Patient utilization of cognitive-behavioral therapy for OCD
Maria C Mancebo1, Jane L Eisen, Nicholas J Sibrava
1Butler Hospital, Brown University Medical School, Providence, RI 02906, USA. Maria_Mancebo@brown.edu
Behavior Therapy
|June 11, 2011
Summary
Many individuals with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) do not start or complete cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) due to barriers like cost and fear, despite its effectiveness. This highlights challenges in accessing adequate OCD treatment.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Clinical Psychology
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a debilitating mental health condition.
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), particularly exposure and ritual prevention (EX/RP), is an effective treatment for OCD.
- Understanding treatment utilization and barriers is crucial for improving patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the utilization of CBT among adults with OCD.
- To identify factors influencing initiation and adherence to CBT for OCD.
- To compare real-world CBT utilization with findings from clinical trials.
Main Methods:
- Longitudinal, observational study of 202 adults with primary DSM-IV OCD.
- Annual follow-up interviews over 2 years using the Longitudinal Interval Follow-Up Evaluation.
- Analysis of CBT recommendation, initiation, dropout, and treatment dose.
Main Results:
- 120 participants received a CBT recommendation, but 25% did not initiate therapy.
- 31% of those who started CBT dropped out prematurely.
- Less than one-third received an adequate "dose" of CBT; drop-out rates exceeded those in EX/RP trials.
- Perceived environmental barriers and treatment fears were primary reasons for non-initiation and dropout.
- Financial costs and logistical difficulties were significant barriers.
Conclusions:
- Many individuals with OCD do not receive adequate CBT due to barriers in initiation and completion.
- Real-world CBT utilization is often less intensive than in clinical trials.
- Addressing financial, logistical, and psychological barriers is essential for effective OCD treatment delivery.
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