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There is an imbalance between goal-directed and habitual-learning system in patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). At present, the relationship between cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) as a first-line therapy and goal-directed and habitual-learning disorder is still unclear. We attempted to discuss the effect of CBT treatment in patients with OCD, using abnormalities in goal-directed and habitual-learning-related brain regions at baseline as predictive factors. A total of 71 subjects, including 35 OCD patients and 36 healthy controls, were recruited. The OCD patients underwent 8 weeks of CBT. These patients were divided into two groups based on treatment response (N responders = 18, N nonresponders = 17). Further subgroup analysis was conducted based on disease duration (N short = 17, N long = 18) and age of onset (N early = 14, N late = 21). We collected resting-state ROI-ROI functional connectivity data and apply repeated-measures linear mixed-effects models to investigate the differences of different subgroups. CBT led to symptom improvement in OCD patients, with varying degrees of effectiveness across subgroups. The orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) and insula, key regions for goal-directed behavior and habitual-learning, respectively, showed significant impacts on CBT efficacy in subgroups with different disease durations and ages of onset. The findings suggest that the goal-directed system may influence the efficacy of CBT through goal selection, maintenance, and emotion regulation. Furthermore, we found that disease duration and age of onset may affect treatment outcomes by modulating functional connectivity between goal-directed and habitual-learning brain regions. • The study examines how CBT affects OCD patients and brain function related to learning patterns. • The research uncovers diverse responses to CBT based on disease duration and age of onset. • The findings emphasize the role of the goal-directed system in influencing CBT's effectiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Positive psychological therapy has been found to be effective in psychological health in the broader cancer patient population. However, specific evidence regarding its effectiveness for adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer patients remains limited. More research is needed to determine the optimal approaches for alleviating distress in this particular group. We evaluated the efficacy of character strength-based cognitive-behavioral therapy (CS-CBT) versus cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for distress in AYA patients with cancer. In a randomized controlled three-arm trial, cancer patients aged 15-39 years were assigned to one of three groups using a random number table to ensure equal group sizes: (1) CS-CBT, which incorporated specific exercises focused on identifying and utilizing character strengths within the CBT framework; (2) CBT; or (3) control group. The primary outcome was improvement in patients' overall mental health on the Distress Thermometer and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale 3 months after assignment to the groups. Analyses used generalized estimating equations. A total of 162 AYAs were randomly and equally assigned to three groups. Improvements in primary outcomes were significantly greater after CS-CBT than after CBT, and no significant differences were found between the CBT and control group. Among all primary and secondary outcomes, the only non-significant difference found was in quality of life with CS-CBT compared to CBT. AYA cancer patients rated their overall mental health and sense of thriving as more improved after CS-CBT than after CBT. However, quality-of-life indicators supported equal intervention effects in both groups. These findings support the effectiveness of the use of CS-CBT intervention in reducing distress and improving thriving. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of the study was to compare the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and existential therapy on symptoms of demoralization and life attitudes in women heads of households in welfare in the city of Rasht. Methods: The research method was quasi-experimental with a pre-test, post-test, and follow-up design with two experimental groups and one control group. The statistical population included all women heads of households in the welfare organization of Rasht city (2159 individuals) in 2021. The sample size included 60 individuals who were randomly assigned to two experimental groups (20 individuals in the existential therapy group and 20 individuals in the cognitive-behavioral therapy group) and one control group (20 individuals). Then, each of the two experimental groups received 8 sessions of 90-minute group therapy. The cognitive-behavioral therapy was based on the cognitive-behavioral therapy protocol by Antony et al. (2013), and the existential therapy was based on the existential therapy protocol by Irvin Yalom (2016). The data collection tools included the Symptoms of Demoralization Questionnaire by Kissane et al. (2004) and the Life Attitudes Questionnaire by Battista (1973). Data analysis was performed using repeated measures ANOVA. Findings: Based on the effect size values, the effectiveness of both cognitive-behavioral therapy and existential therapy on the demoralization symptoms variable was 43%, and on the life attitudes variable, it was 62%. This effectiveness was significant and persistent (according to the follow-up test results), and both therapies had a lasting impact on the dependent variables. In the variables of demoralization symptoms (F=29.34, p=0.001) and life attitudes (F=62.36, p=0.001). Conclusion: The results showed that there was a significant difference between the three stages of pre-test, post-test, and follow-up in the variables of demoralization symptoms and life attitudes of women heads of households in the two experimental groups (cognitive-behavioral therapy and existential therapy), indicating the significant impact of both therapeutic methods on the research's dependent variables. Keywords: Women heads of households, cognitive-behavioral therapy, existential therapy, symptoms of demoralization, life attitudes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The present study aimed to compare