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OBJECTIVES: The study aimed to explore psychotherapists' attitudes towards new technologies. Understanding the factors influencing their acceptance of technologies is essential to improving the accessibility, quality, and effectiveness of psychotherapeutic care in the digital age. Based on previous research from different fields (e.g., e-government and mobile applications), we integrated the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT-T) with the Technology Readiness Index (TRI). UTAUT-T focuses on one's perception of technology, while TRI emphasizes individual characteristics. Therefore, we regard psychotherapists' attitudes towards digital solutions by analysing factors related to technology and users (psychotherapists). METHODS: We conducted an online questionnaire study involving 391 psychotherapists aged 25-66 (M = 40.90; SD = 7.79). Participants completed self-report questionnaires: UTAUT-T, TRI 2.0, and a survey measuring technology usage at work. RESULTS: The model explained 30.2% of the variance in actual technology usage and 57.6% in behavioural intention. Both technology-related and therapist-related factors affect technology use. Some factors directly influence use behaviour (optimism, ease of use, convenience), while others are mediated by behavioural intention (pressure from others, professional support, therapy quality expectations). CONCLUSIONS: Technology-related and therapist-related factors influence psychotherapists' use of technology. The study revealed that optimism plays a crucial role in addition to behavioural intention. This insight is vital for implementing new technologies in mental health services.

Asunto(s)

Actitud del Personal de Salud , Psicoterapeutas , Humanos , Masculino , Femenino , Adulto , Persona de Mediana Edad , Encuestas y Cuestionarios , Anciano , Psicoterapeutas/psicología , Actitud hacia los Computadores , Psicoterapia/métodos

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BACKGROUND: Following the successful completion of feasibility and acceptability studies of internet-delivered self-help Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for family carers of people with dementia (iACT4CARERS), a full-scale randomised controlled trial (RCT) evaluating its clinical and cost effectiveness will be conducted. This paper describes the design and protocol for a multi-site, parallel, single-blind, 2-arm RCT evaluating the clinical and cost effectiveness of iACT4CARERS plus treatment-as-usual (TAU) in comparison to TAU alone for reducing anxiety in family carers of people with dementia. METHODS: 496 family carers aged ≥18 years, who are caring for a person with dementia, will be recruited from national healthcare services, general practices and community groups in England. Participants randomised to the intervention arm will receive iACT4CARERS over 12 weeks. Participants will complete outcome measures at baseline (0 weeks) and at 12-weeks and 24-weeks post-randomisation. The primary outcome and timepoint will be anxiety at 12 weeks. Secondary outcomes will include psychological flexibility, depression, and cost-effectiveness (cost per quality adjusted life years). Primary analyses will be by intention-to-treat and data will be analysed using linear mixed models. Fidelity and quality of implementation will be assessed and contextual factors associated with variation in outcomes identified in a process evaluation. CONCLUSION: If iACT4CARERS is found to be effective and affordable, this self-help intervention, including minimal contact with minimally trained therapists, has the potential to be rolled out widely within healthcare services in the UK, reducing inequality in access to psychological services among this population. CLINICAL TRIALS REGISTRATION: ISRCTN registry identifier ISRCTN45995725.

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OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to examine the feasibility and effectiveness of online group psychotherapy focused on self-compassion for individuals experiencing bereavement-related grief. METHOD: This single-arm feasibility trial involved participants aged 18 years or older who had experienced bereavement at least 6 months prior the five-week intervention. Outcomes were measured at baseline, immediately post-intervention, and 4 and 12 weeks later. The primary endpoint was the percentage of participants who completed four out of five sessions; the pre-defined feasibility criterion was 70%. Secondary endpoints included measures of grief, depression, anxiety, self-compassion, and resilience. RESULTS: The program was conducted in three courses with 18, 26, and 16 participants, respectively. The primary endpoint was met for 83.1% of participants (54/65). Cohen's d effect sizes ([95% CI] 12 weeks vs. baseline) for grief, depression, anxiety, self-compassion, and resilience were - 0.25 [-0.52, 0.03], -0.64 [-0.94, -0.34], -0.48 [-0.77, -0.19], 0.50 [0.21, 0.79], and - 0.07 [-0.34, 0.21], respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Online group psychotherapy focused on self-compassion for individuals with bereavement-related grief is feasible and effective for addressing grief and psychological distress. Randomized controlled trials are warranted to confirm the intervention's efficacy. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: UMIN000048554, registered 2 August 2022.

