A blended intervention for adjustment disorder: Results from a feasibility trial

Despite the clinical relevance and high prevalence of AjD, there is limited research on psychological treatments for this disorder. The scientific literature suggests that low-intensity interventions, such as blended treatments, could be a promising option given how well they would fit with the characteristics of the disorder. The aim of this study was to analyze the feasibility and potential efficacy of a blended intervention for AjD.

An open-label, single-group feasibility trial was conducted. After completing the eligibility assessment, 41 participants with an AjD diagnosis received the blended intervention. This combined a 7-module internet-based CBT intervention with videoconference sessions with a therapist every 12 days. Patients were assessed at four time points: pre-treatment, post-treatment, and at 3- and 12-month follow-ups. Feasibility was assessed both quantitatively and qualitatively, including measures of adherence, satisfaction and expectations, participants' opinions, preferences, therapeutic alliance, and usability. In addition, different clinical measures were included.

The treatment proved to be well accepted and valued by the participants, showing high adherence rates, a preference for the blended format, and high expectations, satisfaction, usability, and therapeutic alliance scores. Overall, the participants reported positive opinions, both quantitatively and qualitatively, emphasizing the importance of the therapist's support. The dropout rate was 14.6%. The intervention was effective in improving both primary and secondary measures.

This blended intervention for AjD appears to be a viable and effective option for addressing the symptomatology of the disorder. The results of this study will aid in the design of future randomized controlled trials.

Protocol registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05464121. Registered 19 July 2022, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05464121.Protocol publication: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.invent.2024.100715.