their participation. | 13 to 17 years | Clinical assessments, MRI, IQ testing | Up to &650 | Cho Lab | ChoLab@yale.edu
or 203-815-9874 |
SAFETeen (Project PLAD Arm B) | The purpose of this study is to build prediction models of whether suicidal thoughts or behaviors (STBs) will occur in the near-term, over the next several hours or days. We aim to achieve this by assessing relationships between current and near-term STBs through daily phone surveys, and parent-child dyadic interactions. Teens between 14 and 18, and their biological parents may be eligible. In the end, we want to better understand why some children and teens think about not wanting to live anymore, and we hope to find ways to help these children and teens to feel better. | 14 to 18 | Teen & parent assessments, fNIRS procedurey, 14-day daily survey, final zoom visit | Up to $222 | Cha Lab | safe.teen@yale.edu |
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for Depression in Autism | This study will evaluate the effects of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), a type of noninvasive brain stimulation for potentially treating depression in autistic individuals. TMS is a therapy that has been approved for conditions like depression, anxious depression, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Depression is common in autism so there is a need to better understand why autistic individuals have higher rates of depression than neurotypical individuals. In addition, many autistic individuals with depression may not respond to standard antidepressant medications. In our study, we conduct clinical assessments, then EEG and eye tracking experiments before and after TMS. | 18 to 40 years | Clinical assessments, TMS, EEG, eye tracking experiments | Up to $250 | McPartland Lab | 203-737-3439 or
autism@yale.edu |
Functional Neurological Disorder
| Study Name | Study Information | Age | Procedure | Compensation | Website | Contacts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Multi-Site Feasibility Clinical Trial of Retraining and Control Therapy (ReACT)
| Yale Child Neurology and Yale Child Study Center are conducting a multi-site research study to examine the effects of two commonly used treatments for improving Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) symptoms, specifically Functional Seizures (FS). Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) based treatments are the standard of care for treating pediatric patients with FND symptoms. This study uses two different CBT-based therapies to assess FND treatment outcomes. | 11 to 18 years | CBT-based therapy | Up to $250 | FND Study | 203-479-0316 or
fndstudy@yale.edu |
Irritability
| Study Name | Study Information | Child Age | Procedure | Compensation | Website | Contacts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Multi-level Mechanisms and Predictors of Chronic Irritability | The goal of this research study is to see how the brain and social and emotional factors help us predict irritability and its changes over two years. | 8 to 13 years | fMRI, heart rate, questionnaires, interviews | Up to $650 | YAY Lab
| 203-479-0276 or
affectiveyouth@yale.edu |
Complex Neurodevelopmental Conditions | We are currently recruiting children for a study on repetitive behavior. This study will help us better understand the causes and developmental course of repetitive behavior in children, especially repetitive motor movements involving the fingers, hands, head, or body. We are recruiting children 4 years of age and younger with repetitive behavior, either typically developing, or with autism or other neurodevelopmental conditions such as ADHD. Participation will include a visit to the lab with your child, including a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation, assessment of repetitive behavior, studies of attention, and collection of saliva samples to learn more about genetic factors involved in repetitive behavior. All study visits will occur at the SANA Program at 300 George St., Suite 900, New Haven, CT. We provide free and convenient parking. If you are interested in participating, please fill out our inquiry form or give us a call at (203) 764-5933. | 4 years and younger | comprehensive diagnostic evaluation, assessment of repetitive behavior, studies of attention, and collection of saliva samples | - | Chawarska Lab | call (203) 764-5933 |
Language & Literacy
| Study Name | Study Information | Child Age | Procedure | Compensation | Website | Contacts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Multimodal Imaging of Language | The goal of this study is to better understand early language development and brain function. Our research uses fMRI and fNIRS, both safe and noninvasive brain imaging techniques, to study brain activity while children watch engaging videos, such as Sesame Street clips. Some children will participate in fMRI, others in fNIRS, and some in both simultaneously. | 12 months to 7 years | Surveys, neuroimaging (fNIRS), fMRI | $25/hour | LLAMB Lab | llamblab@haskins.yale.edu
or virginia.chambers@yale.edu |
Reading Patterns Explored Across Tasks (RePEAT) | The study goal is to identify how children learn language and reading skills both when they are well poised to do so and when they are struggling. We hope to identify the brain mechanisms underlying this learning and isolate what might indicate that a child is especially ready to learn to read. | 7 to 13 years | Behavioral testing, questionaires, MRI scan, fNIRS/EEG | Up to $250 | RePEAT Project Form | 203-785-2381 or
haskinsreading@yale.edu |
Misophonia
| Study Name | Study Information | Age | Procedure | Compensation | Website | Contacts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Misophonia Genetics Study | The purpose of the Misophonia Genetics Study is to identify the genetic factors that cause misophonia (a condition in which certain sounds trigger an intense emotional or physiological response) using a family-based approach. This will greatly contribute to our understanding of misophonia and may help develop new therapies in the future. This study requires participation from a child and both biological parents. | - | Child & parent saliva collection, questionnaires | Up to $75 Amazon gift card | Misophonia Genetics Study | misophonia@yale.edu |
