Perceptions of client stories in internet-delivered cognitive behaviour therapy: A mixed-methods evaluation

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Digital Health
• Mental Health Interventions

Background:

• Internet-delivered Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (ICBT) utilizes online materials for mental health support.
• Client stories are commonly integrated into ICBT to enhance user learning and engagement.
• The impact of client stories on ICBT engagement, satisfaction, and outcomes remains under-researched.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate client perceptions of stories within transdiagnostic ICBT programs.
• To explore the relationship between story perceptions and ICBT engagement, satisfaction, and symptom reduction.
• To identify potential improvements for client stories in ICBT.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods approach combining qualitative and quantitative data collection from 324 ICBT clients.
• Analysis of client responses to closed-ended and open-ended questions regarding story perception at 4 and 8 weeks.
• Statistical analysis to assess the association between story perceptions and treatment outcomes, controlling for covariates.

Main Results:

• The majority of clients reviewed and positively perceived stories, finding them relatable and motivating.
• Positive perceptions of stories remained stable throughout treatment and were associated with lower symptom severity and higher satisfaction.
• Story perceptions at 4 weeks predicted reduced anxiety symptoms post-treatment.
• Clients provided suggestions for improving story variety, realism, formatting, and length.

Conclusions:

• Client stories are a valuable component of ICBT, positively influencing user experience and motivation.
• Enhancing the realism, variety, and conciseness of stories can further optimize their effectiveness.
• Future ICBT development should consider client feedback to refine story integration for improved mental health outcomes.