A randomized controlled trial of training in cognitive-behavioral therapy for youth anxiety

Abstract

Establishing evidence-based training for therapists is of paramount importance for effective dissemination of evidence-based interventions. Using cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for child anxiety, this study compared three therapist training conditions: (1) routine training: a workshop that covered a specific manual, (2) computer training: computer-based training via an interactive DVD, and (3) augmented training: a workshop that included a focus on core CBT competencies and active learning with behavioral rehearsal. Training success was operationalized as: (1) adherence to CBT for child anxiety, (2) therapeutic skillfulness, (3) a knowledge test, (4) and training satisfaction. The study also investigated the degree to which consultation following training impacted therapist outcomes. Participants (115 therapists) were randomly assigned to training condition and, following training, were invited to participate in weekly consultation. The results indicate that all three training conditions were effective in improving therapist adherence, skill, and knowledge. Participants were most satisfied with the in-person conditions. With regard to consultation, the number of consultation hours attended significantly predicted therapist training outcomes. This finding underscores the importance of consultation when training therapists.