Does using cognitive-behavioural therapy skills predict improvements in depression?

Hundt NE, Calleo JS, Williams W, Cully JA. Does using cognitive-behavioural therapy skills predict improvements in depression? Psychology and psychotherapy. 2016 Jun 1; 89(2):235-8.

Related HSR&D Project(s)

• IIR 09-088 – Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in Primary Care: Treating the Medically Ill

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Abstract:

We examined symptoms and use of cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) skills during treatment for 60 outpatients receiving group CBT for depression. Depression symptoms decreased significantly and frequency of skills use increased significantly during treatment, and increases in skills use from pre-treatment to mid-treatment predicted changes in depression at post-treatment. PRACTITIONER POINTS: Patients who report infrequent use of skills may be at risk for treatment non-response, which can provide an early warning sign for clinicians. Potential interventions include more psychoeducation about the treatment rationale to increase 'buy-in' or motivational interviewing to increase skills use.