Efficacy of a cognitive-behavioural therapy administered by videoconference for generalized anxiety disorder

Introduction. - Delivering psychotherapy by videoconference could considerably extend the accessibility of empirically validated treatments. Objective. - The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of a cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), administered via videoconference. Method. - Five participants with a primary diagnosis of GAD took part in an experimental multiple baseline case study protocol. The efficacy of the treatment was evaluated using a semi-structured interview, self-report questionnaires, and daily self-monitoring diaries. Results. - The results demonstrate that overall, participants' conditions were improved following treatment and they no longer met the diagnostic criteria for GAD in the short-term. Participants' conditions improved clinically and statistically at each follow-up point, achieving a greater global level of functioning at post-test, as well as at 3-month and 12-month follow-up. Conclusion. - Clinical implications of this new treatment modality and directions for future research are discussed. (C) 2014 Published by Elsevier Masson SAS.