the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and schema therapy on psychological capital in women affected by marital infidelity. Methods: This research was a quasi-experimental study with a pre-test, post-test, and follow-up design with a control group. The statistical population included all women dealing with the issue of marital infidelity of their spouses who referred to counseling centers in Tehran in 2022 and expressed their readiness to participate in the treatment program in response to the researcher's call. From this population, 45 subjects were selected using purposive sampling and randomly assigned to three equal groups of 15 (two experimental groups and one control group). The Psychological Capital Questionnaire by Luthans et al. (2007) was used to collect data. Data analysis was performed using SPSS software and multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA) tests. Findings: The results indicated that both schema therapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy interventions produced a significant difference in psychological capital in women affected by marital infidelity at the post-test and follow-up stages compared to the control group (p ≤ 0.001). Conclusion: The results showed that cognitive-behavioral therapy had a greater impact on psychological capital in women affected by marital infidelity compared to schema therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The objective was to investigate the pragmatic effectiveness of face-to-face cognitive-behavioral therapy (F2F-CBT) for family caregivers of people with dementia (PwD) implemented in a routine care setting relative to usual care in a quasi-experimental study. Methods: Participants indicating that attendance of F2F-CBT was possible were assigned to F2F-CBT (n = 49). F2F-CBT consisted of 12 sessions over 6 months. Effects were evaluated at posttest and 6-month follow-up on a variety of outcomes relative to usual care (CG; n = 134). Results: At posttest, F2F-CBT yielded significantly fewer symptoms of depression (d = 0.37), better emotional well-being (d = 0.64), and better coping with the care situation (d = 0.52) than CG. At 6-month follow-up, the effect on emotional well-being was retained (d = 0.44) and social relationships were rated significantly better in F2F-CBT than CG (d = 0.34). Conclusions: F2F-CBT proved to be effective in supporting family caregivers of PwD. However, only relatively few caregivers were able to regularly attend face-to-face sessions. Clinical Implications: CBT seems particularly suitable for supporting family caregivers of PwD in coping with the complex psychological burden. Delivery via telephone or internet could be a necessary alternative to F2F-CBT for reducing barriers to participation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Objective: The aim of the present study was to investigate the effectiveness of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) on improving the quality of life in adolescents engaging in non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI). Methods and Materials: The research method was quasi-experimental with a pre-test and post-test control group design. The statistical population of the present study included 16 to 18-year-old high school students (both boys and girls) in Sari. From this population, 100 individuals were selected through convenience sampling, and among them, 28 individuals who obtained the highest scores on the Non-Suicidal Self-Injury Questionnaire (NSSI) were selected based on inclusion criteria and were randomly assigned to an experimental group and a control group (each group consisting of 14 individuals). The experimental group received group CBT over 12 sessions of 90 minutes each, while the control group received no intervention until the post-test phase. The tools used in this study included the Non-Suicidal Self-Injury Questionnaire (Klonsky & Glenn, 2011) and the Quality of Life Questionnaire (Ware & Sherbourne, 1992). The data obtained in the pre-test and post-test phases were analyzed using covariance analysis with SPSS-22 software. Findings: The results showed that CBT led to an increase in the quality of life of adolescents. Conclusion: The findings provide evidence that CBT is a suitable method for increasing the quality of life in adolescents engaging in non-suicidal self-injury and can lead to the enhancement of their mental health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anxiety is highly prevalent, but undertreated, in primary care. Brief, non-pharmacological interventions are needed. Modular Anxiety Skills Training (MAST), a cognitive-behavioral anxiety intervention, was developed for primary care and tailored for a Veteran sample (MAST-V). The purpose of this mixed methods pilot study was to evaluate MAST-V's feasibility, acceptability, and implementation potential, and preliminarily examine its effectiveness compared to Primary Care Behavioral Health (PCBH) usual care. This hybrid I randomized controlled trial (conducted 2019–2021) assigned 35 primary care patients (M age = 47, 17 % female, 27 % racial/ethnic minority) with clinically significant anxiety symptoms to receive MAST-V or PCBH usual care. Participants completed validated measures of anxiety symptoms and functional impairment at 0, 4, 8, 12, and 16 weeks. Participants attended more sessions in MAST-V than usual care. After necessary adjustments to reduce session duration, MAST-V will likely fit within PCBH practice parameters. Participants in both conditions valued treatment, but treatment satisfaction, credibility, and therapeutic alliance were higher for MAST-V. Study therapists achieved high treatment fidelity and rated MAST-V as highly feasible, acceptable, and appropriate for PCBH. They identified ways to address potential barriers to implementation. MAST-V was more effective than usual care in reducing anxiety symptoms and impairment. This was a small pilot study at a single site using study therapists. Results should be considered preliminary until replicated in a full-scale clinical trial. This brief modular anxiety intervention, which was designed with implementation in mind, may help to address the anxiety treatment gap in primary care. • Brief nonpharmacological anxiety interventions feasible in primary care are needed. • We conducted a pilot RCT of a modular cognitive-behavioral anxiety intervention. • The intervention was feasible and highly acceptable for patients and therapists. • Clinical outcomes improved more than with usual care (primarily supportive therapy). • The intervention's potential for implementation in routine primary care is high. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Pain is a complex phenomenon influenced by psychosocial variables, including the placebo effect. The effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) for pain has been demonstrated in experimental studies and systematic reviews, but the mechanisms of action are only starting to be established. Whether the expectations of individuals experiencing pain can be manipulated during MBIs remains to be systematically evaluated, and what role placebo effects might play remains to be explored. Methods: To evaluate the literature analyzing placebo effects in MBIs for pain, we performed a systematic review based on searches conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, and SCOPUS databases. Our search revealed a total of 272 studies, of which only 19 studies were included (10 acute pain and nine chronic pain), considering the inclusion and exclusion criteria related to expectations and placebo effects. Results: From the 19 included studies, six measured placebo effects only in relation to the pharmacological intervention used in the study and not to an MBI. Discussion: The results of the few studies that focused on the placebo effects of the MBIs indicate that placebo and expectations play a role in the MBIs' effects on pain. Although expectations and placebo effects are frequently discussed in the context of mindfulness and pain research, these results show that these factors are still not routinely considered in experimental designs. However, the results of the few studies included in this systematic review highlight a clear role for placebo and expectancy effects in the overall effects of MBIs for both acute and chronic pain, suggesting that routine measurement and further consideration in future studies are warranted. Additional research in this fascinating and challenging field is necessary to fully understand the connection between MBIs, placebo/expectations, and their effects on pain relief. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Shame is a powerful self‐conscious emotion that is often experienced by individuals with eating disorders (EDs). While the association between EDs and shame is well‐established, there is limited research investigating the contribution of pre‐treatment shame to clinical outcomes. Method: Participants (N = 273) received outpatient cognitive‐behavioral therapy for eating disorders (CBT‐ED). We investigated pre‐treatment shame as a predictor of dropout and as a moderator of change in ED psychopathology and clinical impairment from pre‐treatment to post‐treatment. We also explored the potentially moderating roles of body mass index, ED diagnostic category, and co‐occurring anxiety and depression diagnoses. Results: Shame improved substantially (d = 1.28) despite not being explicitly targeted in treatment. Pre‐treatment shame did not predict treatment dropout. Individuals high in shame started and ended treatment with higher ED symptoms and impairment than those with low shame. The contribution of pre‐treatment shame on the degree of change in symptoms/impairment depended critically on whether analyses controlled for pre‐treatment symptoms/impairment. When those were controlled, high pre‐treatment shame was associated with substantially less improvement in ED symptoms and impairment. There was some evidence that ED diagnosis and co‐occurring depressive diagnoses may moderate the relationship between shame and treatment outcome. Changes in shame were positively associated with changes in ED symptoms and clinical impairment. Discussion: A high level of shame at pre‐treatment is not a contraindication for CBT‐ED as good therapeutic outcomes can be achieved. However, outcomes may be enhanced among individuals high in shame by offering adjunctive interventions that explicitly target shame. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Suicide is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, affecting numerous individuals close to the person who died by suicide, including family members, friends, and colleagues. Those affected by the suicide of someone are referred to as "suicide survivors", and the psychological consequences they face are particularly severe. One of these consequences is grief, which is more complicated in survivors of suicide compared with those grieving deaths from other causes, mainly because of the stigma that continues to surround them. Therefore, psychotherapeutic intervention for suicide loss survivors is crucial. This study examines the efficacy of cognitive-behavioral programs for addressing grief and other related variables in suicide loss survivors. The search was conducted in databases including Psycinfo, Academic Search Premier, Medline, APA PsycArticles, E-Journals, Scopus, and PubMed. Five randomized controlled trials were selected, one of which focused exclusively on minors. The results reveal that cognitive-behavioral therapy is effective, although the methodological quality of these studies is not adequate, and the representativeness of the samples is very low. More RCTs are needed on the application of cognitive-behavioral programs to treat grief in suicide loss survivors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To pilot test the COMmunity of Practice And Safety Support for Navigating Pain (COMPASS-NP) intervention for home care workers experiencing chronic pain. Methods: Home care workers with chronic pain participated (n = 19; 2 groups) in a 10-week online group program focused on workplace safety and pain self-management. Primary outcomeswere changes in pain interference with work and life. Other outcomes related to ergonomics, pain levels, opioid misuse risk, mental health, sleep, and physical activity. Results: The intervention produced a large reduction in pain interference with life (d = -0.85) and a moderate reduction in pain interference with work time demands (d = -0.61). Secondary outcomes showed favorable effect sizes, including a substantial increase in the use of ergonomic tools and techniques (d = 1.47). Conclusion: Findings were strongly encouraging. The effectiveness of COMPASS-NP will be evaluated in a future randomized controlled trial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Four distinct