Study Principal Investigator: Natoshia Cunningham, Ph.D.

SickKids Principal Investigator: Andrea Knight, MD, MSCE

SickKids Co-Investigators: Ashley Danguecan, Psychologist Ph.D., Linda Hiraki, MD, FRCPC, MS, ScD, Deborah Levy, MD, MS, FRCPC

Funded by: Childhood Arthritis and Rheumatology Research Alliance-Arthritis Foundation (CARAA-AF)

Study goals: The objectives of this study are to determine the feasibility of a remotely delivered cognitive behavioral therapy (Education Approach for Childhood-Onset Lupus (TEACH)) for youth with Childhood-onset Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (cSLE) and determine the effect of TEACH on fatigue, depressive symptoms, and pain.

Description: This is a randomized controlled trial of a cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) intervention (TEACH) targeted at fatigue, depression and pain in patients with cSLE. Patients will then be randomized to receive: TEACH intervention or continue their medical treatment as usual.

Impact: Childhood-onset SLE is associated with fatigue, depressive symptoms, and pain. The current standard of care (or usual care) for the treatment of children with cSLE includes consultation from Adolescent Medicine and/or Social Work to address any reported mental health concerns and sometimes CBT. This research study learns more about how youth and young adults diagnosed with cSLE may benefit from a remotely delivered treatment for cSLE.