Computer-assisted Delivery of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Mental Health and Addictions in Canada

Computer-based Training for Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT4CBT) is a new on-line addiction treatment developed by Dr Kathleen Carroll at the Yale School of Medicine in New Haven, Connecticut. CBT4CBT consists of seven one-hour long online sessions that teach key concepts, including dealing with cravings, problem solving, and decision making skills, to help users reduce substance abuse. CBT4CBT has been rigorously tested throughout various communities in the United States with great success and is currently being rolled out throughout the States. The therapeutic approach of CBT4CBT is unique as its efficacy, durability and cost-savings have been proven in several rigorous clinical trials and will be magnified by the fact that the program can be delivered in Canada, allowing for increased and continual improvements in population health. CBT4CBT has been accepted by both patients and addiction treatment personnel alike and has won numerous clinical innovation awards. A collaboration has now been formed between Dr Carroll and Drs Michelle Patterson and Juergen Krause of the UPEI Centre for Health and Community Research (CHCR) that will bring CBT4CBT to Canada. While CBT4CBT has previously been tested in urban areas, there are many advantages to offering computer-based training to more rural populations (such as PEI). These more remote areas frequently suffer from a lack of services, as well as a lack of continuity with the services currently offered. CBT4CBT may very well provide that needed continuity to Addictions treatment and has also been shown to improve retention.