Asunto(s)

Depresión , Empatía , Estudios de Factibilidad , Pesar , Psicoterapia de Grupo , Humanos , Masculino , Femenino , Psicoterapia de Grupo/métodos , Persona de Mediana Edad , Adulto , Depresión/terapia , Aflicción , Ansiedad/terapia , Intervención basada en la Internet , Resiliencia Psicológica , Anciano , Evaluación de Resultado en la Atención de Salud , Autoimagen

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Perinatal depression (PND) affects up to 20% of women and is associated with significant impairment and disability in affected women. In addition, perinatal depression is associated with broader public health and multigenerational consequences. Innovative approaches are needed to reduce the burden of perinatal depression through identification, tracking, and treatment of depressive symptoms during the perinatal period. This study is a randomized clinical trial comparing the relative efficacy of a multi-tiered system of care, Screening and Treatment of Anxiety and Depression (STAND) to perinatal care delivered by a reproductive psychiatrist in reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety. A sample of 167 individuals was randomized between week 28 of pregnancy and 6 months postpartum. A secondary aim compares the original online therapy intervention used in the first half of the study to a newer online therapy program used in the second half of the study for individuals assigned to the STAND treatment. The study measures, intervention groups, and analysis methods are described, as well as expected implications. The findings from this study may improve the methods for tracking symptom changes over time, monitoring treatment response, and providing personalized care for individuals with PND. As such, this study may improve the lives of patients with PND and their families and lower the related health care costs to society.Trial registration NCT: 9/24/2021NCT direct link: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05056454?term=NCT05056454&rank=1&a=1 .

Asunto(s)

Ansiedad , Depresión , Atención Perinatal , Ensayos Clínicos Controlados Aleatorios como Asunto , Humanos , Femenino , Embarazo , Depresión/terapia , Depresión/diagnóstico , Depresión/psicología , Atención Perinatal/métodos , Ansiedad/terapia , Ansiedad/psicología , Resultado del Tratamiento , Adulto , Afecto , Intervención basada en la Internet , Complicaciones del Embarazo/terapia , Complicaciones del Embarazo/psicología , Factores de Tiempo , Depresión Posparto/terapia , Depresión Posparto/diagnóstico , Depresión Posparto/psicología

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Background: Currently, there is an increased interest in providing mental health care through digital devices and services, and the demand for these services is growing. Objective: In this study, we considered the phenomenon of trust in online consultations, and the factors affecting this trust, within a Russian context. Methods: An online survey was conducted using Google Forms in May 2023 and the data were analyzed using SPSS. All the participants were students from Moscow universities aged from 18 to 35 years. The final sample consisted of 203 students, of which 154 (75.9%) were women, 44 (21.7%) were men, and five (2.5%) preferred not to specify their gender. Results: We found that students had a high level of trust, which depended on personal factors, such as experience, socio-economic status, and age, and contextual factors, such as geographical and temporal independence, price of the session, availability of recommendations, popularity of the platform, and the level of technical equipment.

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BACKGROUND: CBT is an effective treatment for depression, but access varies across the United Kingdom. Online CBT increases access. The INTERACT platform was designed to support patient engagement in CBT, enabling therapists to deliver high-intensity CBT via typed instant messaging and allowing patients and therapists access to an integrated online library of resources during and between sessions. METHODS: The INTERACT trial aimed to evaluate this integrated approach to delivering CBT for primary care patients with depression. A nested qualitative study was conducted within the trial. Interviews were conducted with 20 patients who received the intervention, 9 therapists who delivered it and 3 therapist supervisors. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. RESULTS: The combination of receiving support from a therapist and having access to integrated online CBT resources enabled patients to better manage their depression. Platform benefits included the opportunity to review transcripts to clarify how to complete homework tasks and track progress in managing their depression. The typing process allowed reflection and a focused discussion. However, less could be covered than during an in-person session, which reduced therapists' expectations around goal setting. Patients who did not complete therapy struggled with the typing and found the CBT approach too demanding. CONCLUSION: Findings highlight the importance of establishing patient and therapist goals and expectations about what can be achieved in CBT mediated by typing. Some patients are comfortable communicating via typing and are motivated to utilise online resources in between sessions. Exploring the benefits and challenges of typed CBT with patients will enable them to make an informed choice about referral for this novel approach to therapy. PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION: Patients, service users and members of the public were involved in the study design and management. Substantial pilot work gathered stakeholder feedback and informed the design of the intervention, before undertaking the RCT. Coauthor P.L. is a service user representative co-applicant and member of the management group responsible for developing the intervention and the trial. Two PPI members sit on the Independent Steering Committee. PPI members provided valuable feedback on the study resources and documents.