affect trajectories based on rate of change. • Quadratic worsening in moderate affect associated with increased eating pathology. • Stable affect linked to improved cognitions, not eating or compensatory behaviors. • Affect-directed treatments may enhance cognitive remission in eating disorder pathology. Bulimia nervosa (BN) is characterized by recurrent loss of control over eating (LOC) and inappropriate compensatory behaviors. Although cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is efficacious for BN, many patients continue to experience symptoms at posttreatment. One potential driver of this low treatment response may be low mood, which maintains BN symptoms through negative reinforcement. Thus, it is important to understand how mood changes over enhanced cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT-E) and whether these changes are associated with improved treatment outcomes. Participants (N = 56) with BN-spectrum eating disorders (EDs) received 16 sessions of the focused version of CBT-E. The Eating Disorder Examination (EDE) was used to measure ED symptoms (global ED pathology, frequency of binge episodes, and compensatory behaviors) at pre- and posttreatment. Latent growth mixture modeling (LGMM) of affective ratings via digital self-monitoring identified latent growth classes. Kruskal–Wallis H tests examined the effect of trajectory of change in mood on pre- to posttreatment symptom change. LGMM yielded a four-class model that best fit the data representing distinct mood trajectories over the course of treatment: (a) highest baseline mood, linear improving; (b) moderate baseline mood, stable; (c) moderate baseline mood, quadratic worsening; and (d) lowest baseline mood, quadratic improving. Participants who demonstrated worsening mood over treatment (i.e., individuals in the "moderate baseline mood, quadratic worsening" class) had significantly higher EDE global scores at posttreatment and follow-up compared to participants with stable mood across treatment. Change in LOC eating frequency and compensatory behaviors across treatment did not significantly differ by mood class. The main effect of mood class or interaction effect between time and mood class on objective binge episodes, subjective binge episodes, and compensatory behaviors was not significant. There were no significant differences in global ED pathology at either posttreatment or follow-up for any other class comparisons. These results suggest that certain trajectories of change in mood during treatment are particularly associated with change in pre- to posttreatment EDE global score. If replicated, our findings could suggest that future iterations of CBT-E should target mood early in treatment in order to maximize reductions in global eating pathology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study is a secondary analysis exploring client predictors of dropouts and outcomes in the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Data was taken from a feasibility randomized control trial (RCT) exploring the relative efficacy of emotion-focused therapy (EFT) compared with cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). Relationships between client characteristics and dropouts were explored using logistic regression analysis. Relationships between client characteristics and psychotherapy outcomes were explored using hierarchical linear regression analyses. For the full dataset (n = 58), a comorbid personality disorder predicted a higher number of dropouts. Eleven participants dropped out of therapy. Having a disability predicted less improvement in symptoms of depression and general distress. Being male-identified predicted a greater reduction in symptoms of anxiety and general distress, and comorbid agoraphobia predicted a greater reduction in symptoms of depression for the CBT condition (n = 21 completers). For the EFT condition (n = 26 completers), being older predicted greater improvements in symptoms of anxiety and comorbid panic disorder predicted a lower reduction in symptoms of depression. Caution should be taken in interpreting these findings given the small number of participants. However, they provide useful insights for the generation of hypotheses in relation to predictors of dropouts and outcomes for future studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Internet‐delivered cognitive‐behavioral therapy (ICBT) is an effective treatment for obsessive‐compulsive disorder (OCD). ICBT can be delivered in a self‐guided or clinician‐guided format. While a literature is emerging on the predictors of response to clinician‐guided ICBT, there is a lack of research examining the predictors of response to self‐guided ICBT. The aim of the present study was to examine predictors of outcome in a large sample of participants with OCD who commenced a self‐guided ICBT intervention. One hundred and fifty‐seven participants (Mage = 34.82; SD = 10.49; 78% female) were included in the study. Regression analyses were conducted to determine clinical and demographic predictors of (1) posttreatment symptom severity and (2) a clinically meaningful treatment response for both the intention‐to‐treat (ITT) and completer samples. The regression models significantly predicted posttreatment outcome for both the ITT (F(8, 148) = 15.844, p <.001) and completer sample (F(8, 101) = 5.929, p <.001), explaining 46% and 34% of the variance respectively. Higher baseline OCD severity, younger age, experiencing higher contamination or symmetry symptoms, and a history of past treatment were all found to be significantly associated with higher posttreatment severity in the ITT sample. In the completer sample only higher baseline OCD severity and severity of harm‐related obsessions and checking compulsions was significantly associated with higher posttreatment severity. When predicting treatment response the regression models for both the ITT and completer sample were nonsignificant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined whether high frequency heart-rate variability (HF-HRV) and HF-HRV reactivity to worry moderate response to cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) within both a standard and stepped-care framework among cancer patients with comorbid insomnia. Biomarkers such as HF-HRV may predict response to CBT-I, a finding which could potentially inform patient allocation to different treatment intensities within a stepped-care framework. 