Research | Faculty of Psychology | University of Basel

Translational Psychotherapy Research

Fundamental Research

Basic research in psychology and related sciences provides the foundation for developing new interventions. We are currently conducting several fundamental research projects to better understand triggers of Contamination OCD. As part of a large-scale study in Switzerland, we collaborated with Dr. Dirk Wulff (MPI for Human Development, Berlin) to map the similarity of these triggers using large language models (LLMs). In another project with Dr. Filip Melinscak (University of Vienna), we are exploring whether additional dimensions of these stimuli can be identified beyond established theory-driven categories, using a data-driven approach.

Neuroscience

Our focus is on optimizing emotional learning and memory processes to improve the treatment of anxiety and related disorders using exposure-based methods. To achieve this, we draw on the latest findings from neuroscientific research to improve existing treatments. In a collaborative project with Prof. Dr. Johannes Gräff (EPFL, Switzerland), Prof. Dr. Undine Lang (University Clinics Basel), and Prof. Dr. Dominique de Quervain (DBM, University of Basel), we have recently investigated whether the administration of an HDAC-inhibitors in combination with reactivation enhances exposure-based treatment for phobias.

Digital Interventions

We aim to bridge care gaps by leveraging emerging technologies such as AR, VR, and internet- or smartphone-based interventions. To achieve this, we design and evaluate innovative intervention approaches. Currently, we are developing a compassion-based, single-session intervention in collaboration with PD Dr. Helen Koechlin (University of Zurich, Switzerland) to alleviate stress in academic settings. Additionally, we are collaborating on multiple projects, including a study on the automated detection of compulsive handwashing in therapy—examining its feasibility and acceptance—with PD Dr. Karina Wahl (University of Basel, Switzerland).

Implementation Science

We are currently conducting a study funded by the Freiwillige Akademische Gesellschaft Basel (FAG), which examines the care of patients with OCD in Switzerland from both the patient and therapist perspectives, incorporating Patient and Public Involvement (PPI). The aim is to derive measures from the findings and discuss them with healthcare stakeholders to improve therapeutic care. The project is being carried out in collaboration with Prof. Dr. Anke Haberkamp (University of Witten/Herdecke), PD Dr. Helen Koechlin (University of Zurich, Switzerland), Prof. Dr. André Pittig (University of Göttingen, Germany), and PD Dr. Steffi Weidt (Director Psychiatry St. Gallen, Switzerland).

Photo (from top to bottom) by Lefebvre Thomas / Unsplash, Kutsaiev Rodion / Unsplash, Fakurian Milad / Unsplash, Wocintechchat Christina / Unsplash.