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Haaf R, Schefft C, Krämer R, Klein JP, Köhler S. Working alliance and its link to guidance in an internet-based intervention for depressive disorders: a secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1448823. [PMID: 39323963 PMCID: PMC11422127 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1448823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2024] [Accepted: 08/13/2024] [Indexed: 09/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Guided Internet-based interventions (IBIs) are typically found to be more effective than unguided ones, but the reasons behind this are not well understood. The therapist-client working alliance, crucial in face-to-face psychotherapy, is also increasingly recognized as an important factor in IBIs. This study examines trajectories of the working alliance and its relationship to therapeutic guidance through a secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial (RCT) on Selfapy, a 12-week IBI based on cognitive behavioral therapy for depressive disorders. The trial compared a therapist-guided version (with weekly calls) to an unguided version (n = 301, mean age 37 years, 83% female, mean BDI-II = 30.09). Methods Based on an intention-to-treat approach, this study investigates within- and between-group differences in the quality of the working alliance, assessed with the WAI-SR questionnaire at mid- and post-treatment via repeated measures ANOVA. Furthermore, correlations and mediation analyses were conducted to explore the relationship between the working alliance and outcomes, as well as adherence parameters. Results Findings indicate that the IBI was successful in fostering a robust working alliance in both intervention groups, with similar ratings at mid-treatment but significantly higher ratings in the guided group at post-treatment (Cohen's d = -0.38). Post-treatment working alliance scores were positively linked to symptom reduction at post-treatment (guided: r = .25, unguided r = .15) and follow-up (guided: r = .25, unguided: r = .17). In the unguided group, the association was primarily driven by the subscale task. Serial mediation analysis indicated that the relationship between guidance and outcomes at follow-up was mediated by working alliance (b = 0.59; 95% CI: 0.14, 1.22) and a link between working alliance and adherence (b = 0.15; 95% CI: 0.04, 0.34). Conclusions Considering limitations like using a questionnaire developed for face-to-face therapy, findings support the importance of the working alliance in guided IBIs, while also providing new insights into its role and formation in unguided IBIs. The potential benefits of a strong working alliance, notably by improving adherence, may prove crucial for integrating guided as well as unguided IBIs into routine use, indicating the need for additional research in this context. Clinical Trial Registration https://tinyurl.com/2p9h5hnx, German Clinical Trials Register DRKS00017191.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raoul Haaf
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt- Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Cora Schefft
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt- Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Rico Krämer
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt- Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jan Philipp Klein
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
- Center for Brain, Behavior and Metabolism, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Stephan Köhler
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt- Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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Lappalainen P, Keinonen K, Lappalainen R, Selinheimo S, Vuokko A, Sainio M, Liesto S, Tolvanen A, Paunio T. Online acceptance and commitment therapy (iACT) for adults with persistent physical symptoms - 3-month follow-up study of a randomized controlled trial. J Psychosom Res 2024; 183:111830. [PMID: 38878337 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2024.111830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2024] [Revised: 06/09/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Persistent physical symptoms (PPS) represent a major health problem affecting daily functioning. This RCT aimed to examine whether a guided Internet-based treatment based on acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) provided additional benefits compared to Treatment as Usual (TAU) in reducing somatic complaints and psychological distress in adults with PPS. METHODS A total of 103 adults with PPS related to indoor environments, chronic fatigue or both conditions were assigned to receive either either a 14-week intervention (video-based case conceptualization + Internet-based ACT) combined with TAU (iACT + TAU; n = 50) or TAU alone (n = 53). Somatic symptoms, depression, anxiety, insomnia, and psychological flexibility were assessed from pre-intervention to a 3-month follow-up. Additionally, the association between changes in psychological flexibility from pre- to post-intervention and changes in symptoms from pre to 3-month follow-up was explored. Analyses were conducted using a multigroup method with full information maximum likelihood estimator. RESULTS The results revealed a significant interaction effect, indicating reductions in somatic symptoms and symptoms of depression and anxiety with moderate to large between-group effects (d = 0.71-1.09). No significant interaction effect was observed in insomnia and measures of psychological flexibility. CONCLUSION Internet-based ACT, when combined with Treatment as Usual, demonstrated efficacy for individuals with PPS associated with indoor environments and chronic fatigue. These findings are pertinent for primary healthcare providers, suggesting that the current treatment model could serve as a low-threshold first-line treatment option. THE CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT04532827.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Aki Vuokko
- Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Markku Sainio
- Outpatient Clinic for Persistent Symptom Rehabilitation, HUS Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Sanna Liesto
- Outpatient Clinic for Persistent Symptom Rehabilitation, HUS Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Asko Tolvanen
- Department of Psychology, University of Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Tiina Paunio
- Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, Helsinki, Finland; Department of Psychiatry and SleepWell Research Programme, Faculty of Medicine University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Central Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
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3
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Esposito G, Cuomo F, Di Maro A, Passeggia R. The assessment of therapist responsiveness in psychotherapy research: a systematic review. RESEARCH IN PSYCHOTHERAPY (MILANO) 2024; 27. [PMID: 38904610 PMCID: PMC11420745 DOI: 10.4081/ripppo.2024.751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
Therapist responsiveness is an emerging construct in psychotherapy research that still lacks a clear definition and, consequently, a unique operationalization. Indeed, there is a great overlap between therapist responsiveness and other variables, such as attunement, flexibility, and empathy. This overlap inevitably hinders the assessment of the therapist's responsiveness, although it is crucial for the effectiveness of the treatments. Therefore, the current systematic review aims at exploring the different methodologies of measurement and analysis of therapist responsiveness, including both direct and indirect instruments. The results confirmed difficulties and divergences in the operationalization of the construct, as shown by the great heterogeneity found in the choice and use of the tools. Furthermore, this review provides guidance for future research, clinical practice, and training of therapists.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Angela Di Maro
- Department of Humanities, University of Naples Federico II.
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4
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Rubin M, Arnon H, Huppert JD, Perry A. Considering the Role of Human Empathy in AI-Driven Therapy. JMIR Ment Health 2024; 11:e56529. [PMID: 38861302 PMCID: PMC11200042 DOI: 10.2196/56529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Recent breakthroughs in artificial intelligence (AI) language models have elevated the vision of using conversational AI support for mental health, with a growing body of literature indicating varying degrees of efficacy. In this paper, we ask when, in therapy, it will be easier to replace humans and, conversely, in what instances, human connection will still be more valued. We suggest that empathy lies at the heart of the answer to this question. First, we define different aspects of empathy and outline the potential empathic capabilities of humans versus AI. Next, we consider what determines when these aspects are needed most in therapy, both from the perspective of therapeutic methodology and from the perspective of patient objectives. Ultimately, our goal is to prompt further investigation and dialogue, urging both practitioners and scholars engaged in AI-mediated therapy to keep these questions and considerations in mind when investigating AI implementation in mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matan Rubin
- Psychology Department, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Hadar Arnon
- Psychology Department, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Jonathan D Huppert
- Psychology Department, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Anat Perry
- Psychology Department, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
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5
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Zalaznik D, Zlotnick E, Barzilay S, Ganor T, Sorka H, Ebert DD, Andersson G, Huppert JD. Interpersonal factors in internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy for depression: Attachment style and alliance with the program and with the therapist. Psychother Res 2024:1-16. [PMID: 38581409 DOI: 10.1080/10503307.2024.2325510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective This open-trial study examined effects of a culturally-adapted Hebrew version of guided internet-based cognitive behavioural therapy (ICBT) for depression. We examined therapeutic alliance with the therapist and with the programme (content) as potential predictors of outcomes. Furthermore, we examined whether anxious and avoidant attachment styles improved, although relationships were not the focus of treatment. Method: We examined alliance with therapist and alliance with programme and their time-lagged (1 week), longitudinal relationship with depression outcomes, and change in anxious and avoidant attachment during treatment. Results: Depression and insomnia improved significantly (Cohen's d: depression = 1.34, insomnia = 0.86), though dropout was relatively high (49%). Alliance with programme and with the therapist predicted adherence and dropout, whereas only alliance with therapist predicted symptom improvement. Avoidant attachment decreased over treatment whereas anxious attachment did not. Conclusion: A culturally-adapted version of ICBT for depression showed that alliance with therapist and alliance with programme both can play an important role in its effectiveness: alliance with programme and the therapist drive adherence and dropout and alliance with therapist is related to symptom improvement. Although the focus of treatment is not interpersonal, avoidant attachment style can improve following ICBT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dina Zalaznik