177 participants (86.3 % female; M age = 55.3, SD = 10.4) were randomized to receive either stepped-care or standard CBT-I. 145 participants had their HRV assessed at pre-treatment during a rest and worry period. Insomnia symptoms were assessed using the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI) and daily sleep diary across five timepoints from pre-treatment to a 12-month post-treatment follow-up. Resting HF-HRV was significantly associated with pre-treatment sleep efficiency and sleep onset latency but not ISI score. However, resting HF-HRV did not predict overall changes in insomnia across treatment and follow-up. Similarly, resting HF-HRV did not differentially predict changes in sleep diary parameters across standard or stepped-care groups. HRV reactivity was not related to any of the assessed outcome measures in both cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses. Although resting HF-HRV was related to initial daily sleep parameters, HF-HRV measures did not significantly predict longitudinal responses to CBT-I. These findings suggest that HF-HRV does not predict treatment responsiveness to CBT-I interventions of different intensity in cancer patients. • Lower HF-HRV was associated with worse pre-treatment sleep efficiency. • HF-HRV was not related to reduced insomnia symptoms following CBT-I. • HF-HRV reactivity was not associated to initial insomnia symptoms or CBT-I response. • HF-HRV may not be helpful in informing patients allocation to stepped-care treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The objective of the present investigation was to evaluate the comparative efficacy of cognitive-behavioral therapy and emotional schema therapy on difficulties in emotion regulation and positive and negative affect among students diagnosed with anxiety disorders in the urban context of Sari. Methods: The current study was classified as applied research, and utilized a quasiexperimental design featuring pre-test and post-test assessments alongside a control group. The research sample comprised 45 students who had been clinically diagnosed with anxiety disorders by the psychologist affiliated with the consultation center of the Sari Education Department. Participants were randomly assigned to three distinct groups (first experimental group: 15 individuals; second experimental group: 15 individuals; control group: 15 individuals). The first experimental cohort underwent training in the CBT, whereas the second experimental cohort engaged in the EST, with the control group receiving no specialized intervention. Data collection was conducted utilizing the Emotion Regulation Questionnaire in conjunction with the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS). The analysis of the collected data was executed using SPSS software, encompassing analysis of covariance. Results: The findings indicated that while both therapeutic modalities demonstrated effectiveness, EST exhibited superior efficacy compared to CBT in alleviating difficulties in emotion regulation. Furthermore, additional findings revealed that EST proved to be more effective in enhancing positive and negative affect than CBT. Conclusions: The results substantiate the efficacy of emotion-focused interventions concerning the emotional states and affective experiences of students diagnosed with anxiety disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, virtual reality (VR) has gained attention from researchers in diverse fields, particularly in therapy of phobias. Currently, virtual reality exposure therapy therapy (VRET) is considered a promising cognitive-behavioral therapy technique. However, specific psychological and physiological responses of VR users to virtual exposure in such a context are still only vaguely explored. In this experimental study, we mapped VR exposure in a height environment in people with a moderate fear of heights–acrophobia. Thirty-six participants were divided into experimental and control groups–with and without psychological guidance during exposure. Participants' subjective level of anxiety was examined, and objective physiological response was captured via heart rate variability (HRV) measurement. Psychological assessments recorded an anticipated rise in participant anxiety following exposure to height; nevertheless, no distinctions were observed in self-reported anxiety concerning psychological guidance. Notably, objective physiological measures revealed that VR exposure prompts physiological responses akin to real-world scenarios. Moreover, based on the analysis of heart rate variability, participants who received psychological guidance were identified as better at compensating for anxiety compared to those without such support. These findings support VRET as a promising tool for psychotherapy and advocate for psychological guidance as beneficial in reducing anxiety and managing stress during exposure. The results may help improve our understanding of anxiety during exposure to phobic stimuli. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Nowadays, internet addiction has become a social problem that can disrupt an individual's health and productive presence in society. Everyone spends a significant amount of time on various programs and using the internet daily, but some people excessively engage in these activities to the extent that their mental health, behavior, and social life are adversely affected. Therefore, it is essential to intervene and prevent internet addiction. The purpose of this research was to investigate the effectiveness of quality of life intervention based on reality therapy according to adolescents' lived experiences on internet and computer game addiction. Methods and Materials: The first part of the research employed a qualitative phenomenological approach. The statistical population consisted of all adolescents with internet addiction under counseling in counseling centers in Isfahan. Fifteen adolescents were purposefully selected and interviewed until saturation. After analyzing the interviews using Colaizzi's method and MAXQDA software, nine main concepts (lifestyle, identity formation, self-efficacy, psycho-physical factors, family structure, parent-adolescent relationship, family demographic characteristics, interpersonal relationships, and society) and 33 sub-concepts were categorized. Consequently, the quality of life intervention based on reality therapy was developed based on the extracted