Asunto(s)

Terapia Cognitivo-Conductual , Depresión , Humanos , Femenino , Terapia Cognitivo-Conductual/métodos , Masculino , Persona de Mediana Edad , Adulto , Depresión/terapia , Reino Unido , Investigación Cualitativa , Internet , Actitud del Personal de Salud , Entrevistas como Asunto , Anciano , Atención Primaria de Salud

RESUMEN

Introduction: Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) presents a significant challenge, affecting approximately 30% of individuals diagnosed with major depressive disorder and leading to poor treatment responses. Innovations in digital mental health, especially online mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (eMBCT), offer promising avenues for enhancing access to effective mental health care for individuals with TRD in a clinical setting. Objective: The aim of this study was to examine the feasibility of eMBCT in an individual clinical context to decrease depressive symptoms for TRD. Methods: Conducted at the Institute of Psychiatry of the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, this parallel-arm, randomized controlled feasibility trial involved outpatients diagnosed with TRD, aged 18 and above. Of the 39 outpatients invited, 28 were randomized into two groups: an intervention group receiving the eMBCT program (n = 15) and a control group (n = 13). The intervention, consisting of an 8-week course, was delivered via live video sessions. Following the assessment period, participants in the control group were offered the eMBCT intervention. Assessments using standardized questionnaires were conducted at the start and end of the study. Results: Within the eMBCT group, improvements were observed in depression symptoms (Z = -3.423; p = 0.001; effect size r = 0.78), anxiety symptoms (Z = -3.361; p = 0.001; effect size r = 0.77), with no significant changes in the control group. Comparatively, the eMBCT group showed significant reductions in depression symptoms and improvements in clinical global impressions over the control group (BDI2: U = 30.5; p = 0.015; effect size r = 0.47, CGI1: U = 21.0; p = 0.004; effect size r = 0.56). Conclusion: eMBCT in an individual format combined with medication, appears to be a feasible treatment for TRD, decreasing symptoms of depression. In a future trial the control group may have a manualized intervention. Clinical trial registration: The Brazilian Clinical Trials Registry: (https://ensaiosclinicos.gov.br/rg/RBR-6zndpbv) and RBR-6zndpbv.

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AIM: The aim of this study was to scrutinize how online occupational therapy group training for mothers influenced their attitudes and stress levels relating to feeding their children and the eating behaviours of the children. The secondary purpose of the study is to evaluate the satisfaction of the participants of this program. Twenty-nine mothers of children aged 3-6 years, experiencing feeding issues, were randomly allocated to either an intervention or control group. BACKGROUND: Feeding problems including selective eating, loss of appetite, and mealtime behaviour problems are prevalent during childhood. Parents play a fundamental role in acquiring knowledge about feeding. Problems in the feeding process may lead to parental stress, feelings of despair, and incorrect attitudes. RESULTS: The mothers in the research group participated in the 4-week training. Results indicated positive effects on both maternal attitudes and their children's eating behaviours (p < 0.05). No significant change was found in mothers' state and trait anxiety levels (p > 0.05). Participants were asked to score their satisfaction level with the program between 1 and 10, and the average of the scores was 9.78 ± 0.42. CONCLUSION: This study shows that online group education for mothers can support existing treatments and guide clinicians working with children with feeding problems.

Asunto(s)

Madres , Terapia Ocupacional , Humanos , Femenino , Madres/psicología , Madres/educación , Preescolar , Niño , Masculino , Adulto , Conducta Alimentaria/psicología , Trastornos de Ingestión y Alimentación en la Niñez/terapia , Trastornos de Ingestión y Alimentación en la Niñez/psicología , Psicoterapia de Grupo/métodos , Estrés Psicológico , Trastornos de Alimentación y de la Ingestión de Alimentos/psicología , Relaciones Madre-Hijo , Intervención basada en la Internet

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Digital therapeutic programs are emerging almost daily, offering the potential to reduce healthcare access inequalities by providing more flexible and accessible care options. However, as with traditional healthcare, the issue of patient engagement is fundamental, and the latest research have reported that fewer than 30% of users complete these programs in their entirety. Hence, many authors emphasize the importance of studying the role of therapeutic alliances specifically adapted to digital care. The therapeutic alliance encompasses the collaborative aspects of the relationship between the therapist and the patient. In this context there is a need to reconceptualize the alliance within the context of digital healthcare as it can enhance engagement, adherence, and the effectiveness of such treatments. The objective of this qualitative study was to identify the components of the digital therapeutic alliance. A thematic analysis has identified three major themes that appear to constitute the digital therapeutic alliance among 44 users of an online program: trust in the program, perception of interactions, and feeling of consideration. These results prompted a discussion of the challenges of digital healthcare, including the terminology to use. The term "digital therapeutic adherence" is proposed, thereby opening up a field for research and clarification of this important concept distinct from traditional alliance.

