The Development and Preliminary Evaluation of an Internet-Based Self-help Intervention for Social Anxiety Disorder with Videoconferencing Therapist Support

Social anxiety disorder (SAD) is one of the most prevalent psychiatric disorders in the United States. Although evidenced-based behavioral treatments are available, less than 20% of those with SAD receive treatment (Grant et al., 2005). The disparity between the number of individuals affected and those obtaining treatment is due to a number of factors, including limited accessibility to therapists practicing evidence-based interventions such as cognitive behavior therapy, geographic factors, and financial cost. Internet-based interventions may be utilized to overcome some of these barriers. Guided Internet-based therapeutic interventions have been demonstrated to be effective for social anxiety (e.g., Andersson et al., 2006). The optimal role (if any) of the therapist in such programs, including the amount of therapist time necessary for effective treatment, remains unclear. The purpose of this pilot study was to develop a novel Internet self-help CBT intervention and to assess the preliminary efficacy and acceptability of the program with minimal therapist support delivered through a common videoconferencing platform, for the treatment of SAD in adults. The intervention program is derived from an acceptance-based CBT program that utilizes traditional behavioral interventions (e.g., exposure) within the context of a model emphasizing mindfulness and psychological acceptance. Thirteen participants received the Internet-based self-help intervention consisting of eight weekly modules, and a brief weekly videoconferencing therapist check-in. Participants were assessed at pre-treatment, mid-treatment, and post-treatment on both outcome and process measures. Participants rated the treatment program as highly acceptable. The results indicate that participants experienced a significant reduction in SAD symptoms and improvements in functioning and quality of life. Implications and future directions are discussed.Ph.D., Clinical Psychology -- Drexel University, 201