Computer-assisted Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Mobile Apps for Depression and Anxiety: Evidence-based Digital Tools for Clinical Practice

Purpose of Review: Provider shortages and other barriers to traditional mental health care have led to the development of technology-based services designed to enhance access and improve the efficiency and convenience of treatment. We reviewed research on computer-assisted cognitive behavior therapy (CCBT) and mobile mental health applications to assess the effectiveness of these methods of delivering or augmenting treatment, evaluating patient and provider uptake, and making recommendations on the clinical use of these tools in the treatment of depression and anxiety. Results: Research on CCBT has found solid evidence for efficacy when the use of a therapeutic computer program is supported by a clinician or other helping professional. Lower levels of efficacy have been found when CCBT is used as a stand-alone treatment. Current CCBT programs have many desirable features; however, few of the current programs incorporate services such as artificial intelligence that have the potential to help improve communication with patients. An increasing number of mobile apps have been created that claim to be useful for depression and/or anxiety, yet caution is warranted before using most due to limited research on effectiveness, low retention rates, and other issues like safety concerns. Summary: Growth in the development of CCBT and mental health applications for depression/anxiety has provided several tools that could enhance treatment delivery. A large number of randomized, controlled trials have documented the effectiveness of CCBT, while research on mobile apps has been much less robust. The advantages and disadvantages of these digital technologies are identified, and recommendations are made for clinical use.