OCD
| Study Name | Study Information | Child Age | Procedure | Compensation | Website | Contacts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
TABS Study | The purpose of this study is to identify the genetic factors that cause trichotillomania and other body focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs) using a family-based approach. This will greatly contribute to our understanding of these conditions and may help develop new therapies in the future. This study requires participation from an individual impacted by trichotillomania or other BFRB and both biological parents. The study can be done in-person or remotely. We are not able to offer a report of genetic results because our studies are performed as research. Our research lab does not offer any treatment. | All ages | Saliva samples (child & parents), questionnaire | - | TABS Study | tabsstudy@yale.edu |
Pregnancy & Parenting
| Study Name | Study Information | Age | Procedures | Compensation | Website | Contact Info |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Comparing a Fatherhood Focused Individual Intervention to Batterer Intervention to Reduce IPV and Child Maltreatment | This study will expand our promising data on Fathers for Change (F4C), a novel intervention for fathers with histories of use of aggression and violence toward their partners and/or children. We will recruit 240 fathers and randomly assign them to F4C or a standard Duluth Model program for domestic violence (BIP). Each father will receive 18 weeks of individual counseling with a therapist and participant in 6 and 12 month follow-up assessments after their counseling ends. We will test whether F4C reduces family violence and improves child symptoms better than BIP. | 3 months to 12 years | Questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, individual counseling, follow-up assessments | Up to $340 | Fathers for Change | 203-785-3486 or
fathers4change@yale.edu |
Substance Misuse and Family Violence Treatment for Fathers | We are currently recruiting fathers (of children aged 12 or younger) with a history of substance use and significant conflict with their coparent or significant other for our treatment study. Fathers will be randomly assigned to one of two treatments for substance misuse, Fathers for Change or Individual Drug Counseling. This study will help us learn what programs work best for fathers. Fathers could earn up to $475 for the entire study while receiving weekly individual counseling free of charge. | Under 12 years | 3-hour assessment, counseling sessions, follow-up assessments | Up to $475 | Fathers for Change | 203-785-3486 or
fathers4change@yale.edu |
Parent-Based Treatment for Adolescent Anxiety
| This study aims to test the efficacy of a parent-only treatment for anxiety disorders in teens, SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions), by comparing it to another parent-based approach, Parent Education and Support (PES). Teens 14-17 years old with anxiety disorders and their parents may be eligible to participate. Parents and teens complete three assessments involving diagnostic interviews and/or questionnaires. Parents only are randomly assigned to receive 12 weeks of either SPACE or PES. | 14 to 17 years | Teens and parents complete questionnaires and diagnostic interviews. Parents only attend 12 weeks of therapy for their teen's anxiety. | Up to $100 | Anxiety and Mood Disorders Program | anxiety.csc@yale.edu
203-737-4644
|
Psychological Risk on Mother Infant Study (PROMISE) | We are interested in how the maternal brain changes over pregnancy and postpartum, the role of maternal factors in shaping such changes, and the impact of those changes on parenting and child development. | 18 to 45 years | EEG, questionnaires, interviews, caregiving tasks | 500 | BABL Lab | 203-689-2831 or
promise@yale.edu |
UPWARDS Study | The purpose of the this study is to develop a better approach to identify pregnant individuals who are having difficulty with their emotional wellbeing and may need extra help or support during and after pregnancy. | - | Passive data collection, questionnaires | Up to $190 | UPWARDS Study | Kieran.ODonnell@yale.edu |
Schizophrenia/Psychosis
| Study Name | Study Information | Age | Procedures | Compensation | Website | Contact Info |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Teen Brain Imaging Study | This study examines how the brain supports cognition and motivation in teenagers, ages 13-17 years old. We would like to understand how these brain changes contribute to depression and schizophrenia or psychosis in teenagers. Typically developing teenagers, teenagers who have depression or teenagers who have schizophrenia/psychosis may be eligible to participate. The study is confidential, and teenagers are compensated for their participation. | 13 to 17 years | Clinical assessments, MRI, IQ testing | Up to &650 | Cho Lab | ChoLab@yale.edu
or 203-815-9874 |
Suicide Prevention
| Study Name | Study Information | Age | Procedures | Compensation | Website | Contact Info |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
SAFETeen (Project PLAD Arm B) | The purpose of this study is to build prediction models of whether suicidal thoughts or behaviors (STBs) will occur in the near-term, over the next several hours or days. We aim to achieve this by assessing relationships between current and near-term STBs through daily phone surveys, and parent-child dyadic interactions. Teens between 14 and 18, and their biological parents may be eligible. In the end, we want to better understand why some children and teens think about not wanting to live anymore, and we hope to find ways to help these children and teens to feel better. | 14 to 18 | Teen & parent assessments, fNIRS procedurey, 14-day daily survey, final zoom visit | Up to $222 | Cha Lab | safe.teen@yale.edu |
Perspectives of Life and Daily Thoughts (Project PLAD)
