Integrating theory-based and data-driven methods to case conceptualization: A functional analysis approach with...

Area of Science:

• Psychotherapy research
• Clinical psychology
• Digital mental health

Background:

• Ecological momentary assessment (EMA) and network analysis are valuable tools for psychotherapy research.
• A therapeutic rationale is needed to integrate these methods into clinical practice for case conceptualization and treatment planning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate an assessment strategy integrating functional analysis with EMA for psychotherapy.
• To explore the feasibility, acceptance, and clinical implications of this novel assessment approach.

Main Methods:

• A proof-of-concept study involving three N-of-1 assessments.
• Personalized item selection for EMA with three daily measurements over 30 days.
• Participant evaluation of feasibility/acceptance and a focus group with psychotherapists.

Main Results:

• The assessment strategy was feasible and accepted, with no reported side effects.
• Network and principal component analyses revealed interpretable clinical components.
• Psychotherapists identified potential benefits like efficient use of waiting time and patient empowerment, alongside challenges in data interpretation.

Conclusions:

• The EMA-based assessment strategy can enhance the scientific quality of case conceptualization.
• It empowers therapists' decision-making in treatment planning.
• Future research must address challenges in prioritizing and interpreting the generated data.