A Pilot Study of Trauma-Focused CBT delivered via telehealth technology
Date
2017
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Child Maltreatment
Abstract
Significant barriers exist in access to evidence-based, trauma-focused treatment among youth from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, those living in rural areas, and belonging to a racial and ethnic minority group, despite the high prevalence rates of trauma exposure among these underserved groups. The present study is proof-of-concept pilot of trauma-focused cognitive–behavioral therapy (TF-CBT) delivered to underserved trauma-exposed youth (N = 15) via telehealth technology (i.e., via one-on-one videoconferencing), aimed at addressing barriers in access to TF treatment. This pilot study provides preliminary evidence of the ability to successfully deliver TF-CBT via a telehealth delivery format. Results demonstrated clinically meaningful symptom change posttreatment (large effect sizes for youth-reported (d = 2.93) and caregiver-reported (d = 1.38) reduction in posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms), with no treatment attrition (0% dropout). These findings are promising in showing treatment effects that are comparable with TF-CBT delivered in an in-person, office-based setting and an important first step in determining how to best address the mental health needs of trauma-exposed youth with barriers in access to care.
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Keywords
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), treatment, TF-CBT, rural areas, research, barriers to treatment
Citation
Stewart, R. W., Orengo-Aguayo, R. E., Cohen, J. A., Mannarino, A. P., & de Arellano, M. A. (2017). A pilot study of trauma-focused cognitive–behavioral therapy delivered via telehealth technology. Child maltreatment, 22(4), 324-333.