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: Post-COVID-19 syndrome (PCS; also known as "long COVID") is a relatively novel disease comprising physical, psychological, and cognitive complaints persisting several weeks to months after acute infection with SARS-CoV-2. Approximately 10% of patients with COVID-19 are affected by long-term symptoms. However, effective treatment strategies are lacking. The ErgoLoCo (Occupational Therapy [Ergotherapie] for Long COVID) study was designed to develop and evaluate a novel occupational therapy (OT) concept of online delivery of therapy for long COVID. OBJECTIVE: The primary study objective is to assess the feasibility of the online OT intervention in PCS. Secondary aims include the evaluation of online OT concerning cognitive problems, occupational performance, and social participation. METHODS: This randomized controlled interventional pilot study involves parallel mixed methods process analyses and a realist evaluation approach. A total of 80 clients with PCS aged at least 16 years will be recruited into two interventional groups. The control cohort (watch and wait) comprises 80 clients with long COVID. Treatment is provided through teletherapy (n=40) or delivery of prerecorded videos (n=40) using the same standardized OT concept twice weekly over 12 weeks. Analyses of quantitative questionnaires and qualitative interviews based on the theoretical framework of acceptability will be performed to assess feasibility. Focus group meetings will be used to assess how acceptable and helpful the intervention was to the participating occupational therapists. Standardized tests will be used to assess the initial efficacy of the intervention on neurocognitive performance; limitations in mobility, self-care, and everyday activities; pain; disabilities; quality of life (QoL); social participation; and anxiety and depression in PCS, and the possible effects of online OT on these complaints. RESULTS: The German Ministry of Education and Research provided funding for this research in March 2022. Data collection took place from October 2022 to August 31, 2023. Data analysis will be completed by the end of April 2024. We anticipate publishing the results in the fall of 2024. CONCLUSIONS: Despite the enormous clinical need, effective and scalable treatment options for OT clients who have PCS remain scarce. The ErgoLoCo study will assess whether online-delivered OT is a feasible treatment approach in PCS. Furthermore, this study will assess the effect of the intervention on cognitive symptoms, QoL, and occupational performance and participation in everyday life. Particular emphasis will be placed on the experiences of clients and occupational therapists with digitally delivered OT. This study will pave the way for novel and effective treatment strategies in PCS. TRIAL REGISTRATION: German Clinical Trial Registry DRKS00029990; https://drks.de/search/de/trial/DRKS00029990. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID): PRR1-10.2196/50230.

Asunto(s)

COVID-19 , Estudios de Factibilidad , Terapia Ocupacional , Adulto , Femenino , Humanos , Masculino , Persona de Mediana Edad , COVID-19/psicología , Alemania , Terapia Ocupacional/métodos , Proyectos Piloto , SARS-CoV-2 , Telemedicina , Ensayos Clínicos Controlados Aleatorios como Asunto

RESUMEN

OBJECTIVE: Transgender and gender diverse (TGD) people experience higher levels of stigma, discrimination, and interpersonal violence due to their gender identity and/or expression, particularly TGD people with a migration background. This study aimed to conduct and evaluate group psychotherapy for TGD migrants to provide opportunities for exploring and developing interpersonal skills and relationships. METHOD: The group therapy included five individuals who identified as TGD and originated from the Middle East. The TGD group therapy consisted of 12 weekly sessions of 90 minutes each and was facilitated by a psychiatrist. All sessions were conducted online and in Turkish. The sessions were guided by the group process and discussions. RESULTS: After completing 12 group therapy sessions, members of the group reported benefiting from observing and emulating others who shared their problem constellation. Through the interpersonal skills that they built up throughout the sessions, they became more open to share their feelings experiencing fewer social barriers, and reduced anxiety. CONCLUSION: This observational study indicates the significance of offering group-based psychotherapy to enhance affirmation and social connection within gender minority groups and emphasizes the need to empirically evaluate the effectiveness of group psychotherapy with TGD individuals, with special attention to the unique needs of TGD migrants.