- Department of Psychology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Elad Zlotnick
- Department of Psychology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Snir Barzilay
- Department of Psychology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Tal Ganor
- Department of Psychology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Hila Sorka
- Department of Psychology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - David Daniel Ebert
- Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences, Clinical, Neuro- & Developmental Psychology, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Gerhard Andersson
- Department of Behavioural Sciences and Learning, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jonathan D Huppert
- Department of Psychology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
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6
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Jenkins PE, Wake S. Therapeutic alliance in two forms of guided self-help for binge eating. Clin Psychol Psychother 2024; 31:e2959. [PMID: 38344858 DOI: 10.1002/cpp.2959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Revised: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024]
Abstract
The role of therapeutic alliance within psychological treatments for eating disorders (EDs), including those delivered remotely, is well established. However, few studies have investigated alliance in guided self-help, a widely recommended first-line treatment for EDs characterised by regular binge eating. Using data from a randomised controlled trial, the current study examined both facilitator and patient assessments of alliance within e-mail-assisted and face-to-face guided self-help and looked at associations between alliance, ED symptoms and ED-related impairment. One hundred thirteen patients and 11 facilitators completed measures of alliance during and following a course of guided self-help. Whilst ratings were reliable across patients and facilitators, alliance scores were higher both in the patient sample and in the face-to-face condition. Ratings of alliance showed no correlations with ED symptoms at post-treatment, and early alliance was not significantly associated with outcome, which could inform how early symptom change is encouraged in guided self-help.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul E Jenkins
- School of Psychology and Clinical Language Sciences, University of Reading, Reading, UK
| | - Shannon Wake
- School of Psychology and Clinical Language Sciences, University of Reading, Reading, UK
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7
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Moshe-Cohen R, Kivity Y, Huppert JD, Barlow DH, Gorman JM, Shear K, Woods SW. Agreement in patient-therapist alliance ratings and its relation to dropout and outcome in a large sample of cognitive behavioral therapy for panic disorder. Psychother Res 2024; 34:28-40. [PMID: 36169615 PMCID: PMC10043046 DOI: 10.1080/10503307.2022.2124131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: The therapeutic alliance is related to treatment outcome but less is known about the agreement on alliance between patients and therapists and its relationship to outcomes. We examined the association of patient-therapist congruence of alliance perceptions, early and late in cognitive behavioral therapy for panic disorder in relation to symptom reduction and dropout. Method: Patients (n = 181) and their therapists provided alliance ratings early and late during 11-session treatment. Independent evaluators rated patients' symptomatic levels post-treatment. Polynomial regression and response surface analysis were used to examine congruence as a predictor of outcome. Results: Early in therapy, stronger combined patient-therapist alliances, regardless of agreement, predicted lower symptom severity at the end of therapy and a lower likelihood of dropout. Late in treatment, the outcome was worse when therapist ratings of the alliance were higher than those of the patient. Conclusions: Therapist-patient agreement on the strength of the alliance is important for symptom improvement and dropout. The study highlights the importance of understanding the dyadic nature of the alliance and its impact on therapeutic change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rotem Moshe-Cohen
- Department of Psychology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Mount Scopus, Jerusalem
| | - Yogev Kivity
- Department of Psychology, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat-Gan, Israel
| | - Jonathan D. Huppert
- Department of Psychology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Mount Scopus, Jerusalem
| | - David H. Barlow
- Center for Anxiety and Related Disorders, Department of Psychology, Boston University, USA
