Question-based Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
The QB-ACT project aims to establish a scalable and cost-effective model for delivering psychological treatments. We aim not only to provide effective treatment but also to pioneer a digital transformation in psychological healthcare. The interdisciplinary nature of the project opens up completely new directions in research and offers potential for meaningful societal impact by means of a novel digital technology.
There is an urgent need for more psychological healthcare within Stockholm, and also nationally and internationally [1]. Currently, there are two major challenges that need to be addressed in order to improve the situation. First, the number of psychologists and mental health professionals is insufficient to meet the growing demand for mental health services. Second, accessibility to these services for all individuals who require treatment needs to be enhanced. One innovation that has a large potential to deal with both these challenges is psychological treatments in the form of Internet-delivered self-help [2]. While this technology is promising, it is known that these treatments struggle with high numbers of dropouts and low engagement from participants [3].
In parallel to this development, there has been a very significant advance in technologies related to e-learning. One of the major developments, is the Open Learning Initiative (OLI), launched by Carnegie Mellon University (CMU), which offers a data-driven methodology that is designed to be both efficient and engaging [4, 5, 6]. At the core, the e-learning philosophy adopted by OLI is that of question-based learning (QBL). This approach drives active engagement from learners by asking them to solve problems and answer questions as they move through the material. There is a solid empirical foundation suggesting that such interactive methods can lead to improved retention and understanding of the subject matter. In addition, it has been shown to increase adherence to learning schedules and completion rates [7].
This project aims to integrate the principles of question-based learning into the realm of Internet-delivered psychological treatments. Specifically, we will develop the QB-ACT protocol, a quintessential blend of QBL and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). ACT is a form of cognitive-behavioral therapy that adopts a unified approach towards mental health, by undermining the impact of negative thoughts and feelings using mindfulness strategies and facilitating action in line with personal values in the service of living a rich and fulfilling life. Such a unified approach makes ACT a perfect choice to target a broad range of psychological challenges, from anxiety to depression. ACT has a very strong empirical foundation, with hundreds of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) demonstrating its effectiveness across various populations and settings [8].
The QB-ACT project seeks to leverage this evidence-based framework and enhance it with the evidence-based learning methodologies that are central to Question-Based Learning. By integrating OLI's proven pedagogical approach, we aim to address the high dropout rates and low engagement that currently hinder the efficacy of Internet-delivered self-help. Our objective is to create an interactive, engaging, and personalized online therapeutic experience that can be accessible to any individual in need, irrespective of their location within Stockholm or beyond.
Team
Funding
Digital Futures, IMG Play, Region Stockholm
Partners
Robert Johansson (PI) Stockholm University
Project Duration
2024-07-01 till 2026-06-30