Internet videoconferencing delivered cognitive behaviour therapy for generalized anxiety disorder: A randomized controlled trial

Abstract Objective Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is a chronic mental health condition that results in significant individual and societal burden. Cognitive‐behaviour therapy (CBT) therapy is an effective treatment for GAD, however, many individuals experience logistical barriers when accessing evidence‐based care. Remote treatments may help to reduce these barriers, however, currently, there are few studies examining the efficacy of high‐intensity remote methods for GAD treatment. The current study aims to examine the efficacy of CBT delivered via videoconferencing (VCBT) for GAD using a randomized controlled trial design comparing an immediate treatment group to a waitlist control. Method Seventy‐eight adults ( M age = 36.92; SD = 12.92; 84.4% female) with GAD were enrolled in the study. Results Those in the treatment group demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in GAD symptoms from pre‐treatment to post‐treatment ( d = 1.03) and pre‐treatment to 3‐month follow‐up ( d = 1.50). Large between‐group effect sizes were also observed at post‐treatment ( d = .80). Twenty‐five participants (64.10%) in the VCBT group no longer met diagnostic criteria for GAD at post‐treatment, and 26/39 (66.67%) no longer met criteria at 3‐month follow‐up. Ninety‐six per cent of participants were satisfied with the treatment. Conclusion The results contribute towards advancing our knowledge on the efficacy and acceptability of VCBT for patients with GAD.