| | - Jack M. Gorman
- Franklin Behavioral Health Care Consultants and Critica LLC, Bronx, NY, USA
| | | | - Scott W. Woods
- Connecticut Mental Health Center, Department of Psychiatry, Yale University, New Haven, CT
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Winter HR, Norton AR, Burley JL, Wootton BM. Remote cognitive behaviour therapy for social anxiety disorder: A meta-analysis. J Anxiety Disord 2023; 100:102787. [PMID: 37890219 DOI: 10.1016/j.janxdis.2023.102787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
Remote cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) for social anxiety disorder (SAD) has the potential to improve access to treatment by reducing economic, geographic, and psychological barriers. The aim of this study was to use a meta-analytic approach to examine the efficacy of the different remote CBT methods for treating SAD. A systematic electronic database search was used to identify 31 studies (n = 2905; mean age range: 24.73-41.65 years; mean female representation = 60.2 %). Pooled within-group analyses indicated large effect sizes from pre-treatment to post-treatment (Hedges' g = 1.06; 95 % CI: 0.96-1.16) and pre-treatment to follow up (g = 1.18; 95 % CI: 1.03-1.33) for remote CBT. Internet-delivered CBT (g = 1.08; 95 % CI: 0.98-1.19) and application-delivered CBT (g = 1.19; 95 % CI: 0.75-1.64) produced large within-group effect sizes. Bibliotherapy-delivered CBT (g = 0.79; 95 % CI: 0.45-1.13) produced medium within-group effect sizes. Pooled between-group findings indicate that remote CBT treatments were more effective than passive control (g = 0.87; 95 % CI: 0.70-1.03) and non-CBT remote treatments (g = 0.41; 95 % CI: 0.17-0.66), and were at least as effective, or slightly more effective, than face-to-face CBT treatments (g = 0.34; 95 % CI: 0.14-0.54). These findings have important implications for the dissemination of remote and stepped-care treatments for SAD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Halaina R Winter
- Discipline of Clinical Psychology, Graduate School of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia
| | - Alice R Norton
- Discipline of Clinical Psychology, Graduate School of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia; Clinical Psychology Unit, School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Jade L Burley
- Discipline of Clinical Psychology, Graduate School of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia
| | - Bethany M Wootton
- Discipline of Clinical Psychology, Graduate School of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia.
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Mutter A, Küchler AM, Idrees AR, Kählke F, Terhorst Y, Baumeister H. StudiCare procrastination - Randomized controlled non-inferiority trial of a persuasive design-optimized internet- and mobile-based intervention with digital coach targeting procrastination in college students. BMC Psychol 2023; 11:273. [PMID: 37700387 PMCID: PMC10496391 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-023-01312-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Academic procrastination is widespread among college students. Procrastination is strongly negatively correlated with psychological well-being, thus early interventions are needed. Internet- and mobile-based cognitive behavioral therapy (iCBT) could provide a low-threshold treatment option. Human guidance seems to be a decisive mechanism of change in iCBT. Persuasive design optimization of iCBT and guidance by a digital coach might represent a resource-saving alternative. The study evaluated the non-inferiority of a digital coach in comparison to human guidance with regard to the primary outcome procrastination. METHODS The iCBT StudiCare procrastination was optimized by principles of the Persuasive System Design (PSD). A total of 233 college students were randomly assigned to either StudiCare procrastination guided by a digital coach (intervention group, IG) or by a human eCoach (control group, CG). All participants were assessed at baseline, 4-, 8- and 12-weeks post-randomization. Symptom change and between-group differences were assessed with latent growth curve models and supported by effect size levels. The non-inferiority margin was set at Cohen's d = - 0.3. RESULTS The primary outcome procrastination measured by the Irrational Procrastination scale (IPS) significantly decreased across groups (γ = - 0.79, p < .001, Cohen's d = -0.43 to -0.89) from baseline to 12-weeks post-randomization. There were no significant differences between groups (γ = -0.03, p = .84, Cohen's d = -0.03 to 0.08). Regarding symptoms of depression, no significant time x group effect was found (γ = 0.26, p = .09; Cohen's d = -0.15 to 0.21). There was also no significant time x group effect on the improvement of symptoms of anxiety (γ = 0.25, p = .09). However, Cohen's ds were above the non-inferiority margin 8-weeks (Cohen's d = 0.51) and 12-weeks post-randomization (Cohen's d = 0.37), preferring the CG. Of the IG, 34% and of the CG, 36% completed 80% of the modules. CONCLUSIONS The PSD optimized version of StudiCare procrastination is effective in reducing procrastination. The digital coach was not inferior to human guidance. Guidance by a digital coach in iCBT against procrastination for college students could be a resource-saving alternative to human guidance. TRIAL REGISTRATION The trial was registered at the WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform via the German Clinical Trial Register (ID: DRKS00025209, 30/04/2021).
