Study

Neural correlates of the effectiveness of Internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy (ICBT) for tinnitus

Research has shown a link between tinnitus and differences in brain responses. However, there is limited research investigating how the severity of tinnitus is reflected in brain responses and cognitive abilities in the same individuals. Additionally, although research studies have demonstrated Internet based cognitive behavioral therapy (ICBT) is effective for tinnitus, objective measures have not been used to examine the effectiveness of ICBT.

Why this Research Matters

This study plans to learn more about how tinnitus severity (how bothersome or non-bothersome the tinnitus is) affects the brain, and cognition

Who can Participate

Adult

18 years or older, ability to read & type, access to internet & email, tinnitus duration of at least 3 months, TFI score greater tan 25, individuals with co-occurring hearing loss have had a consultation with a hearing healthcare specialist, and individuals with co-occurring severe mental health problems (e.g., suicidal ideations) have had consultation with a psychologist and appropriate care has been provided. Inclusion criteria for adults with tinnitus includes: a) age 18 years old or older, b) currently living in the US, c) ability to read and type, d) no physical barriers to computer use, e) ability to access the internet and email, f) tinnitus duration of at least 3 months, g) TFI score greater than 25, h) individuals with co-occurring hearing loss have had a consultation with a hearing healthcare specialist, and j) individuals with co-occurring severe mental health problems (e.g., suicidal ideations) have had consultation with a psychologist and appropriate care has been provided. Inclusion criteria for adults without tinnitus includes: a) age 18 years old or older, b) currently living in the US, c) ability to read and type, d) no physical barriers to computer use, e) ability to access the internet and email, f) individuals with co-occurring hearing loss have had a consultation with a hearing healthcare specialist, and g) individuals with co-occurring severe mental health problems (e.g., suicidal ideations) have had consultation with a psychologist and appropriate care has been provided. Exclusion criteria for adults without tinnitus includes: a) any major medical or psychiatric conditions that have not been investigated, b) diagnosed neurological condition, and c) non-English speaking. Exclusion criteria for adults with tinnitus includes: a) any major medical or psychiatric conditions that have not been investigated, b) diagnosed neurological condition, c) non-English speaking, d) pulsatile, objective, or unilateral tinnitus that has not been investigated, e) medical-disorder-related tinnitus that is under investigation, and f) engagement in any tinnitus therapy other than individual with co- occurring hearing loss using hearing aids while participating in this study.