Augmented CBGT for Perinatal Anxiety During a Global Pandemic (COVID-19)

Augmented Cognitive Behavioural Group Therapy for Perinatal Anxiety During a Global Pandemic (COVID-19)

This study will evaluate the effectiveness of an augmented version of our current evidence-based Cognitive Behavioural Group Therapy (CBGT) for perinatal anxiety protocol with cognitive and behavioural strategies composed of critical COVID-related anxiety, worry, and impact content.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Females, aged 18-45 years
• Pregnant or up to six months postpartum
• Primary diagnosis of an anxiety disorder, as per the MINI for DSM-5, with or without comorbid depression
• No concurrent psychological treatment
• Not taking psychoactive medication or medication is stable in dose and type for at least 8 weeks prior to the study (as per Canadian Psychiatric Guidelines) and throughout study duration (participants will not be excluded from treatment if medication/dose changes during the study duration, however, they must notify the study team immediately)
• Fluent in English in order to understand the consent and group material

Exclusion Criteria:

• Severe depression/suicidality
• Primary diagnosis other than an anxiety disorder
• Psychotic or current substance/alcohol use disorder