Testing a Digital Single-session Intervention for Youths on the Waitlist for Psychotherapy
Harvard University
Summary
The aim of this study is to test the effectiveness of a single-session, digital intervention teaching the principle of practicing the opposite, when administered to youths on the waitlist for psychotherapy, with usual waitlist procedures as a control condition.
Description
There is a massive unmet need for youth mental health care in America; only ¼ of youth in need receive services. The problem has been underscored and exacerbated by the pandemic. The need for child and adolescent mental health care, particularly for depression and anxiety, has surged while clinician availability and clinic funding have shrunk. One result is that clinic waitlists, always lengthy, have stretched, with youths and families who seek care waiting for up to 12 months for a first appointment, and many giving up and dropping out before the much-delayed appointment. There is a clear nee…
Eligibility
- Age range
- 9–17 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Yes
Inclusion Criteria: * Youth/family has contacted a participating outpatient clinic to seek mental health care, and is placed on the waitlist. * Youth is between the ages of 9-17 years (inclusive) at the time of study enrollment. * Youth and at least one guardian consent to the youth's participation in study. * Youth reads English well enough to effectively complete the digital programs (defined as taking classes in English, as opposed to ESL classes). * Youth has access to a digital device. Exclusion Criteria: * Youth is non-English speaking, as the program is only available in English. * Y…
Interventions
- BehavioralPracticing the Opposite (PTO)
This 30-45-minute digital program is designed to help youths on the waitlist feel better prior to treatment and may also improve their treatment engagement and outcomes.
- OtherUsual Clinical Care
Usual care provided by participating youth mental health clinics in the United States.
Locations (5)
- Riley Child Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences ClinicIndianapolis, Indiana
- Boston Child Study CenterBoston, Massachusetts
- The Baker Center for Children and FamiliesBoston, Massachusetts
- The Concord CenterConcord, Massachusetts
- Riverside Community CareDedham, Massachusetts