A roadmap to computer-based psychotherapy in the United States

Area of Science:

• Digital health interventions
• Telepsychiatry and remote mental health services
• Public mental health delivery systems

Background:

• Traditional mental health care faces barriers like cost, therapist availability, scheduling, stigma, and inadequate training in evidence-based treatments (EBTs).
• Computer-based technologies offer potential solutions to overcome these access challenges.
• Improving public mental health requires innovative delivery models.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the potential of computer-based interventions for mental health care delivery.
• To identify challenges and propose solutions for implementing remote and self-guided treatments.
• To outline a roadmap for widespread access to EBTs in the United States.

Main Methods:

• Review of current computer-based mental health care modalities.
• Analysis of barriers to access for evidence-based treatments (EBTs).
• Discussion of necessary advancements in research, training, policy, and industry.

Main Results:

• Computer technologies can deliver self-guided interventions and connect patients with remote therapists.
• Key domains requiring advancement include research, training, policy, and industry.
• Specific challenges and potential solutions for computer-based distance therapy are discussed.

Conclusions:

• Widespread implementation of computer-based mental health care requires strategic progress across multiple domains.
• A roadmap with defined milestones is proposed to achieve equitable access to EBTs for all Americans.
• Advancing digital mental health is crucial for improving national public health outcomes.