How do I get my child involved?

Interested families are encouraged to email Amy Przeworski, PhD at soarlab@case.edu.

Parents will be asked to complete a survey battery that will help us learn if their child is a good fit for our study. This survey should take about 30 minutes. If their child is a good fit, the child will be sent a survey battery, which will also take about 30 minutes to complete. When both these surveys are complete, parents and children will be scheduled for a 90-minute interview, to take place either in person or virtually over Zoom.

Eligible participants will be randomly assigned to either participating in the group or a wait list. Those who stay on the waiting list for 9 weeks will be asked to complete the remote interview and surveys after they complete the waiting list and will then be assigned to the next group that is available.

Who is eligible for the program?

Youth who are ages 8-17 who experience social anxiety, worries, or depression are eligible for the program.
Your child may not be a good fit for this study if they:

• Have been diagnosed with a developmental disorder
• Have been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder or developmental delays
• Have experienced psychosis
• Are suicidal
• Are currently involved in therapy
• Cannot speak English

 

What does the program involve?

Participants will:

• Engage in 9 weeks of guided improv plus evidence-based techniques to reduce anxiety and depression.
• Be asked to complete a survey and an interview at the beginning and end of the study.

How is the program administered?

The program is administered in a building on the Case Western Reserve University campus. Groups of 8-10 youth will participate in the group together. Groups will take in the following formats: You will enroll in 9 weekly sessions with sessions lasting 1-1.5 hours. Participants will have a five-minute break during the sessions and will be provided with necessary materials and snacks.