The Institute for Anxiety and Mood Disorders conducts treatment and diagnostic studies to gain a better understanding of these childhood difficulties.

Treatment Studies

Omega-3 Fatty Acids in Adolescents with Depression

To broaden the availability of safe treatments for depressed adolescents, this study is evaluating if a daily dietary supplement of omega-3 fatty acids (fish oils) has a beneficial effect for teenagers ages 12 to 19. Families will be provided with an evaluation to determine if this treatment is appropriate for the child. To learn more, contact Leah Guttman at (212) 263-3654 or Lev Gottlieb at (212) 263-2494. This study is funded by a federal grant to Dr. Vilma Gabbay.

Diagnostic Studies

Evaluation of Children with Temper Outbursts

We are conducting a study to better understand extreme temper outbursts in children ages 5 to 9 years. Families are provided with an evaluation and several treatment sessions. Compensation is given for time and travel. To learn more, contact Alice Dodds at (212) 263-2743. This study is funded by a grant from the Seevak Family Foundation to Dr. Rachel Klein.

Decision-Making Processes in Pediatric Anxiety Disorders

We are interested in understanding how children and adolescents ages (8- 17) manage uncertainty and make different types of decisions. Families receive an evaluation and a brief assessment of their child's cognitive functioning. Compensation for time is provided. To learn more, contact Kristin Gotimer at (212)263-0661. This study is funded by a federal grant to Dr. Amy Krain.

Immune System Activation in Adolescent Suicide

The purpose of the study is to understand the mechanisms related to the immunological system linked to depression in adolescents from 12 to 19 years old. Participation involves an evaluation for depression and suicidality, and a one-time blood draw and urine sample. Compensation is provided for time and travel. To learn more, contact Lev Gottlieb at (212) 263-2494 or Leah Guttman at (212) 263-3654. This study is funded by a grant from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) to Dr. Vilma Gabbay.

The Neurobiology of Adolescent Depression Using fMRI and 1H-MRS

As part of our effort to understand adolescent depression, we are conducting two studies to investigate brain function through neuroimaging techniques. 1) The first uses functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) to measure brain activation in response to performing simple tasks. 2) The second uses Proton Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy to identify neurochemical alterations in the brain. Depressed and nondepressed adolescents, ages 12 to 19, may be appropriate. Compensation is provided for time and travel. To learn more, contact Leah Guttman at (212) 263-3654 or Lev Gottlieb at (212) 263-2494. This study is funded by a federal grant to Dr. Vilma Gabbay.

Strengthening Early Emotional Development (SEED)

The NYU Child Study Center is recruiting children between ages 3- 5 and parents for a new program to help early onset anxiety. If your child sometimes struggles with excessive fears or worries, he or she may be qualified to participate in SEED for no cost. SEED is a 10-session prevention program that will help parents promote the development of socio-emotional skills and coping strategies for their children. The program consists of groups for parents and children. To learn more contact Amy Lerner at (212) 263-8474 or Amy.Lerner@nyumc.org for more information.
This study is funded by a federal grant to Dr. Carrie Masia.

Click here to learn more about the SEED program.