| The purpose of this study is to examine what perpetuates suicidal thoughts and behaviors (STBs), and identify ways to mitigate it. We aim to achieve this through a longitudinal study assessing future life-oriented (FLO) thinking and clinically-relevant correlates among teens (15-19) and their parents. Participation includes: self-report surveys and observation of parent-child interactions during a zoom research visit, brief micro-surveys via smartphones over 42 days, and stress-hormone collection from nail samples from teens. | 15 to 19 | Zoom study visit, observed parent-child interactions & questionnaires, brief micro-surveys, follow-up zoom session | Up to $225 and a Garmin Smartwatch for participation
| Cha Lab | project.plad@yale.edu |
Tourette's Disorder
| Study Name | Study Information | Age | Procedures | Compensation | Website | Contact Info |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Neurofeedback from the Supplementary Motor Area for Tourette Syndrome | If your child is 10-16 years old with chronic tics, they may be eligible to receive neurofeedback treatment. The purpose of this study is to determine if our neurofeedback intervention can reduce tic symptoms and improve our understanding of Tourette Syndrome. Study Sponsors: National Institute of Mental Health, Department of Human Health Services. HIC#2000033043 | 10 to 16 years | fMRI | Up to $880 | Trial Website | hampson.lab@yale.edu
or 203-737-6055 |
Stem Cell Study in Tourette's Disorder | The purpose of this study is to identify factors that influence brain cell development and function in individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders and Tourette Syndrome. We are focusing on how young brain cells (known as “neuronal stem cells”) turn into mature cells (such as “neurons and glia”) and how they all function. | 16 years and up | Saliva, blood draw, clinical assessments | Up to $200 | Program in Neurodevelopment & Regeneration | flora.vaccarino@yale.edu
livia.tomasini@yale.edu |
Trauma
| Study Name | Study Information | Child Age | Procedures | Compensation | Website | Contact Info |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Comparing a Fatherhood Focused Individual Intervention to Batterer Intervention to Reduce IPV and Child Maltreatment | This study will expand our promising data on Fathers for Change (F4C), a novel intervention for fathers with histories of use of aggression and violence toward their partners and/or children. We will recruit 240 fathers and randomly assign them to F4C or a standard Duluth Model program for domestic violence (BIP). Each father will receive 18 weeks of individual counseling with a therapist and participant in 6 and 12 month follow-up assessments after their counseling ends. We will test whether F4C reduces family violence and improves child symptoms better than BIP. | 3 months to 12 years | Questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, individual counseling, follow-up assessments | Up to $340 | Fathers for Change | 203-785-3486 or
fathers4change@yale.edu |
Trichotillomania
| Study Name | Study Information | Age | Procedures | Compensation | Website | Contact Info |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
TABS Study | The purpose of this study is to identify the genetic factors that cause trichotillomania and other body focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs) using a family-based approach. This will greatly contribute to our understanding of these conditions and may help develop new therapies in the future. This study requires participation from an individual impacted by trichotillomania or other BFRB and both biological parents. The study can be done in-person or remotely. We are not able to offer a report of genetic results because our studies are performed as research. Our research lab does not offer any treatment. | All ages | Saliva samples (child & parents), questionnaire | - | TABS Study | tabsstudy@yale.edu |
Valbenazine for the Treatment of Trichotillomania in Adults | This study will examine the efficacy of Valbenazine for the treatment of trichotillomania. Valbenazine is a dopamine-depleting agent that is currently FDA-approved for tardive dyskinesia and has a relatively safe side-effect profile in initial trials. While enrolled in the trial, you will receive regular psychiatric and medical assessments of symptoms at no cost. Additionally, you will receive a stipend of up to $590 over the course of 26 weeks for your participation. In-person visits occur about every two weeks and are held at 350 George St. New Haven, Conn. | - | Medication, psychiatric & medical assessments | Up to $590 | Bloch Lab | 203-785-7880 or
blochresearch@yale.edu |
Typical Development
| Study Name | Study Information | Age | Procedures | Compensation | Website | Contact Info |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
TABS Study | The purpose of this study is to identify the genetic factors that cause trichotillomania and other body focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs) using a family-based approach. This will greatly contribute to our understanding of these conditions and may help develop new therapies in the future. This study requires participation from an individual impacted by trichotillomania or other BFRB and both biological parents. The study can be done in-person or remotely. We are not able to offer a report of genetic results because our studies are performed as research. Our research lab does not offer any treatment. | All ages | Saliva samples (child & parents), questionnaire | - | TABS Study | tabsstudy@yale.edu |
Substance Misuse and Family Violence Treatment for Fathers | We are currently recruiting fathers (of children aged 12 or younger) with a history of substance use and significant conflict with their coparent or significant other for our treatment study. Fathers will be randomly assigned to one of two treatments for substance misuse, Fathers for Change or Individual Drug Counseling. This study will help us learn what programs work best for fathers. Fathers could earn up to $475 for the entire study while receiving weekly individual counseling free of charge. | Under 12 years | 3-hour assessment, counseling sessions, follow-up assessments | Up to $475 | Fathers for Change | 203-785-3486 or
fathers4change@yale.edu |
