Differences in outcome: Face to face v internet enabled CBT
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Comparing Outcomes in Online, Therapist-Delivered and Face-to Face Cognitive Behavioural Therapy: A Randomised Control Trial
IRAS ID
187296
Contact name
Sarah E Bateup
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Anglia Ruskin University
ISRCTN Number
ISRCTN15890967
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 8 months, 22 days
Research summary
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is an effective treatment for anxiety and depression. Technology is increasingly being used to deliver CBT. One method of delivering CBT via technology is called Internet Enabled CBT (IECBT). In this method patient and therapist meet for appointments in a secure, online therapy room and communicate via synchronous written (typed) communication. Over 7000 patients have had IECBT. The recovery rates for these patients are just the same as patients who have CBT face-to face.
This study is a randomized control trial. The overall aim of the study is to answer the following question; Are patients who have IECBT more likely to stay better for longer than patients who have face-to-face CBT?
Patients at Southwark IAPT Service will be invited to participate in this study. Patients will be allocated to a CBT therapist. They will then be randomly assigned to have either face- face CBT or IECBT with their therapist.
Patients will complete the Patient Health Questionnaire, (PHQ-9) (measures depression) and Generalised Anxiety Disorder Questionnaire (GAD-7), (measures anxiety) at every appointment. The questionnaire are used to track progress in therapy. This study will use the Working Alliance Inventory questionnaire to understand how patients feel about the relationship they have with their therapist.
All the patients who have completed treatment in this study will be contacted three months after their therapy ends. They will be asked to complete the depression and anxiety questionnaires again. Patients will also be asked how much they remember about the treatment they had. It is anticipated that patients who have had IECBT are likely to remember more about their treatment and will remain better for longer.
The findings from this study will help psychological therapists understand more about how to improve services so that more people can stay better for longer.
REC name
London - Bromley Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
16/LO/0923
Date of REC Opinion
11 Jul 2016
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion