Feasibility of Process-based Therapy in a Naturalistic Setting

Feasibility of Process-based Therapy in a Naturalistic Setting

The main objective is to explore the feasibility of Process-based Therapy in a natural mental health care setting delivered by practitioners.

In the naturalistic setting of mental health care, treatment decisions of psychotherapists are often based on theories or experience related to treatment approaches. An alternative approach to treatment decision is suggested by Process-based Therapy (PBT), which emphasizes empirical and rational criteria for the selection of intervention. It utilizes ecological momentary assessment (EMA) data, incorporates feedback from dynamic network analysis, and supports interventions based on individual network models and empirical evidence from research related to change processes. Currently, there are no data on the feasibility and acceptability of PBT in practice. The present study investigates in a naturalistic setting, whether PBT can be implemented by psychotherapists in mental health care. Furthermore, the investigators explore the acceptability and first indications of efficacy of PBT delivered in routine practice (r-PT).

Inclusion Criteria:

• A primary DSM-5 diagnosis of a depressive or anxiety disorder
• Age 18-65 years
• Sufficient knowledge of the German language
• Participating patients are not required to discontinue medication, but to keep medication constant over the treatment period

Exclusion Criteria:

• Increased suicidality
• Substance abuse or dependency
• Diagnose of a cluster A or B (DSM-5) personality disorder
• Pervasive developmental disorder
• Psychotic disorder
• Eating disorder
• Bipolar disorder
• Severe physical illness