Retraining and control therapy: sense of control and catastrophic symptom expectations as targets of a cognitive behavioral treatment for pediatric functional seizures

This manuscript outlines the methodology of a randomized controlled trial (Clinical Registry #: NCT06007053) that aims to assess sense of control and catastrophic symptom expectations as targets of Retraining and Control Therapy (ReACT) a cognitive behavioral treatment for pediatric functional seizures (FS). Participants will complete baseline assessments of treatment targets and other outcome measures. The intervention will consist of either 12 sessions of ReACT or supportive therapy (i.e., unstructured, discussion-oriented therapy). Treatment targets and other outcome measures will be assessed again at one-week post-treatment and two-months post-treatment. The findings of the outlined study will contribute to the growing body of research on FS treatment by evaluating the effectiveness of ReACT in modifying key treatment targets and improving patient outcomes. If successful, ReACT may offer a structured, evidence-based approach for addressing FS in pediatric populations. Future directions include further refinement of the intervention and exploration of factors that may contribute to symptom persistence and remission. Clinical Trial Registration: https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05096273, identifier NCT05096273.