themes. The second part of the research was a quasi-experimental design with a pre-test, post-test control group, and follow-up period. The statistical population included all adolescents with internet addiction under counseling in counseling centers in Isfahan. Thirty adolescents were purposefully selected based on the inclusion criteria (scoring above 50 on the Internet Addiction Questionnaire) and randomly assigned to experimental and control groups. The experimental group received the quality of life intervention based on reality therapy over two months in ten 120-minute sessions. The questionnaires used included the Internet Addiction Questionnaire by Kimberly Young (1998) and the Computer Game Addiction Questionnaire by Soltani and Farhadi (2016). The collected data were analyzed using repeated measures analysis of variance with SPSS23 software. Findings: The results indicated that the quality of life intervention based on reality therapy according to adolescents' lived experiences had a significant effect on internet and computer game addiction (P < 0.001). Conclusion: Based on the findings, it can be concluded that the quality of life intervention based on reality therapy according to adolescents' lived experiences, utilizing the principles and techniques of changing conditions and enhancing quality of life based on Glasser's reality therapy theory, can be an effective intervention for improving internet and computer game addiction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The increasing delay in the age of marriage and the decreasing interest and willingness of single women to marry have led to a rise in the age of marriage, resulting in an increase in the number of single women with higher ages. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of schema therapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy before marriage on the emotional maturity and body image of single women. Methods and Materials: This quasi-experimental study employed a pre-test and post-test design with a non-equivalent control group. The study population included single women from District 1 of Tehran in 2022. The research sample consisted of 60 participants selected through convenience sampling based on a call from the study population, and they were randomly assigned to two experimental groups and one control group. Participants completed the Emotional Maturity Questionnaire (Yashvir Singh and Mahesh Bhargava, 1991) and the Body Image Questionnaire (Fisher, 1970) before the intervention, after the intervention, and at follow-up. The first experimental group received schema therapy and the second experimental group received cognitive-behavioral therapy in eight 90-minute sessions based on the schema therapy protocol (Leahy, 2013) and the cognitive-behavioral therapy protocol (Beck, 1964), respectively. Data were analyzed using one-way ANCOVA and one-way ANOVA with post hoc tests using SPSS software. Findings: The results indicated that schema therapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy significantly (mean difference with p < 0.05) reduced emotional maturity instability and improved body image (mean difference with p < 0.05) in single women. Conclusion: Based on the findings, it is concluded that schema therapy before marriage and cognitive-behavioral therapy can be effective therapeutic methods for improving the emotional maturity and body image of single women and can be used as important and key interventions in the pre-marriage domain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: The prevalence of substance and behavioral addiction is estimated between 10 and 15% of the global population and remains a severe public health concern. Moreover, addiction treatment has several barriers, such as a lack of access to professional treatment or stigmatization. Mobile health interventions emerge as a promising solution. METHODS: This two-armed randomized controlled trial (RCT) aims to assess the efficacy of a mobile app-based self-guided psychological intervention delivered via a smartphone app (Nałogometr) in reducing craving and lapse risk in problematic behaviors and substance use compared to a control condition. Participant recruitment and data collection will start in June 2022 and end in September 2022. Due to the nature of the study, i.e., a nationwide study of problematic substance use and behaviors, we will aim to recruit all individuals willing to participate. The four-week intervention condition includes short-term and long-term modules based mainly on mindfulness and cognitive behavioral therapy. Longitudinal data on several variables related to craving and lapse risk are collected daily using ecological momentary assessment (EMA). The primary outcomes of interest will be the self-reported number of lapses and craving level in daily EMA. Moreover, a questionnaire battery assessment is administered at baseline in the first week following onboarding, after five weeks, and after six months. The secondary outcome measures will include the severity of problematic substance use or behaviors, anxiety and depression, and life satisfaction. RESULTS: Results will be submitted for publication in peer-reviewed journals. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: [https://clinicaltrials.gov/], identifier [NCT054 34,429].

In today’s digital age, the Internet has become an integral part of our lives, providing a wealth of information at our fingertips. However, the ease of accessing medical information online has given rise to a new phenomenon known as cyberchondria (CCD). CCD is characterized by the excessive anxiety and worry caused by the information discovered on the internet, leading individuals to believe that they have a serious medical condition. Although it shares similarities with hypochondria or illness anxiety disorder, there is an ongoing debate about whether CCD should be regarded as a separate condition or simply a manifestation of preexisting hypochondria. Those who engage in self-diagnosis and self-management of their health concerns without confirming the accuracy of the published material are presumed to be affected by CCD. No research has yet been undertaken on CCD therapeutic approaches. Psychoeducation is the cornerstone of CCD therapy. There is no specific pharmaceutical therapy. CCD is a developing public mental health concern in India that needs prompt response or might seriously harm the general public.