Comparing a Fatherhood Focused Individual Intervention to Batterer Intervention to Reduce IPV and Child Maltreatment | This study will expand our promising data on Fathers for Change (F4C), a novel intervention for fathers with histories of use of aggression and violence toward their partners and/or children. We will recruit 240 fathers and randomly assign them to F4C or a standard Duluth Model program for domestic violence (BIP). Each father will receive 18 weeks of individual counseling with a therapist and participant in 6 and 12 month follow-up assessments after their counseling ends. We will test whether F4C reduces family violence and improves child symptoms better than BIP. | 3 months to 12 years | Questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, individual counseling, follow-up assessments | Up to $340 | Fathers for Change | 203-785-3486 or
fathers4change@yale.edu |
Multimodal Imaging of Language | The goal of this study is to better understand early language development and brain function. Our research uses fMRI and fNIRS, both safe and noninvasive brain imaging techniques, to study brain activity while children watch engaging videos, such as Sesame Street clips. Some children will participate in fMRI, others in fNIRS, and some in both simultaneously. | 12 months to 7 years | Surveys, neuroimaging (fNIRS), fMRI | $25/hour | LLAMB Lab | llamblab@haskins.yale.edu
or virginia.chambers@yale.edu |
Complex Neurodevelopmental Conditions | This study will help us better understand the causes and developmental course of repetitive behavior in children, especially repetitive motor movements involving the fingers, hands, head, or body. We are recruiting children 4 years of age and younger with repetitive behavior, either typically developing, or with autism or other neurodevelopmental conditions such as ADHD. Participation will include a visit to the lab with your child, including a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation, assessment of repetitive behavior, studies of attention, and collection of saliva samples to learn more about genetic factors involved in repetitive behavior. All study visits will occur at the SANA Program at 300 George St., Suite 900, New Haven, CT. We provide free and convenient parking. If you are interested in participating, please fill out our inquiry form. | 4 years and younger | Diagnostic evaluation, assessment of repetitive behavior, studies of attention, saliva samples | - | Chawarska Lab | 203-764-5933 |
Brain Imaging Study of Emotion Regulation in Children | If you have a child who is 5 to 15 years old and has disruptive behaviors or has no disruptive behaviors (such as anger, irritability, or aggression), they may be eligible to participate in a free and confidential study that examines your child’s social and emotional skills. This research will lead to new ways of understanding how children processes and regulate their emotions. The study will require two visits. At each visit you and your child will complete questionnaires, and your child will participate in an fMRI scan. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) is a technique for measuring and mapping brain activity that is noninvasive and safe. You will also receive a free psychoeducational assessment describing your child’s social and emotional development. | 5 to 15 years | Qquestionnaires and fMRI | Up to $100 | Ibrahim Lab | emotion@yale.edu |
Stem Cell Study in Autism | The purpose of this study is to identify factors that influence brain cell development and function in individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders. We are focusing on how young brain cells (known as “neuronal stem cells”) turn into mature cells (such as “neurons and glia”) and how they all function. | 6 years and up | - | Up to $150 | Program in Neurodevelopment & Regeneration | flora.vaccarino@yale.edu
livia.tomasini@yale.edu |
Reading Patterns Explored Across Tasks (RePEAT) | The study goal is to identify how children learn language and reading skills both when they are well poised to do so and when they are struggling. We hope to identify the brain mechanisms underlying this learning and isolate what might indicate that a child is especially ready to learn to read. | 7 to 13 years | Behavioral testing, questionaires, MRI scan, fNIRS/EEG | Up to $250 | RePEAT Project Form | 203-785-2381 or
haskinsreading@yale.edu |
Multi-level Mechanisms and Predictors of Chronic Irritability | The goal of this research study is to see how the brain and social and emotional factors help us predict irritability and its changes over two years. | 8 to 13 years | fMRI, heart rate, questionnaires, interviews | Up to $650 | YAY Lab
| 203-479-0276 or
affectiveyouth@yale.edu |
EEG Study in Adolescents with Autism | This project studies how teens interact with peers in a computer game and in everyday life. Participation includes one visit to our lab where families will talk to a clinician, complete questionnaires, and teens will do computer activities while their brain waves are recorded with an electroencephalogram (EEG). Participants will receive a clinical evaluation, assessment report, and compensation. | 13 to 17 years | Questionnaires, EEG, eye-tracking, clinical evaluation | 100 | McPartland Lab | 203-737-3439 or
autism@yale.edu |
Teen Brain Imaging Study | This study examines how the brain supports cognition and motivation in teenagers, ages 13-17 years old. We would like to understand how these brain changes contribute to depression and schizophrenia or psychosis in teenagers. Typically developing teenagers, teenagers who have depression or teenagers who have schizophrenia/psychosis may be eligible to participate. The study is confidential, and teenagers are compensated for their participation. | 13 to 17 years | Clinical assessments, MRI, IQ testing | Up to &650 | Cho Lab | ChoLab@yale.edu
or 203-815-9874 |
SAFETeen (Project PLAD Arm B) | The purpose of this study is to build prediction models of whether suicidal thoughts or behaviors (STBs) will occur in the near-term, over the next several hours or days. We aim to achieve this by assessing relationships between current and near-term STBs through daily phone surveys, and parent-child dyadic interactions. Teens between 14 and 18, and their biological parents may be eligible. In the end, we want to better understand why some children and teens think about not wanting to live anymore, and we hope to find ways to help these children and teens to feel better. | 14 to 18 | Teen & parent assessments, fNIRS procedurey, 14-day daily survey, final zoom visit | Up to $222 | Cha Lab | safe.teen@yale.edu |
