An Online- and Mobile-Based Application to Facilitate Exposure for Childhood Anxiety Disorders

Cogn Behav Pract. 2019 Aug;26(3):478-491. doi: 10.1016/j.cbpra.2019.01.002. Epub 2019 Feb 2.

Abstract

In the current paper, we describe an integrated online- and mobile-based application for the treatment of childhood anxiety disorders, Anxiety Coach. The technology is designed to increase the use of exposure therapy by therapists and patients. We begin by outlining the clinical content and design of the application, and then review the clinical administration and theoretical basis for the program. Next, using results from an implementation feasibility study, we illustrate how data collected during application use can inform therapists, supervisors, and researchers about process variables (i.e., use of exposure) and outcomes (i.e., symptom improvement). Implications of the potential for Anxiety Coach to increase access to evidence-based treatment and directions for further research are discussed.

Keywords: childhood anxiety disorders; exposure; fidelity; information and communication technology; obsessive-compulsive disorder.