Martin Oscarsson

I am a licensed psychologist and postdoctoral researcher at the Centre for Psychiatry Research, Karolinska Institutet, where I am part of David Mataix-Cols' research group. My current research primarily focuses on obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), with particular emphasis on identifying early signs of deterioration and preventing relapse following successful treatment. This research is conducted in close collaboration with specialist OCD services within Stockholm's child and adolescent mental health services (BUP).

I received my PhD in Psychology from Stockholm University in 2026. My research has primarily concerned cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), digital psychological interventions, and mental health, including stress and work-related mental health difficulties among adults with ADHD. I have previously worked clinically in neuropsychiatry and taught in the Psychology Program at Stockholm University.

I also serve as an Associate Editor of the scientific journal Cognitive Behaviour Therapy.

Early detection and prevention of relapse in OCD

My current research focuses on the period between an initial treatment response and a potential relapse. How can we identify early signs of deterioration? How can we determine when deterioration is clinically meaningful? And how can we use this knowledge to prevent relapse?

In an ongoing research project, we are developing and evaluating methods for monitoring children and adolescents who have completed CBT for OCD. The aim is to detect early signs of deterioration and provide timely support within child and adolescent mental health services. This work involves developing the methods in collaboration with patients, caregivers, and clinicians, as well as evaluating their feasibility and effectiveness.

CBT and digital interventions for adults with ADHD

My doctoral research at Stockholm University focused on stress and other work-related mental health difficulties among working adults with ADHD. The project included studies exploring experiences of work-related mental health difficulties, as well as the development and evaluation of an internet-delivered CBT intervention.

The intervention was first evaluated in a pilot study and subsequently in a randomized controlled trial comparing CBT with a mindfulness-based intervention and a waitlist control group. The research has focused particularly on quality of life, stress, mental health, and ADHD symptoms.

Goal setting and behavior change

I have also conducted research on goal setting and behavior change, including studies of New Year's resolutions. This research has examined how different types of goals and strategies for goal attainment relate to the likelihood of achieving long-term behavior change.

The work has resulted in, among other things, a large study of New Year's resolutions and the popular science book Tio i tolv (Natur & Kultur).

My teaching at Stockholm University has primarily been part of the communication skills curriculum in the Psychology Program. This curriculum runs from semesters 1 to 5 and aims to systematically and progressively develop students' psychological interviewing and communication skills.

I have lectured on psychological interviewing as a professional method and supervised training sessions involving video-based feedback. I have also taught clinical interviewing and psychiatric assessment.