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnes Mutter
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, Faculty of Engineering, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany.
| | - A-M Küchler
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, Faculty of Engineering, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - A R Idrees
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, Faculty of Engineering, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
- Institute of Databases and Information Systems (DBIS), Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - F Kählke
- Department of Sport and Health Sciences, Professorship of Psychology and Digital Mental Health Care, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Y Terhorst
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, Faculty of Engineering, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - H Baumeister
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, Faculty of Engineering, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
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10
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Haller K, Becker P, Niemeyer H, Boettcher J. Who benefits from guided internet-based interventions? A systematic review of predictors and moderators of treatment outcome. Internet Interv 2023; 33:100635. [PMID: 37449052 PMCID: PMC10336165 DOI: 10.1016/j.invent.2023.100635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Revised: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
To our knowledge, no systematic review has been conducted on predictors or moderators of treatment outcome across diagnoses in guided internet-based interventions (IBIs) for adults. To identify who benefits from this specific format and therein inform future research on improving patient-treatment fit, we aimed to aggregate results of relevant studies. 2100 articles, identified by searching the databases PsycInfo, Ovid Medline, and Pubmed and through snowballing, were screened in April/May 2021 and October 2022. Risk of bias and intra- and interrater reliability were assessed. Variables were grouped by predictor category, then synthesized using vote counting based on direction of effect. N = 60 articles were included in the review. Grouping resulted in 88 predictors/moderators, of which adherence, baseline symptoms, education, age, and gender were most frequently assessed. Better adherence, treatment credibility, and working alliance emerged as conclusive predictors/moderators for better outcome, whereas higher baseline scores predicted more reliable change but higher post-treatment symptoms. Results of all other predictors/moderators were inconclusive or lacked data. Our review highlights that it is currently difficult to predict, across diagnoses, who will benefit from guided IBIs. Further rigorous research is needed to identify predictors and moderators based on a sufficient number of studies. PROSPERO registration: CRD42021242305.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrin Haller
- Clinical Psychological Interventions, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Psychologische Hochschule Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Pauline Becker
- Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Psychologische Hochschule Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Helen Niemeyer
- Clinical Psychological Interventions, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Johanna Boettcher
- Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Psychologische Hochschule Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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Clark DM, Wild J, Warnock-Parkes E, Stott R, Grey N, Thew G, Ehlers A. More than doubling the clinical benefit of each hour of therapist time: a randomised controlled trial of internet cognitive therapy for social anxiety disorder. Psychol Med 2023; 53:5022-5032. [PMID: 35835726 PMCID: PMC10476054 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291722002008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2022] [Revised: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cognitive therapy for social anxiety disorder (CT-SAD) is recommended by NICE (2013) as a first-line intervention. Take up in routine services is limited by the need for up to 14 ninety-min face-to-face sessions, some of which are out of the office. An internet-based version of the treatment (iCT-SAD) with remote therapist support may achieve similar outcomes with less therapist time. METHODS 102 patients with social anxiety disorder were randomised to iCT-SAD, CT-SAD, or waitlist (WAIT) control, each for 14 weeks. WAIT patients were randomised to the treatments after wait. Assessments were at pre-treatment/wait, midtreatment/wait, posttreatment/wait, and follow-ups 3 & 12 months after treatment. The pre-registered (ISRCTN 95 458 747) primary outcome was the social anxiety disorder composite, which combines 6 independent assessor and patient self-report scales of social anxiety. Secondary outcomes included disability, general anxiety, depression and a behaviour test. RESULTS CT-SAD and iCT-SAD were both superior to WAIT on all measures. iCT-SAD did not differ from CT-SAD on the primary outcome at post-treatment or follow-up. Total therapist time in iCT-SAD was 6.45 h. CT-SAD required 15.8 h for the same reduction in social anxiety. Mediation analysis indicated that change in process variables specified in cognitive models accounted for 60% of the improvements associated with either treatment. Unlike the primary outcome, there was a significant but small difference in favour of CT-SAD on the behaviour test. CONCLUSIONS When compared to conventional face-to-face therapy, iCT-SAD can more than double the amount of symptom change associated with each therapist hour.