Perspectives of Life and Daily Thoughts (Project PLAD)
| The purpose of this study is to examine what perpetuates suicidal thoughts and behaviors (STBs), and identify ways to mitigate it. We aim to achieve this through a longitudinal study assessing future life-oriented (FLO) thinking and clinically-relevant correlates among teens (15-19) and their parents. Participation includes: self-report surveys and observation of parent-child interactions during a zoom research visit, brief micro-surveys via smartphones over 42 days, and stress-hormone collection from nail samples from teens. | 15 to 19 | Zoom study visit, observed parent-child interactions & questionnaires, brief micro-surveys, follow-up zoom session | Up to $225 and a Garmin Smartwatch for participation
| Cha Lab | project.plad@yale.edu |
Stem Cell Study in Tourette's Disorder | The purpose of this study is to identify factors that influence brain cell development and function in individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders and Tourette Syndrome. We are focusing on how young brain cells (known as “neuronal stem cells”) turn into mature cells (such as “neurons and glia”) and how they all function. | 16 years and up | Saliva, blood draw, clinical assessments | Up to $200 | Program in Neurodevelopment & Regeneration | flora.vaccarino@yale.edu
livia.tomasini@yale.edu |
Auditory Study in Autism | This study investigates how the brain processes sounds, and why sometimes the same sounds can feel too loud or too quiet. Participation includes a one-time visit to the lab where brain activity is measured using an electroencephalogram (EEG) in response to various sounds. In addition, participants will talk to a clinician, complete questionnaires, and answer online daily questions at home throughout the following two weeks. The option to participate in only the online portion is available for those without autism and those with a clinical diagnosis of autism. | 18 to 40 years | Questionnaires, EEG, eye-tracking, clinical evaluation, online survey | Up to $175 | McPartland Lab | 203-737-3439 or
autism@yale.edu |
All Studies
| Study Name | Study Information | Age | Procedures | Compensation | Website | Contact Info |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
SPARK at Yale | SPARK is a growing community of individuals, families, and researchers on a mission to speed up the understanding of autism. SPARK is sponsored by the Simons Foundation Autism Research Initiative (SFARI) and Yale is one of more than 30 participating hospitals and clinics across the country. Why join SPARK? Find possible genetic causes of autism in your own family and power future autism research for years to come. Join other autism research studies and get updates on the latest autism research. Connect with a community of 1400 SPARK participants in our region! | All ages | Saliva collection, questionnaires | Up to $50 Amazon gift card | SPARKforAutism.org/Yale | 203-785-7539 or
sparkforautism@yale.edu |
TABS Study | The purpose of this study is to identify the genetic factors that cause trichotillomania and other body focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs) using a family-based approach. This will greatly contribute to our understanding of these conditions and may help develop new therapies in the future. This study requires participation from an individual impacted by trichotillomania or other BFRB and both biological parents. The study can be done in-person or remotely. We are not able to offer a report of genetic results because our studies are performed as research. Our research lab does not offer any treatment. | All ages | Saliva samples (child & parents), questionnaire | - | TABS Study | tabsstudy@yale.edu |
Substance Misuse and Family Violence Treatment for Fathers | We are currently recruiting fathers (of children aged 12 or younger) with a history of substance use and significant conflict with their coparent or significant other for our treatment study. Fathers will be randomly assigned to one of two treatments for substance misuse, Fathers for Change or Individual Drug Counseling. This study will help us learn what programs work best for fathers. Fathers could earn up to $475 for the entire study while receiving weekly individual counseling free of charge. | Under 12 years | 3-hour assessment, counseling sessions, follow-up assessments | Up to $475 | Fathers for Change | 203-785-3486 or
fathers4change@yale.edu |
Comparing a Fatherhood Focused Individual Intervention to Batterer Intervention to Reduce IPV and Child Maltreatment | This study will expand our promising data on Fathers for Change (F4C), a novel intervention for fathers with histories of use of aggression and violence toward their partners and/or children. We will recruit 240 fathers and randomly assign them to F4C or a standard Duluth Model program for domestic violence (BIP). Each father will receive 18 weeks of individual counseling with a therapist and participant in 6 and 12 month follow-up assessments after their counseling ends. We will test whether F4C reduces family violence and improves child symptoms better than BIP. | 3 months to 12 years | Questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, individual counseling, follow-up assessments | Up to $340 | Fathers for Change | 203-785-3486 or
fathers4change@yale.edu |
Multimodal Imaging of Language | The goal of this study is to better understand early language development and brain function. Our research uses fMRI and fNIRS, both safe and noninvasive brain imaging techniques, to study brain activity while children watch engaging videos, such as Sesame Street clips. Some children will participate in fMRI, others in fNIRS, and some in both simultaneously. | 12 months to 7 years | Surveys, neuroimaging (fNIRS), fMRI | $25/hour | LLAMB Lab | llamblab@haskins.yale.edu
or virginia.chambers@yale.edu |
