This project focuses on providing free chat intervention for people who are at risk of viewing sexual material involving children and adolescents or are worried about using CSAM. The project is run by a research team at Charite University and aims to reduce the use of CSAM, understand the risk factors that lead to the use of these images, and to develop effective, and tailored support services for these individuals. This service is free of charge, anonymous, and secure. Further information about the study can be found in the study information.
We offer text-based chat therapy conducted through the online platform. Our intervention is based on the principles of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), a systematic approach to addressing problems by examining feelings, thoughts, and behavior patterns. This intervention will be carried out online and it will be anonymous.
Online interventions, especially in the form of chats, offer unique advantages, such as the ability to receive help without showing your face or voice, especially in areas with limited services. You can participate from anywhere in India, using any device with a web browser and internet connection, removing the need to physically visit a therapist. The anonymous virtual setting may feel safer for discussing sensitive topics. It likely depends on the individual, and in some cases, online support can be highly effective. In our study, we aim to find out whether our chat therapy benefits participants.
This intervention has already been used in other treatment settings, such as in-person therapy. Many participants found it helpful because it addresses various challenges they have faced. Analysis shows that even four sessions in our chat format can bring about positive changes. Participants were able to significantly reduce the frequency and intensity of their problematic behavior. At the same time, their overall well-being improved, which helps in maintaining long-term changes and reducing the risk of relapse.
Together, we will explore how you can benefit from this approach and tailor the support to your individual needs.
If you do not agree to the study conditions, do not complete the intake form, or do not meet the inclusion criteria, you cannot participate in the study. However, you will still receive a link to other options if available.
Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us if you have any questions.
After completing the questionnaires, you will start a chat session with the assigned therapist. You will be asked to choose a certain time and date for the chat sessions. If needed, you will be given extra support services including helpline numbers, or you can read the resources which are under the “self-help” section available on the online platform.
We meet weekly for 50-minute sessions over a period of four to six weeks.
We have chosen to conduct the intervention via chat in order to create a comfortable anonymous environment for exchange and ensure data security. Video therapy is in principle possible in other settings. Please talk to us, if you are interested.
Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate gender-specific preferences due to limitations.
Completing the questionnaires is crucial for the study as it helps measure the effectiveness of the interventions and improve future support for peers. In exchange for the free chat therapy sessions, your participation is highly appreciated.
Behavioural change happens between the sessions, so there will always be something to work on or think to achieve better well-being.
Therapist availability is limited to scheduled sessions.
In case of a crisis, please contact your local emergency service or a helpline. You can request a comprehensive list of crisis hotlines in India from your therapist anytime.
If your therapist is ill, a substitute colleague will reschedule the session. If your therapist is unavailable for more than a few days, we will find a solution to continue your therapy.
You are free to discontinue treatment at any time, but you can always sign up again and contact us to continue your therapy.
You will always receive support, but missing two consecutive appointments or certain adverse events may lead to the termination of the study. However, this is a collaborative process, and communication about these situations is crucial to find the most appropriate support for you. Our service is not intended for emergency or high-risk situations.
Access to the Troubled Desire resources (self-help) will still be available after the study ends, but formal treatment is limited to the study period. If available, we may also recommend other services to continue.
You can always go back to the chats that you have shared with your therapist.