Ottestad

Researchers are evaluating screen delivery as an alternative to office delivery for cognitive therapy in youth aged 14 to 18 years with social anxiety disorder (SAD). The study aims to compare the effectiveness, acceptability, and sustainability of screen delivery against traditional office-based therapy. It also seeks to identify factors that influence therapy outcomes, including the credibility of the treatment and the therapeutic alliance between youth and therapists. The study involves a randomized controlled trial where 200 youth with SAD are assigned to either screen delivery or office delivery of cognitive therapy based on the CT-SAD-A manual. Participants attend 14 weekly therapy sessions, each lasting 90 minutes, with an additional booster session offered six months after treatment. Therapists deliver therapy either via video communication or in-person at clinics across four regional sites in Norway. Participants complete an initial screening questionnaire and a diagnostic interview online before starting therapy. During treatment, they fill out weekly questionnaires, and researchers conduct interviews and assessments at the end of therapy, as well as at 6 months, 2 years, and 4 years post-treatment. Parents are also interviewed and informed. Outcomes are measured using scales for social anxiety symptoms, and therapy sessions are monitored for adherence and competence. Safety monitoring includes reports of anxiety, depression, and suicidality, with procedures in place for any signs of deterioration.