Complex Neurodevelopmental Conditions | This study will help us better understand the causes and developmental course of repetitive behavior in children, especially repetitive motor movements involving the fingers, hands, head, or body. We are recruiting children 4 years of age and younger with repetitive behavior, either typically developing, or with autism or other neurodevelopmental conditions such as ADHD. Participation will include a visit to the lab with your child, including a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation, assessment of repetitive behavior, studies of attention, and collection of saliva samples to learn more about genetic factors involved in repetitive behavior. All study visits will occur at the SANA Program at 300 George St., Suite 900, New Haven, CT. We provide free and convenient parking. If you are interested in participating, please fill out our inquiry form. | 4 years and younger | Diagnostic evaluation, assessment of repetitive behavior, studies of attention, saliva samples | - | Chawarska Lab | 203-764-5933 |
Social Attention in Autistic and Non-Autistic Children with Intellectual Disability | This project studies attention to social images in autistic children with intellectual disability (ID) and non-autistic children with ID. We are studying behavior and brain systems to better understand the different ways these children experience the social world. Participation involves one or two visits to our offices where children and families will talk to a clinician, complete questionnaires, and watch videos while their brain waves and movement are recorded. Children will receive a clinical evaluation and report as well as compensation. | 3 to 17 years | Questionnaires, EEG, eye-tracking, clinical evaluation | Up to $300 | McPartland Lab | 203-737-3439 or
autism@yale.edu |
Pivotal Response Treatment | PRT is a well-studied and effective behavioral treatment for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). PRT treatment sessions take place three times a week at the Yale Child Study Center over 16 weeks, and each visit lasts about 1.5 hours. These sessions are play-based, and the PRT team selects games, crafts, and other activities to match the child’s interests while working on social engagement and communication skills. The study requires a successful fMRI before beginning PRT. Before attempting the scan, a phone screener is required to determine the child’s eligibility and answer any questions parents might have. | 4 to 9 years | Play-based therapy, fMRI, questionnaires, clinical evaluation
| Up to $100 | Ventola Lab | emilio.gray@yale.edu |
Brain Imaging Study of Emotion Regulation in Children | If you have a child who is 5 to 15 years old and has disruptive behaviors or has no disruptive behaviors (such as anger, irritability, or aggression), they may be eligible to participate in a free and confidential study that examines your child’s social and emotional skills. This research will lead to new ways of understanding how children processes and regulate their emotions. The study will require two visits. At each visit you and your child will complete questionnaires, and your child will participate in an fMRI scan. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) is a technique for measuring and mapping brain activity that is noninvasive and safe. You will also receive a free psychoeducational assessment describing your child’s social and emotional development. | 5 to 15 years | Qquestionnaires and fMRI | Up to $100 | Ibrahim Lab | emotion@yale.edu |
Stem Cell Study in Autism | The purpose of this study is to identify factors that influence brain cell development and function in individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders. We are focusing on how young brain cells (known as “neuronal stem cells”) turn into mature cells (such as “neurons and glia”) and how they all function. | 6 years and up | - | Up to $150 | Program in Neurodevelopment & Regeneration | flora.vaccarino@yale.edu
livia.tomasini@yale.edu |
Reading Patterns Explored Across Tasks (RePEAT) | The study goal is to identify how children learn language and reading skills both when they are well poised to do so and when they are struggling. We hope to identify the brain mechanisms underlying this learning and isolate what might indicate that a child is especially ready to learn to read. | 7 to 13 years | Behavioral testing, questionaires, MRI scan, fNIRS/EEG | Up to $250 | RePEAT Project Form | 203-785-2381 or
haskinsreading@yale.edu |
Multi-level Mechanisms and Predictors of Chronic Irritability | The goal of this research study is to see how the brain and social and emotional factors help us predict irritability and its changes over two years. | 8 to 13 years | fMRI, heart rate, questionnaires, interviews | Up to $650 | YAY Lab
| 203-479-0276 or
affectiveyouth@yale.edu |
Development of a Scale to Assess Suicide Thoughts and Behaviors Among Preteens | The goal of this study is to create a new survey to understand thoughts of self-harm in young children. It’s important to note, your child does not need to experience thoughts of self-harm to participate. | 9 to 12 years | Parent & child questionnaires | Up to $100 | Anxiety and Mood Disorders Program | anxiety.csc@yale.edu
203-737-4644
|
Neurofeedback from the Supplementary Motor Area for Tourette Syndrome | If your child is 10-16 years old with chronic tics, they may be eligible to receive neurofeedback treatment. The purpose of this study is to determine if our neurofeedback intervention can reduce tic symptoms and improve our understanding of Tourette Syndrome. Study Sponsors: National Institute of Mental Health, Department of Human Health Services. HIC#2000033043 | 10 to 16 years | fMRI | Up to $880 | Trial Website | hampson.lab@yale.edu
or 203-737-6055 |
Multi-Site Feasibility Clinical Trial of Retraining and Control Therapy (ReACT)
| Yale Child Neurology and Yale Child Study Center are conducting a multi-site research study to examine the effects of two commonly used treatments for improving Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) symptoms, specifically Functional Seizures (FS). Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) based treatments are the standard of care for treating pediatric patients with FND symptoms. This study uses two different CBT-based therapies to assess FND treatment outcomes. | 11 to 18 years | CBT-based therapy | Up to $250 | FND Study | 203-479-0316 or