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Personas Transgénero , Migrantes , Humanos , Masculino , Femenino , Identidad de Género , Vergüenza , Ansiedad

RESUMEN

OBJECTIVE: The strength of the therapeutic alliance is widely understood to impact treatment outcomes, however, the alliance-outcome relationship in teletherapy has remained relatively unexamined. The aim of this meta-analysis is to systematically summarize the relationship between therapeutic alliance and treatment outcomes in teletherapy with adult patients conducted via videoconferencing or telephone. METHODS: We conducted a systematic search of the databases PsycINFO, PsycARTICLES, ProQuest Dissertation Databases, EMBASE, The Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, Google Scholar, and PubMed for studies published before June 26, 2023. We identified 31 studies with 34 independent samples (4862 participants). RESULTS: The average weighted effect size was 0.15, p = .001, 95% CI [0.07, 0.24], k = 34. reflecting a small effect of therapeutic alliance on mental health outcomes. There was significant heterogeneity in the effect sizes, which was driven by between-study differences in the alliance-outcome correlation. The alliance-outcome effect was larger when the alliance was measured late in treatment and when the outcome was measured from the patient's perspective. CONCLUSION: Very few teletherapy treatment studies were identified that initially reported on alliance-outcome associations, underlining that this is an under-researched area. The association between alliance-teletherapy outcomes in this meta-analysis was small but significant, and somewhat weaker than the alliance-outcome associations reported for in-person treatments and other online interventions. This might indicate that there are other processes at play in teletherapy that explain variance of treatment outcomes, or that the therapist (and the relationship) has less influence on the treatment outcomes than in in-person therapy.

Asunto(s)

Telemedicina , Alianza Terapéutica , Humanos , Trastornos Mentales/terapia , Resultado del Tratamiento , Evaluación de Resultado en la Atención de Salud/estadística & datos numéricos , Psicoterapia/métodos , Comunicación por Videoconferencia , Teleterapia de Salud Mental

RESUMEN

The global impact of the SARS-COV-2 pandemic necessitated a rapid shift to online/teletherapy psychotherapy services. While research suggests the feasibility and efficacy of teletherapy, there is limited investigation into couple teletherapy's impact on satisfaction and therapeutic alliance. This study aimed to address this gap by examining changes in couple satisfaction during tele- and in-person therapy sessions over 12 sessions and exploring whether therapeutic alliance development mediates these changes. Using growth curve modeling in a sample of 416 couples, it found that teletherapy participants initially reported higher couple satisfaction, but improvement in this domain was slower than in-person therapy recipients. The development of the therapeutic alliance mediated this effect via two indirect paths. Implications include the need for focused attention on alliance development in teletherapy and more empirically-informed approaches in couple teletherapy.

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BACKGROUND: Systematic reviews consistently show that family-focused interventions are effective at improving substance treatment engagement and outcomes across the lifespan. Yet, Australian substance use treatment services rarely incorporate family members and concerned significant others. Testing of family focussed interventions in the Australian context is required. METHODS: The trial is a randomized wait-list control trial assessing the effectiveness, feasibility and acceptability of online CRAFT with a parallel group. Participants will be randomised to receive either online CRAFT or to a wait-list control group who are provided with CRAFT related reading material during the waiting period. Outcomes will be assessed at baseline and then at 6- and 15-weeks post baseline. The primary outcome will be improved wellbeing of participating family members. The trial reporting will comply with SPIRIT guidelines. DISCUSSION: This study will focus on people living in rural areas. Substance treatment programs are limited in rural Australia. The provision of the Family Empowerment Program (CRAFT) online should make family focused substance treatment support accessible and attainable for the first time in rural areas. The outcomes of this trial could have meaningful implications for the future funding and support of family focused substance treatment services that are inclusive of people with mental health conditions. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ANZCTR, ACTRN12623000796684p, Registered 26 July 2023. Prospectively registered with protocol version 3.

