Dissemination of therapist-assisted internet cognitive behaviour therapy: development and open pilot study of a workshop

Cogn Behav Ther. 2012;41(3):230-40. doi: 10.1080/16506073.2011.645550. Epub 2012 Mar 20.

Abstract

There is considerable research suggesting that therapist-assisted Internet cognitive behaviour therapy (ICBT) is efficacious in the treatment of depression and anxiety. Given this research, there is a growing interest in training students in therapist-assisted ICBT in order to assist with the dissemination of this emerging modality into routine clinical practice. In this study, we developed, delivered, and evaluated a therapist-assisted ICBT workshop for clinical psychology graduate students (n=20). The workshop provided both research evidence and practical information related to the delivery of therapist-assisted ICBT. The workshop also incorporated an experiential component with students working on and discussing responses to client e-mails. Before and after the workshop, we measured knowledge of therapist-assisted ICBT research and professional practice issues, as well as attitudes towards and confidence in delivering therapist-assisted ICBT. Statistically significant changes were observed in all areas. Eighty-five per cent of students are now offering therapist-assisted ICBT under supervision. We conclude by discussing future research directions related to disseminating therapist-assisted ICBT.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Anxiety / therapy*
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy / education*
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy / methods
  • Depression / therapy*
  • Education, Graduate
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Internet*
  • Male
  • Pilot Projects
  • Psychology / education*