As practitioners in the field of speech-language pathology and therapy, staying abreast of the latest research is crucial for enhancing our therapeutic approaches and improving client outcomes. One such impactful study is the "A randomised controlled trial of therapist-assisted online psychological therapies for posttraumatic stress disorder (STOP-PTSD): trial protocol" by Ehlers et al. (2020). This study provides valuable insights into the efficacy of online therapy for PTSD, particularly comparing trauma-focused and non-trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapies (CBTs).
In this blog, we will explore the key findings of the STOP-PTSD study and discuss how practitioners can implement these outcomes to enhance their online therapy skills for PTSD. Additionally, we will encourage further research and continual professional development in this area.
Key Findings of the STOP-PTSD Study
The STOP-PTSD study compared two therapist-assisted online psychological therapies for PTSD:
- Internet-delivered Cognitive Therapy for PTSD (iCT-PTSD)
- Internet-delivered Stress Management Therapy (iStress-PTSD)
The study involved 217 participants who met DSM-5 criteria for PTSD and were randomly allocated to one of the three conditions: iCT-PTSD, iStress-PTSD, or a wait-list control. The primary outcome measure was the severity of PTSD symptoms, assessed using the PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5).
Primary Outcomes
- Efficacy: Both iCT-PTSD and iStress-PTSD were found to be effective in reducing PTSD symptoms compared to the wait-list control.
- Comparison: iCT-PTSD was superior to iStress-PTSD in reducing PTSD symptoms.
Secondary Outcomes
- Both treatments led to improvements in depression, anxiety, well-being, disability, quality of life, and sleep problems.
- iCT-PTSD showed greater improvements in these areas compared to iStress-PTSD.
Health Economics
- iCT-PTSD was found to be more cost-effective compared to iStress-PTSD, considering the cost per participant with clinical improvement and quality-adjusted life years (QALY) gained.
Implementing the Findings in Practice
To enhance online therapy skills for PTSD, practitioners can consider the following strategies based on the STOP-PTSD study findings:
Adopt Evidence-Based Approaches
Integrate iCT-PTSD into your practice as it has been shown to be more effective in reducing PTSD symptoms. This approach focuses on changing problematic appraisals, updating trauma memories, and modifying behaviors that maintain PTSD.
Utilize Online Therapy Platforms
Leverage online therapy platforms that offer structured modules and multimedia features to engage clients. Ensure the platform includes essential components such as text, videos, audio recordings, and interactive exercises.
Provide Therapist Support
Maintain regular contact with clients through messages, SMS, and weekly phone calls. This support is crucial for monitoring progress, addressing concerns, and ensuring adherence to the therapy modules.
Focus on Comprehensive Outcomes
Assess and track not only PTSD symptoms but also secondary outcomes such as depression, anxiety, well-being, and quality of life. This holistic approach will provide a better understanding of the client's overall progress.
Engage in Continuous Professional Development
Stay updated with the latest research and advancements in online therapy for PTSD. Participate in training programs and workshops to enhance your skills and knowledge in delivering effective online therapies.
Encouraging Further Research
While the STOP-PTSD study provides significant insights, further research is needed to explore the long-term efficacy and acceptability of online therapies for PTSD. Practitioners are encouraged to contribute to this growing body of knowledge by conducting their own research, collaborating with academic institutions, and sharing their findings with the professional community.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: A randomised controlled trial of therapist-assisted online psychological therapies for posttraumatic stress disorder (STOP-PTSD): trial protocol.
By implementing these strategies and staying informed about the latest research, practitioners can enhance their online therapy skills and contribute to better outcomes for children and adults with PTSD.
