Evaluation of standardized behavioural treatment for agoraphobic in-patients administered by untrained therapists

Using a standardized behavioural programme, nine in-patients with severe agoraphobia were treated by staff who had minimal training in the theory and practice of behaviour therapy. With one exception patients showed marked reduction in subjective fear and avoidance, both following treatment and at follow-up. The indications for such treatment are considered and compared with those for alternative behavioural approaches that have recently been advocated.