Objective: The objective of this study was to compare the effectiveness of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Schema Therapy in improving adaptive behavior among individuals with substance use disorder. Methods and Materials: This quasi-experimental study employed a pre-test-post-test-follow-up design with a control group. The study sample consisted of 45 individuals with substance use disorders, who were randomly assigned to three groups: a CBT group, a Schema Therapy group, and a control group. Participants underwent 12 sessions of CBT or 15 sessions of Schema Therapy. Data were collected using the Bell Adjustment Inventory, which assessed various components of adaptive behavior, including family, health (physical), emotional, occupational, and social aspects. Data analysis was conducted using univariate analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) and Bonferroni post-hoc tests to determine the differences between groups at posttest and follow-up stages. Findings: The results demonstrated that CBT significantly improved adaptive behavior compared to the control group at both the posttest and follow-up stages, with a 1.79-point increase in the posttest and a 2.05-point increase in the followup. Schema Therapy did not show a significant difference compared to the control group in either stage. Additionally, CBT was found to be more effective than Schema Therapy in improving adaptive behavior, with a 1.57-point increase at the posttest and a 1.81-point increase at the follow-up. The improvement was significant across various components, including family, emotional, and occupational aspects, particularly in the CBT group. Conclusion: Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy was more effective than Schema Therapy in enhancing adaptive behavior in individuals with substance use disorders. The study suggests that CBT could be a valuable intervention for improving adaptive behaviors and reducing negative emotional responses in this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a prevalent and concerning mental health diagnosis across the globe. There are multiple evidence-based treatments that have been shown to effectively treat PTSD, including cognitive processing therapy (CPT) and exposure-based interventions. This case study depicts using CPT for treating uncomplicated PTSD in a 28-year-old woman, while integrating brief exposure exercises in the client's homework. These exercises helped target avoidance symptoms and acute distress as well as increase quality of life, such that the client was better able to engage in CPT. Follow up data indicated a significant reduction in PTSD symptoms as measured by the Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist (PCL-5) such that she no longer met clinical criteria for a diagnosis of PTSD or experienced significant distress related to her trauma. This data reflects the utility of integrating other evidence-based exercises into manualized treatment to create nuanced, individualized treatment plans. Clinical and research implications regarding the utility of implementing an integrated, conceptualization-driven treatment approach are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Psychotherapy delivered via videoconferencing (teletherapy) was a well-accepted treatment option for children and adolescents during the early phases of the COVID-19 pandemic. Information on the long-term satisfaction with teletherapy in routine clinical practice is missing. Methods: Caregivers (parents) and psychotherapists of n = 228 patients (4–20 years) treated in a university outpatient clinic completed a follow-up survey on satisfaction with videoconference-delivered cognitive-behavioral treatment (CBT). The follow-up survey (T2) was conducted about 1 year after initial assessment of treatment satisfaction in 2020 (T1). Results: At follow up, therapists reported that 79% of families had received teletherapy as part of a blended treatment approach including in-person and videoconference delivery of CBT. Wilcoxon tests revealed that satisfaction with teletherapy was stable over time. In addition, parent ratings of the impact of teletherapy on treatment satisfaction and the therapeutic relationship did not change over time. Therapists' ratings of the impact of teletherapy on the therapeutic relationship with the caregiver were more negative at T2 compared to T1. Satisfaction with teletherapy was higher for patients with less pandemic-related stress, less externalizing behavior problems, and older age (all r <.35). Conclusion: The high level of satisfaction with teletherapy for children and adolescents treated in routine clinical practice reported in 2020 was maintained after social distancing regulations were eased in 2021. Teletherapy provided as part of a blended treatment approach is a well-accepted method of treatment delivery for youths with mental health problems. The study was registered in the German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS00028639). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This analysis employs a Bayesian framework to estimate the impact of a Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) intervention on the recidivism of high-risk people under community supervision. The study relies on the reanalysis of experimental datal using a Bayesian logistic regression model. In doing so, new estimates of programmatic impact were produced using weakly informative Cauchy priors and the Hamiltonian Monte Carlo method. The Bayesian analysis indicated that CBT reduced the prevalence of new charges for total, non-violent, property, and drug crimes. However, the effectiveness of the CBT program varied meaningfully depending on the participant's age. The probability of the successful reduction of drug offenses was high only for younger individuals (<26 years old), while there was an impact on property offenses only for older individuals (>26 years old). In general, the probability of the successful reduction of new charges was higher for the older group of people on probation. Generally, this study demonstrates that Bayesian analysis can complement the more commonplace Null Hypothesis Significance Test (NHST) analysis in experimental research by providing practically useful probability information. Additionally, the specific findings of the reestimation support the principles of risk-needs responsivity and risk-stratified community supervision and align with related findings, though important differences emerge. In this case, the Bayesian estimations suggest that the effect of the intervention may vary for different types of crime depending on the age of the participants. This is informative for the development of evidence-based correctional policy and effective community supervision programming. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Case conceptualization is a widely used tool to describe and organize patient information and plan interventions in psychotherapy. Life themes and semi-adaptive plans: Implications of biased beliefs, elicitation, and treatment (LIBET) is a new method for case conceptualization that validates the diathesis-stress model and incorporates elements from the most important theories in the CBT field. LIBET also includes process-based components as maintaining factors of psychological distress, and it is not anchored to a specific kind of psychotherapeutic approach. The LIBET-Questionnaire (LIBET-Q) is a structured interview which helps clinicians achieve a LIBET case conceptualization, co-constructed with patients. The aim of the present study was to validate the process-based section of the LIBET-Q by analyzing its factorial structure, internal consistency, convergent validity, and clinical relevance. A sample of 396 outpatients was recruited to validate the LIBET-Q, which was administered along with interviews and self-report questionnaires to investigate the presence of diagnoses, anxiety, and depression levels and global functioning and wellbeing. Results from both exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses showed a four-factor structure, with adequate consistency and good convergent validity. Process-based elements investigated with the LIBET-Q resulted in identifying different clinical populations. With satisfactory psychometric properties, the LIBET-Q turned out to be a suitable support for case conceptualization and treatment formulation. The independence of the LIBET method from a specific intervention can improve its sharing between clinicians by offering a common frame in which the rationale of every specific technique can be explained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This case report presents an innovative approach to treating female orgasmic disorder (FOD) in a 28-year-old Asian-Australian female. The patient, undergoing significant academic stress and exhibiting no prior medical or psychological conditions, presented with a 2-year history of inability to achieve orgasm despite normal sexual desire and arousal. Following a comprehensive clinical evaluation, including a physical examination and psychiatric assessment, she was diagnosed with FOD, primarily of a situational type. The treatment implemented was a unique blend of natural therapies: aromatherapy, tantric yoga, mindfulness-based therapies, Yoni massage, and cognitive-behavioral therapy. This integrative approach was conducted over 17 weeks, with each treatment of 2 weeks being followed by a 1-week break to prevent tolerance. The patient initially hesitated but consented to this bold treatment regimen. Remarkable progress was observed, with the patient achieving a strong sexual climax by the 7th week and consistent improvement thereafter. As the conclusion of the treatment and a year of follow-up, the patient reported sustained relief from her symptoms. This case illustrates the potential of combining various natural therapies in treating FOD, emphasizing the importance of patient consent and the efficacy of a holistic, intermittent treatment approach.

