Think Feel Do
Think Feel Do was a pilot study that began in November 2008, and ran until mid 2010. The project was one of the first in the UK to examine the effects of computerised Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (cCBT) in children and adolescents.
About the project
The project looked at the feasibility and acceptability of cCBT for the treatment of depression and anxiety in children and adolescents aged 11-16 years. This was achieved by the following:
Conducting a pilot randomised controlled trial - comparing the effectiveness of a cCBT program with a waiting list control in children and adolescents referred to Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services for anxiety and/or depression.
Evaluating attitudes towards cCBT - Children and adolescents (as well as their parents) and also in mental health professionals were included in this.
Literature review - A systematic review of the literature on cCBT was conducted. We now have a review and meta-analysis of cCBT for pain in children and adolescents published, as well as a systematic review of cCBT for depression and anxiety in children and adolescents.
Think Feel Do
The computer program trialled in the study was called 'Think Feel Do', and is based on Paul Stallard's highly successful CBT workbook for children and adolescents, entitled 'Think Good-Feel Good'. Think Feel Do has been developed with the help of young people in the local area.
The program is interactive and multimedia, and is designed to be used with the help of a facilitator such as a teacher, nurse or psychology assistant. The program is based on CBT principles, and is also psychoeducational, with cartoon characters narrating and guiding users through the various quizzes, self-help materials, practice exercises, and video clips.
A number of different areas are covered in the program, including identifying the link between thoughts, feelings and behaviours, identifying and challenging negative thought patterns, problem solving skills and ways to help make yourself feel better.
Research staff
The research was led by Professor Paul Stallard alongside psychology assistant Megan Attwood and research officer Thomas Richardson.