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Affiliation(s)
- David M. Clark
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Jennifer Wild
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Emma Warnock-Parkes
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Kings College, London, UK
| | - Richard Stott
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Kings College, London, UK
| | - Nick Grey
- Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, Worthing, West Sussex, UK
| | - Graham Thew
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Anke Ehlers
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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12
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Asman O, Tal A, Barilan YM. Conversational Artificial Intelligence-Patient Alliance Turing Test and the Search for Authenticity. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF BIOETHICS : AJOB 2023; 23:62-64. [PMID: 37130413 DOI: 10.1080/15265161.2023.2191046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
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13
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Drews-Windeck E, Greenwood K, Cavanagh K. A systematic review and meta-analysis of digital interventions targeted at individuals with borderline personality disorder (BPD), emotionally unstable personality disorder (EUPD), and related symptoms. J Clin Psychol 2023. [PMID: 37185891 DOI: 10.1002/jclp.23523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The present review investigates the impact of digital interventions for individuals with features of borderline personality disorder (BPD)/emotional unstable personality disorder (EUPD) as digital interventions show promise as therapeutic tools in underserved groups. BPD/EUPD features are identified as clinically relevant, yet previous reviews on the use of digital interventions fail to include subthreshold symptomatology. METHODS Five online databases were searched for terminology in three categories: BPD/EUPD and related symptoms, mental-health interventions, and digital technology. Additionally, four relevant journals and two trial registers were searched for additional papers meeting the inclusion criteria. RESULTS Twelve articles met all inclusion criteria. Meta-analyses revealed statistically significant differences in symptom measures between intervention and control groups at postintervention and decreases in BPD/EUPD symptomatology and well-being from pre- to postintervention. Service users' engagement, satisfaction, and acceptability of interventions were high. Results support the previous literature on the value of using digital interventions in populations with BPD/EUPD. CONCLUSION Overall, it was identified that digital interventions show promise for successful implementation with this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elea Drews-Windeck
- School of Psychology, The University of Sussex, Brighton, UK
- Research & Development and Digital Services, Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, Worthing, UK
| | - Kathryn Greenwood
- School of Psychology, The University of Sussex, Brighton, UK
- Research & Development and Digital Services, Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, Worthing, UK
| | - Kate Cavanagh
- School of Psychology, The University of Sussex, Brighton, UK
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14
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Wampold BE, Flückiger C. The alliance in mental health care: conceptualization, evidence and clinical applications. World Psychiatry 2023; 22:25-41. [PMID: 36640398 PMCID: PMC9840508 DOI: 10.1002/wps.21035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The concept of alliance reflects the collaborative relationship between a clinician and a patient, defined as consisting of three elements: a) the agreement on the goals of treatment; b) the agreement on a task or series of tasks; c) the development of a bond. Although much of the theory and research on the alliance comes from the domain of psychotherapy, the concept is applicable to any practice involving a person seeking help and a socially sanctioned healer. An extensive research evidence suggests that the alliance (typically measured at the third or fourth session) is a robust predictor of the outcomes of various forms of psychotherapy, even when prior symptom improvement and other factors are considered. Both the clinician and the patient bring to the therapy situation different capacities to form an alliance. Factors concerning the patient include, among others, the diagnosis, attachment history and style, motivation, and needs for affiliation. However, the benefits of the alliance have been found to be mostly due to the therapist's contribution, in particular his/her facilitative interpersonal skills, including verbal fluency, communication of hope and positive expectations, persuasiveness, emotional expression; warmth, acceptance and understanding; empathy, and alliance rupture-repair responsiveness. Placebo studies have allowed to experimentally manipulate aspects of the relationship between a therapist and a patient in non-psychotherapy contexts. In these settings, two components of the relationship have emerged: an emotional one (involving being cared for and understood by the clinician) and a cognitive one (including the belief in the competence of the therapist to select and administer an effective treatment). Here we propose a model that describes three pathways through which the alliance creates benefits, named CARE (caring, attentive, real and empathic), EXPECTANCY, and SPECIFIC. Although research and clinical attention have mostly focused on the alliance between a clinician and a patient in face-to-face interactions, there is preliminary evidence concerning the alliance between patients and other clinic staff, systems of care, or the program in Internet-mediated services. These new research areas clearly require further development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruce E Wampold
- Modum Bad Psychiatric Center, Vikersund, Norway
- University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Christoph Flückiger
- Department of Psychology, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
- Department of Psychology, University of Kassel, Kassel, Germany
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15
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Păsărelu CR, David D, Dobrean A, Noje A, Roxana Ș, Predescu E. ADHDCoach-a virtual clinic for parents of children with ADHD: Development and usability study. Digit Health 2023; 9:20552076231161963. [PMID: 36923370 PMCID: PMC10009016 DOI: 10.1177/20552076231161963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Attention-deficit/ hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common mental health problems in childhood. Despite the fact that evidence-based treatments exist, behavioral parent training programs are the gold standard in the care of children with ADHD, a significant percentage of parents of children with ADHD do not access such interventions. Internet-delivered interventions are effective for a range of mental health problems, however, there is limited research conducted on the efficacy of such interventions in the treatment of ADHD. Objective: The aim of this study is to present the development and feasibility of an Internet-delivered intervention for parents of children with ADHD. Methods: The intervention was based on Behavioral Parent Training and Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy. Participants were mental health specialists (N = 16) and parents of children diagnosed with ADHD (N = 24). Results: Our results indicated high usability and parental satisfaction with the intervention. Conclusion: In conclusion, an Internet-delivered intervention addressed to parents of children diagnosed with ADHD is a promising approach. Future research should investigate the efficacy of this Internet-delivered intervention in a randomized controlled trial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Costina-Ruxandra Păsărelu
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Babeș-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.,The International Institute for the Advanced Studies of Psychotherapy and Applied Mental Health, Babeș-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Daniel David
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Babeș-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.,The International Institute for the Advanced Studies of Psychotherapy and Applied Mental Health, Babeș-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Anca Dobrean
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Babeș-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.,The International Institute for the Advanced Studies of Psychotherapy and Applied Mental Health, Babeș-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Alexandru Noje
- Department of Neuroscience, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacology, Cluj Napoca, Romania
| | - Șipoș Roxana
- Department of Neuroscience, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacology, Cluj Napoca, Romania
| | - Elena Predescu
- Department of Neuroscience, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacology, Cluj Napoca, Romania
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16
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Mehta SH, Nugent M, Peynenburg V, Thiessen D, La Posta G, Titov N, Dear BF, Hadjistavropoulos HD. Internet-delivered cognitive behaviour therapy for chronic health conditions: self-guided versus team-guided. J Behav Med 2022; 45:674-689. [PMID: 35921055 PMCID: PMC9362581 DOI: 10.1007/s10865-022-00346-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
There is growing interest in offering Internet-delivered cognitive behaviour therapy (ICBT) to individuals with chronic health conditions, with this process often being guided by a single clinician. Due to lack of full time personnel, it is sometimes necessary to have multiple clinicians offer guidance or for no guidance to be offered. In this randomized trial, we compared team-guided ICBT (n = 90) to self-guided ICBT (n = 88). Participants completed measures at pre-, post-, and 3-months post-ICBT. Both groups showed similar rates of treatment completion and large improvements on depression and anxiety at post-treatment and follow-up. Unexpectedly, more participants in the self-guided versus team-guided condition showed clinically significant improvement on depression at post-treatment (76.5% vs 49.2%) and follow-up (70% vs 45.6%). Thus, team-guided ICBT may not provide significant benefits compared to self-guided ICBT. However, it may be an alternative approach to consider among a population of high risk individuals that wants or requires closer monitoring of symptoms. Trail registration TRN: NCT03500237; Date: April 18, 2018.