Abstract Background Suicide is among the leading causes of death for adults with schizophrenia spectrum disorders (SSDs), and there is a paucity of evidence-based suicide prevention-focused interventions tailored for this vulnerable population. Cognitive-Behavioral Suicide Prevention for psychosis (CBSPp) is a promising intervention developed in the UK that required modifications for delivery in community mental health (CMH) settings in the United States of American. This pilot trial evaluates the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary effectiveness of our modified CBSPp intervention in comparison to services as usual (SAU) within a CMH setting in a Midwestern state of the USA. Methods This is a single-site randomized pilot trial with a planned enrollment of 60 adults meeting criteria for both SSD and SI/A. Eligible participants will be randomized 1:1 to either 10 sessions of CBSPp or SAU. Clinical and cognitive assessments will be conducted within a 4-waive design at baseline (prior to randomization and treatment) and approximately 1 month (mid-treatment), 3 months (post-treatment), and 5 months (follow-up) after baseline assessment. Qualitative interviews will also be conducted at post-treatment. The primary objective is to determine whether CBSPp is feasible and acceptable, involving examinations of recruitment rate, treatment engagement and adherence, retention and completion rates, and experiences in the CBSPp treatment and overall study. The secondary objective is to preliminarily evaluate whether modified CBSPp is associated with reductions in clinical (suicide ideation, suicide attempt, symptoms of psychosis, depression, and emergency/hospital service, hopelessness, defeat, and entrapment) and cognitive (information processing biases, appraisals, and schemas) outcomes in comparison to SAU from baseline to post-treatment assessment. Discussion This randomized pilot trial will provide clinically relevant information about whether CBSPp can improve SI/A, depression, and psychosis among adults with SSDs. Testing this modified cognitive-behavioral suicide prevention-focused intervention has the potential for a large public health impact by increasing the intervention’s utility and usability in CMH where many individuals with SSDs receive care, and ultimately working towards reductions in premature suicide death. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT#05345184. Registered on April 12, 2022.

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) on anxiety, stress, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) caused by coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in mothers of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). METHODS: This experimental study was conducted with a pretest-posttest design with a control group and a two-month follow-up. The statistical population of this study included all mothers of children with ASD in Tehran (Marjan Kindergarten and Psychology Center), Iran, in the year 2021. At first, 30 people were selected by the available sampling method and then randomly divided into experimental and control groups (15 experimental and 15 control). For the experimental group, the CBT was implemented in 10 sessions, each lasting 90 minutes. The instruments used in this study included the Corona Disease Anxiety Scale (CDAS), the COVID stress scale (CSS), and the PTSD Symptom Scale-Interview (PSS-I). Data analysis was performed using SPSS software in two sections: descriptive [mean and standard deviation (SD)] and inferential [analysis of variance (ANOVA) with repeated measures and Bonferroni post-hoc test]. RESULTS: CBT significantly improved COVID-19 anxiety, COVID stress, and PTSD, and the results had enough consistency in the follow-up period, as well (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: CBT had a positive effect on reducing anxiety, stress, and PTSD caused by COVID-19 and can be used as an effective intervention to improve the behavior of mothers of children with ASD.

Anxiety and depression are two of the most common mental health disorders diagnosed in adolescents. While either disorder individually creates impairments in psychological, emotional, and social functioning, these disorders often co-occur and reciprocally influence one another which can lead to continual worsening in functioning over time. Specifically with adolescents, anxiety and depression are associated with interpersonal conflicts with family and friends, which can further contribute to disruptions in functioning. This case study explores the effectiveness of using cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) with a 14-year-old white male with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and persistent depressive disorder (PDD) via telehealth during the COVID-19 pandemic. Treatment was divided into two phases, with the first phase occurring over 20 sessions and the second phase occurring over nine sessions for a total of 29 sessions. In the first phase, the Unified Protocol for Adolescents (UP-A) was flexibly implemented to target emotion regulation, behavioral skills, and cognitive restructuring. The second phase focused on family dynamics and targeted effective communication and collaborative problem-solving. Outcome data showed significant reductions in anxiety symptoms and slight reductions in depressive symptoms as well moderate improvements in peer relationships. These results provide support for using the UP-A to target internalizing symptoms in adolescents but also highlight the importance of addressing the family system in treatments. Treatment implications and recommendations for clinicians are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]