Group CBT for Intolerance of Uncertainty

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is a debilitating condition involving excessive and uncontrollable worry and anxiety. Difficulty tolerating the uncertainties of life, known as intolerance of uncertainty (IU), has been shown to be key in the development and maintenance of GAD symptoms. A new, streamlined cognitive-behavioural treatment that targets IU has been shown to be effective in at reducing GAD symptoms, IU, and general psychopathology when delivered one-on-one with a therapist, as shown in a recently published pilot study. The individual format of this treatment is now being evaluated in a randomized controlled trial (RCT). The overall objective of this study is to pilot test a group version of the treatment protocol to determine if a future RCT of this group treatment is both warranted and feasible. We will also conduct a preliminary investigation into the group treatment's efficacy. A total of two pilot groups (N = 12-20) will be conducted with participants recruited from two clinical hospital sites in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. The group treatment protocol will be delivered over the course of 12 weekly therapy sessions. Participants will complete assessment measures at pretreatment, posttreatment, and at a 3-month follow-up point. All assessments and treatment sessions will be conducted virtually via videoconferencing platform due to ongoing COVID-19 pandemic restrictions.

Inclusion Criteria: * Primary diagnosis of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) * High Intolerance of uncertainty (IU) Exclusion Criteria: * Comorbid psychosis, organic brain disorder, bipolar disorder, or current substance use disorder * Receiving concurrent psychological treatments or other counselling * Psychotropic medications must remain stable during the study period and for 3 months prior to intervention