Increasing engagement with computerised cognitive behavioural therapies

The evidence base for computerised cognitive behavioural therapy (CCBT) in common mental health problems is expanding rapidly. Recent reviews and meta-analyses have produced promising findings with regard to CCBT’s effectiveness and acceptability, but developing and supporting effective and sustainable models of CCBT service implementation presents a challenge – not least due to barriers to uptake and engagement. This paper considers CCBT usage and explores the challenges to uptake and engagement with CCBT. We propose a simple model of engagement factors associated with the programme, the problem, the person and the provider and highlight some actions that service developers and providers can take that might increase uptake and engagement with the CCBT services that they provide. Factors relating to discontinuation of use or ‘drop-out’ will also be explored. Managing expectations and promoting hope in both service users and providers is emphasised.