Computerized Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CCBT) delivers cognitive behavioral techniques to a computer-user to increase successful coping strategies and improve mental wellbeing. The National Institute for Clinical Excellence (2006) describes CCBT as a "generic term for delivering CBT via an interactive computer interface delivered by a personal computer, internet or interactive voice response system".

Official data from the World Health Organisation shows us that annually in the UK 7.7% of the population suffer from depression and 10% from anxiety. In the United States 9.5% of the population annually suffer from depression with 18.1% of the population suffering from anxiety. However, both depression and anxiety can be successfully treated in many cases, and with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy proving to be as effective as medication (Watkins & Williams, 1998) and a popular choice for sufferers any provision of CBT on a wider basis is desirable. Hence, computerised CBT programmes may offer a unique opportunity to dramatically improve the lives of millions of people.

There are Cognitive-Behavioral therapy sessions in which the user interacts with computer software (either on a PC, or sometimes via a voice-activated phone service), instead of face to face with a therapist. It cannot replace face-to-face therapy, but it can provide an option for patients, especially in light of the fact that there are not always therapists available, or the cost can be prohibitive. Computerized CBT is clinically proven and drug-free. For people who are feeling depressed and withdrawn, the prospect of having to speak to someone about their innermost problems can be off-putting. In this respect, CCBT (especially if delivered online) can be a good option.

Randomized controlled trials have proven its effectiveness, and in February 2006 the UK's National Institute of Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) recommended that CCBT be made available for use within the NHS across England and Wales, for patients presenting with mild/moderate depression, rather than immediately opting for antidepressant medication.^[1]

A new UK government initiative for tackling Mental Health issues^[2] has recently been launched by the Care Services Improvement Partnership.^[3] This confirms Primary Care Trust (PCT) responsibilities in delivering the NICE Technology Appraisal on CCBT. National Director for Mental Health, Professor Louis Appleby CBE^[4] has confirmed that by 31 March 2007 PCTs should have ST Solutions' "FearFighter" and Ultrasis' "Beating the Blues" CCBT products in place and the NICE Guidelines should be met. Some areas have developed, or are trialing, other CCBT products notably Outreach-online^[5] developed in-house by the NHS and currently being trialed in North Wales (UK).

In the United States, Chicago-based Prevail Health Solutions is leading the development of computerized Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy. Their products are not yet offered to the general population, but currently they are engaged in ongoing efforts to determine efficacy in the treatment of several mental health disorders.

There are also Interactive computerized interventions available that provide measurable outcomes. For example, The Challenge Software Program is an interactive online program designed to help children struggling with Self-regulation and Social Skills. The program is based on Fundamental Cognitive-Behavioral principles and teaches children how to challenge unhealthy thinking patterns.

References

1. ↑ National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence. (2006). Depression and anxiety - computerised cognitive behavioural therapy.
2. ↑ http://www.mhchoice.csip.org.uk/psychological-therapies/computerised-cognitive-behavioural-therapy-ccbt.html
3. ↑ CSIP: Home
4. ↑ Louis Appleby CBE (School of Medicine - University of Manchester)
5. ↑ Outreach-online, CBT@Home - CCBT and Guided Online Self-Help for Stress, Anxiety & Depression