fndstudy@yale.edu |
Comprehensive Therapy for Irritability and Aggression (CTIA) in Autistic Adolescents | The purpose of this study is to test a novel psychosocial intervention for irritability and aggression in autism (CTIA) in comparison to a supportive psychotherapy control condition. We want to see if CTIA helps reduce irritability and aggressive behavior in adolescents with ASD. Participation involves completing 15 weeks of therapy, which may be conducted in-person at Yale Child Study Center in New Haven, CT, or remotely by telehealth. Parents and adolescents also complete questionnaires and interviews about symptoms and behaviors before, during, and after treatment. The study provides a comprehensive assessment of autism, including IQ and adaptive function, and treatment for irritability at no cost to families. | 12 to 19 years | Therapy, interviews, questionnaires | Up to $250 | Sukhodolsky Lab | sydeny.anderson@yale.edu
or 203-737-7662 |
EEG Study in Adolescents with Autism | This project studies how teens interact with peers in a computer game and in everyday life. Participation includes one visit to our lab where families will talk to a clinician, complete questionnaires, and teens will do computer activities while their brain waves are recorded with an electroencephalogram (EEG). Participants will receive a clinical evaluation, assessment report, and compensation. | 13 to 17 years | Questionnaires, EEG, eye-tracking, clinical evaluation | 100 | McPartland Lab | 203-737-3439 or
autism@yale.edu |
Reducing Adolescent Suicide Risk in Treatment-Resistant Depression | This study is being conducted to examine the safety, efficacy, response predictors, and post treatment trajectory of adolescents (13–17 years old) with treatment-resistant depression and high suicide risk following a conservative repeat dosing Ketamine infusion paradigm compared to an active control, Midazolam. Those who are randomized to Midazolam and remain ill have the option to cross-over to Ketamine in the open phase. All participants will be followed closely for 4 months post-treatment and treated with standard of care depression treatment (medication management and cognitive behavioral therapy). Brain-based predictors of anti-suicidal responses will be assessed via connectome predictive modeling and examining functional brain circuits via fMRI before and after treatment. | 13 to 17 years | Ketamine infusion, treatment | Up to $320 | Bloch Lab | 203-785-7880 or
PediDepression@yale.edu |
Teen Brain Imaging Study | This study examines how the brain supports cognition and motivation in teenagers, ages 13-17 years old. We would like to understand how these brain changes contribute to depression and schizophrenia or psychosis in teenagers. Typically developing teenagers, teenagers who have depression or teenagers who have schizophrenia/psychosis may be eligible to participate. The study is confidential, and teenagers are compensated for their participation. | 13 to 17 years | Clinical assessments, MRI, IQ testing | Up to &650 | Cho Lab | ChoLab@yale.edu
or 203-815-9874 |
Parent-Based Treatment for Adolescent Anxiety
| This study aims to test the efficacy of a parent-only treatment for anxiety disorders in teens, SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions), by comparing it to another parent-based approach, Parent Education and Support (PES). Teens 14-17 years old with anxiety disorders and their parents may be eligible to participate. Parents and teens complete three assessments involving diagnostic interviews and/or questionnaires. Parents only are randomly assigned to receive 12 weeks of either SPACE or PES. | 14 to 17 | Teen & parent questionnaires/interviews, parent therapy | Up to $100 | Anxiety and Mood Disorders Program | anxiety.csc@yale.edu
203-737-4644
|
SAFETeen (Project PLAD Arm B) | The purpose of this study is to build prediction models of whether suicidal thoughts or behaviors (STBs) will occur in the near-term, over the next several hours or days. We aim to achieve this by assessing relationships between current and near-term STBs through daily phone surveys, and parent-child dyadic interactions. Teens between 14 and 18, and their biological parents may be eligible. In the end, we want to better understand why some children and teens think about not wanting to live anymore, and we hope to find ways to help these children and teens to feel better. | 14 to 18 | Teen & parent assessments, fNIRS procedurey, 14-day daily survey, final zoom visit | Up to $222 | Cha Lab | safe.teen@yale.edu |
Perspectives of Life and Daily Thoughts (Project PLAD)
| The purpose of this study is to examine what perpetuates suicidal thoughts and behaviors (STBs), and identify ways to mitigate it. We aim to achieve this through a longitudinal study assessing future life-oriented (FLO) thinking and clinically-relevant correlates among teens (15-19) and their parents. Participation includes: self-report surveys and observation of parent-child interactions during a zoom research visit, brief micro-surveys via smartphones over 42 days, and stress-hormone collection from nail samples from teens. | 15 to 19 | Zoom study visit, observed parent-child interactions & questionnaires, brief micro-surveys, follow-up zoom session | Up to $225 and a Garmin Smartwatch for participation
| Cha Lab | project.plad@yale.edu |
Neurodevelopmental Biomarkers of Late Diagnosis in Autism | The purpose of the study is to advance the knowledge of the autistic experience. We are aiming to learn about why some people get an autism diagnosis when they are young, and other people get an autism diagnosis when they are teens or adults. Participation involves 1-2 visits, and participants will be compensated up to $225 for participating, and results of study assessments can be shared with participants free of charge. In addition to the 1-2 visits, participants may also be invited to complete optional activities at other visits such as: interviews (up to 1 hour) and brain scans using MRI (up to 2-3 hours). | 16 to 39 years | 1-2 visits, interviews (up to 1 hour), brain scans using MRI (up to 2-3 hours). | up to $225 | Sukhodolsky Lab | sukhodolsky.lab@yale.edu