Asunto(s)

Trastornos Mentales , Trastornos Relacionados con Sustancias , Humanos , Australia , Trastornos Mentales/terapia , Trastornos Relacionados con Sustancias/terapia , Familia , Longevidad , Ensayos Clínicos Controlados Aleatorios como Asunto

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BACKGROUND: Online treatments are increasing in number and are currently available for a wide range of clinical problems. To date little is known about the role of treatment expectations and other placebo-like mechanisms in online settings compared to traditional face-to-face treatment. To address this knowledge gap, we analyzed individual participant data from randomized clinical trials that compared online and face-to-face psychological interventions. METHODS: MEDLINE (Ovid) and PsycINFO (Ovid) were last searched on 2 February 2021. Randomized clinical trials of therapist guided online v. face-to-face psychological interventions for psychiatric or somatic conditions using a randomized controlled design were included. Titles, abstracts, and full texts of studies were independently screened by multiple observers. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guideline was followed. Authors of the matching trials were contacted for individual participant data. Ratings from the Credibility and Expectancy Questionnaire and the primary outcome measure from each trial were used to estimate the association between expectation ratings and treatment outcomes in online v. face-to-face interventions, using a mixed-effects model. RESULTS: Of 7045 screened studies, 62 full-text articles were retrieved whereof six studies fulfilled the criteria and provided individual participant data (n = 491). Overall, CEQ ratings predicted clinical outcomes (ß = 0.27) at end of treatment with no moderating effect of treatment modality (online v. face-to-face). CONCLUSIONS: Online treatment appears to be equally susceptible to expectancy effects as face-to-face therapy. This furthers our understanding of the importance of placebo-like factors in online treatment and may aid the improvement of healthcare in online settings.

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Motivación , Humanos , Resultado del Tratamiento

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The purpose of this study is to advance theory concerning the experiences of couples and therapists involved in online couple therapy and the meanings they assign to them, with a particular focus on the therapeutic alliance. Using constructivist grounded theory methodology, in-depth semi-structured online interviews were conducted with 36 individuals, including 18 couples who had participated in online couple therapy via videoconference. Additionally, 15 couple and family therapists were interviewed in four online focus groups. Our analysis indicates three dimensions that impact the formation of the therapeutic alliance in online couple therapy: (1) emotional closeness, as a conduit for establishing physical or emotional space; (2) limited care, due to the therapist's difficulty providing comfort and security; and (3) body language, as reflected in the lack of physical presence and the close inspection of the face, at two opposite ends of a continuum. We discuss our findings through the lens of the closeness-distance dynamic, which posits that therapists' ability to regulate themselves depends on their clients' emotional needs. We conclude with implications for clinical practice.

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Terapia de Parejas , Alianza Terapéutica , Humanos , Relaciones Profesional-Paciente , Terapia de Parejas/métodos , Emociones , Actitud del Personal de Salud

RESUMEN

Com a emergência da pandemia de Covid-19, as(os) psicólogas(os) passaram a oferecer atendimento online para pacientes que até então eram atendidos de forma presencial. Na maior parte dos casos, essa mudança se deu de forma improvisada e sem capacitação prévia. Nesse contexto, este estudo, de caráter descritivo-exploratório, quanti-qualitativo e com delineamento transversal, buscou compreender a experiência das(os) psicólogas(os) na transição das intervenções da modalidade presencial para o atendimento remoto durante a pandemia de Covid-19 no Brasil, identificando dificuldades e lacunas percebidas nas orientações disponibilizadas pelo Conselho Federal de Psicologia. Participaram da pesquisa 385 psicólogas(os). Utilizou-se um questionário online para a coleta dos dados, distribuído por meio de uma plataforma digital entre maio e novembro de 2020. O estudo também foi divulgado em grupos da categoria profissional da psicologia em diversas redes sociais. Os dados quantitativos foram analisados por meio de análise estatística descritiva, e as respostas para as questões abertas por meio de análise temática reflexiva. Os achados foram organizados em três categorias temáticas: (a) lacunas percebidas nas orientações quanto à escolha da plataforma digital; (b) lacunas quanto ao preenchimento do cadastro no site E-Psi ; e (c) falta de treinamento adequado para realizar a transição para o formato online. Entre os principais resultados, destacaram-se a insegurança gerada pela falta de preparo prévio das(os) profissionais e a resistência de alguns clientes a aceitar a transposição dos atendimentos do modelo presencial para o online. Espera-se que o mapeamento das principais dificuldades enfrentadas pela categoria contribua para qualificar o debate sobre a efetividade das orientações disponibilizadas para as(os) psicólogas(os).(AU)