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Affiliation(s)
- S H Mehta
- Department of Psychology, University of Regina, 3737 Wascana Parkway, Regina, SK, S4S 0A2, Canada
| | - M Nugent
- Department of Psychology, University of Regina, 3737 Wascana Parkway, Regina, SK, S4S 0A2, Canada
| | - V Peynenburg
- Department of Psychology, University of Regina, 3737 Wascana Parkway, Regina, SK, S4S 0A2, Canada
| | - D Thiessen
- Department of Psychology, University of Regina, 3737 Wascana Parkway, Regina, SK, S4S 0A2, Canada
| | - G La Posta
- Department of Psychology, University of Regina, 3737 Wascana Parkway, Regina, SK, S4S 0A2, Canada
| | - N Titov
- School of Psychological Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia
| | - B F Dear
- School of Psychological Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia
| | - H D Hadjistavropoulos
- Department of Psychology, University of Regina, 3737 Wascana Parkway, Regina, SK, S4S 0A2, Canada.
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17
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Epel N, Zohar AA, Artom A, Novak AM, Lev-Ari S. The Effect of Cognitive Behavioral Group Therapy on Children's Self-Esteem. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021; 8:children8110958. [PMID: 34828671 PMCID: PMC8617969 DOI: 10.3390/children8110958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
(1) Background: Self-esteem plays an important role in developing emotional resilience and wellbeing in children. Yet, there has been little related research on Cognitive Behavioral Group Therapy on this topic. Our aims were to assess the effect of the Child Self-Esteem CBT (CSE-CBT) protocol on children's self-esteem in grades five and six; to assess the effect of the CSE-CBT protocol on the therapeutic process; and to explore the feasibility of delivering the CSE-CBT protocol in a school setting. (2) Methods: Eighty elementary school children in grades five and six, divided into four intervention and four control groups, attended 12 structured sessions using the CSE-CBT protocol, led by specially trained teachers. The children completed questionnaires to assess their self-esteem at the beginning and at the end of the study, and answered weekly questionnaires that assessed therapeutic process. Hierarchical linear modeling was used to analyze the data. (3) Results: The CSE-CBT protocol had a significant effect on improving children's self-esteem over the course of the study, regardless of the children's working alliance with the teacher leading the group. (4) Conclusions: The findings suggest that the CSE-CBT protocol has the potential to benefit children's self-esteem and indicate that school teachers can be trained to administer the CBT-protocol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naomi Epel
- Shitot Institute, Ayelet Hashachar 6, Even Yehuda 4053079, Israel; (A.A.Z.); (A.A.)
- Department of Health Promotion, School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel;
| | - Ariela Abir Zohar
- Shitot Institute, Ayelet Hashachar 6, Even Yehuda 4053079, Israel; (A.A.Z.); (A.A.)
| | - Adi Artom
- Shitot Institute, Ayelet Hashachar 6, Even Yehuda 4053079, Israel; (A.A.Z.); (A.A.)
- Bob Shapell School of Social Work, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 61390, Israel
| | - Anne Marie Novak
- Department of Health Promotion, School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel;
| | - Shahar Lev-Ari
- Department of Health Promotion, School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel;
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