Using technology to guide and improve psychotherapy outcomes

Abstract

Emotional disorders, including mood and anxiety-related disorders, are globally prevalent, impacting individuals emotionally and economically. Despite effective evidence-based psychological treatments, only a quarter of affected individuals access psychotherapy, and approximately 40% do not respond adequately, categorized as "not-on-track patients". Innovations such as the transdiagnostic Unified Protocol (UP) and Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs), including internet-based interventions and mobile apps, offer cost-effective, flexible treatment options. Measurement-Based Care (MBC), along with Ecological Momentary Assessment (EMA) and Ecological Momentary Intervention (EMI), enhances personalized treatment for not-on-track patients. This dissertation aims to develop a new model of care based on a flexible, technology-integrated approach to improve outcomes for individuals with emotional disorders. Comprising five articles, including two published internationally, one submitted, and two in progress, this dissertation reviews MBC using ICTs, develops a mobile app for EDs, validates an EMA instrument, captures therapists’ feedback on the app, and pilots a feasibility study.