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Patient experiences with internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy for multi-system functional somatic disorder: A
Thomas Tandrup Lamm1,2, Lisbeth Frostholm1,2, Heidi Frølund Pedersen1,2
1Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 11, 8200, Aarhus N, Aarhus, Denmark.
Internet Interventions
|May 27, 2026
Summary
Internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy (iCBT) is a helpful treatment for functional somatic disorder (FSD). Participants found iCBT acceptable and effective, but future developments should focus on user-centered design to improve engagement.
Area of Science:
- Mental Health
- Digital Therapeutics
- Qualitative Research
Background:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is effective for functional somatic disorder (FSD).
- Internet-based CBT (iCBT) may improve accessibility and scalability for FSD treatment.
- Limited research explores subjective experiences with iCBT for FSD.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore participants' experiences with iCBT for FSD.
- To understand the therapeutic process, online format, therapist role, and treatment outcomes.
Main Methods:
- 15 semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted.
- Interviews occurred post-treatment within a larger randomized controlled trial.
- Reflexive thematic analysis was used by two researchers.
Main Results:
- Three themes emerged: 'Helpful - but not Enough,' 'Reversing a History of Overexertion,' and 'Psychotherapy is Hard.'
- Participants found iCBT relevant, acceptable, and helpful.
- Factors facilitating and hindering engagement with digital treatment were identified.
Conclusions:
- iCBT is a relevant, acceptable, and helpful treatment for FSD.
- Future iCBT development should use user-centered design.
- Iterative design can mitigate barriers and strengthen facilitators for iCBT engagement.
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