The Effectiveness of Schema Therapy Integrated with Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) on Emotion Regulation and Executive Functions in Individuals with Depressive Symptoms

Abstract

Objective: This study examines how the combination of schema therapy with transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) can enhance these domains.

Methods and Materials: This study employed a quasi-experimental design with pre-test and post-test assessments. A total of 45 participants were randomly assigned to one of three groups: schema therapy, schema therapy + tDCS, and a control group (receiving no treatment). The experimental groups participated in 10 group sessions of schema therapy, while one of these groups also received 5 individual tDCS sessions. The control group received no intervention. Data were collected using the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale (DERS) and the Barkley Deficits in Executive Functioning Scale (BDEFS) and analyzed through multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA).

Findings: Findings indicated that the experimental groups demonstrated significant improvements in emotion regulation and executive functions compared to the control group (p < 0.01). Notably, the group that received both schema therapy and tDCS exhibited remarkable improvements in both domains, with a large effect size. Post-hoc analyses further confirmed the high effectiveness of this combined intervention in addressing emotional and cognitive deficits.

Conclusion: This study underscores the importance of integrating neuromodulation with psychotherapy to achieve optimal outcomes. Future research should focus on investigating the durability of these effects, the potential mechanisms underlying the intervention, and its broader clinical applications.