IngentaConnect The effectiveness of computerized cognitive behavioural therapy i...

Authors: Cavanagh, K.¹; Shapiro, D. A.²; Van Den Berg, S.¹; Swain, S.¹; Barkham, M.³; Proudfoot, J.⁴

Source: British Journal of Clinical Psychology, Volume 45, Number 4, November 2006 , pp. 499-514(16)

Publisher: British Psychological Society

Abstract:

Objectives and design. The efficacy of a Computerized Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CCBT) package, Beating the Blues, has been demonstrated in a large randomized controlled trial. The current study tests the generalizability of this finding in a naturalistic non-randomized trial.

Method. 219 patients with anxiety and/or depression were recruited to receive CCBT in routine care. The Clinical Outcomes in Routine Evaluation-Outcome Measure (CORE-OM) and Work and Social Adjustment scale (WSA) were administered pre-treatment, immediately on completing treatment and at 6 months post-treatment. Single-item self-report measures of anxiety and depression were also collected during each treatment session.

Results. Completer and intention-to-treat analysis demonstrated statistically and clinically significant improvements on the CORE-OM, WSA and in self-reported anxiety and depression. Intention-to-treat analysis indicated an average 0.29-point drop on the CORE-OM, equating to an uncontrolled pre-post effect size of 0.50. Research completers achieved an average 0.61-point drop equating to an uncontrolled pre-post size of 1.00 on the same measure. Where data was available (18%), these benefits were maintained at week 32 (6 months follow-up).

Conclusion. CCBT can be an effective first line tool within a stepped care framework for the management of common mental health problems.

Document Type: Research article

DOI: 10.1348/014466505X84782

Affiliations: 1: Department of Clinical Psychology, University of Newcastle, UK 2: Universities of Leeds and Sheffield, Clinical Psychology Unit, Department of Psychology, University of Sheffield, UK 3: Psychological Therapies Research Centre, University of Leeds, UK 4: School of Public Health & Community Medicine, University of New South Wales, Australia

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The effectiveness of computerized cognitive behavioural therapy in routine care