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With the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic, psychologists began to offer online consultations to their patients, who were previously seen in person. In most cases, this change happened in an improvised way and with no prior training required. In this context, this study, of a descriptive-exploratory, quanti-qualitative character with cross-sectional design, aimed to understand the experience of psychologists in the transition from in-person to remote modality during the COVID-19 pandemic in Brazil, identifying difficulties and gaps regarding the guidelines provided by the Federal Council of Psychology. A total of 385 psychologists participated in the research. An online questionnaire was used for data collection, distributed via a digital platform between May and November 2020. The study was also shared in professional Psychology groups on several social networks. The quantitative data were analyzed by descriptive statistical analysis, and the answers to the open questions by reflective thematic analysis. The findings were organized into three thematic categories: (a) gaps perceived in the guidance regarding the choice of the digital platform; (b) gaps regarding the completion of the registration on the E-Psi website; and (c) lack of adequate training to make the transition to the online format. Among the main results were the insecurity generated by the lack of previous preparation of the professionals and the resistance of some clients to accept the transposition of the face-to-face services to the online model. It is expected that the mapping of the main difficulties faced by the category will contribute to qualify the debate about the effectiveness of the orientations made available to psychologists.(AU)

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Con la emergencia de la pandemia de Covid-19, las(os) psicólogas(os) comenzaron a ofrecer atención psicológica en línea a pacientes que hasta entonces eran atendidos de forma presencial. Este cambio se producía a menudo de forma improvisada y sin la formación previa necesaria. Este estudio descriptivo, exploratorio, cuanticualitativo, con enfoque transversal, tuvo como objetivo comprender la experiencia de estos profesionales en la transición del trabajo presencial al remoto durante la pandemia de Covid-19 en Brasil, identificando dificultades y lagunas percibidas en las directrices del Consejo Federal de Psicología. Participaron en la investigación 385 psicólogos(as). Para la recogida de datos se utilizó un cuestionario en línea distribuido por plataforma digital entre mayo y noviembre de 2020. El estudio también se difundió en grupos de la categoría profesional de la Psicología en diversas redes sociales. Los datos cuantitativos se analizaron mediante análisis estadístico descriptivo, y las respuestas a las preguntas abiertas mediante análisis temático reflexivo. Los resultados se organizaron en tres categorías temáticas: (a) lagunas percibidas en la orientación sobre la elección de la plataforma digital; (b) lagunas relativas a la realización de la inscripción en el sitio web E-Psi ; y (c) falta de formación adecuada para realizar la transición al formato en línea. Entre los principales resultados, destacaron la inseguridad generada por la falta de preparación previa de los profesionales y la resistencia de algunos clientes a aceptar la transición de los servicios del modelo presencial al modelo en línea. Se espera que el estudio de las principales dificultades a las que se enfrenta la categoría contribuya a matizar el debate sobre la eficacia de las orientaciones puestas a disposición de los(as) psicólogos(as).(AU)

Asunto(s)

Humanos , Masculino , Femenino , Psicología , Tecnología de la Información , Intervención basada en la Internet , Teletrabajo , COVID-19 , Innovación Organizacional , Orientación , Pacientes , Formulación de Políticas , Psicoterapia , Derivación y Consulta , Investigación , Ajuste Social , Control Social Formal , Trabajo , Redes de Comunicación de Computadores , Salud Mental , Eficacia , Recolección de Datos , Encuestas y Cuestionarios , Guías como Asunto , Congresos como Asunto , Privacidad , Censos , Consejo , Internet , Habilitación Profesional , Intervención en la Crisis (Psiquiatría) , Mercado de Trabajo , Ética Profesional , Red Social , Tutoría , Archivos Web como Asunto , e-Accesibilidad , Vulnerabilidad Social , Personas

RESUMEN

OBJECTIVE: This pilot study aims to investigate the feasibility, acceptability, and potential effectiveness of online Compassion Focused Therapy for overeating (CFT-OE). METHOD: Eighteen Portuguese women seeking treatment for overeating were enrolled in this study, and 15 participants completed the CFT-OE. This was a single-arm study. Participants were assessed at pre- and post-intervention and 3-month follow-up. All participants completed measures assessing binge eating, cognitive restraint, uncontrolled eating, emotional eating, general eating psychopathology, general and body shame, self-criticism, self-compassion, and fears of self-compassion. RESULTS: The treatment attrition rate was 16.7%, which is relatively low compared to other similar online interventions. Participants gave positive feedback on the program and indicated they would recommend it to people with similar difficulties. CFT-OE improved self-compassion and reduced eating psychopathology symptoms, general and body shame, self-criticism, and fears of self-compassion. Clinical significance analysis showed that the majority of participants were classified as in recovery in all measures at post-intervention and 3-month follow-up. DISCUSSION: Preliminary results suggest that the online CFT-OE program is an acceptable and feasible intervention. Results also suggest that CFT-OE is beneficial for the treatment of women with difficulties with overeating. A future randomized controlled trial is necessary to establish the effectiveness of the CFT-OE. PUBLIC SIGNIFICANCE: This study indicates that online CFT-OE is a feasible and adequate intervention for women who struggle with overeating. This therapy showed promising results in reducing eating disorder symptoms, shame, and self-criticism and improving self-compassion. As an online intervention, CFT-OE may be more accessible and offer an alternative to in-person therapy.

