Testing a Digital Single-Session Intervention for Youths on the Waitlist for Psychotherapy

What this Trial Is About

There is a significant unmet need for mental health care among youths in the United States, especially for conditions like depression and anxiety. The COVID-19 pandemic has increased this demand while reducing available clinicians and clinic resources, leading to long waitlists of up to 12 months for outpatient treatment. This trial evaluates a brief, digital single-session intervention teaching the principle of "Practicing the Opposite" (PTO) to help youths on psychotherapy waitlists, aiming to support them during these delays and reduce burden on mental health professionals. The intervention is a 30-45 minute online program using stories, interactive activities, and graphics to teach youths how practicing positive opposites of unhelpful behaviors can gradually improve their mood, thoughts, and actions. Participants are randomized to either the PTO intervention or usual waitlist procedures, which typically involve waiting and occasional check-ins. After removal from the waitlist, all participants receive standard clinic treatment. The PTO program includes four main parts: an introduction to the principle, testimonials, interactive practice activities, and planning for ongoing use. Participants aged 9 to 17 on outpatient waitlists will complete surveys and questionnaires at baseline, post-intervention, and during follow-ups up to one year or completion of clinic treatment. Outcomes include changes in anxiety and depression scales, behavior and feelings surveys, and ecological momentary assessments of mood and behavior changes. The study also monitors hope, perceived control, and clinical record data. This research aims to understand if the digital intervention helps youths while waiting and improves their mental health trajectory.

Digital Single Session Intervention for Youth Mental Health