Citation

Stewart RW, Orengo-Aguayo RE, Cohen JA, Mannarino AP, de Arellano MA. Child Maltreat. 2017; 22(4): 324-333.

Affiliation

1 Department of Psychology and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2017, American Professional Society on the Abuse of Children, Publisher SAGE Publishing)

DOI

10.1177/1077559517725403

PMID

28868894

Abstract

Significant barriers exist in access to evidence-based, trauma-focused treatment among youth from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, those living in rural areas, and belonging to a racial and ethnic minority group, despite the high prevalence rates of trauma exposure among these underserved groups. The present study is proof-of-concept pilot of trauma-focused cognitive-behavioral therapy (TF-CBT) delivered to underserved trauma-exposed youth ( N = 15) via telehealth technology (i.e., via one-on-one videoconferencing), aimed at addressing barriers in access to TF treatment. This pilot study provides preliminary evidence of the ability to successfully deliver TF-CBT via a telehealth delivery format.

RESULTS demonstrated clinically meaningful symptom change posttreatment (large effect sizes for youth-reported ( d = 2.93) and caregiver-reported ( d = 1.38) reduction in posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms), with no treatment attrition (0% dropout). These findings are promising in showing treatment effects that are comparable with TF-CBT delivered in an in-person, office-based setting and an important first step in determining how to best address the mental health needs of trauma-exposed youth with barriers in access to care.

Language: en

Keywords

child PTSD/trauma; evidence-based treatment; technology