Asunto(s)

Emociones , Empatía , Humanos , Femenino , Proyectos Piloto , Estudios de Factibilidad , Hiperfagia/terapia

RESUMEN

Background: Globally, the high prevalence of mental disorders among university students is a growing public health problem, yet a small minority of students with mental health problems receive treatment. Digital mental health solutions could bridge treatment gaps and overcome many barriers students face accessing treatment. However, there is scant evidence, especially in South Africa (SA), relating to university students' use of and intention to use digital mental health solutions or their attitudes towards these technologies. We aim to explore university 2students attitudes towards and perceptions of digital mental health solutions, and the factors associated with their intention to use them. Methods: University students from four SA universities (n = 17 838) completed an online survey to assess experience with, attitudes and perceptions of, and intentions to use, digital mental health solutions. We conducted an exploratory factor analysis to identify factors underlying attitudes and perceptions, and then used multivariate ordinal regression analysis was used to investigate the factors' association with students' intention to use digital mental health solutions. Results: Intention to use digital mental health solutions was high, and attitudes towards and perceptions of digital mental health solutions were largely positive. Importantly, our analysis also shows that 12.6% of users were willing to utilise some form of digital mental health solutions but were unwilling to utilise traditional face-to-face therapies. The greatest proportion of variance was explained by the factor 'Attitudes towards digital technologies' utility to improve student counselling services, provided they are safe'. Conclusion: SA university students are already engaging with digital mental health solutions, and their intention to do so is high. Certain attitudes and perceptions, particularly concerning the utility, effectiveness, and safety, underlie willingness to engage with these solutions, providing potential targets for interventions to increase uptake.

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: Current evidence supports physical activity (PA) as an adjunctive treatment for major depressive disorder (MDD). Few studies, however, have examined the relationship between objectively measured PA and MDD treatment outcomes using prospective data. OBJECTIVE: This study is a secondary analysis of data from a 24-week internet-based, mindfulness-based cognitive behavioral therapy program for MDD. The purpose of this analysis was twofold: (1) to examine average daily step counts in relation to MDD symptom improvement, and whether pain moderated this relationship; and (2) to examine whether changes in step activity (ie, step trajectories) during treatment were associated with baseline symptoms and symptom improvement. METHODS: Patients from the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health were part of a randomized controlled trial evaluating the effects of internet-based, mindfulness-based cognitive behavioral therapy for young adults (aged 18-30 years old) with MDD. Data from 20 participants who had completed the intervention were analyzed. PA, in the form of objectively measured steps, was measured using the Fitbit-HR Charge 2 (Fitbit Inc), and self-reported depression severity was measured with the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II). Linear regression analysis was used to test PA's relationship with depression improvement and the moderating effect of pain severity and pain interference. Growth curve and multivariable regression models were used to test longitudinal associations. RESULTS: Participants walked an average of 8269 steps per day, and each additional +1000-step difference between participants was significantly associated with a 2.66-point greater improvement (reduction) in BDI-II, controlling for anxiety, pain interference, and adherence to Fitbit monitoring (P=.02). Pain severity appeared to moderate (reduce) the positive effect of average daily steps on BDI-II improvement (P=.03). Higher baseline depression and anxiety symptoms predicted less positive step trajectories throughout treatment (Ps≤.001), and more positive step trajectories early in the trial predicted greater MDD improvement at the end of the trial (Ps<.04). However, step trajectories across the full duration of the trial did not significantly predict MDD improvement (Ps=.40). CONCLUSIONS: This study used objective measurements to demonstrate positive associations between PA and depression improvement in the context of cognitive behavioral treatment. Pain appeared to moderate this relationship, and baseline symptoms of anxiety and depression predicted PA trajectories. The findings inform future interventions for major depression. Future research with larger samples should consider additional moderators of PA-related treatment success and the extent to which outcomes are related to PA change in multimodal interventions. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Clinical Trials.gov NCT03406052; https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03406052. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID): RR2-10.2196/11591.