Comparing In-Person and Synchronous Online Training for an Evidence-Based Treatment

Area of Science:

• Mental Health Training
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
• Online Education

Background:

• Online training platforms offer potential for wider access to evidence-based treatments (EBT) compared to traditional in-person methods.
• Key questions remain regarding the efficacy of online EBT training in achieving comparable engagement and model application rates to in-person training.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare training engagement and model application between participants in in-person and synchronous online training for Alternatives for Families: a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (AF-CBT).
• To evaluate the feasibility, efficiency, and benefits of online EBT skills training.

Main Methods:

• A comparative study involving participants in in-person (n=127) and online (n=277) AF-CBT training.
• Data collected via pre- and post-training questionnaires and trainer records.
• Statistical analyses included chi-square tests and t-tests to compare outcomes between training modalities.

Main Results:

• Both groups exhibited high engagement in workshops and consultation calls, with no significant differences.
• In-person participants were more likely to submit multiple session recordings; however, no significant differences were found in self-reported delivery of AF-CBT, client implementation numbers, extent of use, or fidelity.
• Both training formats resulted in similar self-reported improvements in therapist comfort and skill acquisition.

Conclusions:

• Synchronous online training for EBT is a feasible, efficient, and beneficial alternative to in-person training, demonstrating comparable engagement and model application.
• Online training offers advantages such as reduced costs and increased flexibility, though potential drawbacks like lower satisfaction should be considered.
• The findings support the broader implementation of online platforms for disseminating EBT skills to community providers.