or 203-737-7664 |
Stem Cell Study in Tourette's Disorder | The purpose of this study is to identify factors that influence brain cell development and function in individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders and Tourette Syndrome. We are focusing on how young brain cells (known as “neuronal stem cells”) turn into mature cells (such as “neurons and glia”) and how they all function. | 16 years and up | Saliva, blood draw, clinical assessments | Up to $200 | Program in Neurodevelopment & Regeneration | flora.vaccarino@yale.edu
livia.tomasini@yale.edu |
Auditory Study in Autism | This study investigates how the brain processes sounds, and why sometimes the same sounds can feel too loud or too quiet. Participation includes a one-time visit to the lab where brain activity is measured using an electroencephalogram (EEG) in response to various sounds. In addition, participants will talk to a clinician, complete questionnaires, and answer online daily questions at home throughout the following two weeks. The option to participate in only the online portion is available for those without autism and those with a clinical diagnosis of autism. | 18 to 40 years | Questionnaires, EEG, eye-tracking, clinical evaluation, online survey | Up to $175 | McPartland Lab | 203-737-3439 or
autism@yale.edu |
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for Depression in Autism | This study will evaluate the effects of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), a type of noninvasive brain stimulation for potentially treating depression in autistic individuals. TMS is a therapy that has been approved for conditions like depression, anxious depression, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Depression is common in autism so there is a need to better understand why autistic individuals have higher rates of depression than neurotypical individuals. In addition, many autistic individuals with depression may not respond to standard antidepressant medications. In our study, we conduct clinical assessments, then EEG and eye tracking experiments before and after TMS. | 18 to 40 years | Clinical assessments, TMS, EEG, eye tracking experiments | Up to $250 | McPartland Lab | 203-737-3439 or
autism@yale.edu |
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) Study | This study will evaluate the effects of repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS), a type of noninvasive brain stimulation. TMS is a therapy that has been approved for depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder and we are looking to see if it can also help autistic people. This method uses magnetic waves to influence brain activity. Participation includes two visits that involve answering questions and solving puzzles, as well as a recording of brain waves (using EEG) and watching videos on a computer screen. | 18 to 40 years | Clinical assessments, TMS, EEG, eye tracking experiments | Up to $250 | McPartland Lab | 203-737-3439 or
autism@yale.edu |
The IRIS Study | The IRIS clinical trial is evaluating an oral investigational medication, ML-004, to see if it may help alleviate some of the symptoms that interfere with communication in those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Participants may be able to take part in the clinical trial if they are between the ages of 18 and 45 years old, have a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), have a clinical trial/care partner willing to assist during the trial. The clinical trial/care partner is someone who lives with or has frequent contact with the clinical trial participant (parent, spouse, friend, etc.) and is willing and able to provide information about the participant and attend some trial visits. | 18 to 45 years | Medication, office visits | - | Maplight | marcia.questel@yale.edu or
morgan.patterson@yale.edu |
Psychological Risk on Mother Infant Study (PROMISE) | We are interested in how the maternal brain changes over pregnancy and postpartum, the role of maternal factors in shaping such changes, and the impact of those changes on parenting and child development. | 18 to 45 years | EEG, questionnaires, interviews, caregiving tasks | 500 | BABL Lab | 203-689-2831 or
promise@yale.edu |
Misophonia Genetics Study | The purpose of the Misophonia Genetics Study is to identify the genetic factors that cause misophonia (a condition in which certain sounds trigger an intense emotional or physiological response) using a family-based approach. This will greatly contribute to our understanding of misophonia and may help develop new therapies in the future. This study requires participation from a child and both biological parents. | - | Child & parent saliva collection, questionnaires | Up to $75 Amazon gift card | Misophonia Genetics Study | misophonia@yale.edu |
UPWARDS Study | The purpose of the this study is to develop a better approach to identify pregnant individuals who are having difficulty with their emotional wellbeing and may need extra help or support during and after pregnancy. | - | Passive data collection, questionnaires | Up to $190 | UPWARDS Study | Kieran.ODonnell@yale.edu |
Valbenazine for the Treatment of Trichotillomania in Adults | This study will examine the efficacy of Valbenazine for the treatment of trichotillomania. Valbenazine is a dopamine-depleting agent that is currently FDA-approved for tardive dyskinesia and has a relatively safe side-effect profile in initial trials. While enrolled in the trial, you will receive regular psychiatric and medical assessments of symptoms at no cost. Additionally, you will receive a stipend of up to $590 over the course of 26 weeks for your participation. In-person visits occur about every two weeks and are held at 350 George St. New Haven, Conn. | - | Medication, psychiatric & medical assessments | Up to $590 | Bloch Lab | 203-785-7880 or
blochresearch@yale.edu |
Yale CDD Study | The aim of this study is to identify additional families affected by childhood disintegrative disorder (CDD), so that we can continue neurogenetic analyses to help determine the casuse of CDD. | - | Forms, questionnaires, saliva samples | - | CDD Study | yale.cdd@yale.edu
or 203-868-0653 |