Internet Delivered Cognitive Behavior Therapy
Psychological distress and pain are commonly experienced by individuals aging with chronic health conditions. However, specialized mental health programs that meet the needs of this population are limited. Other barriers such as stigma, transportation, financial burden, and wait-times can limit access to services. These results are discouraging as individuals with chronic health conditions who have more social and emotional support and greater access to services in their community tend to report fewer secondary health conditions. As several barriers exist for service delivery from both the providers’ and the users’ perspectives, there is a great need for cost effective solutions to improve long term outcomes among the community.
Guided internet-delivered CBT (ICBT) offers an alternative approach for psychosocial service delivery in the community. Our recent pilot trial found significant effects of ICBT on anxiety, depression, pain interference, self-efficacy, and quality of life post-treatment among those with spinal cord injury. Gains were maintained at 3-month follow-up.
We are currently examining the effectiveness of the program compared to information only among those with spinal cord injury. Additionally, through a patient oriented process, we have the adapting materials and piloting the program for those with neurological conditions such as brain injury and stroke. These studies are a collaboration with the University of Regina, Canada, Macquarie University, Australia, Spinal Cord Injury Ontario, and Dale Brain Injury Services, London, Ontario.
